Proposals are deeply personal and uniquely sentimental, celebrating the love and bond between two people. That said, there’s just something about a stunning backdrop that makes romantic proposals even more magical. Fortunately, the UK is full to the brim with gorgeous places that set the scene perfectly for popping the question. From peaceful river valleys to towering mountains to beautiful old buildings, they each imbue an extra sense of awe and romanticism and promise fairytale “I do”s.
Whether you can’t wait to propose in front of your favourite iconic landmark or beside a breathtaking hidden gem, we’ve crafted a guide to some of the UK’s most romantic places to propose.
Wastwater, Lake District
One of the UK’s must-see natural attractions, Wastwater is one of the most romantic places to propose imaginable. Nestled within Wasdale Valley in the Lake District, it is renowned for being the deepest lake in England and overlooked by Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in the country. Combine your proposal with an idyllic walk and a romantic meal in a Lakeland pub, or head straight to the lake’s western shores for the best views, ready to ask that all-important question.
Glastonbury Tor, Somerset
Glastonbury Tor is a well-loved Somerset landmark near Glastonbury in the English countryside. One of the UK’s most romantic places to propose, it is topped by the regal silhouette of the Grade I listed St Michael's Tower and affords a jaw-dropping aspect across patchwork fields and the town of Glastonbury. Hike to the top of the hill with your soulmate and drink in the views together, ready to ask for their hand and the promise of lots more adventures together.
The Needles, Isle of Wight
The iconic Needles on the western tip of the Isle of Wight comprise a series of three striking chalk formations. Rising thirty meters out of the sea and topped by knife-edge ridges, these seabound stacks are a world-famous attraction and an unforgettable sight. If you are looking for somewhere special to take to one knee, head to the cliffs overlooking The Needles or take a private boat cruise. For something a little different, you can also surprise your beloved during a sea-view chairlift ride.
Whitby Abbey, Yorkshire
Whitby Abbey in the North York Moors is not only one of the most dramatic places to visit in Yorkshire but the UK. Perched on a headland overlooking the historic town of Whitby and the rolling swells of the North Sea, it paints a striking picture that is truly hard to beat. For the most atmospheric setting for taking to one knee, head to the beautiful ruins of this seventh century abbey, before enjoying a beautiful walk hand-in-hand and celebrating in a Michelin star restaurant.
Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye
One of the most enigmatic destinations in the UK, the Isle of Skye’s fairy pools make for an entrancing place to propose. Pack up a picnic and a bottle of something special (perhaps a drop of Skye whisky) and set off on foot along well-worn trails to reach these glassy gems. Residing at the foot of the Black Cuillins and inspiring awe in all those who gaze upon them, it’d be hard to find a more heavenly setting than the fairy pools to celebrate the start of your next chapter together.
Mwnt Beach, Cardiganshire
To make cherished memories with your soulmate, venture to Traeth Mwnt (or Mwnt Beach) in Ceredigion. One of the most beautiful beaches in the UK, this golden stretch of sand in Wales rests within a sheltered bay and is only a short drive from the town of Cardigan. A leisurely walk from Eglwys y Grog, one of the prettiest churches in Wales (if you’re looking for wedding inspiration), and affording reaching views over the sea, this beach is sure to inspire love and romance.
Arlington Row, the Cotswolds
Arlington Row in Bibury, Gloucestershire, is located within one of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds and the UK. A truly fairytale nook where time stands still, it is home to a picture-perfect row of winsome fourteenth century cottages that radiate charm. Take your love to this characterful row to create spellbinding memories for your romantic engagement. Later, celebrate with an expertly crafted meal of delicious fare in one of the Cotswolds’ leading Michelin star restaurants.
Stanage Edge, Peak District
Affording some of the most magnificent views in England, Stanage Edge in the Peak District is the perfect place for loved-up adventurers to propose. Composed of a dramatic, one-hundred-meter-high gritstone escarpment that extends for four miles, it draws the eye and captures the heart. A playground for everyone from walkers to climbers to photographers, its mighty frame commands awe and sets the scene for magical moments together.
Loch Lomond, Scotland
Loch Lomond is a huge glacial lake in The Trossachs National Park near Queen Elizabeth Forest Park in southern Scotland. Over twenty miles long, this incredible beauty spot promises a wealth of things to see and do, including walking and cycling, bird watching and wildlife spotting, and lakeside picnicking. For the perfect way to profess your love, make your way to the shores of Loch Lomond and find a spot that feels just right to ask the question of a lifetime.
Malham Cove, Yorkshire
A star of the silver screen, Malham Cove has featured in many films and television series for its camera-worthy aesthetics. Located within the Yorkshire Dales not far from the town of Settle, it is one of the top places to visit for the dreamiest dates to remember. A towering amphitheatre formed of limestone rock, it reaches over two hundred feet high and is topped with a natural limestone cobble pavement. In winter, there is even a waterfall that cascades from the roof of the cliffs.
The Green Bridge of Wales, Pembrokeshire
The Green Bridge of Wales, along with nearby Stack Rocks, is one of the most awe-inspiring features of the Pembrokeshire coastline, formed over millions of years. Only accessible during select times due to its location near a working military range, this coastal wonder sits within a Special Area of Conservation and SSSI and creates an incredible backdrop for frame-worthy proposals. Wander out to the cliffs together to say “yes” in front of this magnificent eighty-foot-high natural archway.
The Major Oak, Sherwood Forest
Believed to be over a thousand years old, The Major Oak in Sherwood Forest is one of the oldest trees in the UK. With a trunk circumference of over thirty feet and a canopy spread of ninety meters, it is also the largest oak tree in Britain. Having stood for centuries, it has witnessed the tales of countless lovebirds, including the legendary love affair between Robin Hood and Maid Marian. Sew your love story into the history of the tree and propose beneath its branches for timeless romance.
Durdle Door, Dorset
Durdle Door in Dorset is one of the most recognisable natural attractions in the UK, yet never fails to take the breath away. If you are looking for somewhere special to pop the question, then this impressive natural archway promises memories to cherish forever. Bundle up a divine picnic spread, a bottle of bubbles and the cosiest of blankets and take a clifftop seat overlooking the arch. To make your moment extra special, time your visit with an iconic Durdle Door sunset through the archway.
Stourhead, Wiltshire
For the romantics, there are few places more magical for bewitching engagements than the National Trust-run Stourhead. A beautiful Palladian house situated near Mere in Wiltshire, this stunning building and its world-famous landscape gardens were used to film the 2005 movie Pride and Prejudice, including the scene where Mr Darcy first makes his proposal to Lizzy. Uncover the gorgeous grounds and pick the perfect spot for your heartfelt declaration.
St Michael’s Mount, Cornwall
Crowned by a majestic Medieval castle, St Michael’s Mount in Mount’s Bay is a place shrouded in legend and lore. Connected to neighbouring Marazion by a tidal cobbled causeway, this enchanting island in Cornwall inspires intrigue and awe in all generations. For somewhere magical to propose to your beloved, take a drive to the bay and cross the causeway at low tide to ask the question beneath the dramatic frame of this historic island castle or on the pillowy soft sands of the beach.
Ben Nevis, Scotland
One of the UK’s most romantic places to propose, Ben Nevis near Fort William in Scotland promises lofty heights, commanding views, and plenty of scenic spots to get down on one knee. The highest mountain in the UK, its craggy top marks the pinnacle of climbing and hiking in the UK and lends itself perfectly to breathtaking proposals. Walk to the top with your favourite person, ready to ask for their hand in adventure and romance at the highest point in the British Isles.
Valley of the Rocks, Devon
The Valley of the Rocks lies within the outer reaches of Exmoor National Park close to the Devon and Somerset border. One of the most romantic places to propose in the UK, it is famed for its otherworldly scenery, formed over millennia by time and tide. Enjoy a scenic drive over to the valley or hop aboard the train from Lynton and stroll along the coast path to reach your dream vantage point overlooking the valley and the waves below.
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