Best Romantic Places to Propose in the UK
Finding the best place to propose can be tricky. Whether it's a meaningful spot that you and your partner have fond memories of or somewhere you've always dreamed of going, as one of the biggest moments in your life, it needs to be the perfect location.
Luckily, the UK is home to thousands of romantic places to propose. From panoramic views of London to the awe-inspiring Scottish valleys, there's a special place for every elaborate or low-key proposal. Here, we've narrowed down some of the best places to propose in the UK to help give you some inspiration.
1. London
For city lovers, there's no better place to propose than London, with popular locations that many dream of being proposed in, as well as a few hidden gems for a more unique proposal.
The London Eye
Offering some of the best views of London, it's no wonder why The London Eye is becoming one of the go-to places for proposals. We'd recommend booking a slot on the London Eye in the late afternoon or early evening so, by the time you reach the top and get down on one knee, you'll be treated to a sunset view. The London Eye also offers private pods and proposal packages, which include champagne, a videographer, decorations and even a musician to make the moment even more memorable.
Tower Bridge
As one of the most iconic locations in London, with views of the city skyline and the River Thames, Tower Bridge is a spectacular place to propose. While this popular location may be extremely busy with both locals and tourists, a proposal package is available for a more intimate setting. This includes a private hire of the Tower Bridge walkway, which will be decorated for the occasion.
St. Paul's Cathedral
St. Paul's Cathedral is a magnificent and historic building that will provide the perfect backdrop for your proposal. Inside St Paul's is the famous Whispering Gallery, where a whisper can travel along the wall. So, if you're feeling nervous or really want to surprise your partner, stand on the other side of the gallery and whisper the question to them.
The Shard
Elegant and luxurious, a proposal at The Shard won't be forgotten. Offering incredible views over the city, spanning up to 40 miles, paired with a delicious meal and drinks, this beautiful setting is what dreams are made of. Various proposal packages are also available, including bespoke packages, to make it an even more personal experience.
2. Edinburgh
The capital of Scotland offers an abundance of history, breathtakingly beautiful views, stunning architecture and lively culture. Named one of the most beautiful cities in the world, a proposal in Edinburgh will be one to remember.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and a popular place for couples to get down on one knee and pop the question. The perfect storybook proposal, this 12th-century castle offers incredible views over the city. For a more private proposal, there are also intimate chapels, or you can hire a special area in the Minstrel's Gallery.
Arthur's Seat
For fitness enthusiasts, hike to the top of Arthur's Seat for a proposal with panoramic views over Edinburgh. While it does get windy and busy on top of this extinct volcano, there are still plenty of quiet spots to ask the big question. If you're planning on proposing in the summer, take a small picnic with a bottle of bubbly to celebrate the moment they say yes!
Royal Botanic Garden
Edinburgh's Royal Botanic Garden offers plenty of beautiful, secluded spots to propose to your partner. With 70 acres of gardens to explore, you're spoilt for choice. The Chinese Hillside, which features a waterfall, stream, pond and a lovely pavilion, is a particularly popular proposal spot. Or, if you want to be surrounded by exotic plants while enjoying some skyline views of Edinburgh, the Glasshouse will be the perfect place to get down on one knee.
3. Lake District
The Lake District is England's largest national park, famous for its outstanding lakes, forests and mountains. No matter what time of year you decide to visit, it'll always be a stunning place to propose.
Lake Windermere
Lake Windermere is the largest lake in England at 10.5 miles long and is surrounded by mountain peaks and picturesque villages. There are plenty of romantic places to propose around Lake Windermere, too, such as the charming Rayrigg Bay. You can even hire a row boat and propose out on the water too.
Grasmere
Known for being the home of William Wordsworth, it doesn't get more romantic than Grasmere. This village is located in the heart of the Lake District and is where fans of romantic poetry love to visit. There will be many spots to propose around the peaceful lake. Or, pack a picnic and hire a boat to row to the small island, where Wordsworth liked to picnic himself, for a proposal worthy of the romantic poets.
Derwentwater
Derwentwater is another must-see lake in the Lake District which spans 10 miles. If you and your partner have a shared love of nature walks, then Derwentwater will be one of the most beautiful places to propose. Head out onto the Ashness Jetty as the sun starts to set for an incredible view for your proposal.
4. Bath
Bath is one of the most beloved cities in the UK. In fact, many would argue that it's the most beautiful town in Britain. Located in Somerset, this city, named after its Roman-built baths, is rich in history and culture with a fantastic atmosphere.
Royal Crescent
The Royal Crescent is a world-renowned icon thanks to its impressive Georgian architecture overlooking Royal Victoria Park. Many notable people have lived or stayed in one of the Crescent's 30 townhouses in the 240 years since it was built, such as Sir Isaac Pitman, Christopher Anstey and Thomas Linley. Though an unconventional spot for a proposal, it's perfect for history buffs, and you can enjoy a drink in the hotel afterwards.
Pulteney Bridge
Pulteney Bridge is a historic and scenic bridge that runs over the River Avon. With a spectacular view of the famous sweeping horseshoe-shaped weir, it's an excellent spot to propose. For an even more romantic proposal, wait until the evening when the bridge is gorgeously lit.
Bath Skyline Walk
The Bath Skyline Walk offers the best of both worlds with beautiful views of both the city and countryside of Bath. This 3-mile circular walk will take you through meadows and woodlands all high above the city centre. Enjoy a picnic at the top and propose to your partner as the sun sets for the most romantic, memorable moment.
5. Oxford
While most known for its prestigious university, Oxford has an abundance of romantic places to visit. From its world-famous libraries (perfect for proposing to your book-loving partner) to historical buildings and famous film locations, you won't have any trouble finding somewhere to pop the question here.
Radcliffe Camera
The Radcliffe Camera is an iconic landmark in Oxford. This working library was built in 1737 and is simply stunning both inside and outside - making the perfect backdrop for your proposal. If your partner loves books, and you want to propose inside the building, you'll need to be a Bodleian card holder or book in for a guided tour.
Oxford Botanic Garden
A botanic garden will always be a romantic place to propose. But, if you want to go the extra mile, take your partner to the Oxford Botanic Garden, the oldest botanic grand in Britain and one of the oldest scientific gardens in the world. Home to over 5000 different plants from around the world, this beautiful garden offers plenty of spots to propose.
River Thames
The River Thames runs through Oxford and is one of the most scenic waterways in the city. With riverside walks and boats available to hire for a relaxing trip down the river, there are many opportunities to propose to the love of your life. If you're feeling adventurous, the two of you can even jump in for a celebratory swim.
6. Cornwall
Cornwall is a stunning coastal county in the Southwest of England that's famous for its dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches and lush countryside. While it's most popular in the summer months, there are plenty of romantic proposal spots that are perfect to use all year round.
St. Michael's Mount
St. Michael's Mount is a small island that can be found just off the coast of Cornwall. Surrounded by clear blue water, this island features a historic castle, a beautiful garden, a medieval chapel and a charming bay. You can take the boat or simply walk along the causeway at low tide to get there. With incredible views of the Cornish coast, a proposal by the castle will always be special.
Tintagel Castle
Steeped in legend and history, Tintagel Castle is said to be the birthplace of King Arthur. Just below the castle, you'll also find Merlin's Cave, which is another must-visit place and a great proposal spot. Situated on the clifftops of North Cornwall, you'll be treated to some stunning views as your proposal backdrop.
Minack Theatre
The Minak Theatre is an iconic open-air venue that's set on the side of a cliff overlooking the sea. This working theatre is very popular with visitors during the summer months. With 200 performances put on per day, during the times they aren't performing, they are open to visitors. This spot is perfect for proposing to a theatre-loving partner with its dramatic setting and ocean views.
7. Peak District
The Peak District is an area of stunning natural beauty in the heart of England. Spanning across spanning around 555 square miles, it's one of the most visited national parks in the UK. Featuring stunning landscapes, rugged peaks, rolling valleys and mysterious underground caves, there's plenty for the adventurous to explore and is ideal for a romantic proposal.
Chatsworth House
Chatsworth House is a beautiful stately home in the Peak District that many TV, film and English literature fans will instantly recognise. Used for Peaky Blinders, Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice TV adaptation and Bridgerton, it's home to many favourite fictional love stories and will make the perfect start to your lifelong commitment.
Dovedale
Doverdale is a popular valley in the Peak District that's well-known for its picturesque scenery and stepping stones, it offers a tranquil and serene setting to pop the question. With impressive woodlands, wildflower meadows (an ultra-romantic proposal spot) and limestone ravines, it's a great spot for avid hikers.
Stanage Edge
If you and your partner enjoy hiking and rock climbing together, then Stanage Edge will be the perfect place to propose. As one of the most impressive gritstone escarpments in the UK, this stunning natural wonder offers superb views of the Dark Peak moorlands and Hope Valley after reaching the top.
8. Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands is home to stunning scenery, including majestic mountains, a wide variety of wildlife and blissful lochs. Encompassing nearly 10,000 sq miles of Northwest Scotland, the highlands are one of the last great wildernesses in Europe. Known for having a moody and romantic atmosphere, this region has a plethora of impressive places to propose.
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle is a 13th-century castle in the Highlands on a small island where three great sea lochs meet. Surrounded by stunning scenery, some believe it to be Scotland's most beautiful and famous castle. Whether you propose in the spring and summer or autumn and winter, the castle will always look magnificent.
Loch Ness
Full of myths and legends, Loch Ness is an enormous freshwater loch in the Highlands. Famous for tales of its mythical monster, Nessie, it's impossible to ignore the enchanting atmosphere that surrounds it. Propose among the magic of the Loch and enjoy the scenic views as a backdrop. On the shores of Loch Ness, you'll find several inns to enjoy a celebratory glass of bubbly.
Glencoe
Glencoe is a stunning valley, that looks as though it belongs in a fairytale storybook, in the middle of the Scottish Highlands. Famous for its waterfalls, mountain peaks and hiking trails, the best times to propose here are in spring, as the wildflowers begin to bloom, and autumn for its romantic golden hues. Now that you have the location narrowed down, you'll want a proposal idea that's just as grand. Take a look at our list of unique proposal ideas that you'll always remember.
Also, if you want to keep the proposal a surprise, find out how to measure your partner's ring size in secret.
