The best places and ideas in the North East for a wedding proposal

With Valentines Day approaching I'm sure there are a few people out there who are thinking about popping the big question with a romantic gesture fit for the occasion. But where are the best places in the North East for a wedding proposal and how do you go about it?

Being a huge romantic (and wedding obsessed!) I thought I'd help you guys out with a few ideas!

 Photo by Katie Byram Photography 

Top of Newcastle Castle

With a breathtaking view of Newcastle as your backdrop, Newcastle Castle has to be one of the most romantic places in the North East for a wedding proposal. Potter round the Medieval Castle before leading your love up the 99 stairs to the roof where you'll find your picture perfect location (and, if you time it right, hopefully some privacy!) Just be very careful not to drop the ring!

Grainger Market Carpet Picnic 

If you want your proposal to be a private affair for two then a carpet picnic  in the comfort of your home would be the perfect way to pop the question. With fresh bread from the French Oven, cheese from Matthew's Cheese Shop, Pet Lamb cupcakes and, of course, a bottle of wine from La Casa Delicatessen there are plenty of goodies at Grainger Market to put on a tasty spread. Lay out a rug in your lounge, bring out your fancy crockery and you have the perfect start to a romantic proposal.

Weekend away at Jesmond Dene House

For the ultimate dream proposal, whisk your other half away for a surprise weekend at Jesmond Dene House. The beautiful hotel is the perfect balance of comfort and luxury with beautiful suites, delicious afternoon tea and fine wines served by the fire. If a pretty backdrop proposal is what you're after take a stroll through Jesmond Dene where the stunning waterfall will provide you with the perfect location before you return to the hotel for a night of indulgence.

Personalised cheesecake

Fancy giving your love a proposal to remember? How about asking "will you marry me" with cheesecake? Simply Cheesecake make full sized cheesecakes to order in a huge variety of flavours - they're deliciously naughty and creamy! You can order your cheesecake with a message iced on the top, Simon got me a "Happy Birthday" cheesecake for my birthday and it was definitely one of his finest moments! Just imagine your partner's face when they see your surprise proposal on their favourite dessert!

Bench at Bamburgh

Did you know that we have an award winning bench in the region? There's a beautiful little spot overlooking Bamburgh Castle where you'll find a bench offering fantastic views. The short up hill climb makes it easy to access yet not too busy and I can honestly think of nowhere as beautiful for a proposal. It's a dream location!

Angel of the North

Countless couples have got engaged in the shadow of the Angel of the North, but with it being such an icon of the North East it's easy to see why. Whilst it can be pretty busy during the day, you can enjoy some peace and quiet with epic pink skies if you time your trip well.

Glitterburst Balloons

You might not immediately associate balloons with romance, but believe me they can be so romantic! Glitterburst Balloons create the most stunning giant balloons and have a huge passion for beautiful and original creations. Decorate your bedroom with feather filled balloons or hide a message inside a beautiful confetti filled balloon - this is the perfect idea for a truly unique and creative proposal.

Walking blankets, mugs of coffee

We are very spoilt in the North East and have miles and miles of beautiful walks. Whether you're a lover of woodlands, coastline or countryside it's easy to find somewhere special for a stroll. Pack some snuggly blankets, a flask of coffee and that all important ring box for a proposal full of romance and adventure. Some of my favourite walks in the area include the South Shields to Sunderland coastal path and Whitley Bay to Seaton Sluice offering great views of St Mary's Lighthouse.

 Photo by Katie Byram Photography 

For anyone already married or engaged, I'd love to hear your proposal story and if I've missed out any beautiful places in the North East for a wedding proposal, let me know!