Places to Propose in South Devon

You’ve found the person you want to marry and now it’s time to find the perfect place to get down on one knee and ask the important question. Whether you’re local to the area or looking to whisk your loved one away for a romantic weekend or day trip, South Devon can be your perfect proposal spot.

The region is so varied with hidden spots and bustling cities, countryside and coast, no matter what you like doing as a couple or what you’ve had your heart set on for the setting of the big question, South Devon is your dream place to propose. But in case you’re still looking for some inspiration or not sure if Devon is the location you’re looking for, we’ve listed some wedding proposal ideas below.   

Beaches

With a coastline stretching from Plymouth all the way to Seaton there is a real assortment of beaches available if you’re looking to plan a beach proposal.

There are hidden coves which require a bit of a walk to get to, like Gara Rock or Soar Mill Cove, as well as more accessible and slightly busier beaches like Hope Cove and Wembury. If you would like to wander along the shoreline with your toes in the water then Slapton, Exmouth, Dawlish Warren and Sidmouth beaches are all lovely long open beaches which would be perfect for a stroll before you get down on one knee.     

Walking

Running along the entire coastline is the South West Coast Path. It follows the coast past coves and through towns, so if walking and sea views is your thing heading out along this way marked trail from any one of the towns or car parks along the route will soon take you past the perfect, and often secluded, stopping point to pop the question.

If you take the coastal path from Seaton to Beer, you’ll soon reach the top of the hill and be rewarded with stunning views over the town and coastline beyond. The coast line around East Prawle and Prawle Point is another spectacular stretch of cliff and coves to explore.     

Take to the Water

Whether it’s along the coastline or on one of the many rivers and estuaries in South Devon, taking to the water can be a great place to propose. Whether it’s hiring a kayak and paddling up a river, heading to a hidden cove on a Stand Up Paddleboard or hiring a boat to take you wildlife watching or for a watery picnic, the waters around South Devon won’t disappoint as a backdrop for any wedding proposal. Just be sure to hang on tight to the ring, you don’t want any anecdotes of jumping in after it!

Countryside

The South Devon countryside is as stunning as it is varied, with rugged heather topped moors and tors, wooded valleys with mesmerising rivers and stretches of rolling hills and fields reaching as far as the eye can see.

Whether you decide to take a stroll through one of the 3 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty or climb to the top of a tor on Dartmoor National Park, go wildlife spotting in one of the many fantastic Nature Reserves or follow the gentle meandering of a river or steam, this dramatic landscape will make the perfect surrounding for that all important question.    

Viewpoints

Scattered throughout the region there are dozens of viewpoints which will give you access to incredible views of the countryside and coastline. If you’re looking for spectacular coastal views, head to Start Point where views of the shore stretching past Slapton can be enjoyed. If you’re looking for views of countryside leading to the coast, take a walk around Mamhead Obelisk or Haldon Forest where you can find views reaching towards the Exe Estuary and East Devon. If you would rather pop the question surrounded by undulating countryside Culmstock Beacon in the Blackdown Hills could be the spot you are looking for.

Picnic

Whilst you’re out enjoying the South Devon countryside, or even the coast for that matter, why not take along a picnic and set up your blanket in a shady spot with a great view and ask that all important question whilst you’re cuddled up on the picnic rug. And with great fresh food and drink available from farmers’ markets and local producers, you can have the perfect tipple to wash away the nerves or celebrate the happy news.

Castles

On your wedding day you’re going to feel like a prince or princess so why not tie this in to your proposal and pop the question in a castle. 

South Devon is home to a number of castles with history dating back hundreds of years. Guarding the mouth of the River Dart is the 600 year old Dartmouth Castle which gives you both history and sea views. Surrounded by beautiful woodlands close to Totnes is the romantic ruin of Berry Pomeroy Castle. And on the banks of the River Exe with its deer park and centuries of history is Powderham Castle, which is home to the Earl of Devon.     

Dinner and a Ring

Some people say that traditional is best and one of the most established way of asking the one you love to marry you is over a candlelit dinner.

Devon is home to country pubs with open fires and flower filled gardens, Michelin Star restaurants serving up the finest dishes as well as local flavours, and a wide range of world cuisine. There are plenty of options on offer so you can pop the question after a meal filled with your favourite things.  

Out and About

As well as walking and watersports which we have mentioned above, South Devon has an amazing assortment of transport themed attractions which could make the perfect location for a marriage proposal.

If the good old days of steam invoke the romantic side of you then head to the South Devon Railway and hop on board a steam train through the Devonshire countryside.

If you would rather feel the wind on your face then grab your bike and head to one of the many cycle routes around the county. For a scenic trail follow the Exe Estuary Trail, a flat route linking Dawlish Warren and Exmouth via Exeter, you’ll find many picturesque stopping points along the way or for a more energetic ride head to Haldon Forest where there are trails to suit all abilities.

Take your love all the way to the sky and book onto a hot air balloon ride for an uplifting proposal idea. Float above the South Devon countryside and coastline taking in views of the rolling hills and towns and villages below. Aerosaurus Balloons provide champagne hot air balloon flights across the South West. What more memorable way to ask someone to be your husband or wife than floating peacefully above the world.

Animal Attractions

South Devon is full of animal based attractions so if your other half has a passion for wildlife and the natural world or if there is a particular type of animal that has a special place in their heart you can pop the question in front of them in South Devon.

From piggy cuddles at Pennywell Farm and goat feeding at World of Country Life, watching the penguins and otters at Living Coasts in Torquay to walking among the pony and donkey fields at The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth or the Miniature Pony Centre on Dartmoor. There are tigers, orangutans, meerkats and giraffes at Paignton Zoo or you could even enjoy a day out at the races at Newton Abbot Racecourse or Exeter Racecourse.

With so much animal based fun to be had and every type of animal and bird available to see and visit, South Devon truly is an animal lover’s paradise.

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