Cambridgeshire, University Arms (De Vere)

My fiancee and I booked a weekend break on a special reduced rate through Laterooms.com. Normal rate for a double room would be £195, but we got it for £55! Located just at the end of Regents Street, on the edge of Parker's Piece (where Association Football was developed!), an ideal location for eating, drinking and shopping. The hotel is made up of 2 parts - the old building displayed on the website and a newer portion, probably built in the 1950's. The reception, bars, restaurant and ballroom are all located in the grander old part of the hotel. Our room was in the newer part.The bedroom was a very good size, although it was actually a family room, as there was a double bed and a single bed, but no matter, as this gave us room to store our clothes and shopping! The bathroom was a little small, with just enough room for a small bath, with shower at the end, a small basin and wc and just enough room to swing a cat! Oh, and the cleaners tended to miss the corners of the bathroom, with little dust bunnies growing there! The decor was a little tired - probably last done in the 1970's, but kind of added to the feel of historic Cambridge! There is high speed internet access, but if you wanted room service, one of you may have to sit on the floor, as there was only 1 chair with the table! Bed was soft, clean and had a nice thick quilt. Nice! Shame that the double glazing was old and didn't shield very much of the traffic or drunken pedestrian noise! Still, we did both seem to wake rested, despite the broken sleep!Breakfast, which is served in the ballroom, overlooking Parker's Piece, was a well organised affair, but get there early on weekdays, as time is short! 7 to 11 over the weekend, so nice and leisurely, but 7 to 9.30 weekdays and there can be a big queue. Staff efficient and polite. Food self-service on cereals, fruits and pastries, hot food, teas/coffees, toasts brought to your table. Menu set, but veggie option available. Yum! Location is excellent for Grafton centre and the historic town centre, both within 10 minutes stroll. There is the use of a swimming pool, but we didn't bother, as again, a short stroll involved and it was only 2 degrees! I would recommend this hotel, but would ask for a room overlooking the greenery of the Piece and not on the road side.