29/09/2018
University Arms Cambridge, we’ve been expecting you…
After a much-talked-about two-year restoration, the university city landmark overlooking Parker’s Piece has emerged in a flash of glory. Its epic proportions sweep alongside the famous green with a classic, honey-hued facade and porte-cochère by architect John Simpson, which belies the modern design within. Originally built as a coaching inn in 1834, Martin Brudnizki has curated the contemporary interiors.
Expect subtle academic motifs combined with a distinguished take on Edwardian decor. Across the 192 quintessentially British rooms and suites, furnishings are soft yet vibrant: a rich tapestry of sumptuous velvet, linen, padded leather and curvaceous furniture with a signature colour palette of smoky blues, blood red, mustard yellow, mint green and dark wood. Larger suites feature well-stocked libraries, while those on the top floor have balconies offering fine views of the Piece and monochrome-tiled bathrooms tucked into the original domed turrets. Elsewhere, Tristan Welch’s unpretentious restaurant Parker’s Tavern makes good use of local ingredients from field to fen to sea (think Norfolk seafood and suckling pig with wild mushrooms) served up at communal seating inspired by that found in Cambridge colleges.
Go ahead and book in, because this one’s well worth the punt.
Review by Blossom Green