In the historic heart of University town Cambridge, a dapper, iconic building houses University Arms hotel and its sought-after restaurant, Parker’s Tavern. Originally opened in 1834, the hotel has reopened this month after a two-year, £80m transformation. Home to 192 polished rooms and studies, each complete with a private library.

In classically Cambridge style, there are bathrooms located inside domed turrets (think Hogwarts) and private balconies on the top floor.

And, to entice us to linger longer, the hotel is also the site of a quintessentially British restaurant, a polished bar and a literature lover’s dream library. There’s also a fancy new gym, if you’re so inclined.

The restaurant, Parker’s Tavern, is no ordinary college town tavern. This one is headed by Chef Tristan Welch, who puts locally sourced, seasonal foods on the menu that reimagines the British classics – from field, fen and sea. Dishes  are inspired by the chef’s Anglian seaside childhood, and include whole tandoori-roasted Norfolk quail, Hobston’s Choice Pie and the famed Cambridge University classic Duke of Cambridge Tart. Sundays see roast lunches comprising pyramids of Yorkshire puds piled high. The tavern also reveals a handsome bar that leads into the library, where Cambridge afternoon tea is served.

At the helm of the significant refurbishment is renowned classical architect John Simpson and interior designer Martin Brudnizki. The building’s ‘70s and ‘60s extensions were hauled out and the hotel’s facade has been returned to its former beauty.