We’ll admit, we’re big romantics. We love all things love and we’re definitely the ones to cry first at those big romantic gestures you see on the big screen. But why should these big and beautiful declarations of love be limited to Hollywood?
We’ve created an in-depth round-up of some of our favourite romantic places in the UK, any of which would make the perfect spot to ask that all-important question… Can I have the last biscuit – sorry, we mean – will you marry me? You can even combine your epic proposal with a beautifully romantic stay, whether you’re after a romantic getaway for two with a heart (and toe) warming wood-burner, or a coastal retreat complete with sea views and a hot tub.
Got a life-changing question brewing? Here are our favourite places to propose in the UK to help you find the perfect place to pop the question. The best part? These are all spectacular at any time of year so you can choose the time that’s right for you.
Nature lovers
From cliff-top sunsets to sea-backed picnics, the great outdoors makes for the ultimate backdrop to your proposal. Bonus: picnics are a delicious and sneaky way to hide engagement rings!
Godrevy, Cornwall
Lighthouses, sandy beaches, and epic storms? Godrevy beach in West Cornwall is a spectacular place to pop the question come storm or shine. Settle down in the sand for a picnic to remember or stand on the blustery cliffs for a more dramatic scene – you can really channel your inner Poldark here.
Tarr Steps, Somerset
When it comes to taking the next step, why not make it a literal step and take your soon-to-be-spouse to the wilds of Exmoor National Park. Tarr Steps not only provides a beautiful setting for your proposal, but the nearby pub is the perfect place to celebrate afterwards.
Enys Gardens, Cornwall
If you go down to the woods today (well, Spring), you’ll be in for a big surprise as bluebells sweep across the ground, creating a carpet of periwinkle for your proposal. Enys Gardens also host beautiful weddings so you can go full circle with your romantic memories.
Kynance Cove, Cornwall
Not only is Kynance Cove one of the most eye-catching places in Cornwall, but at the right time of year, the night sky here is utterly unbeatable. Pack a blanket, binoculars - and ring - and embark on a night of romance and stargazing on the Lizard Peninsula.
Great Dixter House & Gardens, Sussex
With 19 beacons of natural beauty to choose from, the magical gardens that surround Dixter House in East Sussex are the perfect place to propose to your green-fingered love. Get down on one knee amidst topiary masterpieces, or by the quiet waters of the horse pond – you can even enjoy a tropical proposal under the fascinating canopy of the exotic garden.
Durdle Door, Dorset
One of Dorset’s most beautiful beaches, Durdle Door provides a jaw-dropping backdrop to your proposal with its azure waters and iconic stone arch – it’s also dog-friendly all year round so your furry best friend can be a part of the moment, too.
Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire
What can we say, we love a beachy backdrop for our proposals! Although the whole of Pembrokeshire’s coastline in Wales could easily make this list, we have to shine a light on Barafundle Bay. One of the most beautiful beaches in Pembrokeshire, this golden-sanded paradise would make a spectacular spot to get down on one knee.
History buffs
Nothing quite says undying love more than an ancient site that’s weathered time itself to be there for your proposal. We’re in absolute awe of these astonishing historical buildings, all of which make an exceptionally romantic scene for your big question.
St Michael’s Mount, Cornwall
What better place to bear your heart than the cobbled path up to St Michael’s Mount where the giant’s heart remains amongst the stones to this day. We also love Marazion beach or the causeway, both of which offer a fabulously dramatic backdrop to your special moment..
Stonehenge, Wiltshire
One of the country’s most famous sites, Stonehenge certainly provides a fascinating setting for your proposal. The giant stones make for a very memorable engagement shoot, while the surrounding countryside beckons for romantic strolls.
Osborne House, Isle of Wight
Packed to the ornately carved ceilings with romance and character, Osborne House has many options for your regal proposal. From the perfectly manicured gardens and grand pavilion to the beautiful beach that led to Queen Victoria describing the historical house as ‘paradise’, this iconic house and garden is ready to take your proposal to the next level.
Stourhead, Wiltshire
If you’re popping the question to an Austenite, you simply can’t go wrong with the setting of the infamous proposal scene in Pride and Prejudice – hopefully yours will have a more immediate yes! Head to Stourhead’s incredible Temple of Apollo (when it’s raining for even more Austen-approved romance) and profess your love, most ardently.
Whitby Abbey, Yorkshire
Oh, we do love a dramatic proposal with a beautiful backdrop, especially when it’s in the ruins of an ancient abbey that’s inspired poets and painters alike. To add even more epic romance, the site is steeped in gothic majesty, with the abbey playing the role of muse for the classic novel, Dracula.
Conwy Castle, Wales
There might be over 400 castles in Wales to choose from when picking a location for your historic proposal, but we have a soft spot for the towering heights of Conwy Castle. Not only is the castle itself magical beyond belief, but the mammoth towers offer an unbeatable panoramic backdrop, with the peaks of Snowdonia and glistening waters of the river lending their charms to the spectacular setting.
Weird and wonderful
Looking for something truly memorable? These weird and wonderful events and places are sure to add a quirky twist to your special day.
Garlic Festival, Isle of Wight
If you want true romance, you can’t beat a stinky kiss at the Isle of Wight’s most famous foodie festival! Oh yes, why not start your next chapter surrounded by the sights and smells of the Garlic Festival – you can even toast your engagement with a garlic beer!
Cerne Abbas Giant, Dorset
When picturing your proposal, are you alone with your loved one? Or are you accompanied by a 55-metre tall naked man made out of chalk? If your answer is the latter, you should probably head to Cerne Abbas in Dorset, where an ancient chalk figure resides on the hillside. There’s a lovely walk nearby, giving the perfect excuse for your romantic visit.
Shell Grotto, Kent
Hidden within twisting tunnels in Kent, Shell Grotto offers you the chance to get down on one knee surrounded by 4.6 million shells, all decorated in intricate patterns along the walls – now there’s a setting they won’t expect!
Cotswold Lavender, The Cotswolds
One of the most beautiful places to visit in The Cotswolds during the summer months, Cotswold Lavender provides a truly spectacular place to pop the question. Surrounded by rows and rows of colour (which have the added benefit of releasing an oh-so-calming scent to soothe your nerves), you’ll be hard pressed to find a more unique place to propose.
Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scottish Highlands
If you're planning a memorable proposal to a Harry Potter fan, this incredible landmark in Scotland is sure to create a magical backdrop. Famously featured in multiple Harry Potter films, the Glenfinnan Viaduct can be viewed from a nearby hill or boarded for an extra-special train ride. You might not end up at Hogwarts, but hopefully you'll still enjoy an equally spellbinding journey.
Foodies
From intimate candle-lit dinners to the rolling estates of a vineyard, here are some proposal ideas for the foodie in your life.
Nyetimber, Sussex
One of the many great vineyards in Sussex, Nyetimber has been dubbed the ‘England’s top sparkling wine estate’, which is perfect for those wanting to toast their happy news afterwards. Bring your loved one along for a special tour and pop the question alongside a bottle of England’s finest!
Helford River, Cornwall
Is there anything more romantic than setting sail up the tranquil waters of the Helford River? Falmouth has many boat trips to choose from, whether you want an intimate dinner on the waterway or your very own vessel to captain – pull into one of the many secluded beaches with a picnic (check out some of the local farm shops for inspiration) or sail to the cosy and historic Pandora Inn for an extra special experience.
The Dining Room, The Cotswolds
There is only one thing better than a romantic dinner for two… A romantic dinner for two at a Michelin star restaurant! The Dining Room in The Cotswolds boasts a well-deserved Michelin star and Michelin green star alongside an idyllic setting, making it perfect for an intimate dinner that ends with the biggest question of them all.
Surprise View, Lake District
Looking for a memorable picnic? Boasting sweeping views across Borrowdale Valley, Surprise View certainly lives up to its name, especially if you use the occasion to surprise in other ways. Pack up a basket with lots of local goodies and make the most of this uber-romantic spot - nearby Ashness Bridge is another favoured romantic spot if you want some choice.
Adrenaline-junkies
Whether from love, nerves, or pure adrenaline, these romantic ideas are sure to get your heart pumping!
Cowes, Isle of Wight
Famous for hosting one of the oldest sailing regattas in the world, Cowes is a great place for the most romantic of water-based pursuits, sailing. Gather your salty mate and set sail for a magical voyage on a yacht of your choosing.
Tarka Trail, Devon
One of the best bike rides in Devon, the Tarka Trail boasts 180 miles of proposal opportunities. Head straight to your favourite spot in North Devon, or simply enjoy the ride until you find a place that just feels right. We whole-heartedly recommend bringing a romantic picnic with you to enjoy along the way!
Perranporth, Cornwall
The golden sands and Atlantic waves found at Perranporth really do lend themselves to an epic proposal. You can write your heart-felt message in the sand, or wait till you emerge from the sea after a wintery dip in the Cornish waters. Either way, a celebratory drink at the UK’s only bar on a beach is a must!
Golden Cap, Dorset
The highest point on the South Coast, Golden Cap is a rather spectacular spot to get down on one knee. Panoramic views surround you, with sunset casting the scene in a rather romantic golden glow. If you’re not too keen on a huffed and puffed proposal, you can check out our Golden Cap shortcut, which turns this epic walk into a romantic jaunt.
The Needles, Isle of Wight
What better way to get your partner out on the cliffs above the uber-romantic (and totally iconic) rocks at The Needles than under the pretence of a heart-pumping walk. Once at the towering white cliffs, you can pop the big question on the ground, or up in the air from the famous chairlift – just don’t drop the ring!
While an epic backdrop is always a fun choice, sometimes it’s nice to keep it intimate. Our beautiful holiday cottages are a wonderful way to share this experience with your favourite person and provide a quiet and oh-so-special place to take this next step together. Whatever homely setting you're looking for, there's a cottage to suit.
