The University Arms—the legendary hotel in Cambridge, England which first opened in 1834—has been closed for two years during a significant renovation. The price tag for the makeover? Eighty million pounds (more than $108 million). Now, much to the delight of the hotel's fans, The University Arms has announced a summer reopening. The exact date is yet to be determined.
The renovation has been led by architect John Simpson and interior design Martin Brudnizki. As a classical architect, Simpson is renowned for his work on Buckingham and Kensington Palaces, along with Peterhouse and Gonville & Caius College in Cambridge. Hailing from Stockholm, Brudnizki has racked up the awards for his design work with the likes of Soho House, Rosewood and Rocco Forte Hotels. The idea was to showcase a quintessential British style, grounded in the Cambridge setting. Think: leather-padded writing desks and low ottomans in the Edwardian-style rooms.
Significantly, the hotel’s 1960s and 70s extensions were replaced with more classically designed architecture reflecting the look of Cambridge. Other new features will include a lobby, gym, a destination restaurant called Parker’s Tavern serving English brasserie-style food prepared with locally sourced ingredients, an underground valet parking garage, and event space. Tip: The bar and library have also been redesigned.
The University Arms Cambridge has 192 rooms and suites on four floors, overlooking Parker’s Piece, Regent Street or the hotel’s courtyard. The 12 suites are each equipped with bookshelves curated by Mayfair’s famous Heywood Hill bookshop around a specific theme. Fun perk: All guests get access to complimentary bicycles for exploring Cambridge.