Valentine’s Day: Five of our area’s most romantic places

Think romance is dead? These five Cambridge destinations can't fail to make you feel the love, writes Sophie Bishop

If you're longing to reignite the spark, feel that first-date excitement once again, treat your significant other to a special evening, or simply enjoy the wholesomeness of a romantic evening, then these stunning local spots will make you fall in love all over again. Here are five of the best Valentine’s Day date ideas. . .

1. Pop the Question at the Top of the World – Great St. Mary's Tower
Great St. Mary’s Church in Cambridge offers simply stunning views of the beautiful city that surrounds it; it’s a panorama to die for, with the iconic spires of King’s College Chapel and the gorgeous River Cam winding below you. It really is a scene straight out of a rom-com.
The climb to the top is an experience in itself, but as the view gathers around you each and every step becomes worth it. This is truly a fantastic experience and is one of Cambridge’s, and indeed the country’s, must-see sights.
For anyone looking for a place to pop the big question, once you’ve found the perfect engagement ring, Great St Mary’s Tower is surely one of the ultimate proposal destinations; get your tickets and make the climb now.

2. Wine and Dine - Fancett's, Cambridge
Cambridge is home to an abundance of superb eateries. One such place is Fancett’s, a French modern-European restaurant serving up some of the finest eats in the country, and offering its diners a cosy, candlelit and intimate atmosphere.
As a policy, they only seat groups of four or fewer guaranteeing intimacy, and the menu packs a punch at every stage; share an indulgent dessert, celebrate a special occasion, treat your significant other to some fine food, and enjoy each other's company.
This hidden gem will always deliver a night to remember and is often booked up due to its size, so get your booking in now to secure the ultimate romantic Valentine’s Day date!

3. Punt Your Way to Romance With Champagne – River Cam
The River Cam is straight out of a novel; it’s impossibly beautiful, works its way through the stunning countryside, gives Cambridge its name and gently flows into the mighty Ouse. The water glides beneath towering willows, ancient bridges and gorgeous buildings.
Famously, you can go for a ‘punt’ along the Cam which actually involves sitting in a cosy wooden boat enjoying the sights, whilst being pushed along by a paddle-wielding punter; and of course, the only way to add yet more romance to the situation is a bottle of bubbly!
Imagine gliding soundlessly under the leafy willows, past the world-famous university buildings, sipping on champagne in the arms of your partner; what could possibly be better?

4. Get Cosy - Everyman Cinema, Cambridge
Sometimes going to the cinema is one of the purest forms of joy in our modern world, and not every cinema is made equal.
Imagine watching an all-time classic movie, a romantic epic or an all-guns-blazing action-packed tale whilst snuggling with your special someone on a comfy sofa in front of a big screen; sounds too good to be true?
Well, think again. Cambridge is home to an Everyman Cinema that takes the movie-going experience to the next level. Plush sofas, comfy blankets, great food and drinks that don’t come out of a spout on a soda machine; this boutique cinema is the perfect place to get cosy and enjoy the joys of film with your favourite person.

5. Explore Hidden Beauty - Bridge End Gardens, Saffron Walden
If you and your partner are outdoors enthusiasts, nature lovers, or simply two people looking for a date that is a little different, then Bridge End Gardens is the place to be.
These lovely restored Victorian gardens are full to the brim with charm and visitors can explore winding paths, delightful mazes, hidden secrets and sheer, unadulterated beauty. There is a kaleidoscope of colours, a cacophony of natural sounds and plenty of peace and tranquillity to be found here.
It’s the perfect place for a romantic walk or a delightful picnic, and you won’t find a better way to enjoy the English countryside.