geocalia
Aerial view of the Varsity Hotel beside the River Cam© The Varsity Hotel & Spa

Spa hotel · Cambridge

The Varsity Hotel & Spa

A hotel beside the Cam, on Thompson's Lane, with a spa, gym, sixth-floor brasserie and rooftop terrace above the Cambridge roofs.

Information

Riverside · Rooftop terrace · Spa and gym

The house

A modern brick hotel by the river, at the northern end of the centre, a step from Bridge Street and the Quayside landing stage. What sets it apart is the rooftop: a terrace with views over the roofs and towers of Cambridge, and the brasserie Six, on the sixth floor. Downstairs, on the banks of the Cam, the River Bar Steakhouse.

The rooms and the spa

Contemporary rooms and suites, many with river or city views. The spa has a gym, sauna, steam room and hot tub, something rare in the centre of a small city. On its website, rates start at £149 a night.

Getting there

From the station, about 25–30 minutes' walk or a ten-minute taxi ride. The historic centre is a five-minute walk along Bridge Street, passing the Round Church. If you come by car, check the parking page on its website before you arrive.

Practical details

Details checked on 12 November 2026.

Facilities

  • Spa
  • Sauna
  • Hot tub
  • Gym
  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Terrace
  • Wi-Fi

Tips

  • Go up to the roof at sunset It is the view of Cambridge that is not on the postcards.
  • Go punting from here Quayside, one of the landing stages, is round the corner.

Frequently asked questions

Does it have a spa?

Yes, with a gym, sauna, steam room and hot tub.

Is it near the centre?

Yes, five minutes' walk from Bridge Street and the market.

Is it far from the station?

A little: half an hour on foot or a short taxi ride.

Car-free

Opening hours and prices can change: check them before you go.

Is this your business? Write to us to correct details, change the photos or remove them.