Cambridge's University Arms is restored and reinvigorated

The first hotel to open in the distinguished English city of Cambridge was the 1834 University Arms, overlooking the famous and historic common, Parker's Piece. After many ill-thought-out extensions and remodels, the hotel fell into disrepair, until an £80 million-renovation of the landmark was handed to two extraordinary talents: architect John Simpson and interior designer Martin Brudnizki.

Simpson is regarded as Britain's foremost classical architect and has worked on extensive projects in Cambridge, not to mention Buckingham and Kensington palaces. Brudnizki's hospitality interiors work includes the prestigious properties Miami Soho Beach House, Scott's, The Ivy and most recently the acclaimed Beekman in New York.

The collaboration has been both reverential and playful. In restoring former glory, Simpson, for instance, had to deal with the fact that in the 1960s, the original Regency section of the hotel along Regent Street was demolished and replaced and there were further 1970s' extensions. He created a solution that was historically fitting and contemporarily apt, a classical construction in keeping with Cambridge's better-known architectural heritage but with modern functionality. Inside, meanwhile, Brudnizki aimed to "create an environment reminiscent of school days past, lazy afternoons spent on the banks of the River Cam and the raucous revelry of students; truly a space for locals, tourists, Cambridge students and their families alike".

The result is a grand and witty, quintessentially English property with 192 rooms and suites and a destination restaurant, Parker's Tavern, helmed by the celebrity chef Tristan Welch.

Much like the designers have with the bricks and mortar, Welch has designed every dish to be a whimsical re-imagining of a British classic.

Further facilities include a bar, library, event space, underground valet car park and gym.

Rates start from £205 a room a night. See universityarms.com