ROMANTIC OUTINGS
along the river in the evening, with the sun sitting low in the sky.” 2 Stroll in the Botanic Garden Cambridge University Botanic Garden is a peaceful retreat, where you can pause on a bench and listen to birdsong, just as though you were in the middle of the countryside. Take in views of the lily pond, the bamboo grove, majestic redwoods and fountains, or wander through the magical, cosy glasshouses. “We have some lovely flowers that we make sure to highlight around Valentine’s Day,” says Katy Lawrence at the Botanic Garden. “Plants such as passionflowers, jade vines and bleeding heart ( Lamprocapnos ) have a very romantic feel. I’d also recommend a stroll through our Scented Garden, where you can wallow in the heady cocktail of fragrance that fills the air – the perfect winter treat.” 3 Take tea at The Orchard Tea Garden, Grantchester Located in the picturesque village of Grantchester, this historic tea garden is perfect for a romantic escape. Afternoon tea is served from Thursday to Sunday, all year round, and in spring you can enjoy this under the shimmering confetti of apple blossom in flower. In the summer, relax in deckchairs under the apple trees while sipping tea and scoffing scones. Follow it up with a stroll through the scenic Grantchester Meadows and along the river for added charm.
TENDER LOVING CARE Visit Cambridge University Botanic Garden to explore its flourishing flora (above)
served with dappled sunlight. Lovers can recline in deckchairs under the apple trees and watch clouds drift lazily overhead. Don’t forget a fun cycle ride around Cambridge: there are lots of places you can hire a bike. Primo Cycles is nice and central, with stores just beside the Grand Arcade and on Jesus Lane. City Cycle Hire is on Newnham Road, near Lammas Land, while e-scooters can be hired via a smartphone app from voi.com. For those who prefer to venture out in the evening, Cambridge offers lots of sophisticated spots to sip a cocktail and gaze at one another over clinking glasses. The Lab – a short stroll up Regent Street – impresses with its creative concoctions and relaxed, stylish atmosphere. Meanwhile, Pint Shop serves both craft beers and gin- focused drinks with a cool, low-lit setting. If you’re single and wanting to mingle, venues such as the subterranean Hidden Rooms provide a vibrant backdrop for live music and late-night cocktails. Whether you’re planning a first date, celebrating an anniversary or simply hoping
to meet someone special this Valentine’s Day, Cambridge has all the right ingredients for romance: dreamy landscapes, historic hideaways and plenty of opportunities to make lasting memories. Our romantic top ten 1 Punt on the River Cam A quintessential Cambridge experience, punting along the River Cam is a serene and romantic activity. Glide beneath the beautiful Bridge of Sighs, past King’s College Chapel and along the Backs, with views of the college gardens. “February is a lovely time to go punting, as the river is much quieter than during the summer months,” says Caroline Godfrey at Let’s Go Punting. “You can curl up under a blanket with your loved one and a hot chocolate or glass of fizz, and glide
For an unforgettable first date, few places can match the charm of Cambridge’s cobbled streets
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