The Varsity

Fantastic experience: I wish all the hotels I stayed in were like this. Quiet, private, a little bit of luxury and great fresh food.

Negative experience: bit disappointed couldn't have coffee on the roof top

Fantastic experience: Afternoon Tea on a Wednesday afternoon when it wasn't very busy. Amazing views, nice staff and really tasty sandwiches, scones and cakes. Great selection, don't think I've had a better afternoon tea in Cambridge! Can absolutely recommend it and will come back, e.g. with friends or family visiting Cambridge, because it's really some special.

Negative experience: Very disappointing. I expected luxurious, fancy, prompt, etc. The restaurant has tables crammed together, I was touching chairs with a lady behind me, there was nowhere for us to go. No space. This may be picky but even the actual chairs themselves were like cheap hotel chairs. On top of this the service was slow, they forgot things like our water, we had to go up and retrieve this ourselves. I could not believe how disappointing and underwhelming the place was. Would not recommend, definitely fancier restaurants in Cambridge!

Fantastic experience: Great central location with just a short walk to museums, shops bars and restaurants. Just pull up outside and valet parking will take your car away. From the moment we arrived all staff really helpful, room was clean and amazing views over Cambridge. Would definitely stay again.

Fantastic experience: Lovely stay, welcoming professional staff and somewhere I would certainly recommend others!

Fantastic experience: Lovely rooftop bar and outstanding espresso martinis. Can’t comment on the rooms as just came by for drinks but staff was very polite.

Fantastic experience: I visited The Varsity Hotel and Spa with my boyfriend and we both absolutely loved it! The biggest highlight for us was the service as everyone we spoke to was extremely helpful, friendly and made the experience thoroughly enjoyable. It was also very clean and perfectly located for enjoying Cambridge. Our room was  very impressive and had a very stylish, yet luxury feel with incredible views. It was great that the TV had plenty of options like Netflix etc and the bed was very comfortable. The shower was also huge and the bathroom nice and light/airy. We ate at The River Bar Steakhouse and the food was delicious - would definitely recommend the mussels, Sirloin and Rump Steaks and the macaroni cheese! We were looking out onto the river and it made for a great evening. We also enjoyed the spa which was a real treat and had everything we needed to relax. We were extremely well looked after by the team here too.

Positive experience: Lovely atmosphere not cheap tho

Negative experience: This review is about the Elems spa linked to the hotel. I had a 50 minutes Swedish massage at the spa that left much to be desired. The massage was absolutely not value for price paid (92 euro). The masseuse was perhaps new or not trained well, or just having an off day. The massage did not have any good technique and not enough pressure (many times it felt like barely any pressure at all. I did mention increasing pressure once, it felt like a chore if I have to constantly remind). I came out feeling anything but relaxed or knots relieved. The check out person asked about the experience and I said I have had better, eliciting no further questions or reaction other than whether I wanted my receipt :)). Do not recommend at all.

Fantastic experience: Great stay and service. Fantastic food. Could maybe have some better pastry options for breakfast.

Negative experience: We've had a booking for a birthday celebration this weekend. The service was poor. We had to ask for some water at the table three times and we had to send our steak back as it wasn't prepared how we asked it to be prepared and the meat cut was full of fat and chewy bits. When questioned it with the waiter and told him we asked for medium well-done he said it looks medium well-done even though the meat was clearly bloody. We also asked for a cake with candles to the birthday girl and had to chase it up even though it was booked and arranged weeks ago. The staff were laughing and MASSAGING each other at the side of the bar which just made them look very unprofessional. It was a massive disappointment to us as we came with high expectations and wanted a lovely birthday celebration.

Positive experience: Definitely looking a bit tired and in need of updating, food was mediocre and service was rushed

Positive experience: A cocktail on the roof but not very welcoming!

Negative experience: Just called up to ask about their lowest price guarantee and got talked down to like I was an idiot, so I wont be booking here. Wouldn't recommend trying to ask questions to the staff from what I just experienced.

Fantastic experience: Super good location and super nice stuff especially dog friendly. I had my dog with me staying there and his welcome package made me jealous ;) definitely recommend it.

Fantastic experience: Lovely roof top bar. Excellent views and really nice cocktails.

Fantastic experience: Super friendly and helpful staff, nice rooms, and phenomenal views from the rooftop on sunny days.

Positive experience: 4 of us visited the Roof Top bar. Amazing views of Cambridge. Great service in the bar. Drinks are expensive but you do have the views.

Fantastic experience: We had a very good lunch with cocktails. My food was superb!

Positive experience: Only used the rooftop bar but enjoyed the lovely views over the city and beyond.Found it to be a little pricey probably down to the tourist premium.

Fantastic experience: The location of this hotel is extremely convenient, right in the center with everything within walking distance. There are plenty of restaurants around, and it's close to the river and all the main attractions. Our overall impression of the hotel is pleasant. Our room had a slight 'old England' smell, but it didn't spoil our experience. Everything is very charming—the paintings, furniture, and wall decorations. The staff is friendly, the rooms are well-kept, and we had a good night's sleep without any noise from neighbors. We stayed during the summer and were very satisfied. Highly recommend

Positive experience: Roof top bar- very nice place for a drink, but when gets busy you have to wait long time for waiter to come to you

Fantastic experience: Fantastic staff that really made sure I had a good stay. Communication was good and everyone was very kind. I booked this place to be near a conference. It's very picturesque outside and centrally located. The floors are really beautiful. Some rooms have some really lovely decor. The rooftop bar has a great view, and the spa is a great way to start the day with a super hot steam room and sauna, plus a cozy gym in a brick interior. Thanks so much to the staff for making my stay work out well after an initial bump.

Negative experience: Not great… I came here with some friends to celebrate one of them getting married and we thought a lovely rooftop bar would be ideal. Unfortunately, the weather turned quite quickly and the rain started to fall. I understand this cannot be helped but the staff on the rooftop bar became discourteous, impolite and unwilling to help. 90% of the rooftop bar all rushed in to take cover and the staff started standing in the way demanding who was paying the bill and not allowing guest to compose themselves under shelter. This happened to almost every guest. Luckily, one of my friends paid the bill but for such a high end place in Cambridge, I expected better. Perhaps more decorum and grace when asking for money and assisting guests with drinks before demanding payment. I trust this review is read by management and I hope you discuss some suitable options for your staff to receive better customer service training.

Positive experience: The rooftop terrace bar excels with its great view and picturesque sunset, but the cocktails were a letdown, being quite mediocre.

Fantastic experience: Great location for visiting St John's College and surrounding area. Reception staff were friendly, polite, and very helpful. Waiting staff were also great. Had a lovely meal in the Six restaurant and we were lucky that the weather improved on our second day so we could enjoy a drink on the Roof Top Terrace. Rooms were very clean and comfortable. We would stay there again.

Fantastic experience: Lovely food, stunning views, lovely ambience. will defo be going back.

Positive experience: Booked a night away for a birthday, as the location was very central to Cambridge. We paid the extra charge to have our car parked (car park is in a separate location to the hotel) which was quite useful due to Cambridge being so busy. Prior to arrival we had made the hotel staff aware that it was a birthday trip and they offered to give a complementary cake and card in the room which was a nice touch. As we checked in we were told we’d been upgraded to the “King Room” for free which was nice, but when we actually saw our rooms we were a bit underwhelmed, the views weren’t great, one of the rooms facing the back of the building where the bins / ventilator area is and overall the rooms were very disappointing, stained and a bit dusty. It was pleasant enough for the one night however not worth the price we had paid… curtains were stained and shower was dirty at the edges - things we tried to ignore for the sake of the trip but certainly did not go unnoticed. We went up to the rooftop bar expecting to be in awe, as the pictures looked so good; although there were some nice views, the actual bar was again, underwhelming … no music, bar staff were rushing around us creating a bit of an unsettling atmosphere, drinks were ok but again there lacked attention to detail. The spa was basic, and separate from the actual hotel building. A small jacuzzi which had to be turned on by the staff for it to create any bubbles, a sauna and steam room, nothing groundbreaking. Overall an ok stay but nothing amazing, we were a bit disappointed.

Fantastic experience: I would like to share my amazing experience when I attended Varisy Hotel Spa. The Reception staff at Spa are always very welcoming and friendly. I had a 50 min Elemis Massage with Nicky; she is very warm, friendly and kind. Nicky is very experienced and ensures my needs are met every time, when I leave I always feel that I'm walking on a cloud, light as a feather. A big thank you to Nicky and the Varsity Team for my fab experience.

Fantastic experience: Great city centre based hotel. Paid valet parking. Roof top terrace bar spectacular views. Beautiful panoramic restaurant. Very clean. Lovely staff. Would thoroughly recommend.

Positive experience: Was a lovely location. Very clean and tidy. The spa was an extension of a hotel and gym. Quiet and lovely massage. The food was nice and lovely service. Limited with allergies at the afternoon tea service.

Negative experience: Potentially fabulous hotel, unfortunately extremely poor service on several occasions over a few days stay. Tried to raise this with the area manager but he did not respond so will now post here. So many better hotels, with better staff and a higher level of service, this deserves 0 stars for service and for a senior manager to ignore the E mail is disgusting. Choose wisely and find an alternative.

Fantastic experience: Amazing food in Six and cocktails on the roof terrace. Extremely memorable experience. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: I was immediately greeted by such friendly staff who not only had my room ready 90 minutes before check in but also gave me a fantastic complimentary upgrade. The room was of a good standard and featured a wonderful balcony overlooking the Cambridge city skyline. I had dinner in my second night at the hotel and the lobster was gorgeous. I enjoyed this with a fantastic Margherita and the service was very attentive. Breakfast on both mornings was of a high standard with quality produce. Would highly recommend this hotel and restaurant, which is conveniently located in the heart of the city.

Positive experience: Lovely hotel, I didn't use the pool/gym /spa but it looked lovely. I don't think staff training was on point, lacking a professional touch (everyone was friendly though). The light of my room went off in the evening, and the reception didn't communicate well in what they planned to do about it. My room was facing a back alley, there was a group of men was having such a party up until midnight. The noise level was not really acceptable and hotel did not stock any earplugs (Please do). The manager did offer a room swap for me and let me have both keys so that I don’t need to move my stuff during late hours.

Fantastic experience: This hotel offers a fantastic stay with its spacious and comfortable rooms,l. Situated in a prime location, it allows easy access to nearby attractions and amenities, making it convenient for travelers. What truly sets this hotel apart is its incredibly friendly staff, who go above and beyond to ensure guests feel welcomed and well taken care of throughout their stay. With its winning combination of great rooms, ideal location, and exceptional hospitality, this hotel earns top marks for a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Fantastic experience: I booked a stay at the varsity hotel to celebrate my birthday. The varsity is a fabulous hotel situated right in the heart of Cambridge tucked away from the hustle and bustle but close enough to be at any of the Cambridge university landmarks in less than 30 minutes. The staff at check where a delight, welcoming us warmly, giving us a brief overview of the facilities and then escorting us and our luggage up to the room. Our room was spacious and luxurious, the bathroom had a Victorian free standing bath, a shower. Full sized vanity and separate sink; which was a nice touch to a couples weekend. The varsity offer a fabulous selection of services, from breakfast in bed to their WhatsApp e-butler service; a 24 hour on call butler. Overall I couldn’t recommend the varsity hotel more for the perfect get away weekend. The Glassworks spa and gym located 5 minutes walk from the reception offer a gymnasium, spa with sauna, steam room and jacuzzi. Further offering Elemis spa treatments and Aveda hair salon. My partner and I enjoyed a couples full body Swedish massage which was the perfect way to finish off a great day spent out and about exploring all that Cambridge has to offer. The hotel offered bikes and organised punting for guests. Taxi services organised by the hotel were also hassle free and the rooftop bar and restaurant are truly worth every penny. The staff, where attentive and knowledgeable, kind and friendly. The food and drinks are outstanding and the view is breathtaking. We enjoyed both the dinner and breakfast service and both were something to be remembered.

Negative experience: The reception staff were very unfriendly and rude when we entered. Even though three were standing behind the desk, none offered to help. We stayed at the Hilton instead.

Positive experience: Rooms are a little dated, with unpleasant views. However the staff were very pleasant and helpful. The hotel was niece and clean, with good amenities (spa, gym, bars, etc). Location is perfect as it's central. The hotel also offers a valet parking and it's very easy accessible by car.

Negative experience: What started off well, soon went down hill. The hotel staff are friendly and welcoming. Upon arriving to our room, we found water still in the kettle from the previous guests, we shrugged this off and thought no more about it. We booked their six floor restaurant for the first night, 20 mins into being seated I was called by the restaurant & asked if I was still coming! We laughed this off but my wife’s pasta was hard in places and cold in parts, leading us to believe it had been sitting under a lamp for some time. We returned to our room for drinks to finish the night off. The next day we ventured out and on return realised that had taken a bottle of wine that was 3/4 full, our damp robes were thrown on the bed, a flannel was screwed up on the desk and the slippers my wife used where left scattered around the room. I called reception explaining about the wine situation only and was told they would contact housekeeping, when they eventually returned my call I was told there was a tiny amount left. I explained it was almost full and I had put it over the other side of the room, away from all other items to be collected. They replied saying it would need further investigation which insinuated I was lying! This left my wife and feeling cheap and put out. I explained it was more the principle and also pointed out the other issues in the room. I did not get a call back. In the end I complained the next day and had the bottle deducted from my bill. This wasn’t my point or objective and left me with a bad experience. We won’t go back!

Fantastic experience: Still the No.1 rated hotel in Cambridge. Overseen by Roberto, the hotel's GM. There are 2 restaurants (SIX on the 6th floor has a great view across the rooftops towards Jesus Green). There is also a spa & gym.

Fantastic experience: Best roof top in town (maybe the only one in town…) Get a drink a dusk in a good weather day and you will see the best sunsets. You can get moonrise and sunset on full moon days. Great cocktails… food downstairs.

Fantastic experience: Lovely hotel and restaurant/rooftop terrace. Room was good with comfy bed and pillows. Hotel is close to so many food places and about 7mins walk from the market place with load more restaurants and shops. Bathroom was well lit, and elemis toiletries. Shower was good.

Fantastic experience: Great location just cant Park there! We parked on castle street and got a taxi there. Food was excellent

Fantastic experience: Highly recommend the Varsity Hotel following our recent stay. The staff throughout the hotel created a warm, friendly atmosphere and the service was prompt and efficient. They really made a difference to our stay. The room was a good size, with comfortable bed and was well equipped. Views are good too. The bar staff were attentive and made great cocktails, breakfast was also good, again with friendly and efficient service. Check in was welcoming and checkout was speedy and the taxi they called arrived quickly. It’s well located for easy walking to the centre of town and its location by the river was quiet. I’d definitely book again when we visit Cambridge.

Fantastic experience: Anna and her colleagues were very friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable. Out room had a fantastic view through a big picture window. The location is very central too. Would highly recommend!

Positive experience: We had lunch in the 6 restaurant. Service was a bit slow & food was average. Price was quite high for what we had.. Although on a positive note, the view across Cambridge was great.

Fantastic experience: Went to The Varsity for afternoon tea and it was amazing experience from start to finish! The egg sandwich and salted caramel cake were absolutely gorgeous but to be fair all the food was lush. Staff really friendly and professional.

Negative experience: Poor experience from start to finish. The one saving grace is the location. Receptionist rude and disorganised (or dishonest) Room - dirty carpet, stained curtain, cracked basin, scruffy information sheets, odd smell in hallway Breakfast - portions small, buffet choices very limited, slow service, missing cutlery, dirty crockery Overpriced and overrated.

Positive experience: We went to the roof terrace for a drink, great views, customer service has improved alot since we our last visit but unfortunately the prices are crazy expensive, i drink alot in London & some of the prices are of the cocktails are more expensive than Central London bars, if the cocktails were ever so slightly lowered in price this would be a 5 star place to visit.

Positive experience: Overall, the hotel was great but we encountered some problems during our stay that would make me think twice before coming back. The main issue was the internet. We arrived on a Thursday and had absolutely no internet all afternoon. The next day, though we were told that the internet was back, the connection was so unstable that it was simply impossible to work (you couldn’t even load a simple Google page!). The 4G connection inside the room was also inexistent except if you stayed close to the window. I understand that issues can happen but a stable internet connection seems like the minimum you would expect from a 4 star hotel (and for the price!). No compensation was offered. Other than that, the hotel location is amazing, extremely close to the center whilst still being calm. The staff was welcoming and friendly. The room itself was large, clean and the bed was comfortable. The rug could do with being cleaned as there were some large dark stains on it. The bath was large and great to lay in. We did not have breakfast at the hotel as they were plenty of great options 5 minute walk. Unfortunately, though this hotel has some great points, I will try another hotel next time.

Negative experience: £300 a night including valet, super basic room and mega noisy from the room above. Location is good if you want to walk to places. Person on reception was great. Car was moved by the valet from the double yellows outside about two hours after I left it there though. Stayed for business, will obviously choose somewhere else next time.

Positive experience: Stayed here for a business trip. The hotel is fine. Good rooms & a good location, right on the campus of Jesus college. A word of caution though. Using their postcode with Apple Maps will get you to park about a quarter of a mile away & walk to it. To do this, you cross a bridge & walk along the river, through a park. At night (which was when I arrived) this could be a challenge & make some feel uncomfortable. I also left an item in my room & when I asked them to send it to me (I’d agreed to pay) they refused, saying I could pick it up. Not a practical proposition when you live 175 miles away.

Fantastic experience: Fabulous my friend treated me to an early birthday afternoon tea sadly because the weather gale force winds n heavy rain could not use the roof garden so went on the under cover balcony obvs bit dissapojbted but the experience my little birthday mouse with candle the afternoon tea delicous I felt very special try the yummy afternoon tea its great u will love it and customer service excellent will def ho back again

Positive experience: Pay for the view!! Disappointed with the quality of the food. Was overpriced. The burger in a gluten free bun was dry. Felt like we were tucked out of the way because we had 2 small children. Steak size not given but is about 150g

Negative experience: I have been to the restaurant 'Six' at the Varsity twice, both experiences were poor. Menu choices are very limited if you have allergies. On the first occasion I had to opt for a salmon salad which when it came literally consisted of smoked salmon slices on iceberg lettuce and NOTHING ELSE! The waiter then accidently tipped a drink all down my friends coat and on her with very little in the way of apology (I had to insist they send the coat away to be dry cleaned, which btw never happened in the end) the service generally was very poor, having to bob up and down like a meercat and ask for everything. I was then there last weekend on a hen party for afternoon tea, again limited options for those with food allergies so I could not have the afternoon tea so opted for a double starter portion of salmon which when it came turned up with some very dry gluten free bread and most of the salmon was cut on the membrane so was inedible. As it was part of a special occasion i did not want to complain but it was obvious when the plates were cleared there was a problem as i had hardly eaten any of the dish but the waiter did not comment. The service was poor we had to ask to have our drinks and food order taken, After ordering our food a second waiter then came to take our order again! so clearly the staff do not communicate with one another. Overall the whole experience was overpriced and certainly not worth the money . My advice would be go to the rooftop for a drink and eat somewhere else!

Positive experience: Nice hotel, staff were great. Expensive though. We just had a small room, when they say small they are not wrong. Lovely rooftop terrace but expensive drinks. A can of beer is £9. But a great location, nice and clean and staff in the hotel were excellent.

Negative experience: My partner and I had a drink at the rooftop bar. We had high expectations considering the price of drinks and high end reputation of the venue. However, unfortunately the service completely ruined the experience. There were too many staff members standing around, vaping and chatting and completely unaware. It took way too long to get anyone’s attention just to get a menu and to take our order. We ended up being late for our dinner reservation. The view was amazing however the complete lack of professionalism ruined the classy feel of the place. Maybe the restaurant would be a better experience.

Positive experience: Great location and good restaurant. Views from the top roof bar and from the restaurant over Cambridge are fantastic Limited generic menu

Positive experience: Given it 3 stars because the lift was broken so had to walk up 7 flights of stairs and it's expensive but the cocktails were lovely and you are paying for the view

Fantastic experience: Had a brilliant stay here in a 5th floor room with incredible views. The hotel is on a quiet street in central Cambridge. All the staff were so friendly and helpful. We would definitely stay again.

Negative experience: Rooms are basic, but reasonable for the price. Rooftop bar stopped serving drinks at 1030, for 11p close. It was a Tues, so hours may vary on the wknd. Food was eh. Best part was Steven! Such a a cutie and provided service with a smile! However, menu is not descriptive. My friend ordered the quiche which apparently has fish in it(again, not mentioned in the item description) he's allergic yet thankfully didn't have a fatal reaction. Hotel staff insisted that he still pay for the meal, and compensated him with a wine voucher. The air didn't seem to work in our room, and after contacting the front desk multiple times we were told that the technician wasn't available and offered a fan. There are cafes and a convenient store close by. Also walking distance to public transportation.

Fantastic experience: Popped to The Bar for a bite and cocktails and it didn’t disappoint. Located on the 6th floor this restaurant offers lovely views of Cambridge and excellent food and drinks!

Negative experience: Went for dinner. Food was not great despite the high prices. Timings bad too with starters turning up before our pre dinner drinks. Bought an expensive wine (£60+) which was put of table no offer to taste or open it. Food was over cooked and to be honest have had much better from gastro pubs. Staff not attentive. Very expensive and definitely would not recommend as quality and service does not reflect cost. The view is average too. Roof top closed because it had rained earlier in the day but it had not rained for a few hours when we got there so disappointed that they could not reopen. Overall very disappointed.

Fantastic experience: My wife and I had a night at the Varsity for our wedding anniversary and we could not have been more happy. The hotel staff are so welcoming, friendly and helpful, immediately making us feel at home. The room was amazing with great views, wonderfully kitted it out, modern and spacious. Make sure you have a drink on the rooftop terrace if the weather permits as the view is outstanding. Breakfast at ‘the Six’ restaurant was very good and worth paying for. Everything about this hotel, from its location to its staff was absolutely top tier and I would love to visit again soon.

Positive experience: Incredible views, location, food, spa, and service. I’d give the hotel a 20 out of 10 if they updated the furniture/room design to meet the price of the rooms and otherwise perfection.

Positive experience: Hotel was lovely for the views on the rooftop terrace. Staff very professional and helpful. The rooms were quite small considering the price for the room, beds were very hard and not pleasant to sleep on and located close to an air conditioning unit down one side of the hotel. So that was little disappointing. Good central location near all amenities and shops.

Fantastic experience: The staff are all very nice, the rooms are well equipped and spacious. No the day the sun was shining so we took full advantage of the roof terrace.

Fantastic experience: Used the spa and gym for a birthday treat. Everything was spotlessly clean and the staff were very polite and helpful. I really enjoyed the jacuzzi with views of the river Cam. I would definitely go again.

Positive experience: Fab location near centre with great city views. 'Cosy' rooms. No lounge bar/lobby so you're either in a bar/restaurant or your room. No parking nearby although they have valet parking at £25 per day. Complimentary wake up call by the very noisy bin lorry at 6.20am on Sundays!

Positive experience: Lovely little hotel, room was lovely.. however would have benefited from a fridge in the room.. it was very warm and the water was too. Also the room looked onto the back of hotel where there was alot of generator noise, so opening the window was noicey.

Fantastic experience: I've wanted a spa break for ages and selected The Varsity. I don't have one regret. It is in the heart of Cambridge but the valet service and baggage hold took away the worry of what to do with the car while we went shopping and out for lunch. On arrival the staff were Friendly and attentive. We took advantage of the early check in so we had time to change and make use of the spa and the treatments we had booked. The gym was a decent size with enough equipment and weights available to keep you busy for a good while. Our spa hosts were again spot on and the package provided a welcome two hours of relaxation. Breakfast in the Six was again as expected and in keeping with the little bit of luxury feel. So the room, I booked a graduate but was allocated a King Size. What a welcome surprise that was. It was great. I'm not particularly well travelled but I was certainly impressed. Fantastic view of the city, massive bathroom and a comfortable bed. We were seeing some R&R and certainly got it. Thank you team Varsity.

Fantastic experience: From start to finish our experience was amazing! Our room was perfect , the bath in the room just added to the stay. Food and cocktails were equally as delicious. Spa & treatments were luxurious. The overall stay was fantastic including the fab location. Couldn’t recommend enough !!

Positive experience: Comfortable rooms. Friendly staff. Don't touch the cocktails they're terrible. Cooked breakfast was excellent! Waiters all seemed a little confused but efficient nonetheless. 6th floor restaurant gives off mid century shabby chic vibes.

Fantastic experience: Upgraded on arrival which was a lovely surprise. Brilliant views of Cambridge. Friendly, helpful staff as well as other visitors. Great location. Very happy with our stay!

Fantastic experience: Ideally situated for exploring the city centre on foot, the absence of a lounge area is more than compensated for by the hotel's cosmopolitan and most obliging staff. Polite and charming, nothing was too much trouble for them during the celebratory long weekend stay of our family of six plus baby. We ventured out for one meal not very far away, but swiftly returned to the hotel's own excellent sixth-floor restaurant for its panoramic views and - you guessed it - its friendly, kind and efficient staff. We much enjoyed meeting Valter, Kevin and so many of their lovely colleagues, including Dom, Monica, Jacob, Xavier, Duarte, Habiba, the friendly doorman complete with bowler hat, and the efficient valet parking team. We shall certainly be returning.

Fantastic experience: If I could give service 6/5 I would! The staff were all super friendly and helpful. I stayed in the hotel a couple months ago and the staff were very accommodating to my room requests (I wanted a bath tub). The only issue with the room was that the bed was rather uncomfortable as the mattress was pretty firm. That being said, the room itself was lovely and big, lots of clothes storage, surplus of snacks and the room service was quick and incredibly tasty. The spa is such a treat and escape. I have gone to the spa and gym many times before throughout the years and the standards have never dipped... Not once! My friend is a gym member now so I managed to get a free pass just the other weekend and it's a great way to spend your Sunday afternoon to steam and sauna away the upcoming Monday blues. I often get elemis facials here too which are great and truthfully some of the best value biotecs around the Cambridgeshire area. Location is more than great. Highly highly highly recommended!

Fantastic experience: Where do I start, from the first lot of communication they were so professional. The rooms were very clean and spacious. The views from our room we're amazing and the location is very close to the centre of Cambridge and river, both lovely to walk. Food was lovely, spa facilities were great and the treatments sent me to sleep. Gemma was amazing and really looked after me. I would absolutely recommend staying here.

Positive experience: Good location, very friendly reception staff and the Six restaurant was great. Food is out of this world and service was fabulous and great views over the town -you could not fault it. Room price was steep - never have I paid this much for hotel for one night but wanted a little bit of luxury as it was mine and my partner’s anniversary gift for us both. Unfortunately the room did not meet our expectations, it was very small. The bed was supposed to be a King, well the frame was a king but the mattress was in fact a double because it was too small for the bed size. Bed linen was incredibly stiff and uncomfortable, very crunchy when moving around. The walls seemed very thin, as you could hear a pin drop. Lots of noise from other rooms early in the morning - and for a Sunday morning we didn’t particularly want to be disturbed. The breakfast choice was incredibly limited, and was not being replenished despite the fact we got there at 9.30am and it finished at 10am, that’s still half an hour for more people to walk through the doors and therefore should be replenished constantly. By 10am we saw the waiting staff cling-filming the leftovers and then helping themselves to whatever was left.. but unprofessional to see. For the price we paid, we expected a cooked buffet! Spa facilities were ok - although if lots of people using it then you’ll be waiting to use the jacuzzi, seems as though you’d only get 4 people in there without it feeling overcrowded. Overall, we thought it was ok - a few things were disappointing but apart from those, it was a pleasant stay. Definitely not worth the money we paid though.

Positive experience: Room seemed a little small and generic for the price but it was the last room available. Service was outstanding and the location was perfect for all local amenities . Room service was a little expensive but reliable and fast. The views from the restaurant/bar were amazing. Couldn't use the rooftop garden as the weather permits this. Apparently from April onwards is open.

Fantastic experience: We had a fantastic stay. The staff were really friendly and helpful. The room was gorgeous, and the facilities were great. Very relaxing time.

Fantastic experience: Great Location. Room was really spacious, clean and modern with a great view. Six Bar and Restaurant offered great views and we really enjoyed it in the evening. Would highly recommend for a quick break away in Cambridge!

Negative experience: I'm so sorry to be writing a poor review but our experience was ruined by rude and uncompromising customer service. Hotel is in a great location in Cambridge and the bar/restaurant and rooms are fine if a little tired. We held a company event there, with meeting room, day delegate rates and rooms totalling more that £5000. General manager rudely told one of our team that our investment was not actually that significant and they would not make right things that were mentioned and committed to at check-out. We'll vote with our feet next year, but I'd urge Corporate and Tourists alike to look at the great alternatives in Cambridge and avoid this hotel.

Positive experience: £230 for a very small double room on a Thursday evening ! Breakfast included was only continental with all cooked options chargeable. Very disappointing. I was given a room the floor below the resturante which wasn't ideal as at about 10pm all you could hear was chair and tables being dragged around the resturante so no chance of an early night. Vallet parking was £30 - there is no parking at the hotel so your car is driven to another location over a mile away and then returned at a certain time. Not ideal if you would like to pop and get something out of your car. Didn't eat at the resturante but was put off by the lack of daught beer and the price of £6.50 for a small bottle of Morretti !

Fantastic experience: Excellent (relatively new-2010’s) boutique hotel with a glorious view of Cambridge from the rooftop bar. Rooms are quite individual, and staff very accommodating. Logistically centered between John’s & Jesus colleges, it is the place to stay in Cambridge.

Positive experience: Went to the rooftop bar and the Six restaurant. Fantastic location with amazing views across Cambridge. Food was very nice and the service was very good, I found the staff to be helpful and accommodating.

Negative experience: Okay for what it is. We were rushed off the top floor as it was 8:30pm but we only ordered the drinks at 7:45pm Members of staff was always on their personal phones and not very friendly.

Negative experience: What can I say - I hate writing bad reviews so I’ll start with some positives, the hotel is in a great location, is very clean, the room was well decorated and a good size. Unfortunately that’s where the positivity ends. Our bad experience started from check in, the staff were unfriendly, awkward and unwelcoming. We were offered no help with our luggage of which we had rather a lot. Varsity only has one lift - which isn’t great as the hotel has a busy restaurant so there is quite often a queue to wait. As we were going up in the lift with our luggage a staff member stopped the lift and jumped in with us, which was a squeeze but not only that he had a tub of what I believe was raw onions - which absolutely stunk. Our room seemed to be near the cleaners common room - from very early in the morning there was a lot of noise and activity. Even with the do not disturb sign on the door the cleaners knocked at 7:30am to service the room. Every time we entered and exited our room the corridor was filled with cleaning staff right by our door - which felt very intrusive. We went to the spa for treatments, the spa isn’t actually attached to the hotel. Which isn’t my favourite. Our treatments weren’t cheap, again not a great experience. Towels on the treatment couches were damp, old and rough to the touch. The therapists were very young and seemed inexperienced. Then comes the worst bit - going back to the hotel after our treatments looking a little disheveled - there is now has some sort of security on the door who rudely ask us what we want. We had left our key with reception, luckily we were let back in. Again an uncomfortable situation. We usually stay at the hotel du Vin group of hotels and booked Varsity for a change - big mistake, huge! This hotel isn’t remotely in the same league.

Negative experience: We booked this hotel because of it's close proximity to all the sites, downside no parking but they do offer valet parking for £25/day! The wifi is not working in the room, we discovered wifi working in 6th floor (restaurant). In the bathroom, could use a few hooks & shelving for changeof clothes/toiletry. The room there is no minibar; however, there's a sign stating the hotel prefer to offer drinks delivered to the room. I honestly prefer to put my own drinks in the fridge. It's basically furnished, so typical hotel in U.K. We had dinner Six restaurant, I wish I visit another restaurant. Overpriced and not that good. Sauce tasted like it came from a jar! It's o.k for a drinks in the rooftop terrace with a panoramic view of the city.

Positive experience: Small clean room, high price because of great city center location. Great rooftop bar with no wi-fi and overpriced mediocre cocktails. Reasonable breakfast buffet with a la carte option. Expensive valet car parking. Probably try the Hilton next time to compare.

Fantastic experience: Lovely restaurant with good food and excellent view.of the city. Slightly more expensive than I usually go for, but it is really worth it for a special occasion. There is only one lift do need to wait to get to the Six resturant...which I know there is little to be done about it, but it is worth the wait for the lovely views. The food was delicious and the service was good. This a great place to stay eat and drink and being right in the middle of Cambridge and near the river We felt cold out on the terrace so the waiters closed the top roof...thanks for the consideration

Positive experience: The staff were wonderful, especially Marco. He was so attentive and fun. Great guy So we did actually get our starters before our drinks, which did actually take a good 30mins although it was busy on a Sunday. The ginger and soy sauce for the prawns 100% needs adjusting, was very salty and the flavours didn't come through. Prawns were cooked beautifully it's just a shame the dip let the entire dish down. 2/10 Haddock and salmon fish cake was substantial, lovely flavours. Could of done with a little more smokiness. 6/10 Chips and aoli 10/10 Spinach and ricotta cannaloni was super super dry, so hard to swallow, I personally wouldn't have paid for it but my sister didn't want to make a fuss. 2/10 The duck was lovely, my mum enjoyed it but would of preferred it a little pinker. 7/10 The raffiello cocktail was recommended to me by Marco and it was without a doubt the best cocktail I've ever had!!! 10/10 For the price it was 5/10 For the food it was 6/10 Drinks 10/10 Service 10/10 Unlikely we will be back sorry

Positive experience: Only went to the roof top Six Restaurant. Seemed a nice hotel. The service in Restaurant wasn't the best due to a dish being forgotten and my friends had the lobster which was a low standard to their expectations. The Restaurant felt dated and tired. The views are great of the oldy world rooftops which would be for me the only reason I'd go there. There is quite a few vegan options. Iron out service issues, have fresher better cooked food and refurb the place then I'd definitely recommend to others.

Fantastic experience: Earlier in the year we made 'secret' arrangements with the hotel to enable my son to propose to his partner as the rooftop bar at the hotel had been the scene of their first date. Kevin (GM) and his staff couldn't have been more helpful from providing an upgrade on the room to hiding the all important ring in the room safe and supplying bubbles etc at the right moment - a surprise birthday treat then turned into an even bigger surprise. My son and his new fiancée had a great meal in restaurant and a memorable nights stay. Highly recommended - thanks Kevin & team for your help in making these lifelong memories.

Negative experience: It’s a shame to be leaving a 2 star review, but I’m hoping that the feedback will be taken on board as the hotel really is a beautiful venue with a fantastic concierge team and a wonderful waiter named Toms! So, thank you firstly to the concierge and Toms for providing excellent and good old fashion customer service. Having specifically chosen one of the higher specification rooms, it was highly disappointing when the AC packed up - it was unable to be fixed and there were also no other rooms of similar specification available, however the team did provide multiple fans as a substitute. The phones then wouldn’t work which meant an awkward ‘dressing robe’ trip to the reception. We visited the restaurant in advance of our reservation to confirm our table as we had chosen the venue for its city views … on arrival for dinner, we were told that they didn’t have a note of the table choice and we couldn’t be seated there. The wine was the quality of a local newsagents, however we would recommend the lobster! We were told that a manager would come and speak to us, however this didn’t happen. The manager the next day also wasn’t aware of the multiple issues that we had experienced.

Negative experience: ***BY FAR THE WORST EXPERIENCE EVER*** We stayed at the Varsity midweek in one of their suites celebrating my fiancés birthday. All was good, we enjoyed a nice meal at a local restaurant and headed back to the room at around 10pm. We put some music on to chill out and go to sleep to. We were then woke up to a random person, claiming to be the general manager (wearing a tracksuit) in our room screaming at us to leave the premises immediately. My fiancé was absolutely petrified as he hurled abuse at the pair of us for having our music on (it was 11pm and we were asleep). A few words were exchanged and after around 10 minutes he decided to leave the room. The way in which this ‘General Manager’ spoke to us was completely unjustified, the fact he nearly took the door off as he came flying into the room was again, completely unjustified. I will never stay at this place again and will continue to tell everyone in my network about the most horrific situation you could imagine when celebrating a birthday.

Negative experience: The location is very nice and the roof top indoor and outdoor restaurants are very nice. We came only for the restaurant and unfortunately we were disappointed in the food. I had the duck which was nice but dry and not much juice from the orange also the vegetables were burned. The chicken was incredibly dry and the gravy was very liquid and without flavour.

Fantastic experience: Great restaurant with good food. Slightly more expensive than I usually go for, but it is really worth it for a special occasion. There is only one lift which I know there is little to be done about it, but it is worth the wait for the lovely views.

Positive experience: Cool rooftop bar with great views and nice drinks and happy to pay a bit more for the location. Service felt unwelcoming (although one member of staff was a lot politer than the rest) and the food up there is absolutely atrocious. The burger was probably from frozen and easily the worst burger I’ve attempted to eat in Cambridge. Others had painfully dry steak sandwiches! Maybe just drop the food?