The moment you ask your favourite person to marry you makes a memory you will treasure forever, and forms a story you will have to share with all your friends and family. But what goes into making that down-on-one-knee moment so special? Here are ten tips to get you planning the perfect wedding proposal:
Our Honeymooners Favourite. Since 1720 The Bakery provided bread for the old Grove Farm, now it is converted into an extremely cosy self-contained cottage. It has a very cosy open fire which you can sink back into the comfy sofa and watch as the ducks in the Orchard peck at the French doors for bread.
This is an elegant and romantic cottage for a couple who want to explore Mersea Islands wonderful Nature reserves and enjoy a beautiful cottage with a cosy fire - you are on a farm that stretches down to the salt marsh nature reserves where seals bask.
Row up to your own lake-side lodge, complete with huge views, champagne treats and a private hot tub, at this Devon hideaway. The stunning Black Swan is set in 35 acres of lakes, gardens and ancient woodland, in the countryside of Cullompton. The location is an ideal spot for exploring both town and country, with the trendy historic city of Exeter nearby, along with the beautiful Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks just a hop away.
Looking for somewhere different to stay? Then try The Cowshed Barn, a fabulously up-cycled barn conversion. Not only does it have everything to indulge in a true luxury break, its location means you also have some of England’s finest cities and countryside on your doorstep.
In the heart of the Sussex High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, in the depths of a lovely garden sits this tranquil old cottage. Completely self contained, it allows you to relax in its peaceful surroundings in considerable comfort. The owners have done everything to combine many of the luxuries of a top hotel with the charm and freedom of your own country cottage.
Crafted around a beautiful oak frame, Carpenter’s Cabin is the perfect romantic hideaway in Cornwall. Privately tucked away and with stunning views over the surrounding countryside through the huge floor to ceiling windows, this bright and airy cottage is a great place for a romantic break in Cornwall at any time of the year.
Opens in a new windowFor a quirky yet stylish hideaway in rural Devon, check out Bothy. Dating back to the 16th century it is set alongside the owner’s home down an unmade track in a romantic 4 acre wild garden. Inside, you’ll find character and history everywhere you look, along with an impressive collection of books adding to the bohemian feel. Upstairs this theme continues with the vaulted bedroom boasting original art and antiques. And best of all, this romantic bolthole is dog friendly.
Opens in a new windowDon’t be fooled by the name - this romantic holiday cottage in Devon is one of the most luxurious retreats you could wish for. With its vaulted ceilings, open plan layout, wood burner and high end finishes you couldn’t ask for more. Well, perhaps you could ask for a superb hot tub on the deck and a swimming lake? The Cattle Shed offers it all. Like we said, don’t be fooled by the name.
Opens in a new windowA fabulous luxury lodge with private hot tub in the pretty Somerset countryside, Pomegranate has everything for you to relax and rejuvenate. From the huge Band & Olufsen television to the cutting edge decor and of course the private hot tub.
Opens in a new windowWe think this stylish apartment in the charming town of Woodbridge is a great place for a romantic week away from it all. The Penthouse is a retreat which has been designed to offer couples a taste of luxury – and the panoramic balcony views of boats on the river are reason enough to head here.
We love this romantic cottage in The Lake District; it’s rare to find an authentic Lakeland cottage but with all the comforts you’d want on a romantic break. And Kentmere is such a romantic location, hidden away from the crowds and with spectacular mountain walks on your doorstep.
Opens in a new windowA cosy luxury lodge with private hot tub in the pretty Somerset countryside, Amber Lodge will appeal to those who prefer a classic decor. With its comfy sofas, generous kitchen, huge walk-in shower and of course the hot tub it has everything to make you feel spoiled and relaxed.
Opens in a new windowCity chic meets country luxury; The Potting Shed offers the best of both worlds. Set in a private 100 acre estate in one of Yorkshire’s prettiest villages this bijou bolthole for two serves up stunning views from its 5 star accommodation. And in case you don’t fancy leaving this little retreat, the owners offer a complementary breakfast and supper service to match. Read on…
This charming hideaway brings luxury to the Lake District – so you can enjoy the best of the English countryside in style. No. 2 Rose Cottage is surrounded by hills and valleys, in the pretty South Lakeland village of Bouth. It has a romantic woodburning stove, luxury king size bed and is only a short drive from a Michelin Restaurant, making it a great location for a romantic getaway.
This unique arch was originally crafted to impress passers-by. More than 200 years after the famous architect William Kent made this stand-out design it’s still got all its charms, and some more have been added now with a redesigned interior to match its eye-catching silhouette. A perfect pet-friendly boutique honeymoon cottage in Norfolk.
This historic retreat is set in a real romantic hotspot – it’s Grade II listed and full of charm and has been restored to impress couples who are searching for a retreat with a taste of luxury. We think Palmers Lodge is a perfect size and its location is pretty impressive, on the grounds of the 25,000-acre Holkham Estate, which played host to Hollywood film stars Keira Knightley and Ralph Fiennes for their filming of The Duchess. All in all a perfect pet friendly boutique honeymoon cottage in Norfolk.
We think Hare Cottage is a great choice if you are looking for a place to unwind. This North Yorkshire retreat has an easy-going charm about it, coupled with great views and a luxury hot tub. It would be an excellent choice if you want a break away in the country with the creature comforts all ready and waiting.
This romantic retreat is a little haven of peace, with gorgeous views over the Sussex countryside. It’s an easy 90 minute hop from London right into an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The owners at Bewl Water View have created this hideaway to offer the ultimate luxury break for couples and an especially attractive sanctuary for anyone hoping for a week of fresh air and country walks.
The Retreat has got to be one of our most glamorous escapes. This luxury cottage, on the coast of Yorkshire, near Sandsend, was once the home to an American Vogue editor – and a little look at the pictures will show you why. With stunning gardens and beautiful interiors, the cottage looks like something straight out of the pages of a beauty magazine.