If you’ve ever wandered the cobbled streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town at sunrise, you’ll know there’s something truly special about those quiet early hours — when the city still feels half asleep and wrapped in soft morning mist.
That’s exactly when Anthony and Shannon, a lovely couple visiting all the way from Canada, chose to start their day — and to begin the next chapter of their lives together during their surprise proposal in Edinburgh Old Town.
The Perfect Spot for a Surprise Proposal: The Vennel Steps
The Vennel Steps are one of my favourite viewpoints in the city. With a postcard-perfect view of Edinburgh Castle, it’s no wonder this little street has become such a dream spot for a surprise proposal in Edinburgh Old Town (and yes — One Day might have made it even more popular lately!).
We met just after sunrise. The city hadn’t quite woken up yet — no crowds, no noise, just the sound of footsteps on the cobblestones. It was the perfect setting for a moment like this.
As Anthony got down on one knee, time seemed to pause. Shannon said yes (of course!), and what followed was one of the most joyful mornings. Being a surprise proposal photographer in Edinburgh is such a joy and privilege — moments like this are what make my job so meaningful.
Exploring the Charm of Edinburgh’s Old Town
After the proposal, we wandered through the iconic Old Town, soaking up the atmosphere that makes Edinburgh so timeless. Every street has a story — cobbled lanes, old lanterns, and historic architecture that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
We ended our morning in Edinburgh New Town’s finest little street — Circus Lane. This quiet, cobbled lane is lined with charming mews houses and lush greenery. Even after all my years photographing here, it never loses its magic — it looks beautiful all year round.
Why Choose Edinburgh for a Surprise Proposal
Edinburgh is the perfect place to propose if you’re dreaming of something intimate, romantic, and a little bit cinematic. From the Castle views at the Vennel, to the peaceful corners of Dean Village, or the breathtaking views from Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill — there’s no shortage of beautiful backdrops.
If you’re thinking about planning your own surprise proposal in Edinburgh Old Town, I’d love to help you make it happen. I’ll guide you through choosing the perfect location, timing, and ways to keep everything natural and stress-free — so you can focus on the moment itself.
Read more in my Edinburgh Surprise Proposal Guide — it’s full of insider tips, location ideas, and advice to help you plan a proposal that feels true to you.
A Few Words of Advice for Your Edinburgh Proposal
- Timing is everything. Early mornings are perfect if you want quiet streets and a little bit of privacy.
- Keep it simple. The most emotional moments often happen when you’re just being yourselves.
- Capture it beautifully. Having a photographer who knows the city can make all the difference — especially someone experienced with keeping the surprise element seamless!
Planning Your Own Edinburgh Surprise Proposal
Whether you’re travelling from abroad or you live just around the corner, I’d love to help you capture this incredible moment. Edinburgh is magical, and every proposal here tells a different story.
Get in touch to start planning your Edinburgh surprise proposal.
If you loved this story, you might also enjoy reading about my Seacliff Beach proposal session — another unforgettable moment by the sea.
