If you’re one of the thousands of music fans heading to the Cambridge Folk Festival on 1–2 August 2026, now is the perfect time to plan where you’ll stay.
With headline performances from Frank Turner, Suzanne Vega, and Richard Thompson with Zara Phillips, this year’s festival promises another unforgettable weekend of live music, bringing visitors from across the UK and beyond to Cambridge.
For those looking to combine the festival experience with luxury city-centre accommodation, The Varsity Hotel offers the perfect base.
The Ideal Hotel for Cambridge Folk Festival Visitors
Festival weekends are about more than the music. They’re about making the most of your time away, exploring the city, enjoying great food and relaxing in comfort after a busy day.
Located in the heart of Cambridge, The Varsity Hotel places you within easy reach of the festival while allowing you to enjoy everything else the city has to offer. Whether you’re arriving for the full weekend or extending your stay into a summer city break, our central location makes exploring Cambridge effortless.
Recharge Between Performances
After a day spent enjoying live music, you’ll appreciate having somewhere truly relaxing to return to.
Guests at The Varsity have access to our wellness facilities, including a fully equipped gym and spa, making it easy to unwind and recharge during your stay. Whether you prefer an energising workout before heading out for the day or a restorative treatment after an evening of music, our facilities provide the perfect balance of relaxation and wellbeing.
For festival-goers looking to combine a lively weekend with a little indulgence, it’s an experience that goes far beyond simply booking a room.
Exceptional Dining Without Leaving the Hotel
A great festival weekend deserves great food, and The Varsity offers fantastic dining options right on your doorstep.
Start your day with breakfast overlooking the city before exploring Cambridge or heading to the festival. Later, enjoy lunch, dinner or drinks at one of our restaurants – whether you’re looking for riverside dining at The River Bar Steakhouse & Grill, or want to take in panoramic scenes over Cambridge at the SIX Brasserie. Both champion seasonal menus and carefully crafted dishes showcase the best ingredients and flavours.
Whether you’re catching up with friends before an evening performance or enjoying a leisurely meal after a day of sightseeing, you’ll find everything you need for a memorable stay.
Rooftop Views Across Cambridge
One of the highlights of staying at The Varsity is our renowned rooftop terrace.
Taking in the views of Cambridge’s historic skyline is the perfect way to soak up the atmosphere of a summer weekend. Enjoy a cocktail, a glass of wine, or simply enjoy your vantage point above the city’s famous colleges and rooftops while the sun begins to set.
For many guests, it’s the most memorable part of their stay.
Make a Weekend of It
Many visitors choose to turn their Cambridge Folk Festival trip into a longer getaway.
Spend your mornings punting on the River Cam, exploring the historic colleges or browsing Cambridge’s independent shops before heading to the festival. In the evening, enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere before returning to the comfort of your luxury accommodation.
Combining world-class music with a stylish city break is the perfect way to experience Cambridge at its best.
Book Your Festival Weekend Stay
With thousands of visitors expected in Cambridge for the festival weekend, accommodation is always in high demand.
If you’re already planning your Cambridge Folk Festival experience, secure your stay at The Varsity Hotel and enjoy the perfect combination of live music, exceptional dining, rooftop views, spa relaxation and luxury accommodation in the heart of Cambridge.
Book your stay here.
