Australian-Inspired Hotel Opens in Historic Cambridge Building
Cambridge, a city renowned for its prestigious university and intellectual legacy, has long attracted Australians, including notable figures like Germaine Greer and Clive James. Both studied and taught at the university, with James passing away at his Cambridge home in 2019 after a prolonged illness. Today, this inspiring English city continues to welcome Australian talent, most recently with the arrival of apartment hotel specialist Adina.
Adina's Expansion into the UK
Originally founded as Medina in Australia in 1983 by Toga Hotels, Adina is now part of TFE Hotels, which has spearheaded the brand's growth across Europe over the past decade. The Hobson Cambridge by Adina, one of two recent UK launches, opened its doors to guests in November, followed by the Wellington Glasgow by Adina in Scotland the subsequent month. Conveniently located for travelers, the hotel is a 10-minute taxi ride or a 20-minute walk from Cambridge railway station, along Hills Road, a bustling avenue filled with diverse dining options.
Heritage and Design
The hotel occupies Hobson House, a Grade II heritage-listed building on a site once home to a charity established by 17th-century philanthropist Thomas Hobson. Completed in 1901, the premises have served various roles, including a workhouse, police and fire station, and council offices. Many period features have been meticulously restored, such as a stunning stone staircase with stained-glass windows and flamboyant mosaic flooring in the lobby. The reception area is vibrant and fragrant, adorned with framed illustrations of Australian flora and fauna, like the waratah and laughing kookaburra, adding a distinct Aussie touch.
Accommodation and Amenities
With 56 studio-style rooms, The Hobson caters to both affluent students and adult tourists. Room sizes range from 18 square meters for solo travelers to 33 square meters with a king-size bed and sofa bed. Each room features an open-plan living and sleeping area with a dedicated work desk and wardrobe, an ensuite with heated floors, and either a separate shower or bathtub. Kitchenettes are equipped with a fridge, crockery, cutlery, microwave, kettle, and coffee machine, offering flexibility for self-catering.
Dining at Oz & Isle
For those preferring not to cook, numerous bars, pubs, cafes, and restaurants are within walking distance. The hotel's all-day restaurant, Oz & Isle, is described as "a drinks-led sanctuary where the rich landscapes of Australia and the quiet charm of the British Isles" converge. It occupies a beautiful conservatory-like space with high vaulted ceilings, soaring brick walls, contemporary furniture, and coffee-table books. The menu includes sharing plates, sweet options, and meat, cheese, and vegetable boards for lunch or dinner. At breakfast, guests can enjoy a continental-style buffet or à la carte items like a full English breakfast or smashed avocado on sourdough toast. On sunny mornings, the sunlit ambiance might almost evoke the feeling of being back in Australia.
Exploring Cambridge
Just a stone's throw from the hotel lies the quaint yet vibrant heart of Cambridge, with its grand old university colleges offering endless exploration opportunities. The Hobson Cambridge by Adina blends historical charm with modern comforts, making it an ideal base for visitors. Nightly rates start from around £125 (approximately $242). For trip planning, resources include visitcambridge.org and visitbritain.com.
Steve McKenna was a guest of Visit Britain and Cambridge tourism. They have not influenced this story, or read it before publication.
