James Blunt has got engaged.

The 'Bonfire Heart' hitmaker reportedly popped the question to his long-term girlfriend Sofia Wellesley, who is the granddaughter of the Duke of Wellington, over the Christmas holidays.

A friend of the couple told the Daily Mail newspaper: ''Everyone is talking about it. We were sort of expecting it but it is still great news.''

The couple, who began dating in 2012, are expected to tie the knot at the duke's Hampshire estate Stratfield Saye, southern England, along with a string of celebrity guests in attendance.

Singing legend Sir Elton John, who helped launch James' career by offering him the support act slot on his 2004 tour, is expected to be present during the nuptials.

The 39-year-old singer previously admitted he felt ''lucky'' to have found such an understanding girlfriend as Sofia.

He said: ''I'm very happy at the moment with Sofia. It takes a strong person to be able to deal with somebody working in music. It's hard when you're with somebody and you become embroiled in something just because you were seen standing next to someone else.

''It takes a tough person to deal with that and I'm lucky to have her.''