Seasonal Pros and Cons to Help You Choose the Perfect Moment For Your London Proposal
London is beautiful year-round, but the season you choose for your proposal can make a big difference in how the moment feels and how it photographs.
Each season brings its own vibe, colour palette and character. Some are perfect for privacy and soft light, others for colour and festivity.
As a London proposal photographer, I’ve seen it all. So here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season, so you can choose the best time for your proposal.
Spring (March to May)
Why it’s great: Spring in London is colourful, romantic, and full of life. Flowers are blooming, trees are full of fresh green, and the weather starts to warm up.
Top locations:
The cherry blossoms in Greenwich Park or Kensington Gardens
Azaleas in the Isabella Plantation at Richmond Park
Iconic London Landmarks as there are fewer crowds
Pros:
Beautiful floral backdrops
Mild temperatures
Fewer tourists
Things to consider: Spring weather can be unpredictable. Dressing in layers is recommended and consider what if it rains.
Summer (June to August)
Why it’s great: London comes alive in summer. The city is buzzing, the parks are lush, and the long evenings give you tons of flexibility.
Top locations:
Rooftop bars and terraces
Hyde Park or Hampstead Heath for golden hour picnics
Along the Thames at sunset
Pros:
Warm temperatures
Great light for longer hours
Endless options for outdoor celebrations
Things to consider: Popular spots can be crowded, especially during school holidays. Early morning or weekday proposals work best. I recently wrote a guide on the best times of day to propose in London with more tips on this topic.
Autumn (September to November)
Why it’s great: If you love warm tones and crisp air, autumn is a dream. The city glows with orange, red and gold, and the vibe is cozy but not too cold.
Top locations:
Richmond Park for deer and golden trees
Greenwich Park for panoramic skyline views
St James’s Park for lakeside colour
Pros:
Stunning foliage
Fewer tourists
Beautiful light for photos
Things to consider: Days get shorter, so timing is key. Late afternoons or mornings works beautifully, but plan ahead.
Winter (December to February)
Why it’s great: Winter proposals can feel extra magical, especially around the holidays. London sparkles with Christmas lights, markets and cosy corners.
Top locations:
Christmas markets like Southbank or Covent Garden
Somerset House or Natural History Museum ice rinks
Hidden garden spots with twinkly lights
- A full list of my Christmas location recommendations for a proposal
Pros:
Romantic festive atmosphere
Iconic winter settings
Great for combining with a holiday trip
Things to consider: It can be cold and rainy, so dress accordingly. Earlier sunsets mean planning for light is even more important. The lead-up to Christmas is one of the busiest times in London, so book things in advance.
Bonus Tips for Picking the Best Time
1. Think about your story. Does your partner love spring flowers or autumn colours? Quiet streets or summer buzz? Match the season to their vibe.
2. Consider the crowds. Want privacy? Avoid school holidays and weekends. Weekday mornings are your best friend. Peak summer and the lead up to Christmas are the two busiest seasons in London.
3. Review the location. You have a huge range of amazing London spots for your proposal to choose from. Think about what would be the best vibe for your proposal (iconic, historic or something more intimate) and how the time of year might impact certain locations.
4. Check the sunset time. Especially important in winter when the sun can set as early as 4 pm.
5. Use a local photographer. Someone who knows how to work with the season’s lighting, weather and locations will make everything easier.
For more information on how London changes throughout the year, check out this helpful guide by Visit London.
Final Thoughts
There’s no bad time to propose in London, but there might be a best time for you.
Whether you want cherry blossoms, golden sunsets or Christmas lights, the season you choose can help shape the story you’re telling.
Not sure which time is right? I help couples plan and capture proposals all year long. Get in touch here and I’ll help you figure out the perfect season, time and location for your moment.
