Meet the couple behind Northern Ireland's most romantic proposal
Leah & Adam's proposal has since gone viral 💕
Last updated 30th Aug 2021
Last Friday you might remember a certain snap we shared on social media, taken from the cliff-edge at Mussenden Temple. Written into the sand at Benone beach in HUGE writing was one of the most romantic notes - "Leah will you marry me?"
The picture has since gone viral, so the hunt was on over the weekend to find this mysterious Leah. Did the proposal go to plan, did she say yes?
Well we caught up with the loved couple behind the post to find out more about their love story. Meet Leah and Adam from Armagh 💕
The pair first met as teenagers in their local youth club, but university and travelling pulled these two apart...for a while at least. Adam returned to Armagh with work a few years later, and that's when he slid into his sweetheart's DMs.
Leah describes Adam as her "tall dark and handsome", how could she resist.
Adam recalls falling madly in love with Leah’s caring side. "Leah is a nurse with the NHS, that combined with her cheeky smile and little jokes, she's one in a million."
Planning for such a spectacular proposal took time, patience and a lot of planning. "It was approx three months worth of planning," Adam shares. "I choose Mussenden Temple because it was Leah’s favourite view in Northern Ireland. I choose August 23rd because it's a significant date for both of us, it was two years ago to the day that I first told Leah I loved her."
So with the date and location decided, then came the logistics. Adam had a dummy run with a friend a few days prior to the big day, just to make sure things went seamlessly. It was a smart idea too, Adam opened up that it wasn't that simple to pull off.
"Initially I had to lie to Leah (not the best start) and tell her I was away for the day climbing Cuilcagh mountain in Fermanagh with a group of friends. Instead my friend and I travelled to Benone with some rakes in tow, and mapped out the words in the sand just below the Temple. We then raced up to the top to view our masterpiece, but turns out it wasn't well positioned and was in fact too small. We made our adjustments, turns out four paces per letter was just right. We also discovered that researching tidal times was important too.
"On the actual day of the proposal my friend arrived an hour prior to our arrival to write the words on the beach for me, then he snuck off and hid behind a rock!"
With the writing literally in the sand, all that was needed was for Leah to actually see it.
"At first I didn't notice it, but then as soon as I looked down at the beach and read 'Leah will you marry me?' I was in shock. I turned around quickly and all of a sudden Adam was down on one knee. It was all a blur, it still feels like a dream. Adam gave me the ring, then about five minutes later Adam said 'I don’t think you even said yes yet?'. Of course it was always going to be a yes!"
YAY! How exciting, and now they have such a special memory to share with their friends and family. "We are delighted our story can make other people smile with being such a difficult year. We can't wait to enjoy being recently engaged before the wedding planning stress begins." Good luck you two!
If this has got you feeling all loved up, check out some of the other romantic hotspots across Northern Ireland. All you need now is the ring 💍
Cuilcagh Mountain, Fermanagh
If fitness is more your thing, then the 'stairway to heaven' would be an ideal date! The Cuilcagh Mountain Loop Walk is a 20km (5-7 hour) loop walk, that takes roughly 5-7 hours to complete. Follow the boardwalk trail towards the summit of Cuilcagh Mountain.
Gibb's Island, Killyleagh
Tucked secretly down a forgotten lane, you'll find this peaceful hidden gem. An idyllic oval island with an enchanting woodland perched on top - just the right spot for a tasty picnic.
Mussenden Temple, Castlerock
One of Northern Ireland's most iconic landmarks, this temple was built as a summer library, inspired by the Temple of Vesta in Tivoli, near Rome. Mussenden Temple is a fantastic sunset spot overlooking Downhill Strand!
Finn Lough, Enniskillen
Celebrate with you bubble...in a bubble. Share a night under the stars in one of these quirky bubble domes at Finn Lough. Complete with personal coffee machine and four poster bed, you'll be living a life of luxury, just outdoors.
Dunluce Castle, Bushmills
Another popular hotspot, there's something so intriguing about the ruins of Dunluce. Also used as a Game of Thrones location, you can't help but feel regal as you walk through the ancient castle walls. This spot is so romantic, it's regularly used as a proposal or elopement backdrop...just saying 😉
Scrabo Tower, Newtownards
The tower stands tall in Scrabo Country Park, with its woodland walks and parkland through Killynether Wood. Take in 360 degree views overlooking the town below and Strangford Lough - perhaps even more spectacular at night with the streetlights below and stars above.
Whiterocks Beach, Portrush
One of NI's most photographed beaches, especially for proposals, you can really feel the love as you wander through the caves and white rocks. Grab a coffee in one of Portrush's popular coffee shops and enjoy a sandy dander.
The Sperrins, Tyrone
This scenic landscape in the heart of Ulster offers a complete taste of rural Ireland. Why not make a weekend of it, and book the ultimate glamping experience at Bancran School - they've got tipi tents, pods, and a loft apartment available, complete with hot tub!
Quoile River, Downpatrick
You can't go wrong with a romantic stroll along the river, especially one this gorgeous! Be sure to stop by Fodder NI, they have woodland trails, a local farm shop and cafe just around the river bend. Sample their heavenly hot chocolate tucked inside their signature tipi tents.
Hillsborough Castle & Gardens
Explore 100 acres of stunning gardens, whatever the weather. From ornamental grounds to meandering waterways and picturesque glens, there's so much to discover at Northern Ireland's royal residence.
Giant's Causeway, Bushmills
There's nothing more memorable than the Giant's Causeway at sunset - just look! The coastal drive alone at sunset is spectacular, there are various carparks dotted along the road for those wishing to stop safely and grab a snap. Opening hours will vary depending on the time of year, so if you are visiting be sure to take note when you first arrive.
Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch
Where the old world meets the new - Montalto is the perfect example of a modern visitor attraction. Manicured woodland trails, beautiful gardens, a delicious restaurant, and a local store - what more could you ask for?
Lusty Beg Island, Fermanagh
A charming little spot, nestled on lower Lough Erne, this picturesque island has a lot on offer. Set amongst the beautiful lake-side woodlands, there is a selection of accommodation, a restaurant, spa and nature trail.
Glenariff Forest Park, Antrim
Shelter under the canopy of trees above, you'll feel at peace as you walk deeper into Glenariff Forest. Complete with tranquil pools and rocky gorges, it's best to bring waterproof boots just in case.
Murlough Beach, Newcastle
Nothing says romance, quite like a walk on the beach. With long stretches of sand and wispy dunes, you'll fall in love not just with each other but with the scenery too.
Read more:
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