FROM Castle Park to High Woods, Colchester is blessed with an abundance of beauty spots.

But where in the city is the best place to pop the question?

We asked Gazette readers on social media for their views on where they could see themselves being proposed to.

Here are some of the suggestions:

Castle Park

Gazette: Popular - Castle Park in ColchesterPopular - Castle Park in Colchester (Image: Steve Brading)

Boasting beautiful scenery, Castle Park is one of Colchester’s main attractions.

Aside from being near Colchester Castle, the vast outdoor space provides plenty of opportunities for a romantic stroll ahead of the proposal or afterwards.

You may already even have a connection there – whether through seeing a live performance or fond memories of walking through the park together.

Red Lion Hotel

Gazette: Historic - Red Lion HotelHistoric - Red Lion Hotel (Image: Newsquest)

Another long-standing venue mentioned in the comments section, Red Lion Hotel, can be found in Colchester High Street.

Built in 1465, it is yet another example of Colchester’s long history.

One Facebook commenter, Charlotte Cottier, said her husband proposed to her at the Red Lion Hotel 25 years ago while they also enjoyed a meal there.

Jumbo Water Tower

Gazette: Top - Jumbo Water TowerTop - Jumbo Water Tower (Image: Steve Brading)

Another of Colchester’s oldest attractions, this water tower was completed all the way back in 1883.

Named after a London Zoo elephant, the tower stands at 40.1m tall and contains 1.2 million red bricks.

History aside, we should clarify the Facebook commenter meant at the top of the tower.

This might appeal to someone wanting an adventurous edge before proposing to their loved one.

Bella Pais

Gazette: Restaurant - Bella PaisRestaurant - Bella Pais (Image: Google Street View)

Based in St John’s Street, steakhouse Bella Pais was another popular choice among our readers.

It’s easy to see the appeal – you can treat your partner to a lovely steak dinner before popping the question.

The restaurant itself has been in business for decades.

Back in November 2021, EastEnders cast members Jessie Wallace, Steve McFadden and Letitia Dean, who play Kat Slater, Phil Mitchell and Sharon Watts, stopped by Bella Pais. They had been filming scenes for the soap in St Osyth.

Perhaps, someone could take advantage of Bella Pais’ prestige and book in their special moment.