Lockdown has affected all of the UK during the Covid-19 pandemic, and with travel plans and tropical holidays all being postponed, romantic proposal destinations have had to take a backseat.
We wanted to see what that had done to proposal trends over the last twelve months. While you can’t ask the magical question at the top of the Empire State Building at the moment, have other heartstopping locations seen a boom?
Proposal and engagement trends
Despite many of us having our lives altered by lockdowns, proposals look to be on the rise. Searches for engagement rings have increased by 27% from last year, with many of us now looking online rather than in-store for purchasing. Searches for ‘how to propose’ have also increased by 28% over the last year, meaning many of us are looking for inspiration on how to make the perfect proposal at home whilst we can’t travel.
Throughout the year, searches have spiked alongside the pattern of lockdowns in the UK. But searches for ‘proposal ideas’ dropped by a huge -56% in April, as the UK transitioned into its first lockdown and plans were cancelled and changed. UK residents have instead been searching how to ‘propose at home’, which experienced a huge 287% increase in the last 12 months and peaked in December.
The most Instagrammable places in the UK to propose
With international travel off the cards but proposals at an all-time high, we have pulled together the best locations in the UK to get engaged. From scenic spots to iconic landmarks, these romantic outdoor spots are the perfect way to keep it special without traveling abroad.
1. Edinburgh
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The capital city of Scotland is the second city on our list with plenty of history and culture. Edinburgh boasts several panoramic views ideal for a proposal spot. For an Instagram -worthy moment, try visiting Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh Castle or the Royal Mile.
2. Cornwall
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Beaches in Cornwall are often regarded as some of the most beautiful in the UK. With turquoise seas blue enough to rival the Mediterranean, it's the perfect place to emulate a tropical proposal. Watergate Bay, Porthmeor Beach, Whitsand Bay and Kynance Cove are some of the most popular spots with crystal waters, rock formations and even caves. Pick a clear day any time of year for the best views and photos.
3. York
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Known as one of the oldest cities in England, York is the ideal place for a picture-perfect proposal. Quaint streets, wonky buildings and an impressive cathedral make up the city centre, providing plenty of places for a romantic moment. An estimated 6.9 million people visit the Yorkshire city, so try visiting midweek to avoid crowds!
4. Lake District
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The Lake District boasts several romantic spots, it is perhaps the most popular spot in the UK for proposals. Whether after a long hike, on a boat ride across one of the lakes, or in one of the Cumbrian towns dotted across the National Park, there are countless locations for declaring your love. For a truly instagramable moment try picking one of the peaks with a panoramic view.
5. Tower Bridge
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Across the English capital, there are numerous places perfect for getting down on one knee. Our top pick is Tower Bridge. The bridge is one of London’s most iconic landmarks, making it the perfect backdrop for a lifelong memory and the following celebrations. It’s surrounded by pubs and restaurants, perfect places to toasting to your future forever.
6. Cotswolds
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Spanning across the south-east of England, the Cotswolds is renowned for its beautiful villages built using the golden Cotswold stone. Locations like Castle Combe, Bourton-on-the-Water and Burford make the perfect backdrop for romantic proposal images, with historic buildings and quaint streets. If a busier city is more your scene, Bath provides the beautiful nature of the Cotswolds with grand townhouses and Roman baths.
7. Peak District National Park
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The Peak District is one of the most popular national parks in the UK, with over 10 million people visiting every year. The park is estimated to be within an hour’s drive for over 20 million people, making it one of the most accessible and beautiful locations for a romantic proposal. From steep peaks with expansive views to quaint villages and towns such as Castleton, Hathersage and Bakewell, there are plenty of locations perfect for those who like a hike or prefer a quiet stroll.
8. Whitby
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