Valentine’s Day Proposal Ideas

15 Valentine’s Day proposal ideas to suit all budgets

Proposing on Valentine’s Day is a romantic gesture because the day is universally associated with love and commitment. It offers a symbolic and memorable backdrop to start your next chapter together, perhaps making the proposal even more special.

Here we share 15 Valentine’s Day proposal ideas, ranging from budget-friendly options such as a scavenger hunt or a picnic right up to blow-the-budget luxury such as a romantic stay in a castle or a proposal on a yacht!

Budget-friendly proposals

1. Home-cooked candlelit dinner – Prepare a special meal at home, set the table with candles and roses, and propose in the intimate comfort of your own space. If cooking isn’t one of your greatest strengths, then there’s a surprisingly good amount of ready-made meals available from supermarkets that you simply heat up! You could also order from your favourite takeaway and present the engagement ring during dessert.
2. Scavenger hunt – Create a personalised scavenger hunt. Use clues leading to significant locations, like where you first met or had memorable dates. Incorporate personal messages and small gifts at each stop. Adding friends or family as part of the hunt can add to the excitement and emotional build-up. The final clue reveals the heartfelt question - where you can also present the engagement ring - ensuring an unforgettable moment.
3. Message in a bottle – Write a heartfelt letter, place it in a decorative bottle, and present it during a romantic walk along a local beach or in the park. For an extra surprise, ask a friend to hide the bottle, so you can find it together, creating an unexpected yet magical moment. Make sure you keep the actual engagement ring on you for when you pop the question or use a cheap placeholder in the bottle.
4. Recreate your first date – Go back to the place where you first met, or where you had your first date, and reminisce before popping the question. Add thoughtful details like wearing the same outfit you wore then or ordering the same drinks and food to make it even more nostalgic.
5. Picnic in the park – Pack a picnic with your partner's favourite treats and propose somewhere scenic or special to you both. To make it even more romantic, go at night time, take some cosy blankets, some hot chocolate and propose under the stars. You could also bring fairy lights and a portable speaker to play your song softly in the background (And don’t forget your umbrella - this is the UK after all!).

Mid-range proposals

1. Hot air balloon ride – A hot air balloon ride is a magical place to propose because it offers amazing views, a sense of adventure, and an intimate setting high above the world. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery create a romantic backdrop, making the moment feel extraordinary and unforgettable for both partners. Many providers even offer champagne packages to make your proposal extra special.
2. Private cinema screening – A private cinema screening is a perfect place to propose because it offers intimacy, personalisation, and a touch of drama. You can watch your favourite film together, showcase a slideshow of memories, play a romantic video, or include a heartfelt message on the big screen. The cosy setting ensures privacy, making it both romantic and memorable. Add personalised popcorn boxes and drinks for a fun yet sentimental touch.
3. Enjoy a city break – Plan a weekend getaway to a romantic UK city like Bath or Edinburgh. A city break is a great place to propose because it combines adventure, romance, and new experiences. Exploring a beautiful city together creates lasting memories, and iconic landmarks or scenic spots provide stunning backdrops for the moment. The getaway also offers quality time to celebrate your engagement in a special setting.
4. Theatre proposal – Attend a West End show and arrange to propose during a special moment, perhaps with the assistance of the theatre staff. Some venues even allow custom arrangements, such as flashing a message on the screen or surprising your partner during the intermission.
5. Rooftop dinner – Book a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city skyline for a memorable dining experience leading up to your proposal. The elevated setting feels exclusive and elegant, especially at sunset or under the stars. The intimate ambience, combined with fine dining, sets the perfect mood for a heartfelt proposal. For an extra wow factor, request custom cocktails or desserts that spell out your proposal.

Luxury proposals

1. Exclusive castle stay – A castle is a perfect place to propose because it offers a fairy-tale setting filled with history, charm, and romance. The grand architecture, stunning gardens, and regal atmosphere create a magical backdrop for a memorable moment. Many castles offer proposal packages that include champagne, flowers, and private dining.
2. Helicopter tour – Arrange a helicopter flight over iconic landmarks, such as London or the Lake District, and propose amidst breath taking aerial views. Some tours even allow you to land at a special location for a private picnic or dinner to celebrate your engagement.
3. Luxury spa retreat – Spend a day at a high-end spa resort, enjoying couples treatments, and propose during a moment of relaxation. From a rooftop jacuzzi to private hot tubs, the atmosphere is perfect for an intimate proposal, allowing you to celebrate in total tranquillity afterward.
4. Michelin starred dining experience – Reserve a table at a renowned Michelin starred restaurant and have the chef incorporate the proposal into a specially curated tasting menu. From customised plates to dessert surprises, fine dining ensures an elegant and luxurious proposal experience.
5. Hop on a plane – if your budget allows, then for a truly romantic and unforgettable Valentine’s Day proposal, head far North or far South! Whether you want to propose under the Northern Lights in Scandinavia (February is the optimum month to see them) or on a private yacht in the Caribbean for example, your options are limitless!

We hope these 15 Valentine’s Day proposal ideas have given you some inspiration. Whether you’re on a strict budget or want to enjoy full-blown decadence, then each one can be customised to suit your finances, ensuring your Valentine’s Day proposal is unforgettable.

Finally, don’t forget to protect the star of the show the precious ring with engagement ring insurance so you can enjoy peace of mind that in the event of theft, loss or damage, it can be repaired or replaced without financial stress.

Further reading: Engagement ring trends for 2025 and Choose an engagement ring to fit your lifestyle and work.