With Valentine’s Day around the corner, I thought it might be nice to explore some of the best options that Cambridge has to offer for you and your partner – or you and your other single friend – on this fine day on which we celebrate love and the mass-consumerist society we live in. If we’re lucky, we’ll get to see an extraordinary amount of PDA on every street and in every restaurant.

But don’t let that put you off celebrating because, after all, despite its actual origins which hardly anyone knows about, Valentine’s Day has become a day to celebrate love in all its glory. So here is where you should head, single or not single, for a celebration in style that won’t break the bank…

Pizza Express – nothing says I love you like Pizza Express’ fantastic deal offering a starter, a main and a glass of Prosecco all for £16.95. Even better, if you book online before the 8th February you get a free bottle of Prosecco added in. Better get booking quickly, folks.

The Pint Shop – for a cosier vibe, head to The Pint Shop for excellent food and a warm atmosphere. It also offers great beer and is in close proximity to some delightful pubs if you want to make a romantic pub crawl out of it (The Eagle, The Bath House, etc…) Average main course between £12-£16

Varsity – for those of you wanting to treat yourself, or your other half, this Valentine’s Day then Varsity is a safe bet for a very tasty meal in a classy setting, although I do hope you split the bill – this is in the higher end of the dining options. Average starter £6-£7, main course between £14-£19

La Galleria – not to be confused with Gardenia (otherwise known as Gardies), which could also be where you end up on the night post-Cindies but probably isn’t the most romantic setting for your meal (unless you’re both truly satisfied by a well-priced box of cheesy chips for two, in which case, go for it). Head here for a sophisticated meal which offers a pleasing view of the River Cam and an impressive gin menu. Valentine’s Menu – 3 course meal for £40

Cocktails & Drinks

Novi – obviously the best cocktail bar in Cambridge (not that I’m biased), Novi never fails to offer delicious cocktails (try the Espresso Martini, you can thank me later) and a warm, classy and buzzing atmosphere. The smoking area upstairs is a particular highlight and many a happy and blurry evening has been spent here. Even better, they stay open until 3am if you’re really wanting to extend that date with your loved one or drown your singleton sorrows for a few hours longer. All cocktails £8; craft beers around £4-£5

Cambridge Wine Merchant – although usually I’d say an evening in the Cambridge Wine Merchant may slightly surpass the student budget, Valentine’s night must surely be an exception. The wine menu, as expected, is extensive and delicious, and the atmosphere is sophisticated, calm and warming. You feel like a proper adult with cash to splash, which can be a fun illusion for the night. For Valentine’s Day they are hosting an oysters and champagne tasting night, which sounds rather nice indeed – £30 per head, including five champagnes and 12 oysters. The food of love is waiting for you…

2648 – this underground bar is a chilled and fun setting for some Valentine’s drinks and usually features live music. Since Valentine’s Day is a Wednesday, there will be an open mic night from 7pm which could add some entertainment, and hopefully shouldn’t ruin the romantic spot too much (no drunken, wailing spinsters please). Happy hour 5pm-9pm – order any two of the same cocktails for £9.50. Cocktails are £7.50 each after 9pm

I hope you all have a delightful evening if you choose to celebrate it, and if not, there are also many Netflix films and chocolate delights around to offer alternative entertainment. Being single is the new thing in 2018 – you heard it here first