A very Cambridge Valentines
Struggling to sort out a date for you and your partner? Look no further than Charlotte Knorzer‘s expertly crafted itinerary for a romantic (and cheap) date
Valentine's day is looming ahead, and you are unsure how to spend the special day with your partner? Look no further, as I have crafted the ultimate Valentine's Day guide for your romantic day in Cambridge.
11 am, let's start the day with some good coffee. Make your way to Bould Brothers on Round Church Street and grab a latte accompanied by a sweet treat. If you are lucky and the British weather graces you with a few rays of sunshine, enjoy your coffee outside with a beautiful view of Round Church. As you wrap up breakfast, plan your day ahead and head towards Magdalene College.
"If you are lucky, you might already see some early bloomers"
Check out a few of the shops on Magdalene Street – I really like Lost in Vinyl. While some of their newer or more popular records may break your budget, they have a huge selection of marked-down older albums; some second-hand records even go for as little as £3. Personal tip: have a look at their collection of electronic releases; they have quite a few 90s classics, including Leftfield, Massive Attack, and The Prodigy.
Only a few doors down, you will find Country Traditionals. If you are looking to gift your partner a thoughtful and reasonably priced mug or heart-shaped bowl, you might find yourself in the right place. Even though some of the bigger pieces are somewhat expensive, you can find an ornate coffee cup or a cute dipping bowl for no more than £10. If, instead, you are looking to get your partner a more traditional gift like flowers, pop into What the Fleur and splurge on a little bouquet.
1pm, time for some food. Depending on your budget, head either to Franco Manca or the market. While Franco Manca does have a nice student deal, which includes Pizza and a glass of wine for 12£, you will certainly find more affordable options at the market. If you are interested in the latter, look for Shelley and Sarah's. Even though market food can (quite often) be underwhelming, we are trying to fit a whole day of activities into our budget here. Chips and mushrooms are probably not the most exquisite meal your palate has ever been exposed to, but for only £3.30, they are perfect for a student budget.
"Head to Jack's Gelato (cheesy and kind of predictable - but so on brand for Valentine's Day)"
For a little digestive stroll, head down Kings' Parade and make your way to the botanic gardens. If you are lucky, you might already see some early bloomers, such as snowdrops, on your way there. Make sure to bring your CamCard for free entry and enjoy a romantic walk through the winter garden.
4pm, study break! Enjoy the last rays of sunshine and make your way back to the city. Pick a library of your choice and spend a few hours doing work. It may be Valentine's Day, but the grind never stops.
Enough studying? Time to go back to your Valentine's Day responsibilities and look for a restaurant! Walk back to King's Parade and enjoy a hearty bowl of soup or some crispy Pork Katsu at Ittou. This little restaurant's charm lies in both its cosy underground location and the intimate setting and atmosphere. It is unpretentious, fairly cheap, and the star of the show is undoubtedly the food. Have some Japanese beer and share a few appetizers with your partner while recapping your successful day.
Now, depending on how you are feeling, there are a few ways your night can continue. If you are in the mood for an early night, simply head to Jack's Gelato (cheesy and kind of predictable - but so on brand for Valentine's Day). If you feel ready to keep going, how about a few drinks at the Prince Regent or maybe even an appearance at Wednesday Revs?
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