In my opinion, this centrally located Cambridge hotel is a real gem. It’s just a hop, skip, and a jump from the city’s historic heart and those world-famous colleges.
The perks are plentiful: speedy Wi-Fi that won’t cost you a dime, a spot to park your car, and even free bikes to pedal around town. You’ve got two spots to grab a bite, a place to pamper yourself, and they’ve made sure folks with mobility issues can get around easily.
Now, let’s talk drawbacks. The rates might make your wallet wince a bit, especially during busy seasons. And if you’re hoping for that quaint, old-world charm, you might find the modern vibe a tad disappointing.
But here’s the scoop: if you’re a traveler who values convenience and comfort, and you don’t mind spending a little extra for a prime location, this place is right up your alley.
It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting to soak up Cambridge’s atmosphere, or for those attending university events who need a cushy base close to the action.
Good To Know

- The Gonville Hotel is located in Gonville Place, Cambridge, within a 5-minute walk to the historic city center and 10 minutes to the University of Cambridge colleges.
- The hotel offers a range of amenities, including free high-speed WiFi, private parking, a spa, and complimentary bike hire for guests.
- Guests can enjoy diverse dining options at the hotel’s two restaurants, The Garden Restaurant and The Bar, featuring seasonal and locally-sourced dishes.
- The hotel’s rooms come equipped with modern features such as flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, work desks, and private bathrooms with either separate showers or shower-over-bath configurations.
- The Gonville Hotel is a popular choice due to its prime location, friendly staff, and commitment to sustainable practices, including third-party eco-friendly certifications and energy-efficient initiatives.
Hotel Overview

The Gonville Hotel is located in Gonville Place, Cambridge, CB1 1LY, United Kingdom.
It’s rated 8.6/10 by 3,894 reviews, with an excellent location score of 9.4.
The hotel’s prime location is just a 5-minute walk from the historic center of Cambridge and 10 minutes from the city’s renowned university colleges. Guests can also easily access Parkers Piece, the Grand Arcade shopping center, and the train station.
The Gonville offers free high-speed WiFi, private parking, and complimentary bike hire.
Facilities include two restaurants, a spa, a bar, family rooms, non-smoking rooms, and accessible features.
Guests consistently praise the hotel’s location, friendly staff, and cleanliness.
Location and Accessibility

Conveniently situated just a 5-minute walk from the historic heart of Cambridge, the Gonville Hotel offers an excellent location for exploring the city.
The hotel is within easy reach of several key attractions:
- Just 10 minutes from the famous colleges of the University of Cambridge.
- Adjacent to Parkers Piece, a large open green space in the city center.
- A short stroll to the Grand Arcade shopping center and the train station.
With its prime position, the Gonville Hotel provides guests with effortless access to the best of Cambridge’s landmarks, shops, and transportation links, making it an ideal base for both leisure and business travelers.
Amenities and Facilities

Beyond its excellent location, the Gonville Hotel offers a range of amenities and facilities to enhance guests’ stays.
The hotel provides free high-speed WiFi, private parking for £26 per day, and complimentary bike hire. Theres some good the on-site spa, savor meals at the two restaurants, or unwind at the bar.
The hotel caters to families with family rooms and offers non-smoking and accessible options.
Room amenities include flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, work desks, private bathrooms with toiletries, and hairdryers.
Breakfast choices cover continental, full English/Irish, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring a satisfying start to the day.
Dining Options
Complementing its prime location, the Gonville Hotel offers guests a varied dining experience.
The hotel features two restaurants:
- The Garden Restaurant – Serving seasonal, locally-sourced cuisine in a light, airy setting overlooking the hotel’s gardens.
- The Bar – Offering a cozy atmosphere for casual meals, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails.
- In-room dining – Available 24 hours, with a menu of classic comfort foods and lighter options.
Whether seeking a formal meal or a relaxed bite, guests can savor delectable dishes and drinks without leaving the comfort of the hotel.
Room Features
The Gonville Hotel offers a variety of well-appointed room types, catering to the diverse needs of its guests. Rooms range from Classic Doubles to Deluxe Kings, each featuring spacious bedrooms and cozy seating areas.
Many rooms are equipped with QR codes, allowing guests to easily request various services. Bathroom configurations vary, with some rooms offering separate showers and others featuring shower-over-bath setups.
Regardless of the room type, guests can expect a comfortable stay, complete with flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, work desks, and complimentary toiletries.
The hotel’s thoughtful amenities and attention to detail ensure a pleasant and relaxing experience for all visitors.
Guest Experiences

Guests have largely praised the Gonville Hotel for its exceptional location, friendly staff, and well-maintained cleanliness.
Key highlights of the guest experience include:
Exceptional location, with the hotel situated just a 5-minute walk from the historic center of Cambridge and 10 minutes from the city’s renowned university colleges.
Friendly and attentive staff, who’ve been commended for their professionalism and helpfulness.
Well-appointed and clean rooms, providing a comfortable stay for guests.
While some guests have noted minor issues with room amenities and occasional street noise, the overall guest experience at the Gonville Hotel has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly in regards to its unbeatable location and hospitable staff.
Sustainability Efforts
As a hotel committed to sustainability, the Gonville Hotel holds third-party certifications that demonstrate its eco-friendly practices. The hotel’s sustainability efforts are multifaceted, spanning energy efficiency, waste management, and community engagement. To showcase its commitment, the Gonville Hotel has created the following table outlining its sustainability initiatives:
| Sustainability Initiatives | Description |
|---|---|
| Energy Efficiency | LED lighting, smart thermostats, and energy-efficient appliances |
| Waste Management | Comprehensive recycling program, composting, and reduction of single-use plastics |
| Community Engagement | Partnerships with local suppliers, support for charitable organizations |
These sustainability measures not only reduce the hotel’s environmental impact but also enhance the guest experience by promoting a more responsible and eco-conscious stay.
Policies and Reservations

Gonville Hotel’s policies outline flexible check-in and check-out times, with guests able to access their rooms from 3:00 PM and expected to depart by 11:00 AM.
The hotel’s cancellation and prepayment policies vary, providing guests with options to suit their needs.
Plus, the property holds sustainability certifications from third-party organizations, demonstrating its commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Guests traveling with pets can also stay at the Gonville Hotel, though additional charges may apply.
- Flexible check-in from 3:00 PM and check-out until 11:00 AM.
- Varied cancellation and prepayment policies to accommodate guest preferences.
- Sustainability certifications from third-party organizations for eco-conscious travelers.
Questions About Staying Here

Is the Hotel Wheelchair Accessible Throughout?
The hotel has accessible features that accommodate guests with mobility needs. It offers accessible rooms and public areas, making it suitable for wheelchair users to move around comfortably throughout the property.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?
The hotel offers various packages and discounts, such as weekend getaways, romantic stays, and advance purchase deals. Guests should check the hotel’s website or contact the reservations team for the latest offers and promotions.
Can Guests Make Special Dietary Requests for Meals?
Yes, guests can make special dietary requests for meals. The hotel offers breakfast options that cater to various dietary needs, including continental, full English/Irish, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices.
What Time Is the Latest Check-Out Allowed?
The latest check-out time is 11:00 AM. Guests are required to check-out by this time, though earlier check-outs may be possible depending on the hotel’s availability and the guest’s specific request.
Does the Hotel Offer Any Loyalty or Rewards Program?
The hotel does not appear to offer a loyalty or rewards program based on the information provided. There are no details mentioned about any such program in the hotel overview.
Worth The Stay
The Gonville Hotel in Cambridge provides an excellent base for exploring the city’s historic charm and vibrant culture. With its convenient location, wide range of amenities, and positive guest reviews, the hotel offers a comfortable and practical accommodation option for both business and leisure travelers. Whether visiting for a short stay or an extended trip, the Gonville Hotel is well-suited to meet the needs of guests seeking a memorable experience in this renowned university city.
