The building that now houses The Restaurant and Health Club & Spa originally served as a bonded warehouse in the late 18th century. It formed part of the historic Anchor Brewery. Its past reflects Cambridge’s industrial and architectural history. The structure connects the city’s commercial heritage to its modern charm.
During restoration, the team preserved and celebrated the original features. The King Post trussed roof remains a striking centerpiece. Workers sandblasted painted walls to reveal authentic Cambridge brick. They uncovered large wooden beams, enhancing the building’s historic character and linking it to its 18th-century origins. The restoration honours the past while creating a contemporary, welcoming space.
A 1921 photograph shows the Electricity Generating Station beside the bonded warehouse. The image also captures punts on the river and a punting station, which remain part of the riverside experience.
Visitors to the Varsity Hotel enjoy more than modern comforts. They step into a piece of Cambridge history. The industrial architecture and riverside views tell a story of preservation and adaptation. Each visit to The Restaurant or Health Club & Spa offers a blend of history, style, and riverside elegance.
