The opening of Hyatt Centric Cambridge, situated in the same sustainable development of Turing Locke, marks the brand’s arrival in the UK. The 150-key hotel has been designed by AvroKO to reflect the destination’s storied history. Editor Hamish Kilburn explores…
Envisioned by the same interior design studio, AvroKO, that was responsible for the creation of the recently opened Turing Locke, Hyatt Centric Cambridge also shares the same postcode as the new aparthotel. Both hotels have recently opened their doors inside the new sustainable development in the neighbourhood of Eddington, but as far as the design narrative goes, both hotels stand alone offering something different.
The milestone opening of Hyatt Centric Cambridge marks the debut of the brand in the UK (and the 10th Hyatt hotel in the country). Situated just outside the centre of Cambridge, renowned for its leafy parks, magnificent architecture, picturesque River Cam and stunning historic centre, the 150-key lifestyle hotel provides the perfect launchpad for adventurous travellers to explore the buzzing city, which is sharply becoming somewhat of a hotspot for hotel developers.
Located two miles northwest from the city’s historic heart, guests can explore the quaint cobbled streets or enjoy an afternoon punting on the River Cam, passing by stunning University colleges.
Set around a central courtyard, the hotel’s modern, inviting architecture and interiors, designed by Stirling Prize-winning architects dRMM, reflect the destination’s storied history. The social lobby features floor-to-ceiling windows flooding the space with bright, natural light, and modern furnishings with natural, wood finishes. A carefully curated selection of artworks nods to the scientific history of Cambridge, adding vibrant flashes of colour to the communal spaces.
“We are thrilled to open the doors of Hyatt Centric Cambridge. Cambridge is one of the most iconic cities in the UK thanks to its magnificent architecture, university buildings and historic centre. The hotel’s location allows curious guests to make the most of what the destination has to offer,” said Martin Newbould, General Manager, Hyatt Centric Cambridge. “We are excited for our guests to enjoy the hotel’s array of facilities including our distinct bar, restaurant and coffee shop, which offer savvy travellers share-worthy experiences.”
The 150 chic guestrooms mix understated grandeur with art deco touches. Warming mustard velvets mix with bold, calming blues, all complemented by rich walnut wood touches. 57 guestrooms offer a stunning courtyard view, 30 of which are deluxe rooms offering an even more spacious stay. Rooms include a selection of thoughtful amenities, featuring a flat screen television with Bluetooth capabilities, an alarm clock radio with Bluetooth pairing, Bee Kind bath amenities, cosy bathrobes and more.
F&B
Four distinguished dining options offer a diverse mix of international cuisine, using local produce from established Cambridge brands. Guests can kick-start their morning at KOTA’s coffee shop, with artisan baked goods, third-wave coffee from Saint Espresso roasted on-site, as well as revitalising juices and smoothies.
KOTA restaurant will focus on the Finnish concept of charcoal cooking and community dining; catering for guests and locals throughout the day with fresh, bright brunches leading into light daytime dining, and a chargrilled evening menu complemented by botanical cocktails.
Image credit: Edmund Dabney
The Dutch offers classic cocktails with a twist, serving lip-smacking flavour combinations inspired by exotic drinks from all corners of the globe. Guests can indulge in delicious light bites and sharing platters including cured meats, British cheeses and antipasti.
The seasonal roof terrace is the perfect spot for a sundown and provides unparalleled views to match. Created by the team of mixologists, guests can sip on imaginative, botanical cocktails which mix aromatics, fresh infusions and shrubs. The menu also includes a selection of refreshing craft beers all from local breweries, as well as nibbles and small bites.
Meeting and event space
Guests can make the most of the comfortable co-working area, which offers free Wi-Fi and all the hotel’s amenities on hand. Two adaptable meeting rooms, spanning 44sqm and 24sqm, boast large windows and high-spec audiovisual equipment for meetings, conferences and events for up to 30 people.
The seasonal roof terrace will also cater for larger events, hosting up to 150 guests for drinks receptions, presentations, networking and many other social gatherings.
The hotel also includes a fitness centre offering state-of-the-art equipment and free weights, so guests can maintain their healthy lifestyle whilst on the road.
Main image credit: Edmund Dabney
