The building that now houses The Restaurant and the Health Club & Spa at the Varsity Hotel and Spa was originally constructed in the late 18th century as a bonded warehouse, forming part of the historic Anchor Brewery. Its long and varied past reflects Cambridge’s rich industrial and architectural history, linking the city’s commercial heritage to its modern-day charm.
During the careful restoration, the building’s original features were preserved and celebrated. The magnificent King Post trussed roof remains a striking centerpiece, while the painted walls were gently sandblasted to reveal the authentic Cambridge brick beneath. Large wooden beams, long hidden, were uncovered, further enhancing the building’s historic character and providing a tangible connection to its 18th-century origins. Every detail of the restoration honours the structure’s past while creating a space that feels contemporary and welcoming.
A photograph from 1921 offers a fascinating glimpse into this area’s history. It captures the Electricity Generating Station, built at the time and now demolished, which once stood beside the bonded warehouse that now contains The Restaurant on the river. The image also shows punts on the river and a punting station, both of which remain a part of the riverside experience today, linking past and present in a seamless way.
Visitors to the Varsity Hotel can enjoy more than just modern comforts—they are stepping into a piece of Cambridge history. From the original industrial architecture to the riverside views that have been enjoyed for centuries, the building tells a story of adaptation, preservation, and celebration of the city’s heritage. Every visit to The Restaurant or the Health Club & Spa allows guests to experience a unique blend of history, style, and riverside elegance.
