Rain or shine, a weekend escape out of London is always a good idea. As spring settles in, Cambridge is a no-brainer destination. With its medieval colleges, cobbled lanes and centuries of academic lore, a visit calls for a hotel that matches this city’s sense of history. Enter the recently opened Hobson Cambridge by Adina: a new 56-room aparthotel nestled in a 17th century Grade II-listed building that has lived many lives.
Dating back to the 1600s, the building has served as a workhouse, a Victorian fire and police station and, later, an office block. Its namesake, Thomas Hobson, once ran his horse and carriage business here, coining the phrase ‘Hobson’s Choice’. It’s been meticulously restored by Adina Apartment Hotels, the Australian aparthotel group making its UK debut in Cambridge.
-(1).jpeg)
Adina’s unique concept is casual apartment-style living with hotel polish, and The Hobson is a confident first outing. Each room has a full kitchenette, making it as suited to visiting academics and parents as it is to weekenders. Heated bathroom floors take the chill off brisk mornings, and the beds are properly plush. It is comfortable without being fussy, practical without losing charm.
The real triumph, though, is the restoration. Original stained glass windows bearing college crests cast jewel-toned light at sunset and the former horse and cart yard. A car park has been transformed into a striking conservatory restaurant crowned by an oval skylight. With its impressive soaring height and original brick lining, it feels contemporary yet honours the building’s heritage bones. It’s the perfect spot for a morning coffee and breakfast, afternoon tea or a long, lively dinner with friends.
-(1).jpeg)
That space is home to Oz & Isle, the hotel’s drinks-led restaurant and bar – a nod to Adina’s Aussie roots mixed with British tradition, with a cocktail list and seasonal small plates menu designed to follow suit. Expect steak, arancini, haddock croquettes and generous cheese and charcuterie boards — all easy to share. It is already drawing a mix of locals and guests.
There are other subtle Australian touches throughout, from curated art to a warm forest green interior palette, yet, the hotel never feels themed. Instead, it strikes a balance between preservation and reinvention, respecting its past while making the building genuinely liveable.
.jpeg)
From around £160 a night, The Hobson Cambridge is an accessible base just an hour from London, offering history, elegance and personal attention. In prime position to one the world’s oldest universities and nearby museums, and riverside walks, don’t forget to take a picture of Newton’s Apple Tree and sign up to go punting in the warmer months.
In a city defined by tradition, The Hobson Cambridge feels like a thoughtful new chapter.
From £160 per night, thehobsoncambridge.com
