Top 5 Places to Propose in North Yorkshire
Did you know that the months between November and March are when most proposals happen? Something about the changing seasons, the chill in the air and the sense of cosiness makes us all feel a little more romantic and more likely to ask that all important question ~ “Will you marry me?”
Deciding to bind your life to another, to vow to roam together taking on all of life's adventures, big and small, is not an undertaking to be taken lightly. You’ve likely spent months plotting out just what you’ll say, finding the perfect ring or token to express your commitment, fretting over whether your beloved will say that all important yes! (which we’re very sure they will!). But one of those unknowns you might be thinking of is ~ where should I pop the question?
Luckily, you’re here! We’ve written this guide to help you whittle down some of the best spots across North Yorkshire to propose. If you’re like us, you’ll want somewhere scenic and wild, that’s also a little private so you don’t have to worry about looky-loos interrupting this most important moment.
These five spots are some of our favourite across North Yorkshire, each has a little adventure to it, so you can create a truly unforgettable day for you both to enjoy for the rest of your life together. They also have the added benefit of lots of hiding places, so if you decide to invite a couple of surreptitious photographers with you to capture this magickal moment, we’ll be able to do so without alerting your intended.
Hayburn Wyke
Hayburn Wyke waterfall is a picturesque, secluded waterfall located on the North Yorkshire coast, nestled between Scarborough and Whitby. It cascades over moss-covered rocks into a small, pebbled cove that meets the North Sea, creating a tranquil and scenic spot surrounded by lush woodland.
You can park at the pub part way down the bank, and walk the rest of the way to the stone beach on well marked trails, crossing the Cleveland Way. The falls themselves are beautiful, cascading into a shallow pool which is perfect for a little dip.
We suggest booking a table at the pub for after you propose, so you celebrate with some proper Yorkshire grub and perhaps a little fizz.
Captain Cooks monument
Captain Cook’s monument is a prominent feature of the North Yorkshire landscape. Sitting atop Easby Moor it offers panoramic views across the North Yorkshire Moors and surrounding countryside. The walk up isn’t as steep as neighbouring Roseberry Topping, and passes through managed woodland with lots of beauty spots and viewpoints to enjoy on the walk up.
It’s a bit of a walking hot spot, so we would suggest you time your trip to either sunrise or sunset. Not only will this give you more privacy from trail runners and dog walkers, but the surrounding hills sing in the golden light of dawn and dusk.
Park at Gribdale Gate, and take a picnic basket with you. You can enjoy a cosy picnic looking out over North Yorkshire while you plan your future together.
Danby Beacon
Danby Beacon is a historic site located on the North York Moors, offering expansive views across the moorland and the Esk Valley. It marks the location of one of the chain of beacons that were historically lit to warn of impending invasions, so it is one of the highest points on the moors. The area is abundant in heather in late summer, which fades to rust in winter.
This is an often secluded spot, so if you’re looking for a private spot then this might be the one for you. We suggest coming here at sunset, the moors absolutely light up as the sun dips, and it makes for a very romantic place for a post proposal picnic.
Sandsend ~ moon scape
Sandsend itself is a beautiful spot to propose, with quaint seaside village vibes and hidden caves to explore at low tide, but the spot we have in mind is a little more exclusive.
You start your adventure parking at the bottom Lythe bank, before walking up the steps to the old railway line, which you follow away from Sandsend for about 10 minutes. Until eventually you come across a clifftop landscape unlike anything you’ve ever seen. This surreal landscape, with its rugged, weathered stones and smooth, wind-carved surfaces, resembles a lunar surface, hence the name.
It’s a fascinating spot, and would make for a truly unique proposal spot.
On your return to Sandsend, we highly recommend visiting Fish Cottage for their tacos to celebrate.
Maybeck woods
Not too far from Whitby there is a tranquil and enchanting stretch of woodland that encompasses numerous dells and streams, namely Littlebeck, Maybeck and Falling Foss. This woodland is resplendent in autumn, the beeches and oaks burning with oranges and yellows in the chilly air. There are plenty of walking trails meandering through the dense undergrowth, which all lead eventually to Falling Foss waterfall.
The entire woodland is beautiful, with lots of hidden spots to explore and work up the courage to propose.
We suggest parking at either Maybeck or Littlebeck, and walking through to Falling Foss, where (depending on the time of year) you can get a cuppa and a scone from the tea rooms their.
We hope this has helped you choose your perfect spot to propose to your person. They’re all beautiful in their own way, and each would make the most beautiful backdrop to a proposal.
But just remember, it doesn’t really matter where you are or what you say, when you’ve found that person you could pop the question while watching crap TV on Netflix ~ they’ll still say yes.