Britain's Cambridge University becomes 'hotel'

(AFP PHOTO / LOIC VENNIN)

The University of Cambridge is opening the doors of its historic buildings for tourists who want to stay the night, the prestigious British institution said.

Visitors can stay in the colleges overnight while the students are away on holidays, with the buildings that housed famous figures such as Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton and William Wordsworth being opened to the public.

"Thousands of visitors come to Cambridge each year, attracted by the historical architecture and unique atmosphere of the colleges," said Conference Cambridge manager Kelly Vickers.

"In the past, requests for staying in the colleges have mainly come from groups but we have noticed a significant increase in enquiries from individuals.

"Now everyone can experience it first hand by booking into one of our participating venues offering bed and breakfast in the university vacations."

Rooms cost between 41 and 100 pounds (62 and 151 dollars, 46 and 111 euros).