Top 7 Locations to Propose in London According to a Proposal Photographer
Straight to the point, I present you my list of the top 7 locations to propose in London. This list is based on personal preference mostly which I’ve developed as a proposal photographer in London. Read further to find out more about each location and why I think it deserves a spot on this list.
1. Kyoto Garden - my personal favourite
2. Big Ben (or the arch beneath Westminster Bridge)
3. Primrose Hill
4. Italian Gardens
5. Tower Bridge
6. St Dunstan in the East Church Garden
7. Millennium Bridge
Kyoto Garden - My Personal Favourite
Kyoto Garden is a gem of a spot for proposals, situated within Holland Park in London. It’s usually not too busy and offers a lovely setting for an intimate proposal. I fell in love with Kyoto Garden from the moment I saw it for the first time. I enjoyed a cup of coffee on one of the benches at the park while I was waiting for my couple to arrive as they were running a little late. The garden is beyond tranquil and is the perfect spot if you’re looking to propose in London, love nature and prefer a more intimate environment.
2. Big Ben (or the arch beneath Westminster Bridge)
Looking for an iconic location within London? The arch across the Big Ben is a 10/10 for the task. Situated in the heart of London, the arch beneath Westminster bridge is a surprisingly convenient and not as busy as one would imagine for a proposal. Let me explain. The area is busy indeed, but the actual spot itself not so much. There might be a small queue of people lined up to take photos at the iconic spot but everyone is waiting for their turn and not spoiling other people’s photos. This makes it ideal for a surprise proposal at an iconic location.
3. Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill is another great location for proposals in London. It offers breath-taking views of the London skyline mixed with the natural views of Regents park in the foreground. Primrose hill is a very special place to me - it’s where I photographed my first ever surprise proposal. I love the reaction of people at Primrose Hill. Normally, there is a crowd at the top and they always cheer and applaud the couple and it’s lovely to see.
4. Italian Gardens
Italian Gardens, part of Hyde Park, is yet another beautiful spot for a proposal in London. It offers some lovely views and beautiful grounds to explore after you have proposed. It does get busy though so if you have your eyes set on Italian Gardens as your location to propose you have to be prepared to accept you might have some people other than you and your partner in your photos.
5. Tower Bridge
The most iconic bridge in London and certainly one of the most famous proposal locations - Tower Bridge. The only reason Tower Bridge isn’t nearer the top of this list is because of how busy it gets. It’s a fantastic location to propose and I certainly recommend it to everyone who wants an iconic look to their proposal photos.
6. St. Dunstan in the East Church Garden
St Dunstan in the East Church Garden is another stunning location for proposals in London. It’s just a few minutes away from Tower Bridge, very much in the heart of London but not many people know about it hence why it’s quiet and a lovely spot for proposals.
7. Millennium Bridge
Last on this list but definitely not least is Millennium Bridge in London. Busy but iconic, Millennium bridge is a great spot propose. With it’s stunning surroundings and amazing views it definitely deserves a spot on this list. It does get pretty busy so it’s okay if you are fine with people being around you but if you are looking for a more intimate proposal, very early morning would be the only appropriate time at this particular spot.
Bonus location - Fitzrovia Chapel
Fitzrovia Chapel is located in Pearson Square, London, was built in 1891-2 and restored in 2017. No longer a religious space, the chapel is frequently used for weddings, proposals, exhibitions and more. Ideal if you are looking for a really intimate setting and want to go an extra mile - the Chapel can be decorated and you can even hire a musician to perform while you are proposing.
To Summarise
London is full of stunning locations to propose. It’s all down to your personal preference. Whether you are looking for an iconic Tower Bridge or Big Ben proposal or you are after a more intimate, but still prominent setting like Kyoto Garden or St Dunstan in the East,, or a fully private setting like Fitzrovia Chapel, London has got it all for you.
Where to next?
Surprise proposals - how I photograph them, what’s included in the package I offer, the answers to your questions and more, you can find here.