Bookish Places to Stay

University Arms, Cambridge

Built in 1834 and recently renovated, this is not only the oldest hotel in Cambridge, but a treat for bibliophiles. The Mayfair-based bookseller Heywood Hill has curated every shelf on the property, from the wood-paneled library downstairs to the shelves in the 12 huge suites, which each take a famous university figure as their subject. Those keen to swot up on Stephen Hawking's works also benefit from this being the largest suite. In the lobby loo you can listen to the audiobook of Alan Bennett reading his fellow Oxford alumnus Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows.

Details B&B doubles from £159