Dolphin Hotel St Ives | Riverside Retreat with Free Parking

Name: Dolphin Hotel St Ives, St Ives (Cambridgeshire)
Address: London Road, St Ives (Cambridgeshire), Cambridgeshire, PE27 5EP
Price range: US$81+
Rating: 7.5

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Key details

About the Hotel

London Road, St Ives (Cambridgeshire), PE27 5EP

Close to St Ives World War Memorial

Very good

7.5

6.8

/10

3.0

3.1

4-star riverside accommodations with breathtaking meadow views

Location

Set alongside the river and featuring views of the historic 15th-century bridge, Dolphin Hotel St Ives offers a picturesque venue in a tranquil setting. The hotel is accessible by car or boat, with arrangements for boat arrivals available. Guests can enjoy a peaceful retreat amidst 120 acres of beautiful meadowland.

Rooms and Suites

All executive rooms at the Dolphin Hotel have undergone full refurbishment with pillow top mattresses and upgraded bathrooms. Many rooms provide scenic views over the meadows, enhancing the relaxing atmosphere. The two Bridal Suites boast stunning vistas, making them an attractive option for newlyweds.

Refurbishment and Dining

The hotel is in the process of ongoing refurbishment, which includes the renovation of the restaurant and bar, enhancing the overall dining experience. Updates aim to elevate the hotel's culinary offerings in the near future. Guests can look forward to a revitalized dining atmosphere that complements the hotel's beautiful surroundings.

Weddings

Dolphin Hotel stands out as a premier wedding venue in Cambridgeshire, celebrated for its scenic views and luxurious accommodations. The combination of the stunning backdrop and first-class service creates a memorable setting for couples. With extensive experience in hosting weddings, the hotel offers a range of services to ensure a successful event.

Business and Leisure

Catering to both business travelers and leisure seekers, the hotel offers a peaceful environment conducive to productivity and relaxation. Each room is equipped with USB charging points, accommodating modern needs. Whether conducting business or enjoying a getaway, guests can benefit from the serene setting provided by the hotel.

Highlights

Location: Breathtaking views of historic bridge

Rooms: Newly refurbished executive rooms

Weddings: Premier venue with exceptional service

Dining: Renovation of restaurant and bar underway

Must-do experiences

Visit the St Ives Bridge for stunning riverside views.
Sample local delicacies at the historic St Ives Market.
Explore the picturesque St Ives Riverside Path for walks.
Don't miss the art at The Norris Museum for local culture.
Try a cream tea at the cozy Café Moka, a local favorite.

Select your room type

Dolphin Hotel St Ives offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Superior King Room
2 persons
22 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Deluxe King Room
2 persons
24 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Double Room Disability Access
2 persons
20 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Heating
Shower
room details

Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

August 2026 - August 2027

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Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

August 2026

September 2026

October 2026

November 2026

December 2026

January 2027

February 2027

March 2027

April 2027

May 2027

June 2027

July 2027

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Dolphin Hotel St Ives offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Very good

7.3/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Vending machines
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Canoeing
Cycling
Darts

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Welcome drink
Happy hour

Dining

Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots

Spa & Leisure

Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room

Room features

Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Heating
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries
Sink

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dolphin Hotel St Ives Location

London Road, St Ives (Cambridgeshire), PE27 5EP

Explore St Ives (Cambridgeshire)

Local Highlights

Holt Island Nature Reserve

10 minutes' walk

A tranquil nature reserve showcasing diverse wildlife and beautiful walking paths, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

The Norris Museum

7 minutes' walk

A local history museum featuring exhibits on the history of Huntingdonshire, ideal for those interested in regional heritage.

All Saints Parish Church

9 minutes' walk

An impressive historic church with intricate architecture and beautiful stained glass windows, inviting for quiet reflection.

St Ives Lakes Fishery

15 minutes' walk

A serene fishing area offering various species and facilities. Great for both beginners and experienced anglers.

Cycling and Walking Trails

5 minutes' drive

Numerous scenic cycling and walking trails around St Ives, perfect for exploring the outdoors year-round.

Yoga Classes

10 minutes' walk

Local studios offer relaxation-focused yoga sessions, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.

Adventure Sports

10 minutes' drive

Thrilling adventure sports opportunities including rock climbing and kayaking, ideal for adrenaline seekers.

Amore

3 minutes' walk

An Italian restaurant known for its cozy ambiance and authentic dishes like handmade pasta and risottos.

The Taproom

3 minutes' walk

A relaxed pub serving craft beers and hearty pub fare. Ideal for casual dining with friends or family.

Di Rita's Italian Cuisine

3 minutes' walk

A family-friendly eatery specializing in Italian cuisine, featuring pizzas and a vibrant atmosphere.

Local Music Venues

5 minutes' drive

Several venues host live music events ranging from jazz to rock, offering great nightlife options for music lovers.

Cinema St Ives

5 minutes' drive

A small local cinema showcasing the latest films. Perfect for families looking for an enjoyable movie night.

Getting around

City Centre
St Ives (Cambridgeshire) 14 min · 3700 ft
Airports
Cambridge (CBG) 41 min · 16.8 mi
London Stansted (STN) 99 min · 40.8 mi
Bus
Bus stop 4 min · 1000 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP10 per person per day.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Number of rooms:

Former name

dolphin hotel cambridge

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Dolphin Hotel St Ives from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 560 verified reviews

6.9 /10

Nice

63 %

Recommend

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Comfort

8.2/10

Facilities

7.3/10

Free WiFi

8.5/10

Location

9.1/10

Staff

8.5/10

Value for money

7.9/10

Peter from United Kingdom

Single

standard double room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 29, 2026

7/10

a reasonable experience

walk-in shower good idea broken lock radiator issue

the breakfast was pre-ordered the night before, and i thought this was a really good idea. it was ready when i arrived. the newly refurbished room had a walk-in shower, i thought it was great.

the inside lock on the door did not work, i was concerned about that. i could not adjust radiators, but the hotel did so for the second night and it was much better.

0 Helpful

georgia from united kingdom

Single

standard double room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 18, 2026

9/10

riverside retreat

great location beautiful garden

i found the location ideal, steps from town. the room was clean and spacious.. i especially liked the garden with its beautiful plantings.

0 Helpful

Peter from United Kingdom

Business traveller

Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 28, 2025

9.0/10

great stay by the river

riverside location balcony view comfortable bed helpful staff

i enjoyed the room overlooking the fields it had sheep birds and boats the small veranda was great. the room was big the bed was comfortable the tv was also big. the receptionist was so helpful it was a pleasure to stay there and i definitely want to return.

the bar wasn't open at the advertised hours it closed earlier than expected.

Dining

8/10

the breakfast buffet included a variety of options some items looked slightly dry due to being prepared in advance the coffee provided was instant.

Facilities

9/10

free parking was available to guests the hotel offered easy access to the town the location was next to the river. i found the shower and bathroom were clean and spacious.

Location

10/10

the hotel is near shops and a river it allows walks to nearby areas. the bus routes to cambridge are easily accessible i saw it only cost £2.

Service

9/10

the hotel staff were friendly and the room was very clean they were generally helpful with directions. the young gentleman at reception stood out with his assistance.

0 Helpful

juliet from united kingdom

Business traveller

double room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: December 26, 2025

9/10

riverside retreat

riverside view comfortable bed furnished room

the room offered a pretty view over the river, which i found calming (it's always nice to have a water view). the bed felt comfortable and provided a good night's sleep. i also appreciated that the room was well furnished, feel more homely and inviting.

the hotel is undergoing refurbishment, and the lack of a hairdryer in the room was a slight inconvenience.

Service

9/10

the staff seemed lovely and helpful. i noticed they were quick to replenish items at breakfast. their customer service skills stood out. (i appreciated that they seemed happy to assist with any request).

0 Helpful

Dominic from United Kingdom

Couple

Standard Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 20, 2025

7/10

helpful receptionist great location modern room thin windows poor breakfast tv noise

the receptionist was very helpful. the location is great. my room was clean and modern.

The windows were not double glazed. I could hear people talking outside. i could also hear a tv from the next room. breakfast was not great. The sausages were poor quality.

0 Helpful

Charles from United Kingdom

Single

Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 16, 2025

8/10

nice rooms accessible shops convenient location

The location worked well for me. Shops and pubs are nearby. i found the rooms to be nice. the local shops were also quite accessible. This was very convenient.

the rooms appear a little tired in some places.

0 Helpful

leo from canada

standard double room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 09, 2025

9.0/10

riverside retreat

free parking modern feel

the room was clean with a modern feel. i found free parking very useful (parking is always a plus!).

The mattress wasn't very comfortable. I didn't get much sleep because of it.

Dining

9/10

breakfast was good with helpful staff. the bar was a bit slow sometimes (understandable). apologetic staff more than made up for delays.

Location

9/10

the hotel is within walking distance of the town center and shops. strolling along the riverside is especially relaxing on a summer day. riverside views are beautiful.

Facilities

8/10

the hotel garden is divine with thoughtful planting. the riverside view from the rooms is lovely. i spent a lot of time looking out the window.

Service

10/10

customer service was excellent and helpful. staff were polite during my short stay. the gentleman at reception was friendly and quite helpful.

0 Helpful

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Questions of the users

About Dolphin Hotel St Ives

Are there any rooms available that accommodate dogs, and what is the booking process for those?

10 November 2024

Well-behaved small dogs are allowed in two selected Executive rooms for an additional fee of £25.00 per night, subject to availability. A £100 refundable deposit is required at the time of booking to cover any potential damages.

Is the bar and restaurant currently operational for guests?

20 December 2024

The bar and restaurant are open on Friday and Saturday evenings. Breakfast is served each morning.

What options are available for getting into Cambridge from the hotel?

5 February 2025

A guided bus service runs from St Ives to the Cambridge city centre, which is approximately a 5-minute walk from the hotel.

Can a request be made for a room with a balcony?

15 March 2025

To check for specific room features like a balcony, please provide the booking number for verification.

Do the rooms have ensuite bathrooms, and is early check-in possible?

22 April 2025

All rooms come with ensuite bathrooms. Early check-in is possible, depending on room availability, typically no earlier than 12:00 pm.

Is breakfast available during the stay?

14 May 2025

Yes, a full English breakfast is offered to guests.

Are there any ongoing construction projects that may affect the stay?

28 June 2025

Currently, there are no significant building works. However, refurbishment of one of the restaurants is anticipated to commence in the coming months, with some painting and re-carpeting in a separate wing.

What are the cancellation policies offered?

18 August 2025

Multiple cancellation policies are available, including options for free cancellation and non-refundable rates, depending on the booking choice.

Are standard and executive rooms equipped for those with mobility challenges?

4 September 2025

Ground floor rooms are available, but please note that there is no lift in the hotel. Contact reception to ensure the appropriate allocation.

Can meals be ordered during the current restrictions?

25 October 2024

During the restrictions, the restaurant and bar are not open for traditional dining, but guests can order takeaway or delivery to enjoy in the restaurant area.

What is the general ambiance and view that guests can expect from the rooms?

26 November 2025

Most rooms offer stunning views over 120 acres of beautiful meadows and the historic 15th-century bridge, making it a peaceful and picturesque setting for relaxation.