Big Ben London Proposal: 5 Reasons to Pop the Question Here

John & Chyle’s Heartfelt Winter Proposal In Front Of Big Ben

John reached out with a simple but heartfelt plan. He wanted to propose to his girlfriend, Chyle, in front of an iconic London Landmark. No big gestures, no over-the-top setup. Just a genuine moment in the heart of London in the lead up to Christmas.

He wanted it to be memorable and asked if I could help him pick a location and be there to capture it all. Of course, I was in.

After our planning call, we landed on Big Ben as the perfect location for John to pop the question. It’s also one of my favourite London locations. We picked an early morning time to ensure intimacy in what has become a popular location in London.

A man proposing to his girlfriend through an archway with Big Ben in the background, London

3 Reasons to Propose At Big Ben

1. It’s London at a glance

Big Ben is iconic. If you’re travelling from overseas and want your proposal to feel like London, this is the spot. It’s instantly recognisable and full of history.

2. Incredible photo backdrops

Big Ben isn’t the only thing around. In the background of your proposal photo, you’ve got Westminster Bridge, the Thames, the London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament (the UK’s heart of power).

3. Great locations for engagement photos after your proposal

You don’t need to go far for more iconic London landmarks and beautiful spots for your engagement photos. A short walk can take in the London Eye, Red Phone Boxes, Double Decker Buses, Horse Guards Parade, St James Park and Buckingham Palace.

The London Eye in a reflection to make a full circle with an engaged couple

J&C's Big Ben Proposal Story

The morning met us with a beautiful, almost enchanting mist. As usual, I arrived at the location early and blended in as a tourist, capturing the iconic London sights, allowing me to capture John and Chyle’s intimate moment without interruption or distraction. The view across the Thames with the iconic clock tower in the background is an amazing view (fun fact – Big Ben is the name of the bell inside of the tower, rather than the tower itself).

John did the moment justice, and when he got down on one knee, Chyle’s face lit up. The “yes” came quickly, followed by a beautiful mix of laughter and happy tears.

After the proposal, we walked across Westminster Bridge and grabbed a few shots with the London Eye in the background. Then we headed toward the river, as the pace of London began to pick up. We finished the shoot in St James’s Park, where I left them to continue the celebrations of their engagement.

Walking away from proposal shoots, I’m always reminded of what a fantastic job I’ve got.

A couple share a kiss in front of Big Ben on a winter's morning during their London proposal shoot

A couple hugging after getting engaged on a winter morning in London next to the Thames with Big Ben in the back ground

A newly engaged couple walk across Westminster Bridge with Big Ben in the background during their proposal shoot

A couple walk across Horse Guards parade with their reflection in a puddle during their creative London proposal shoot

a man proposes to his girlfriend in front of Big Ben on a winters mornings

BONUS TIP for a Big Ben Proposal

Be aware of the time of year. During peak tourist seasons (summer and the lead up to Christmas), this location across the river from Big Ben, at the end of Westminster Bridge, can get very busy. Going earlier in the day is a good bet to avoid the crowds.

It used to be a more unknown spot, but due to TikTok and Instagram Reels with titles like “The Best Secret Locations in London”, it’s not so secret any more.

If you’re looking for a London Proposal Photographer to capture your engagement and help you find the best location and time of day for your unique story, I’d love to help.