Whether you’re a fully-fledged Londoner, or a more-than-welcome out-of-towner, London is one of the most romantic cities in the world and the perfect location to pop the question.
It is a nerve-racking experience for even the most confident of souls, however consider your location and you can take the heat off significantly. Many experts such as brideheaven.com can aid you in finding the perfect locale for such a daunting appending experience, wherever you decide to head, but as you know we have a soft spot for our capital.
Whilst tourist spots might look pretty as a postcard…in a postcard, in reality they can be cramped and impersonal. Can you imagine being on top of the London Eye, down on one knee with a gorgeous ring in one hand, just to look over and see the exact same thing happening right next to you? How embarrassing.
These locations are obviously popular for a reason, they’re iconic and romantic at the same time, but we’ve gone one step further to find those hidden gems in and around London that your other half won’t expect…
The Royal Observatory, Greenwich
What’s more romantic than soaking in the stars? A little corny maybe, but there isn’t a better time to embrace your soppy side than planning your proposal. The glow of the observatory and plenty of warm blankets to keep cosy in an understated, indie style proposal your other half will love.
You know how unpredictable British weather can be so this requires a good level of planning. You can grab a fairly detailed forecast for the next couple of months online, and don’t forget the element of surprise; suggest a spontaneous trip if you feel the weather is perfect. This will subdue your nerves as well.
Hyde Park
While we love the sun-filled city during the summer, there is something about London parks during the autumn and winter. The colourful leaves, crisp sunny blue-sky days and festive evening strolls. Hyde Park is one of London’s most popular areas, and a little treasure trove of delightful avenues to proposal down. If you fancy taking your proposal off dry land, consider boating on the Serpentine. You couldn’t wish for a perfect setting, whether it’s raining or not.
Kyoto Gardens
These Japanese-inspired gardens are an oasis of calm in the heart of the bustling city. Although the size of the Kyoto Gardens is eclipsed by the likes of Richmond and Hyde Park, it is slightly under the radar, making it a beautiful and unusual spot for your proposal. Whilst most parks boast the likes of sports pitches and bicycle routes galore, this means your proposal can lose some of that fairy dust needed to make it extra special.
The Shard
The London Eye is often preferred over this London landmark, and we don’t know why. The Shard is the tallest building in London, standing at 306m, so if you’re looking for a room with a view, you’ve come to the right place. This is perfect for the couple who soak up London on a daily basis. For complete privacy, opt for the toilet on the 68th floor. Yes, we can imagine a toilet wasn’t exactly first on your list of possible proposal locations, but that view…
A trip to the theatre
Whether it’s the Globe, The Vic or along the streets of the West End, if you’re culture vultures, there is nothing better than the theatre to add some drama to your proposal.
Being in the heart of London, there is a theatre show for everyone so tap into what your partner would really like, whether it’s a repeat of their favourite or something new you know they’ll love. You could even pull some strings and get yourself on the stage for the big moment. But we’ll leave that up to you to organise!
A bench
Yep, you heard us right. But not just any bench. Why not choose your favourite park, take a picnic and set up camp? This has an intimate and meaningful feel, not all proposals need to be a ‘grand gesture’. Also take note of these idyllic spots such as Rembrandt Gardens, along the Thames and Hampstead Heath. Our bustling capital has a number of quiet and secluded spots, perfect for your proposal.
And the restaurants…
After even more seclusion? The above locations are scattered around London but why not head to one of these top restaurants, all based in the west…
The Ivy
We couldn’t talk about romantic west London restaurants without mentioning The Ivy. Please note, this is one of the most popular restaurants in the country, let alone London. Check the availability and remember, there are many sister restaurants to The Ivy which are just as special.
Goode and Wright
We gave Goode and Wright a well-deserved four stars for its delicious lunch menu, and this quirky get-up and laid-back style is perfect for the relaxed couple.
Berners Tavern
Berners Tavern is in the heart of Soho, this is a restaurant for elegance and those foodies. The restaurateur has two other restaurants (Little Social and Social Eating House) as well.
The Delaunay
A little on the pricey side, however The Delaunay has the wow factor. A mouth-watering menu from breakfast through to afternoon tea and then the seasonal dinner menu, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
