Hotels in Cambridge

The historic university town of Cambridge lies a few hours north of London in the east of England. Famed for the Christmas 'Nine Lessons and Carols' service from Kings College, this compact town can be toured on foot.

The cultural offerings of Cambridge whirl around a spectacular set of architectural and natural features...

In keeping with the city's cultural traditions, there are many museums and galleries to explore, such as the Fitzwilliam and Kettles Yard. Stay in any of the hotels in Cambridge city centre, which range from cheap B&Bs to five-star retreats, for punt trips down the River Cam or strolls around the stunning University Botanical Gardens. Alternatively, while away the day in any of the high-quality eateries and local shops.

To see the city at its best, join an official guided tour. Walking around the city will enable you to appreciate the university's historic architecture.

Cosy B&Bs can be found alongside big brand chain hotels in Cambridge, offering plenty of choice to visitors...

If you are looking for a big brand hotel, Cambridge is home to the Holiday Inn Express, DoubleTree by Hilton, Days Inn, Best Western and Premier Inn.

You may even wish to stay in one of the college rooms, which are available outside of term time in the summer months. Alternatively, there are a range of good hotels within the vicinity of St John's, Trinity and many other famous colleges.

Visitors wishing to travel further afield to county attractions like Shepreth Wildlife Park, or those who wish to tour the Fenland by bike, might be best suited to the choice of guest houses outside the city centre. Search for hotels in Cambridge along the river or on Chesterton Road, which still provides easy access to all of the central amenities. The B&Bs on Newmarket Road are also conveniently situated for guests arriving at Cambridge airport. If you wish to venture further afield, London is easily accessed by car or rail. Leicester, Birmingham and Ipswich can all be visited with a train ride.

Enjoy a lazy day on the river or make a beeline for the museums; you'll certainly never be short of ideas in Cambridge...

This compact city has plenty to keep visitors occupied during a short break.

Top five attractions

Kings College

Visitors will enjoy exploring outstanding architecture when they visit the college and its stunning late Gothic chapel.

Punting on the River Cam

A lazy trip punting down the River Cam is a must-do when in Cambridge. Sit back and take in the peace and tranquillity of the surrounding area.

Kettle's Yard

Art enthusiasts will love visiting Kettle's Yard which houses 20th-century, contemporary and modern art.

Cambridge University Botanic Garden

Showcasing more than 8,000 different species of plants and flowers, visitors can enjoy walking around the 40 acres of beautiful gardens and glasshouses.

The Fitzwilliam Museum

History buffs will love spending time wandering around the Fitzwilliam Museum with its impressive collections of artefacts from the ancient world and art by the likes of Picasso and Whistler.

There's plenty going on in this lively university city, whenever you take your break...

Cambridge has a widespread reputation for events such as the Cambridge Folk and Beer festivals as well as the Big Weekend and Secret Garden Party. December is one of the most exciting times of year to see Cambridge, if only for the superb carol festivities. The Shakespeare festival and other big summer events take place in July and August. The Cambridge Film festival takes place in September. Hotels can be fully booked ahead of these events, however, so take care to check availability as soon as possible.

The Cambridge Science Festival; March: As the UK's largest free science festival, visitors can take part in more than 200 events at the University of Cambridge and its partner organisations. With everything from astronomy to zoology, all the family can experience hands-on experiments as well as watching talks and presentations from leading researchers.

Cambridge Folk Festival; July: Featuring an eclectic mix of music, the event showcases traditional folk, country, blues, roots, bluegrass and gospel, among others. Held at Cherry Hinton Hall, visitors can either buy a one-day pass or attend for the whole weekend.

A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols: This famous Christmas Eve service held in King's College Chapel was first introduced in 1918 and is now broadcast to the nation and all over the world. To get in you will need to queue at the chapel and it is advised to arrive before 9am.