29 ways to propose this leap year

2016 is a leap year and 29th February is traditionally the day on which a lady can propose.  If you are thinking about popping the big question then here are some different ways or places to propose in Wiltshire…

1. Salisbury Cathedral Tower Tour
The scene of several proposals and with fantastic views across the city of Salisbury it’s understandable why this is a popular choice for to ask for your loved one’s hand in marriage.

2. Stourhead
Follow in the footsteps of Mr Darcy and Lizzie Bennet in the film version of Pride and Prejudice and head to Stourhead. These romantic gardens offer stunning vistas and pretty spring flowers.

3. Skydive
Are you brave enough to book onto a skydive for your proposal? Check out both GoSkydive and Skydive Netheravon to find out more.

4. Hot air balloon flight with Aerosaurus
Take to the skies with Aerosaurus Balloons and fly across Cranborne Chase for spectacular view of the Wiltshire countryside – launching from the Larmer Tree.

5. Stonehenge inner circle tour
Book onto an inner circle visit with English Heritage for a romantic sunrise or sunset experience.

6. Castle Hill, Mere
Head to Castle Hill in Mere for wide-ranging vistas across the surrounding areas. You could even call in at Stourhead (point 2) which is close by.

7. Watch the sunrise over the Cotswold Water Park
Head to one of the lakes at the Cotswold Water Park and watch the sunrise in this tranquil spot.

8. Break in a 5 star luxury hotel
Choose from Whatley Manor Hotel or Lucknam Park Hotel and enjoy a luxury break in one of our five star hotels.

9. Be a VIP at Longleat
Book a VIP experience at Longleat for the ultimate romantic trip around this famous Safari Park.

10. Over a Michelin-starred meal
Indulge your senses with a Michelin-starred meal, at one of our award-winning restaurants including The Harrow at Little Bedwyn, The Red Lion Freehouse, Lucknam Park and Whatley Manor.

11. Overlooking the Westbury White Horse
With views across the Wiltshire countryside and our oldest White Horse, head to Bratton Camp for a bracing walk, before heading off to the warmth of the nearby Three Daggers inn.

12. Visit the pretty Saxon Town of Bradford on Avon
Stroll along the Kennet & Avon Canal, enjoy a romantic meal in one of the cosy pubs and restaurants. The town is also home to several bridal shops!

13. Pamper yourselves at one of our spas
What better way to celebrate than indulging in a relaxing treatment for two at one of our spa hotels.

14. In the prettiest village in England
Castle Combe has often been voted the prettiest village in England and it’s not hard to see why. Take a stroll along the charming High Street and wander along to the Bybrook – a perfect proposal spot!

15. Take a winter’s picnic to Avebury Stone Circle
Wrap up warm and picnic in Avebury Stone Circle, part of the same World Heritage Site as Stonehenge.


16. From the Town Path, Salisbury
From Queen Elizabeth Gardens, walk out along the Town Path for beautiful views across the water-meadows towards Salisbury Cathedral. You might also want to pop in to the cosy Old Mill for a glass of fizz to celebrate.

17. In the romantic ruins of Ludgershall Castle
Open all year round and free to visit, wander through the romantic ruins of Ludgershall Castle on the Wiltshire/Hampshire border.

18. In pretty Lacock
The setting for many a period drama, amble along the historic streets of Lacock, explore the tranquil gardens at the Abbey. 

19. At the 13th century church in Inglesham
Tucked down a country lane, you’ll find the beautiful church of St John the Baptist with its fascinating interiors that were saved by pioneering Victorian designer, William Morris.

20. In Trowbridge’s Sensory Garden
Behind Trowbridge’s Town Hall you’ll find the little Sensory Garden, a hidden gem in the centre of Wiltshire’s county town.

21. Overlooking the lake at Lydiard Park
Enjoy the beauty of the tranquil lake within Lydiard Park, with delightful views of the Palladian house.

22. Hire a classic car
Hire a classic car from Vintage Classics and whisk your loved one off on a tour of Wiltshire in style!

23. Fonthill Lake
In the heart of Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, head to Fonthill Lake – used as a location for the film Chocolat. You can even book a short break at the place where Jonny Depp stayed, at the nearby Beckford Arms!

24. Corsham
Wander through the grounds of Corsham Court and propose in the company of the town’s resident peacocks!

25. Stonehenge ATV
For a high-adrenalin proposal, head out onto Salisbury Plain with Stonehenge ATV for a muddy, adventure-packed day out.

26. Fisherton Mill
Enjoy coffee and cake at Fisherton Mill’s award-winning café before heading to the onsite bespoke jewellery makers.

27. Hire your own canal boat
Hire your own day boat from Devizes Marina and spend the day cruising along the Kennet & Avon Canal.

28. Go on safari on Salisbury Plain
Book a private safari in a Land Rover Defender and head out into the wilds with Salisbury Plain Safaris to discover some hidden gems and windswept views.

29. Forest Falconry
Perhaps get some of the birds in on the proposal at Forest Falconry in Landford!

We hope we’ve given you some different ideas for some romantic spots here in Wiltshire and if the answer’s yes then you might want to check out some of the wedding suggestions here too!