‘Most romantic’ places in the UK to get down on one knee

During the pandemic, many people’s plans to get engaged abroad were halted – but fear not, there are plenty of UK hotspots where Brits would love to say ‘yes’ to an engagement

Covid-19 may have scuppered thousands of wedding plans, with some people rearranging their big day multiple times – but not even a pandemic can prevent a romantic proposal.

Whether you’re lockdown lovebirds or long-term lovers, the festive season is in full swing, and is there any better time to get down on one knee to pop the question?

21 per cent of Brits would rather head abroad for their proposal, but 79 per cent revealed they’d be happy to get engaged in the UK.

New research by London cornerstone jewellery brand, ABELINI , has shared the most romantic hotspots across the country to get engaged – with nearly half (48 per cent) declaring one place in particular the perfect proposal spot.

The Lake District, known for its natural beauty and ribbon lakes, topped the list as the most popular place for a proposal.

The Cumbrian national park offers tranquil settings like Derwentwater and Lake Windermere, as well as stunning, historic spots like Kendal Castle and Rydal Hall Gardens.

Or, you could ask the big, important question over dinner at one of the county’s beautiful restaurants.

Fell Foodie recommended Pacific Rim to our sister site 2Chill , rating the venue five stars.

They wrote: “A taste of the Pacific Rim, a stone’s throw away from Lake Windermere. Perfect for lunches, evening meals and even late night entertainment on weekends. Complete with authentic Japanese roboto grills, recommend the bao buns and the griddled avocado with miso butter.”

Or maybe you’d like to propose over dinner with a view at the Lake’s third highest pub.

Gareth Butterfield recommended the Kirkstone Pass Inn , writing: “The third highest public house in England, and one you absolutely must tick off your list.

“Follow the fearsome Kirkstone Pass itself, brave the steep stretch known locally as ‘the Struggle’ and you’ll arrive at this lovely old pub close to the summit. And it’s the perfect place in which to reward yourself.

“Sit outside and soak up the view on a sunny day, or huddle by the cosy fire in the winter. But make sure you call in soon, it’s fabulous.”

Or how about the ‘classy’ Askham Hall, also visited by Fell Foodie . They said the 12th century house had “glorious grounds” and a Michelin accredited restaurant.

They added: “A classy venue close to the Northern Fells with spa facilities, perfect after a long hike. Superbly appointed rooms and service second to none.”

ABELINI’s research revealed that 22 per cent of Brits said that the pandemic has made them realise what amazing destinations we have in the UK to consider as a wedding venue, too.

Other wild and romantic locations continue to top the list as Cornwall (39 per cent) and the Scottish Highlands (33 per cent) appeared next, thanks to the stunning surroundings that these popular tourist destinations have to offer.

However, over a quarter (27 per cent) of the nation want the big question to be popped somewhere more cosmopolitan, as the London Eye appeared fourth, offering a dazzling engagement with views across the capital.

Another popular city location is Edinburgh, as 26 per cent of Brits said they would choose this historic backdrop for their once in a lifetime moment.

What’s more, it looks like the love for UK wedding destinations and proposal hotspots is here to stay, as more than half said they would prefer to get married in the UK, instead of abroad.

Nilesh Rakholia, director at ABELINI, said: “When preparing to ask one of the biggest questions you may ask in your lifetime, you want to make sure you have all the details ironed out, and the location is no exception.

“Those dreaming of getting down on one knee on a tropical beach were left disappointed over the last 18 months but there is an abundance of romantic places perfect for proposing right here in the UK.

“Whether you can see yourself popping the question in a glamorous city setting like the London eye or the stunning natural beauty of the Lake District or Cornwall, the most important thing to remember is keep it personal and propose somewhere that is special to both you and your other half.”