The Hobson
The Radical Truth
A modern hotel in an impressive Victorian building, perfect for that apartment/hotel freedom but with hotel convenience. Not quite in the historic centre but close enough to feel the city pressures.
Room Reality
The hotel sits on the main thoroughfare between the station and the city centre, you are constantly 'in it.' The pavements here are a bottleneck for shoppers, students and commuters. If you’re looking for the quiet, 'dreamy spires' tranquility of Cambridge, you won't find it right here, but it is very nearby. This road is the city’s high-traffic pulse. Leaving the hotel's sophistication puts you straight into the city's energy.
Local Insider Hack
While hotel breakfasts can be a treat, during the longer stays that aparthotels are built for, they can eventually feel impersonal. You have a Sainsbury’s Local directly opposite the hotel entrance. Instead of the pricey hotel buffet, cross the street, grab exactly what you like, and use your kitchenette to make an 'at home' style breakfast. It’s the fastest way to stop feeling like a tourist and start feeling like you actually live in the city
The Vibe
Heritage Tech-Chic
The Neighbourhood Reality
The Hobson occupies the middle ground between the station and the historic centre. A "Reimagined Hero," it wraps Australian-influenced modernism in the gravity of a Victorian police station. With a small kitchenette, its rooms are for the traveler who want a little more utility.
The energy is pure city-edge. It’s less "stuffy" than the University Arms, but more "designed" than the standard chains. You’re right on the artery of St Andrew’s Street. Stepping out and looking right toward the grander University Arms could remind you that you're not quite at the highest end, but in an equally, or perhaps even more, impressive building.
Located close to the budget friendly pub, the Regal by Wetherspoons and with more popular bars further along, you can be sure the street will be busy over weekend evenings. But, that means you're a stones throw from that and other local nightlife attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is the walk from Cambridge Central Train Station?
It’s a 12–15 minute "Halfway House" walk. While the distance is under a mile, it can be frustrating with luggage. You’ll be competing for narrow pavement space with crowds of shoppers and students as you approach the city center. If you're coming from the train station, a taxi is highly recommended.
Can I drop off bags by car?
There is a lay-by directly outside, but be warned: it is strictly marked for Disabled Use Only. Stopping here in a person vehicle may be a friction point. Taxis should have no problem dropping you off there. Also, as you progress deeper into town by car the area becomes restricted for certain vehicles (busses and taxis). That mistake could become expensive.
Is the area quiet?
The hotel is located close to the central bus station and the road serves as a major connector. And, it's not just the busses, cyclists and those on foot use this route regularly. Expect the area to be busy from early morning until late evening. It is worth considering this if you can choose your room.
What is the "Insider" breakfast tip?
There is a Sainsbury’s Local directly opposite the entrance. Skip the hotel buffet, grab fresh supplies, and use your in-room kitchenette for a more "at home" morning experience.
How far is the walk into the town centre/university colleges?
You are right on the edge of the historic city. Turning left out of the front door puts you at the gates of Emmanuel College in 2 minutes and the Market Square in 8 minutes with the major shopping hub of Lion Yard in between. There's some excellent restaurants, local and chain, very near by. The river and punting are around a 17 minute walk.
Can I park at the hotel?
The Hobson does not offer any parking options. As you can see from the other truths, arriving here by car comes with friction. The nearest parking is at the Queen Anne Terrace Car Park. The Hobson claim it is an 8 minute walk, but with bags, and depending on if you walk across the big green (Parkers Piece) or have bags to drag so stick to paved surfaces, the walk could take up to 15 minutes. The car park offers hourly and daily rates - but is not really meant for long stay and does tend to fill up at weekends.
Where is the nearest EV charging for this hotel.
The Queen Anne Terrace Car Park offers 40 EV charging spots. This is the closest and most convenient car park for this hotel.
Is this a pet friendly hotel?
Yes, they offer pet friendly rooms on request. It is a few short minutes walk from Parker's Piece, one of Cambridge's famous green spaces, perfect for those early morning or late-night dog walks.