Because one of the questions a married couple will be asked for the rest of your happily married life is: How did you get engaged? I had spent some time thinking of the ideal way to propose, and eventually came up with a cunning plan.

The previous night I had mentioned to Kristi that we were going out somewhere the next day, and that it would require dressing up and leaving the house early in the morning. This got her curiosity going and proceeded to pester the details out of me. But I held steadfast in my silence on the subject.

The morning came around and we made our way to the train station. It was here that we waited until the surprise arrived, the Northern Belle train. From the same company that brought us the Orient Express, the Belle is decked out in luxury décor from the 1930’s. We sat in our assigned armchairs at a table for two, and admired the quality of the cabin around us.

The train was to be travelling from Shrewsbury to Carlisle, on route serving brunch. This started with some champagne mixed with peach juice, very nice. Brunch consisted of a fresh fruit salad followed by crumpet topped with scrambled egg, covered with a layer of smoked salmon and a half teaspoon of caviar at its summit, finishing off with a selection of pastries. Very nice indeed, and possibly the poshest breakfast I’ve had.

We sat in comfort, enjoying the passing scenery as the train made its way into Northern Cumbria, finally reaching it's destination of Carlisle. Here we got a guided tour of the city, covering the interesting history around the Jacobites, Hadrian’s Wall and hatred between the English and Scottish. The tour ended in a museum, where after a brief investigation we stopped for a bite to eat. The rest of the afternoon was spent taking a look in the Cathedral before attending to some shopping.

Five o'clock came and we boarded the Northern Belle for the return trip. Here we were treated to a five course dinner, starting with champagne and titbits. We then proceeded to make our way through a crayfish and sole terrine pate for starters, a selection of Cumbrian pork for mains, followed by a selection of cheese with chutney and a raspberry and almond tart for dessert. Finishing off this lovely dinner was a box of very nice chocolate truffles, oh and not to forget the bottle of wine drunk throughout.

It was after the meal I decided to pop the question. Aided by the alcohol consumed so far, much to Kristi's surprise, I got down on one knee and proposed. Kristi was speechless, there was an applause from the rest of the folks in the carriage, and several tears too. The staff congratulated us, giving us more champagne, and those around us complimented us one how lovely a couple we were.

In all, the day was perfect, and definitely one to remember.

To view photos of this day Click Here to visit the gallery on Flickr.