Tired of punting? Seen every plant in the Botanic Gardens? Looking for new, original date ideas but just can’t seem to pick out the right one? Fear not, as Lifestyle is here to help you this Valentine’s Day with ten alternative ideas for university dates — whether you’re revelling in the romance, smashing it solo, or celebrating with friends.

OUT AND ABOUT

A Miniature Tour of Cambridge

You may have walked around The Backs and taken a scenic tour around King’s, but have you embarked on the quest to find the artistic Dinky Doors of Cambridge? Locked away in the city centre are 12 miniature, intricate and charming doors (example pictured above) waiting to be discovered — explore Cambridge with your date on a smaller scale than ever before!

Cambridge Ice Arena

Head over to Cambridge’s ice rink on Newmarket Road to skate your troubles away and break the (metaphorical) ice!

Clip ‘n’ Climb

The ultimate place to watch your relationship reach new heights! A fun and dynamic activity, clip ‘n’ climb is sure to diffuse any potential awkwardness on your date and can make the perfect trip out with your corridor.

Linton Zoo

Why not venture out a little further into Cambridgeshire to Linton Zoo? A wild afternoon of meeting exotic animals will be guaranteed — you and your date will be feline just fine.

GOOD FOOD, GOOD MOOD

La Mimosa

Located in a unique spot on the river Cam and next to Jesus Green, this Italian, family-owned restaurant has delicious, authentic food and a cheerful atmosphere. What more could you want?

Hidden Rooms

Dim lights, comfy seats, table service … reserve a place at this intimate cocktail lounge for a suave and sophisticated dinner date!

SHAKE IT UP!

Las Iguanas Cocktails (or DIY!)

Fancy some tropical cocktails? Las Iguanas offers an exotic selection of four cocktails alongside the chance to enjoy a selection of tapas! And if you’re doing long-distance, why not whip out the cocktail-maker, find a recipe online and go all-out on the DIY?

Creative Games Night (long-distance edition)

Valentine’s Day can often be difficult if you can’t be with your partner. But that’s not a reason to stop the celebration! Why not organise a virtual games night? Ideas include downloading the do you know me? app to test each other, or getting your hands on the Taskmaster: 220 Extraordinary Tasks for Ordinary People book to try out some wacky tasks together!

THE ART OF LOVE

Kettle’s Yard

For an artistic day out, why not head to Kettle’s Yard? The university’s modern and contemporary art gallery provides a wonderful opportunity to bond over an array of beautiful artwork.

Fitzwilliam Museum’s Love Art After Dark Event

Head over to the Fitzwilliam Museum for their society’s late-night, student opening event! Live music, tours, poetry readings and their incredible collection of art — what could be more romantic?