Getting down on one knee? Sometimes there is such huge expectations surrounding a proposal that planning one can feel really overwhelming! We like to think that we're pretty well informed when it comes to love at Bombus. Lots of you choose our artwork to celebrate, commemorate, or announce some really special life moments.

And because we deal in map gifts, we see the exact locations that you have chosen to pop the question! We're not being nosy, promise, but we truly love reading the messages of congratulations, or declarations of love, that you choose to include with your gifts. And from those messages we can see that romance is definitely not dead.

Coupled with that insight, and the fact that some of us have been happily married and soppy in love ourselves for quite some time…we thought we'd help anyone thinking of making that important step in 2023.

Here are our favourite choices for the ultimate engagement proposal locations for 2023.

Trendiest spot for a proposal 2023: The Shard

It's been a favourite of our customers throughout the past twelve months, and we see its popularity absolutely sky-rocketing (he he, pun totally intended). If you're thinking that London is the place to propose, then The Shard is the current must-visit location.

Not only does the tallest building in Europe give you stunning views of the London sky-line, but it is a mecca for foodies. It has no less than SEVEN bars and restaurants, topped off with the proposal-worthy Gong bar on the 52nd floor.

But if you REALLY want to impress them…The Shangri-La at The Shard offer an entire Wedding Proposal package.

They describe this as:

Start your Wedding Journey

"Let us help you create your dream proposal up high. Choose from one of our unique event spaces or the intimacy of a luxurious room or suite overlooking the magical city below. Whether it’s a romantic dinner in the sky or an unforgettable bespoke experience, our dedicated events team and partners will be on hand to make your dream proposal come to life."

Wedding Proposals | Shangri-La The Shard London

Instagram would go mad for those pics!

For the adventurous proposal: On the Moors

If your idea of suited and booted is more thermals and walking shoes than a ball gown and tux, then the great outdoors may be the place for you. And the breath-taking scenery on Dartmoor in Devon is surely somewhere to consider.

Whether you plan on camping on the moors, or booking into a quaint B&B in one of the many idyllic villages across the vast National Park. It would take years to experience all of the adventures that you can have on Dartmoor.

But for a special proposal we would suggest picking a route to one of the highest Tors. Pack a picnic, flask of tea, and of course the ring. Before heading along hidden paths, babbling streams, and herds of wild ponies to reach the perfect spot.

Or if you still want to have the experience of a perfect proposal meal? Consider The Secret Stable on the edge of Dartmoor. It holds special events throughout the year where you can dine on the most perfect wood fired pizzas around a campfire.

Extravagent gestures deserve amazing backdrops, and the sweeping views across the miles of flowering gorse and shrubland is truly spectacular.

For the Traditionalist and Romantic: The Eiffel Tower

We know it might make some of you groan. And the thought of this very traditional spot might sound like the height of cheesiness. But stick with us. Our marketing manager Jo got engaged here 23 years ago this month!
And despite her aversion to all things overly sappy, it was magical.

With a back drop of Paris, the proposal itself doesn't need to be showy. You get the wow without any extra unwanted attention! And who would say no to a romantic stroll along Rue Rivoli with croissants and hot chocolate from Angelinas, before stopping to dance under the flashing lights of the tower at night? You cannot hide from love when you're in Paris.

By its very nature it is romantic. And a haven for anyone who enjoys the best food and wine. Our favourite little spot for a hidden away dinner before an Eiffel Tower proposal would be Le Petit Troquet. A bistro loved by locals that serves the BEST Boeuf Bourginon in the world, guaranteed, only a stones throw from the Eiffel Tower.

Destination proposal: Amalfi

If you really want to make a big thing of it, where better for a proposal than on a fabulous holiday. One of the most popular destinations we've seen coming through the studio has been Amalfi in Italy. And who can blame you? The weather, the scenery, the FOOD.

It's a top pick of actor Stanley Tucci, and in his latest TV series and book Searching for Italy he has made it a sought after place to visit.

Nowhere in Amalfi is quite as romantic for the most special of proposals than Torre Normanna. A restaurant housed in a beautiful old Norman Castle hovering over the crystal blue sea. They serve a top notch tasting menu of local, fresh, and high quality sea food. It's a special location, for a special purpose.

A magical and spiritual moment: Tintagel

There isn't any real need to go abroad for a magical proposal. The UK has so many picture perfect spots for romance. And if you're of a more spiritual nature and want to feel truly connected to our history, nature, and something a little bit special…perhaps consider a visit to Tintagel in Cornwall.

The seat of King Arthur's reign, it has inspired writers, artists, and legends for centuries. Sat on the rugged North Cornish coast it is a historical site filled with interesting insights to our Celtic past. You can visit the castle ruins, and clamber up and down the steep steps and cliffs…

Or take the path along the coast for some wide and far reaching views across the ocean. It's one of the most beautiful spots in the whole of the UK, if not the world. And so long as you don't get blown away by the gusty winds from the west, there are hundreds of picture-perfect spots to stop and get down on one knee.

Make the occasion even more romantic by booking a room at The Camelot Castle Hotel. You can even book a room with a four poster bed with views of Tintagel from your window! And it's dog friendly too. So your special pooch can be involved in the grand event.

Share your proposal celebrations!

So there you have are our top five suggestions for the ultimate proposal in 2023. We can't wait to read all about where you've chosen this year through your gifts and cards. Share your celebrations with us on our Facebook and Instagram pages!