Cambridge

With a skyline dominated by King’s College Chapel, Cambridge University Library, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, and St. John’s College Chapel, and a history that is just as lauded and lengthy as its rival Oxford, Cambridge is a city of the privileged few, and while it might share its prestige with the mighty Oxford down the road, the atmosphere in Cambridge is distinctly different. Here one can be surrounded by the passage of time and reminisce about the men and women who have studied at the university while at the same time basking in the beauty of the wide-open spaces, with plenty of greenery and wildlife and the River Cam snaking its way lazily through it all. From the University of Cambridge—formed in the 13th century as a break-off of Oxford University—to the fens surrounding the city, Cambridge is one of the most well-known and beautiful cities in all of England. 

These days Cambridge is not only a haven for education, but also one of the beating hearts when it comes to technology in the UK. In recent years the area has become lovingly known as the Silicon Fen, in reference to Silicon Valley while incorporating the outlying fens which surround the city, making for a unique blend of unspoiled countryside and bleeding edge technology. Outside of the university itself, well over 3.5 million visitors come through Cambridge every year just to experience the beauty of the countryside and the various ancient villages, towns, and monuments that make up the city and the surrounding areas. There are plenty of parks and gardens scattered between the historic landmark buildings, not to mention museums, churches, and the riverside. There are also public lectures held during the academic year, which means if you fancy a bit of learning as a side order for your perfect vacation, you’ve absolutely come to the right place.

If it's romance you are looking for you can take a boat ride along the river, rowed along usually by students.