Valentine’s Day is almost here, and many are wondering how and where to pop the question. Searches for ‘Valentine’s Day proposal’ have increased by a whopping 130%.
Newcastle makes an impression with its history, culture, and architecture, but also with its vibrant nightlife and its friendly locals. Couples can enjoy a stroll along the Quayside and take in the views of the iconic Tyne Bridge or relax in one of the city’s many parks and gardens.
There are also a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars offering an intimate and truly unforgettable atmosphere for a proposal dinner!
To help with picking the best location for your special moment, ROX – Diamonds & Thrills, who have a store on 1 Northumberland Street in Newcastle, have launched a guide with their top seven romantic proposal spots in the city:
As You Like It
With its stylish and sophisticated décor and intimate atmosphere, this restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind romantic hideaway. The menu features seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, expertly prepared by the restaurant’s talented chefs, offering a delicious and high-quality dining experience.
Insider Tip: Why not bring your nearest and dearest to their Private Dining Room to propose under the stars on your own magical outdoor terrace?
Or you can book the stunning Frangipani room – filled with twinkling fairy lights. It sets the perfect atmosphere for that memorable moment.
The Biscuit Factory
Located in the heart of Newcastle’s cultural quarter – the Ouseburn Valley – The Biscuit Factory is the UK’s largest independent commercial contemporary art, craft and design gallery.
Built within a former Victorian warehouse, it’s spread over two floors, showcasing inspiring modern art, sculpture, print, jewellery and homeware.
The spacious and light-filled galleries provide a beautiful and inspiring backdrop for a proposal. In addition to the art, The Biscuit Factory also offers a range of dining options, from coffee and light bites to more formal meals.
Insider Tip: Make this place sentimental for you and your partner – the venue is often used for weddings, so what is more symbolic than having your wedding at the spot you proposed?
The Botanist
This elegant restaurant is the perfect place for an unforgettable evening with its extensive menu of botanical cocktails and delicious food.
A large sycamore tree is nestled beneath an exquisite glass dome ceiling as a centrepiece of The Botanist’s stunning interior. Both the roof garden terrace and dining areas provide great views of Newcastle’s city centre. Insider Tip: For an authentic Botanist experience, toast to your life together with their Peach and Kiwi Fizz while admiring the sunset from their roof garden terrace.
Jesmond Dene House
The award-winning Jesmond Dene House is a boutique hotel filled with warmth and personality. The Grade ll-listed Arts and Crafts building dates back to 1871 and is situated in the wooded valley of Jesmond Dene, just five minutes from Newcastle city centre.
With gorgeous gardens, 40 luxury bedrooms, a three AA Rosette restaurant and several function rooms, it’s the ideal place to propose and celebrate.
Insider Tip: Instead of dining in the restaurant amongst other guests, create a magical, intimate setting and book one of their small private rooms. They can organise everything to create the wow factor, from flowers and candles to live music and your name in lights.
Kielder Observatory
In the heart of Europe’s largest Dark Sky Park, Kielder Observatory is nestled among the trees of Kielder Forest. If you book a private event, you can get a closer look at stars and planets, as well as dramatic cosmic events like the Northern Lights – so just sit back, relax, and enjoy gazing up at the endless universe.
Insider Tip: With the Milky Way overhead and a billion stars littered across an inky black sky, you have the perfect setting for popping the question. You can enjoy the beauty of the cosmos in a cosy B&B in the Kielder Forest while looking forward to your future together.
Peace & Loaf
Since its opening in 2013, Peace & Loaf has become a roaring success in the region and beyond. Headed up by Chef Proprietor Dave Coulson, every care and attention goes into the meticulously crafted menu, filled with new takes on classic dishes. With two AA Rosettes and a mention in the Michelin guide, Peace & Loaf promises fine dining without the fuss.
Insider Tip: If you are thinking about proposing, give them a call, and they will ensure that it is extra special. You can start your evening with a stroll through the iconic Jesmond Dene and then wow your other half with an exquisite ten-course tasting menu.
Tyneside Cinema
One of Newcastle’s most treasured landmarks, Tyneside Cinema opened in 1937 as a newsreel theatre run by Dixon Scott, the great uncle of filmmaker Sir Ridley Scott. As the city’s only independent cultural cinema, it shows the best films in a stylish and beautiful atmosphere. With its original 1937 art deco design preserved and lovingly restored, the Grade II-listed building is an important, must-see piece of heritage.
Insider Tip: Choose your other half’s favourite film for a private screening, complete with a personalised on-screen message to help you start your journey! Enjoy drinks and popcorn in our luxurious Digital Lounge as you celebrate your engagement with up to 30 guests.
Kyron Keogh, Co-founder of ROX Diamonds & Thrills, comments:
“Discover the romance of Newcastle, with breathtaking spots that will leave a lasting impression on your significant other.
“Whether it’s a place that is meaningful to you as a couple or you’re looking for some new and exciting adventure, make sure to plan so the beginning of your happily ever after can go as smoothly as possible.”