Following an in-depth audit, the College was awarded the accolade from VisitEngland, the country’s national tourist board, in recognition of the facilities and services on offer in its bedrooms and bathrooms in Buckingham House, Canning and Eliza Fok House.
Criteria included the exterior appearance of the buildings and the standard of cleanliness, decoration, fittings and furnishings in the bedrooms and bathrooms.
Key public areas such as Reception and the Dining Room were also assessed.
The report highlighted the College’s well-tended gardens including the colourful pots by the main entrance which contribute to a welcoming and cheerful impression on arrival. It also commented on the fact (unusual for a Cambridge College) that guests are encouraged to walk in the informal grounds and parking is available onsite free of charge. Bus links are close by and the city centre is within walking distance.
Chris Pope, General Manager of Conferences, Catering and Residences said: “We were thrilled to achieve a Four Star Campus Rating for the high standard of accommodation in three key areas of the College – official recognition of the hard work carried out by our team to deliver a high-quality experience to our guests, that is different from the offering in hotel chains and traditional B&Bs.
“Particularly pleasing was the reference to the high standards of housekeeping seen in all areas again this year – even better than in previous audits – again testament to our excellent housekeeping department and its attention to detail in this important area.”
Quality in Tourism is the assessment service for VisitEngland. Its Campus Accreditation is specifically for university or college accommodation and ratings are awarded on a scale of One to Five Stars.
Image: Murray Edwards College celebrates four-star rating from VisitEngland, left to right: Pauline Walker, Accommodation Manager; Stanislav Janis, Supervisor and Houseman; Cherie Long, Supervisor; Freya Vaughan, Events Manager; and Claire Storey, Supervisor.