Romantic Places to Propose in Cambridge

You’ve found the one, you’ve bought the ring and now it’s time to pop the biggest question of your life… but where to do it?

Cambridge is one of England’s most picturesque and romantic cities. Home to one of the country’s most prestigious universities, Cambridge’s streets are lined with spectacular buildings and gorgeous greenery, interwoven by the meandering River Cam.

A beautiful city, steeped in history and romance, Cambridge is the perfect place to propose. Keep reading to discover our pick of the most romantic places to ask for your love's hand in marriage.

A wooden bridge with intricate crisscross patterns spans a calm river surrounded by lush green trees, with small boats docked beneath and a historic brick building nearby.

The Mathematical Bridge

Legend has it that if you walk over a bridge with your loved one, your love will become eternal. It’s hard to get more romantic than that and, as a city of bridges, Cambridge provides many picturesque proposal options.

One of the most famous and recognisable bridges in Cambridge, William Etheridge’s wooden Mathematical Bridge is said to be flawless in terms of engineering. The curved bridge is constructed of entirely straight beams. Access to the bridge is via Queen’s College.

Magdalene Bridge, King’s College Bridge and Clare College Bridge also provide some of the most romantic places to propose.

A calm river reflecting the golden hues of autumn trees lining its banks, with green grass and a soft glow of sunlight filtering through the branches.

The River Cam

They say Venice is the city of love, but with a river full of punting boats, picturesque bridges, stunning scenery and impressive architecture to boot, we think Cambridge comes a close second. The tranquil River Cam winds its way through the city of Cambridge and is home to the most punting activities in England.

Travelling through Cambridge by boat is one of the most peaceful and effective ways to see the city. Hire one of the famous, flat-bottomed boats and be transported along the river with your love, just don’t drop the ring...!

A historic cityscape featuring a large green lawn, a leafless tree, Gothic-style buildings, and a tall stone tower under a clear blue sky with people gathered along the path.

Great St Marys Church Tower

Popping the question with some of the best views England has to offer is an unforgettable experience. As one of the most romantic places to propose in Cambridge, St Mary’s Church tower offers unrivalled panoramic views of Cambridge via the newly refurbished viewing platform.

Climb the 123 steps to the top of the church and make it a day to remember. The last entry to the tower is 4.30 pm Monday to Saturday and 3.15 pm on Sundays.

A sunlit garden featuring a cherry blossom tree with pink flowers, a wooden table and chairs below, and a rustic wooden cabin with a red corrugated roof in the background.

The Orchard Tea Garden

If you prefer a quieter setting for your offer of marriage, we think the Orchard Tea Garden is one of the most romantic places to propose in Cambridge. This sprawling, wooded oasis lies a short stroll away from the busy city. A favourite spot for 20th-century writers, poets and philosophers, this tranquil haven is immersed in history.

Enjoy one of the many beautiful walks, sit under the old apple trees with a picnic, or shelter under the historic pavilion. Morning coffee, afternoon teas and lunches are served here and, fittingly, the Orchard can be hired as a beautiful wedding venue,

A tranquil pond surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees, with lily pads and white water lilies floating on the reflective water under a partly cloudy blue sky.

Cambridge University Botanic Garden

Including over 8,000 plant species and an awe-inspiring arboretum, Cambridge’s Botanic Garden offers a perfect opportunity for proposing amongst the plants. A 15-minute walk from the city centre, explore tropical glasshouses, fountains, the lake and wildflower gardens.

If you love the idea of a magical winter proposal, the Botanic Lights display takes place from the end of November until the end of December each year.

A historic stone manor with tall chimneys, surrounded by a vibrant rose garden in full bloom, neatly trimmed hedges, and lush green lawn under a partly cloudy sky.

Anglesey Abbey

With their rich history and beautiful grounds and interiors, few places are as romantic as period properties. Located just outside Cambridge, Anglesey Abbey is a scenic Jacobean-style house with glorious gardens and a working watermill.

One of the National Trust’s most well-known properties, the Abbey and grounds offer something spectacular every season. From the picture-perfect house with its unique collection of paintings and objects to the beautiful gardens with bold displays of tulips, roses and dahlias, Anglesey Abbey’s exquisite backdrop makes it one of the most romantic places to propose in Cambridge.

A grassy hill with visible walking paths winding up its slopes, surrounded by green lawn and trees, under a partly cloudy sky.

Castle Hill

Overlooking the city, Castle Hill is easily accessible from the town centre. Although the Norman castle is no more, the castle mound is a perfect spot for a picnic and a proposal.

Castle Hill is a popular vantage point so it can get busy, especially during the summer months. Escape the crowds and opt for a proposal at sunrise or sunset, making the memories even more magical.

A vibrant rooftop bar and seating area atop a modern building, bustling with people enjoying drinks, surrounded by a cityscape of closely packed houses and streets below.

Rooftop Restaurant

If you prefer a cosier, more intimate setting for a proposal, a favourite restaurant or bar is always a good idea. Known as one of the most romantic locations in the city, the views from the Varsity Hotel’s Roof Terrace are breathtaking. The rooftop terrace is closed during the winter season, but you can enjoy the views of Cambridge’s skyline from the hotel's brasserie, Six.

Don’t forget to let the restaurant team in on the secret so they can have chilled champagne at the ready.

Gonville Hotel

One of Cambridge’s finest boutique hotels, the Gonville Hotel’s unparalleled hospitality, luxurious accommodation and delectable dining option makes us one of the best romantic places to propose.

A stone’s throw from Cambridge city centre, our hotel offers the perfect place to relax, unwind and celebrate after popping the big question.

We also offer our unique Bentley Afternoon Tea experience, a one-hour chauffeur-driven tour of the city with a glass of bubbles, followed by afternoon tea at the Hotel, a wonderful way to pop the question or toast an acceptance.

Click here to view our current offers. We look forward to being part of your celebrations.