Christmas in Cambridge

From the carolling that rings out from the great chapels of Cambridge to the frost that covers the city parks, there is no finer English city to spend Christmas in - nor a hotel more inviting than University Arms. Enjoy festive dining in Parker’s Tavern, relaxing by the fire in the Library and beautiful city walks in the crisp winter air.

This will be a winter experience full of memories, when seasonal fog wraps the dreaming colleges, the pubs are cosy, and the walks along the River Cam are full of soul.

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Our flexible itinerary will work for however you and your family want to spend your festive period.

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    Check-in anytime from 4pm

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    Canapés & sherry at 5PM in the Drawing Room

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    Carol Singers from Clare College accompanying the canapés

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    Festive Dinner in Parker’s Tavern between 7PM and 9PM

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    A lazy buffet breakfast in Parker’s Tavern between 7AM and 10.30AM

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    Christmas Day Lunch will be served in Parker’s Tavern

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    Cambridge Walking Tour

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    Televised King's Speech at 3PM

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    Christmas Cold Cuts will be served at 7PM in Parker’s Tavern

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    Leisurely Boxing Day Breakfast will be served in Parker’s Tavern

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    Plenty of time to curl up in front of the fire and relax in the library before checkout

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Christmas at University Arms, Cambridge

24th - 26th December 2026

There will be feasting throughout Christmas Day at University Arms, beginning with a long, lazy buffet breakfast. The day’s highlight: Christmas lunch showcasing our chef's festive flair and the finest local ingredients. After lunch, settle in for an evening of games in the Drawing Room.

After a day of revelry, wind down with a leisurely Boxing Day breakfast and time spent curled up by the fire in the wood-panelled library. We can also make recommendations for the best Boxing Day walks around the city and further afield, in the Cambridge fens.

Book early to avoid disappointment, with free cancellation until the 3rd of December.

Book Your Stay Download The Brochure

Whether you’re extending your stay with us or treating yourself to a post-holiday escape, this is your invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and let us take care of everything else. Treat yourself to a relaxing overnight stay after the excitement of the festivities, leaving all the hustle behind. Enjoy a slow morning in the comfort of your room, then linger over a leisurely breakfast, all at 50% off our best available rate with breakfast for Christmas package guests, or 25% off for all other guests. Bookable directly through our reservations team.

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University Arms and Parker’s Piece have been the location of choice for great feasts and celebrations throughout Cambridge’s history. The same celebratory spirit that brought 15,000 people onto the green for Queen Victoria’s Coronation in 1838 remains to this day. Few halls in Cambridge can compete with the grandeur, elegance and history of the University Arms Ballroom, especially during the festive season as it becomes adorned with decorations. Whether you are looking for a space for an intimate reception or festive feasting, the Ballroom offers a unique and memorable setting for your Christmas celebration.

2025 Christmas Party Packages find out more
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