If you have a soft spot for quintessential British charm, Cambridge could be the perfect place to tie the knot - a pretty, historic city that still feels connected to the countryside. At the heart of this architecturally-splendid gem is luxury hotel, the University Arms, a grand nod towards the town’s association with one of the country’s most prestigious universities. Indeed, since 1834, the hotel’s classic Edwardian interiors and impressive facade have been hosting guests for all manner of glamorous events, including wedding days.
The city’s oldest hotel, the University Arms, has two main spaces for your big day. First up, there’s the ballroom with capacity for up to 200 people seated and gorgeous features like historic wooden wall panelling and huge windows, some of which are crafted from intricate stained glass. Then, there’s The Crick and The Watson, two smaller areas with capacities of 70 and 96 guests, split with dividers. Each couple will work with their own wedding planner to work out what’s best for them, and the venue’s website even details an advised planning timeline including booking suppliers with ten months to go, sending invites and cake tasting at six months, and final preparations going ahead four weeks before the special day. The team here is totally dedicated to ensuring your wedding feels completely unique.
As for catering, all menus are designed and prepared in house. The chefs work only with the best British produce, adding their own flair to create a sense of eclecticism, which flows through to the wine list, too. Another benefit to being a hotel is that after the party has ended, you nor your guests need not tread your weary feet home. Instead, run upstairs to one of the gorgeous 189 rooms and suites. Each one has soft-as-silk sheets, a walk-in rainforest shower and luxury touches like posh toiletries and heated bathroom floors.