Downing College, Cambridge

Downing College, dating from the early 1800s, has a unique setting amidst 20 acres of lawns and trees. While the college environment itself is quiet and peaceful, the museums, shops and River Cam in the very heart of Cambridge is only a few minutes walk away. Downing College is an ideal location for visitors on a leisure break or in Cambridge on business. 

Their spacious bedrooms are fully equipped for the modern-day traveller, with facilities such as a flat-screen television, a spacious desk and free Wi-Fi. A hairdryer and tea and coffee making facilities are also provided and bedrooms are cleaned daily by the College Domestic Assistants.  

Please note:

Downing College is does not offer twin bedrooms and is unable to accept bookings for children of 16 years and under, or for Stag and Hen parties. Guests of sixteen to eighteen years must be accompanied by an adult (21 or over). 

Check in: 14:00 (2:00pm) Onwards (no arrivals allowed outside this window)

Check out: 06:00 (6:00am) - 09:30 (9:30am)

History

Cambridge University and Downing College have been the starting place for many well-known actors, artists and politicians, trace the footsteps of some of Downing's famous alumni including John Cleese, Quentin Blake, Trevor Nunn, Thandie Newton and Mike Atherton.

When a door of No 10 Downing Street London was replaced in the 1960's, the original was donated to Downing College and is now the door of the College Office.

Food & beverage

If breakfast is not available or you have booked on a room-only basis, Cambridge has a wide variety of cafes and restaurants to choose from and in close proximity. Guests check-in at the Porters' Lodge which is open 24/7, and staff are on hand should you require any guidance or information about the College, your stay or recommendations for Cambridge . 

The Lord Butterfield Cafe offers snacks and drinks during weekdays 8.00am-4.00pm and on Saturdays between 8.00am - 2.00pm.  

The College is located on Regent Street where there are many restaurants and bars offering a wide range of cuisine.

Grounds & Gardens

Downing is set amidst 20 acres of lawns, trees and gardens for visitors to enjoy during their stay. 

Visitors can enjoy such activities as punting on the River Cam, taking a guided walking tour of the city which is compact and easy to walk around or attending Choral Evensong in King’s College Chapel.

The Cambridge University Botanic Garden is just 20 minutes walk from the College where you can discover plants from all over the World in 40 acres of beautiful gardens and glasshouses.

Other facilities

The Heong Gallery - Downing College opened the new public Art Gallery on 5th February 2016. Architects transformed the original Edwardian stables into the new gallery space which is dedicated to modern and contemporary art. Please visit their website to find further information about the Heong Gallery and current exhibitions. 

Opening Hours:  Wednesdays: 10.00am – 8.00pm
                          Weekends and bank holidays: 10.00am - 6.00pm

Take a tour of the Classical Downing Architecture. Pick up one of their Architecture Tour leaflets from the Porters' Lodge to learn all about the buildings on the Domus and the history of the college.

The College has a small but modern gym facility, located behind the Howard Theatre, which may be used by guests. Please speak with Porter's Lodge for further information and access.  

There are two outdoor tennis courts situated by the Singer Building. These may be used by arrangement with the Porters Lodge. The College does not hire out sports equipment so if you would like to use these facilities, please bring your own equipment.

Acess to the University of Cambridge wireless network will be offered to you when you check-in at the Porters' Lodge.