The best places for a festive proposal – reachable by rail

If you’re planning to propose this season (in which case, congratulations!), and you’re looking for inspiration on the best places to ask the great big question, we’ve got you. Whisk your love to one of these extra romantic spots on the train, get down on one knee, and of course – upgrade to First Class with Seatfrog and make it extra special.

Credit: @blenheimPalace

Blenheim Palace

Nearest station: Oxford

You can’t throw a bauble without hitting a Christmas light trail these days, and it’s hard to sort the naff lasers in a tree from the genuinely magical experiences. Blenheim is for sure the latter. Firstly, it’s a palace – what’s more romantic? – and the interior is dressed up to be as spectacular as the sparkling trail outside. The theme this year is Neverland, and there are so many gorgeous spots to pop the big question. Atop the ferris wheel, on the ice rick, or in front of the big, gorgeous Christmas tree.

Credit: @thisisedinburgh

Edinburgh

Nearest station: Edinburgh Waverley

Edinburgh is a stunningly romantic spot all year round, but when you sprinkle festive magic over this gorgeous city, it goes to another level. There’s the Christmas market on Princes Street, an illuminated Christmas tree maze in St Andrew Square, light installations at Edinburgh Castle, and the ice rick on George Street. Or wait until December 31^st, and take advantage of the amazing Hogmanay fireworks all across the city to celebrate your new engagement.

@rachael_alice_s

Somerset House, London

Nearest station: London Waterloo

The Somerset House ice rink has become quite the festive institution in the capital. Held in the beautiful courtyard, this is the more boujis choice when it comes to skating. Take a whirl on the ice around the Christmas tree, then indulge in gourmet Alpine dining, followed by cosy drinks at the Whispering Angel bar. There are also special evenings, including ‘Skate Lates’ with DJs and live music, VIP nights and Apres Skate sessions, to take your proposal plans to the next level.

@visithadrianswall

Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland

Nearest station: Hexham

If you’re more of the outdoorsy type, or have a passion for the night sky, then the North East is the place to go. Northumberland National Park is Europe’s largest dark sky park, and one of the best places to stargaze in the UK – or even catch the Northern Lights. There are observatories scattered around, or you can just hike your way along Hadrian’s Wall and find a beautiful, remote spot under a vast sky of stars to propose to your love. Afterwards, celebrate with a drink at the Twice Brewed Inn, right by the wall.

@wakehurst_kew/

Wakehurst Place

Nearest train station: Hayward’s Heath

Another absolute Christmas cracker of a light trail, meandering through Sussex woodland with beautiful installations created by local artists. Grab a lantern and walk the sparkling trail, passing owls, dragons, flowers, and dancing fire displays. At the end, you’ll find one of the tallest living Christmas trees in Europe, wrapped in lights – ideal for a picture-perfect festive proposal. Afterwards, cuddle up around a fire and toast some gourmet marshmallows and sip on a celebratory boozy hot chocolate.

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