REVIEWS


UNIVERSITY ARMS Cambridge, UK


LOCATION: A 10-minute walk from the city’s main train station. The property is slightly disjointed from Cambridge’s historic centre, but it overlooks city common Parker’s Piece, and many rooms and suites have park views.


FIRST IMPRESSIONS: The road the hotel stands on isn’t particularly attractive, meaning that the grand facade of the property stands out even more. Walking through one of the three imposing entrances, I couldn’t help but notice how busy the lobby area was. It was a hive of activity, with lots of international visitors checking in and out. Surprisingly, high- end properties are few and far between in Cambridge, and it feels as if a property of this luxurious nature has been a long time coming. I was swiftly checked in and whisked to my suite – within a matter of minutes, I was ensconced on a sofa in the comfort of the Hawking Suite, looking out across Parker’s Piece at university students enjoying the summer sunshine.


THE FACTS: University Arms is the result of an £80 million project to restore what is the oldest hotel in Cambridge. Originally built as a 15-bed coaching inn in 1834, the property reopened last August following a two-year renovation. The 192-room hotel – part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection – pays homage to all things Cambridge, from the colleges that make up its famous university to notable alumni.


126 ASPIRE SEPTEMBER 2019


Each of the 12 suites (the vision of interior designer Martin ÀÕ`â® ÀiyiVÌÃ > «ÀiÌ >LÌ>Ì v Ìi VÌÞ] «>ÃÌ or present, with mine themed around Professor Stephen Hawking. My favourite spot was the library, complete with À>À} wÀi] i>ÌiÀ >` `>À Ü`i vÕÀÌÕÀi] >` > Û>ÃÌ book collection. The literary theme continues into the public toilets, where an audio of Wind and the Willows is played. The food served at English brasserie Parker’s Tavern is divine and wholesome, while there’s also a ballroom suitable for all manner of events. Sadly there’s no spa or swimming pool, but there’s plenty else to explore.


EXPLORE: Borrow one of the hotel’s signature turquoise bicycles and explore Cambridge like a local. There’s plenty to see outside of the university colleges (which are without doubt a must) including the Fitzwilliam Museum, the Bridge of Sighs and the Mathematical Bridge. Recommend clients head out on the river Cam for a spot of punting.


WOW: I could have whiled away hours in the library. As a keen reader, for me it was the highlight of an outstanding property.


BOOK IT: Rooms start at £143 per night, with suites from £419.


UNIVERSITYARMS.COM Hollie-Rae Brader


aspiretravelclub.co.uk


CREDITS: SIMON BROWN


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