Cambridge is one of those go-to city breaks for a romantic getaway, but what makes this historic city stand apart from other UK cities as a couples retreat?
My husband and I were invited to take a short break to sample the delights of Cambridge and yes, although Cambridge is quite rightly renowned for its long, rich history and incredible buildings all across the city, we are verified culture vultures with a love of activities and good food, so we were looking for a bit more. I can say (spoiler alert!) we were blown away by the variety and quality of the activities that Cambridge has to offer.
My biggest tip? If you really want to make the most of a trip that goes beyond wandering around the area, it’s worth setting a trip itinerary so you don’t miss out on the highlights!
Here’s my top 5 recommendations for romantic things you must do when you do decide to visit Cambridge (and you really should)!
Go Punting
What could be more romantic than indulging in your own private chauffeured punt? Splitting the city in two is the River Cam, which passes by some of the prettiest areas of the city. To see them in the most romantic way possible, secure a spot on a 45-minute private punt with Scudamores for a unique way to view the city.
It’s a more personalised experience as you have the exclusivity of your own punt, which is reserved for your preferred time. With the punt chauffeur all yours, you can decide how much of the commentary you wish to hear – we wanted the full commentary and our guide was friendly, fun and very knowledgeable.
You’ll see iconic Cambridge sights such as the Mathematical Bridge, the world famous King’s College Chapel, the Wren Library. You’ll go under the Cam Bridge at Magdalene College and also the Bridge of Sighs, not only a stunning bridge to see but apparently the bridge itself was Queen Victoria’s favourite spot in Cambridge! The whole experience is just magical at sunset too.
Book your punt at www.scudamores.com
Pick a Luxurious (Yet Convenient) Hotel
Which hotel you choose, can massively impact the quality of your stay. When looking for romance, a gorgeous room and sumptuous surrounding is a must. However an often over-looked must-have is location. There’s NOTHING romantic about walking for ages to your activities, and arguing over directions is a definite mood-killer!
So I’d recommend Clayton Hotel Cambridge. A short walk from Cambridge Station and a leisurely stroll into Cambridge centres sights and activities, this hotel ticks the boxes for both convenience and luxury – winner! The staff are very helpful and inside, it is gorgeous. From the real historic books lining the shelves in the communal areas, to the beautiful rooms.
We stayed on the top floor in an Executive King Suite with a private balcony and it was perfection. A massive comfy bed, a gorgeously appointed bathroom and views across the city so you can wake up and enjoy your morning coffee in fluffy (provided) bath robes on the balcony. Dreamy!
There’s also the bonus of Clayton Hotel Cambridge’s on-site restaurant, Tamburlaine, which has an extensive menu, packed with seasonal and traditional favourites, all freshly prepared and bursting with flavour. A romantic meal for two here is a great way to end a day in the city.
Book your room at www.claytonhotelcambridge.com
Take in the Culture at the Fitzwilliam Museum and Kettle’s Yard
It is said to be perhaps the finest small museum in the world – The Fitzwilliam Museum. The art and antiquities museum of the University of Cambridge is located on Trumpington Street opposite Fitzwilliam Street and is a Grade II Listed Building in its own right. Wandering around the museum is such a treat; from fine art to sculpture, furniture, ceramics, silver, armour, coins, music and illuminated manuscripts, as well as antiquities from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome and Cyprus, it has it all. The outstanding collection of nearly 2,000 paintings includes some of the very finest artists from the thirteenth century to the present day, including works by Titian, Rembrandt, Canaletto, Monet, Degas, and Picasso.
Fitzwilliam Museum was my husband’s favourite, but my personal highlight had to be Kettle’s Yard, located on Castle Street. It showcases art in a unique and arresting way; essentially it’s a residential home which showcases the former owner’s love of art. As you walk around the rooms (initially guided and then at your own pace) you become immersed in a collection amassed by curator Jim Ede throughout the 20th century. Ede was passionate about bringing art to the everyday, positioning pieces from famous artists alongside stones, feathers, glass and other materials he found on his travels, to create a harmonious whole. The adjoining gallery also hosts big name exhibitions from contemporary artists throughout the year.
https://www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk/ https://www.kettlesyard.co.uk/
Relax and Unwind with a Massage
I don’t know about you but I find it difficult to be romantic if I am still stressed from everyday life. So I’d hugely recommend booking a massage treatment in for you and your other half as early in the trip as possible. It was one of the first activities we booked after arriving in Cambridge and it was the perfect way to settle into ‘holiday mode’.
We had a 30 minute treatment each at the Aromatherapy Associates Treatment Rooms at the University Arms Hotel, (their quiet, relaxing Aromatherapy Associates treatment rooms are available to both hotel and non-hotel guests). We both chose one of their hero treatments: ‘The Ultimate Aromatherapy Experience’. It began with a consultation to find out what your emotional and physical needs are, followed by an aroma test to allow you to choose your oils. Our therapist used carefully applied pressure to stimulate the nervous system, Swedish and neuromuscular techniques to relieve muscular tension, and lymphatic drainage to encourage healthy circulation. It dissolved away our stress and tension and set us up for a great trip!
Their range of relaxing treatments are available, Monday to Sunday, with treatment lengths ranging from 30 to 90 minutes. You can see all the treatments available here: https://universityarms.com/treatment-rooms/
Wander hand-in-hand around the Botanic Gardens
Finally, you need to visit what is a real oasis in the heart of Cambridge, the Cambridge University Botanic Gardens. It’s a picturesque yet inexpensive way to spend a day, as entry is just £8 per adult! Given the size and scope of the gardens, it is such great value.
Founded in 1762, the Botanic Garden is also a centre of research excellence and horticultural expertise. It’s a beautiful environment throughout which to stroll around, whilst taking in their curated collection of over 8,000 plants, many of which are rare or endangered.
Nestled in the heart of the city, it feels like an escape from the world and a chance to catch your breath in the midst of what is otherwise an action-packed trip.
Entry to Botanic Garden is via Hills Road, and if you leave via Bateman St it’s only a leisurely stroll into Cambridge via Trumpington St and Kings Parade.
Find out more here: https://www.botanic.cam.ac.uk/
I really hope you find this helpful when planning your own visit to this fabulous city. Everyone should experience Cambridge at least once, but we know that when you do, once will not be enough!
To help plan your visit you should visit www.visitcambridge.org. You will find great places to eat, see and things to do, they are an invaluable resource.
We were also gifted a Love Cambridge Gift Card from www.love-cambridge.com. You can purchase one through their site, it is accepted by a huge variety of businesses from shops and restaurants, cafes and bars to hairdressers and beauty salons, plus much more. You will also be supporting local businesses.
Review and food images by Victoria Reddington @vic_reddington
Feature image courtesy of unsplash.com
