Luxury, Private Venue Hire in Central Cambridge

In the heart of Cambridge, in the city's oldest hotel, discover a vibrant, contemporary venue for private events - grand in scale, but personal in the details. We tailor our spaces to every function, so the rooms never feel crowded or hollow. Every aspect of your function will be finely honed, from the personally crafted menu by our culinary experts to the bespoke silverware on the tables. We specialise in events that deliver extravagance without pomposity, like University Arms itself. Whether you are planning a corporate conference, a milestone celebration, or an academic symposium, our spaces adapt seamlessly to your needs.

Few halls in Cambridge can compete with the grandeur, elegance and history of the University Arms Ballroom - a wood-panelled room that belongs to our city's heritage. Natural light spills in through huge stained-glass windows decorated with college crests, with views looking out over the city’s iconic Parker’s Piece. Summer or winter, the Ballroom is the perfect space for large events, accommodating up to 180 seated guests or 200 standing. Ideal event space for Conferences, Gala Dinners, Award Ceremonies, Grand Celebrations, University Events and more.

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The Ballroom is a space that can also cater to more intimate events. A solid oak partitioning wall divides the Ballroom into our Crick and Watson rooms, named after James Watson and Francis Crick who made the groundbreaking discovery, the structure of DNA, 'the secret to life' here in Cambridge in 1953. The sense of elegance without pomposity, of intimacy over corporate formality, is unusual for Cambridge. Accommodates events for up to 90 people. Ideal event space for Executive Meetings, Academic Lectures, Networking Events, Private Dinners and more.

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The Watson is suitable for more intimate events, accommodating up to 70 guests. Ideal event space for Executive Meetings and Private Dinners.

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Virtual Tour

Walk through the hotel with our virtual tour. Explore the meeting spaces to begin planning your event at University Arms.

As an old coaching inn, Parker’s Tavern has been a meeting spot for over a hundred years. Our Ballroom, Crick and Watson rooms offer flexible event space for corporate gatherings of all sizes. Our spaces provide the ideal environment to inspire productivity and collaboration. From board meetings to multi-day conferences, we offer state-of-the-art facilities paired with the finest hospitality. Catered by the award-winning kitchens of Parker’s Tavern, your event is sure to impress colleagues and clients alike, while the surroundings and views inspire exceptional results.

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The Parker’s Tavern Ballroom was built to host lively dinners, with menus that are written to celebrate local produce and inspire conversation from even the most introverted dinner guest. Our wine list is as eclectic as the college crests that adorn the stained glass windows and when the sun sets, the chandeliers dim, while the evening continues over candlelight. Whether celebrating a birthday, anniversary, engagement, or family reunion, our spaces cater to both intimate gatherings and lively soirées.

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Your wedding or civil ceremony is the most important event we will ever organise, and we will take care of every detail, ensuring you enjoy every perfect moment of this most special of days. Our expert team will make your dream a reality, from early planning all the way to the day itself. With delicious menus composed and executed by our culinary experts, this is your opportunity to discover Cambridge’s most iconic venue. The perfect setting for the wedding or civil ceremony you have always imagined.

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Going so soon? Why not stay a little longer and enjoy our exclusive room rates and a variety of accommodation options, we ensure your guests have a seamless stay. Whether for a conference or a wedding, our stylish rooms offer comfort and elegance in the heart of Cambridge.

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