BRIDES-to-be wanting to pop the question are encouraged to do so at a North Somerset hotel.

Traditionally, during a leap year, women wanting to tie the knot were encouraged to take matters into their own hands and propose.

This would commonly happen on February 29, otherwise known as leap day.

In the past, men that refused the offer of marriage would have been expected to pay a penalty, such as a silk gown. Queen Mary of Scotland made this law in 1288.

Congresbury's Cadbury House have vowed to give a free bottle of champagne to any couple that gets engaged at the venue throughout the entire year.

Matilda Burgess, marketing manager said: “Leap day has been associated with many age-old traditions, superstitions and folklore with the most well-known being proposals by women.

“We're all aware that men can sometimes be a bit slow on the uptake and, occasionally, just need a shove in the right direction, so many women take matters into their own hands and make the most of this once-every-four-year opportunity.

“We’re totally inclusive here at Cadbury House so our offer is open to everyone who wants to pop the question any time of the year. We just want to make, what is no doubt one of the most important days of any couple’s lives, even more special.”

Couples who have got engaged at Cadbury House and plan to have their wedding there can also take advantage of a 10 per cent discount.

Matilda added: “In the past not only could women propose to men throughout a whole year, but should the man refuse the offer of marriage then they were expected to pay a penalty such as a silk gown or hand over some money to soften the blow.

“And this wasn’t some fanciful whim but an actual law which was passed allegedly in 1288 by Queen Mary of Scotland.

“Whatever people’s intentions are this leap year those who do visit Cadbury House I’m sure will have a fantastic, relaxing time while we’ll be ready and waiting to help any happy couple celebrate in style!”