The best love nests for leap year proposals

Accommodation, Romantic breaks, Seasonal

Posted by Kate Atkin on 19th January 2024

A couple embracing in a holiday cottage

This February, love is definitely in the air; not only do we have Valentine’s Day to look forward to, but 2024 is also a leap year, and with that comes an extra day in February, and a very romantic tradition...

Historically, it was solely the man's role to ask for a woman's hand in marriage. However, every four years on 29 February, Irish folklore states that women would be granted good luck if they turned the tables and popped the big question themselves. These days, women are free to propose to their partner at any time they choose, but many like to take advantage of this tradition as a way to break tradition!

We know that the first step for any budding bride-to-be is to pick a special setting to create a truly memorable occasion. So, we’ve found some of our best love nests for hosting leap-year proposals. From converted chapels in the countryside to hot tub hideaways on the edge of the sea, read on to discover some of our most romantic cottages in the UK and inspirational leap-year proposal ideas.

Find a romantic escape


Skip to:


Leap year FAQs

Simply put, a leap year is a year with an extra day (29 February), so there are 366 days instead of the usual 365. It is added to the calendar year nearly every 4 years.

Adding an extra day every 4 years keeps our calendar correctly aligned with the astronomical seasons. According to the Gregorian calendar, a year is 365 days, while a year according to the Earth’s orbit around the sun is 365.25 days.

Without this extra day, our calendar and the seasons would gradually get out of sync. 

There is a set of rules for determining whether a year is a leap year. These are as follows:

  1. The year must be evenly divisible by 4
  2. If the year can also be evenly divided by 100, it is not a leap year; unless…
  3. The year is also evenly divisible by 400 – then it is a leap year

For this reason, the years 1700, 1800, and 1900 were not leap years, but the years 1600 and 2000 were.

People born on a leap day in a leap year will only get to mark their actual birthdate every 4 years – they will typically celebrate turning a year older on either 28 February or 1 March on non-leap years.

And a fun fact, a person born on a leap day is called a ‘leapling’.

Leap years are considered to be lucky in some cultures. For example, it is often said to be lucky for women to propose to men on the extra day.

However, others consider that they are unlucky and that if you get married in a leap year, it will end in divorce…

As mentioned above, it is said to be lucky if a woman proposes to a man on a leap day. This tradition goes back hundreds of years when Irish folklore suggests that in the 5th century, a deal was brokered between St Brigid of Kildare and Saint Patrick, allowing women to propose marriage should their significant others take too long to ask. They did have to wear either breeches or a scarlet petticoat while doing so though! 

This ancient rule soon spread. In Scotland c.1288, a law was passed giving this tradition legal bearing. It also stated that any man who declined the proposal on this day would have to pay a fine.

That depends on how superstitious you are… In some cultures, getting married during a leap year is considered bad luck, but we don’t know of any evidence supporting that marriage theory!

Yes, 2024 is a leap year.

A leap day is the extra day in the leap year.

The 2024 leap day will fall on 29 February.

The next leap year will be in 2028, which means the next leap day will be 29 February 2028.


Discover some of our best love nests

The bedroom, lounge and terrace of Mermaids Cove

A romantic retreat on the beach | Mermaids Cove | Cornwall

Have you ever dreamt of your very own romantic beach house for two? At Mermaids Cove, lovers will relish lazy mornings gazing out to the shimmering blue sea and salt-whipped afternoons on the sweeping shoreline of one of Cornwall’s most beautiful beaches.

If you’re looking for leap-year proposal ideas, then this coastal getaway in St Ives is as dreamy as it comes. Brave romantics can don their wetsuits and jump into the waves for a wild winter swim, before tucking into warm scones laden with Cornish clotted cream on the beachfront terrace. Breathing in the fresh sea air is one of our favourite reasons to take a romantic winter break in the UK.

Leap year proposal idea

Step outside the front door and take to one knee on the soft, sparkling sand of Harbour Beach, drenched in golden hour light. Or, if you need some more inspiration, read our guide to the best places to propose in Devon and Cornwall.

Book Mermaids Cove


The exterior, kitchen and grounds of The Old Stables

A historic hideaway in manor grounds | The Old Stables – Dolton | Devon

Every inch the storybook cottage, The Old Stables – Dolton is the perfect setting for popping the big question. Forming part of a historic manor dating to c.1050, this five-star romantic hideaway in Devon is the epitome of cosy rural charm, with its wooden beams and sumptuous furnishings.

The property is wrapped in 750 acres of grounds which guests are welcome to explore, including gardens, woodland, and wild moorland where Exmoor ponies roam.

Leap year proposal idea

Within the sprawling grounds, 8 acres of gardens provide a heart-stirring backdrop for the proposal of your dreams. You might even be joined by the resident peacocks! 

You can find more extra-special properties like this one in our Showcase Collection: Perfect for Two.

Book The Old Stables


A horse in the neighbouring paddock, the bistro set outside, and interior of Swallows Nest

An oasis of calm on a farm | Swallows Nest - Sand Bay Farm | Somerset

A pared-back retreat designed with tranquillity in mind, Swallows Nest in Somerset is wonderfully secluded in the picturesque grounds of the owners’ farm. It’s perched on the edge of a large pond, so there are plenty of opportunities to spot visiting wildlife through the floor-to-ceiling windows.

The light and soothing interiors, toasty underfloor heating, and soft cushions and throws make an idyllic love nest for two.

Leap year proposal idea

Surprise your beau with a memorable proposal on the patio, which overlooks the rippling pond and the horse paddocks beyond – chocolate-dipped strawberries and Champagne ready and waiting on the bistro table.

Book Swallows Nest


The bedroom, a couple embracing, and the balcony of Little Orchard Barn

A love nest with mesmerising views | Little Orchard Barn | Hampshire

Little Orchard Barn offers pure escapism, set on the fringe of the South Downs National Park. It’s a place where couples can enjoy a slower pace of life, taking refreshing winter walks along narrow country footpaths before snuggling up in the king-size bed with a glass or two of something bubbly.

Huge bi-fold doors frame incredible pastoral views, which you can admire from beneath the sheets or out on the glass-fronted balcony.

Leap year proposal idea

As the sun begins to set and the sky transforms into 50 shades of gold, step out onto the balcony, and ask that life-changing question.

Book Little Orchard Barn


The bedroom, exterior, and interior with grand piano of The Old Chapel Annexe

A uniquely converted chapel | The Old Chapel Annexe | Suffolk

There’s surely nowhere more fitting for a proposal than in a chapel… So why not make your 2024 leap-year proposal even more special, by staying in The Old Chapel Annexe in Suffolk?

Flaunting the building’s original pews, altar, and arched windows, this one-of-a-kind dwelling is one of our most romantic cottages in the UK.

Leap year proposal idea

Within the cavernous living space is the chapel’s original grand piano. Create the ultimate romantic ambience by hiring a pianist and then wait for that perfect moment to take out the ring.

Book The Old Chapel Annexe


The living space and dining area of The Sanctuary, and a couple holding hands

A studio with spa facilities | The Sanctuary – Mundesley | Norfolk

Settle those pre-proposal jitters by booking one of our romantic cottages with spa facilities. The Sanctuary – Mundesley enjoys a sought-after spot along the Norfolk coast and boasts shared access to a selection of on-site facilities, including a gym, games room and spa beauty treatments.

When you’re not making the most of the holiday park’s offerings, you can don your winter woollies and wander along Mundesley Beach (1 mile away), regarded as one of Norfolk’s finest stretches of sand.

Leap year proposal idea

There is a superb choice of pubs and restaurants within 1 mile of this studio apartment – why not book a table somewhere fancy and make your proposal over a romantic candlelit dinner? Our guide to Norfolk’s best restaurants and places to eat highlights some great places to dine locally.

Book The Sanctuary


The wood-fired hot tub and interior of The Farmers Hut, and a couple beside a fire pit

A rustic hut with a hot tub | The Farmers Hut | Herefordshire

This hidden gem in Herefordshire hunkers down amidst rolling farmland and orchards, allowing couples to immerse themselves in all that nature has to offer. It’s also one of our romantic cottages with a hot tub, making it the perfect choice for some well-earned R&R.

Lazy days will drift by as lovebirds enjoy country rambles right from the doorstep before striking a match to the outdoor fire pit for a spot of marshmallow roasting.

Leap year proposal idea

As stars begin to pepper the sky, pour some flutes of fizz and sink beneath the soothing water of the wood-fired hot tub…then whisper those special words.

Book The Farmers Hut


The lounge and bedroom of Chestnut Cottage, and Blaen-y-Glyn Falls

A luxury cottage with added extras | Chestnut Cottage | South Wales

When only the best will do, spoil your partner with a stay in one of our luxury romantic cottages. Chestnut Cottage sits on a private estate in the Brecon Beacons National Park and is simply brimming with indulgent treats, from its crackling wood burner to its on-site spa therapy studio.

Slip into a complimentary fluffy robe and choose a pampering spa treatment or head out on an invigorating stroll through the acres of private woodland and parkland which surround the estate.

Leap year proposal idea

Whisk your fiancé-to-be to Blaen-y-Glyn Falls, only 9 miles from the cottage. One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Wales, the cascading water will create the most magical backdrop for a proposal.

Book Chestnut Cottage


The outdoor bath and lounge of Mountain Escape, and a couple walking their dog in the hills

A period property with an outdoor bath | Mountain Escape | North Wales

True to its name, Mountain Escape is nestled amidst the icy pinnacles of some of the most dramatic peaks in North Wales. A sanctuary on the border of Snowdonia (Eryi) National Park, couples can look forward to lashings of fresh country air, awe-inspiring views, and lots of home-from-home comforts.

One of our romantic dog-friendly cottages, your four-legged third wheel is very welcome to join you here, and they’re sure to love warming their paws beside the glowing wood burner. Enjoy cosy nights cuddled up on the deep velvet sofa with a favourite film or fill the outside bath with a cloud of bubbles and wait for the sun to set over the undulating landscape.

Leap year proposal idea

If you’re feeling adventurous, the lofty heights of Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) – the highest mountain in Wales – is only 19 miles from the cottage. Climb to the summit on foot or via the Snowdon Mountain Railway and surprise your sweetheart with a proposal they will never forget.

Book Mountain Escape


The lounge, bedroom and exterior of The Old House

A traditional cottage in the Cotswolds | The Old House | The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds has long been regarded as one of the most romantic places to stay in the UK. So, we just had to include this Grade II-listed beauty in our list of the best cottages for leap-year proposals. The Old House sits among a line of characterful honey-hued dwellings in the heart of the hillside village of Longborough.  

Everything you could possibly need for a romantic break is beautifully parcelled within the old stone walls of this charming hideaway. After a day exploring the delights of the local area, curl up together under a blanket and whisper sweet nothings while the wood burner roars, or head upstairs to pour yourselves a bubble bath in the free-standing claw-foot tub.

Leap year proposal idea

Jump in the car (or hire yourselves a swanky vintage number) and take a scenic drive along the ‘Romantic Road’. This winding route passes through some of the most picture-postcard villages in the Cotswolds, with a myriad of spots perfect for a proposal en route: Broadway Tower, Cleeve Hill, Sudeley Castle, and Batsford Arboretum, to name just a few.

Book The Old House


The bedroom, dining area, and exterior of Lower Holly Barn

A tranquil barn in the countryside | Lower Holly Barn | Peak District

This dreamy abode is a wonderful setting for discovering the wild beauty of the Peak District. Tucked away within the verdant folds of this captivating national park, Lower Holly Barn makes for the most romantic of rural retreats.

Linger beneath the soft sheets of the king-size bed with a decadent breakfast of bucks fizz and freshly baked pastries, then set off to explore the shared grounds that are home to a bowling green, a babbling waterfall, and a lily pond.

Leap year proposal idea

Whisk your own Mr Darcy to Chatsworth House (10 miles), the filming location for the BBC's classic film, Pride and Prejudice, one of the most romantic stories ever told. Featured in our guide to the top things to do on a romantic getaway, this majestic stately home boasts 105 acres of gardens full of secret nooks for a Jane Austen-worthy proposal.

Book Lower Holly Barn



A couple hugging on a mountain, and the hot tub and exterior of The Red In The Vale

A cabin for two with mountain vistas | The Red In The Vale | Lake District

Immersed in the tangles of nature, The Red In The Vale is a luxurious cabin in the Lake District, a world away from the chaos of everyday life. With a king-size bed looking out through floor-to-ceiling windows at mighty Blencathra, and an outdoor fire pit from where you can stargaze on a clear night, this is an exceptional home in the wilds.  

Look forward to bountiful country walks and cruises on glittering lakes but, whatever you do, don't miss the sunset from the wood-fired hot tub; see the mountainous skyline ablaze in shades of amber and amethyst. You can discover some more of our favourite romantic cottages with hot tubs in our guide.

Leap year proposal idea

As mentioned in our guide to the UK’s 10 most romantic places to propose, Scafell Pike (13.5 miles away) is a great choice in the Lake District for the more athletic romantics. If you’ve got the energy, hike to the top of England’s highest mountain and get down on one knee before one of the best views in the country.

Book The Red In The Vale


The living space and hot tub of Mount Blair Treehouse, and a couple skiing

A treehouse in the Cairngorms | Mount Blair Treehouse | Perth and Kinross

Just the place for a surprise leap-year proposal in Scotland, Mount Blair Treehouse sits in sweet seclusion near the Cairngorms National Park. Accessed via a wooden walkway, this impossibly romantic treehouse for two is sure to set your beloved’s heart racing.

Time here is best spent chinking Champagne glasses on the balcony, drinking in the panoramic countryside views from under the covers of the super-king-size bed, and enjoying midnight dips in the hot tub.

Leap year proposal idea

If you’ve read our guide to the 10 most romantic things to do in Scotland for couples, then you’ll have seen that the Cairngorms is home to three of Scotland’s five ski resorts. During February, the powder is at its very best, so you can hit the slopes together and make your 2024 leap-year proposal against an enchanting snowy backdrop. The nearest slope is only 12 miles away.

Book Mount Blair Treehouse


A couple on the beach, and an internal and external shot of Highland Hot Tub Retreat 1

A cliff-top lodge by the sea | Highland Hot Tub Retreat 1 | Scottish Highlands

The Highlands are revered as one of Scotland’s top romantic places, so it should come as no surprise that we’ve included a love nest for a leap-year proposal here. And if you’re looking for a wow-factor location, then this cliff-top lodge really does deliver on every level.

The uninterrupted, panoramic sea views are phenomenal. After a day exploring the local beaches and the rugged coastline, watch the waves rise and fall from the steaming hot tub outside, or hunker down by the fire inside with a bottle of red.

Leap year proposal idea

Once twilight has faded to black, throw on your cossies, fill some flutes with fizz and head for the hot tub. At this time of year, this is one of the best places in Scotland to see the northern lights. Whilst we can’t guarantee you’ll glimpse this magical phenomenon on the night in question, you’re still likely to catch a sparkling display of the cosmos in the skies, which will leave your lover lost for words…allowing you the opportunity to ask that all-important question.

Book Highland Hot Tub Retreat 1


Plan a romantic holiday in the UK

We hope you have been inspired by all these wonderful leap-year proposal ideas. If you’re still looking for a breathtaking backdrop to pop the big question, then click the button below to browse our full collection of romantic self-catering accommodation.

Including the likes of roll-top baths, roaring wood burners and bubbling hot tubs, our cottages for two are guaranteed to set the scene for romance.

Browse all our romantic cottages

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.