Few pastimes are as romantic as punting along a beautiful river, and where better to glide along with a glass of champagne in one hand and your lover in another than the River Cam along the Cambridge Backs?
The Backs refer to the mile-long stretch of riverbank that runs behind the Cambridge University colleges, a fantastic place from which to appreciate famous landmarks such as Kings College, the Wren Library and the Bridge of Sighs.
Each college owns its own part of the river banks, so it's not possible to walk along the entire length. Instead you must make your way through the colleges and over their bridges. Be warned, there may be an entrance fee.
One particular bridge to look out for is the wooden Queen's Bridge, also known as Mathematical Bridge, sandwiched between the President's Lodge, the oldest building on the river at Cambridge, and Cripps Court accommodation block. There are also several public bridges that are free to use - Silver Street Bridge, Magdalene Bridge and Garret Hostel Bridge (for pedestrians and bikes only). It is also possible to view the colleges from Queen Street.
Punts can be hired from Silver Street or Quayside by Magdalene Bridge. You can impress your friends or your lover by attempting to wield the punt yourself, or if you'd rather not risk embarrassment, you can acquire the services of an experienced chauffeur.