From extraordinary backdrops and romantic film locations, to quaint coastal coves and historical buildings, planning where to propose to a significant other can often lead to some tough – and expensive – decision making.
As part of its new Engagement Ring Rich List study, the team at money.co.uk have compiled a list of the most affordable yet idyllic UK locations perfect for pulling off the proposal of a lifetime without dipping too deeply into the wedding fund.
So, whether you are looking to pop the question somewhere magical without spending a penny, or you’ve got a little something saved up for some optional extras to mark the occasion, below are nine of the most romantic UK destinations guaranteed to secure an answer of ‘I will’.
Arthur’s Seat – Edinburgh
Arthur’s Seat is an area of outstanding natural beauty that easily earns its place on our list.
The ancient volcano is 251 metres above sea level, providing unrivalled views of Edinburgh and making it the perfect spot to propose if you find yourself in the Scottish capital. Cinema fans may also recognise Arthurs Seat from its appearance in the Hollywood film One Day, an award-winning romantic drama starring Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess.
Following the proposal, you can finish the day off with some fine dining at the magical 17th-century, manor restaurant Rhubarb. Here, you can enjoy gourmet delights cooked by chef John McMahon, who catered Madonna’s wedding breakfast when she married Guy Ritchie.
Grasmere – The Lake District
In the words of renowned poet Williams Wordsworth, Grasmere is ‘the loveliest spot that man hath ever found’.
The beautiful village in Cumbria boasts rolling green hills and a tranquil lake, making it an unforgettable destination for an intimate proposal.
Those travelling from further afield can prolong the romance by booking a room with a view at The Daffodil Hotel, and make the most of the luxurious spa facilities as you adjust to the life of a betrothed couple.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, County Antrim – Northern Ireland
It’s not hard to see why this Irish hotspot, owned and maintained by The National Trust, has taken the third spot on our list. As a unique and stunning proposal spot, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge in Northern Ireland is sure to provide the wow factor when it comes to those all important social media snaps documenting the occasion.
Sitting thirty metres above the rocks, the bridge has a breathtaking backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean and scenic coastal cliffs – giving it all the makings of a Mills and Boon novel.
Lyme Park Hall and Gardens – The Peak District
The stunning Lyme Hall Estate is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and an idyllic lake that makes for a truly romantic setting to get down on one knee.
It was even deemed so by the BBC, who used the picturesque lake as the setting for the award-winning, romance drama Pride and Prejudice starring Colin Firth.
Kynance Cove – Cornwall
It’s no surprise that Kynance Cove is one of the most painted and photographed places in Cornwall.
Sitting on the Lizard Peninsula, its white sandy beaches, turquoise water, red and green cliffs and enchanting caves make this spot a proposal paradise.
A visit to the Lizard Lighthouse, the most southern point of mainland Britain, offers up more incredible views to add to the memory bank.
York Minster’s Heart of Yorkshire Window – York
For those with a deep appreciation of historical architecture and English tradition, the elegant and grand York Minster has to be up there with one of the most romantic UK proposal spots.
Its famous Heart of Yorkshire, stained-glass window, attracts many hopeless romantics looking to lock in their fate. Legend has it that any loved-up couple that kisses underneath the heart-shaped window, will enjoy a lifetime of happiness together – making it a great spot to say ‘Yes’.
Portmeirion – Wales
Bringing a touch of the Italian Riviera to the rural Welsh coastline, Portmeirion offers up a picture-perfect proposal spot for admirers of a European city break, but with a fraction of the travel costs.
First created by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975, this ‘little Italy’ has breathtaking buildings, beautiful fountains, floral gardens and even a private peninsula to pose on for those ‘I said Yes’ shots.
The London Eye – London
For those comfortable with heights, the iconic London Eye – located in the heart of the English capital – offers the ultimate proposal spot that will leave your loved one feeling (quite literally) on top of the world.
For an extra touch of extravagance, you can hire a private glass pod and enjoy a fully intimate proposal, or even invite up to fourteen of your closest friends and family to share your special moment with. Your proposal pictures will be the envy of other couples thanks to the remarkable views of London’s iconic landmarks topping off your happy event.
The River Cam – Cambridge
Lovers of all things aquatic can sail off into the sunset on the River Cam for a water-themed proposal. Hire one of the many people-powered punting boats and enjoy the scenic views as you enjoy a romantic float around Cambridgeshire
With awe-inspiring, medieval architecture lining the canal banks, it’s a spectacular setting to ask for one’s hand in marriage – there will even be someone to capture the moment on camera for you!
