Scotland is a mythical, magical place. Packed with folklore and fantasy, it’s basically a real-life fairy tale. With a ton of historic castles and rolling estates that make the perfect backdrop for your big day.
Getting married in Scotland is like stepping into your own personal love story, complete with turrets, tartan, and maybe even a bagpiper or two. So, whether you’re a history buff that loves the rugged history of the country or are simply dreaming of your happily ever after, consider getting married in a real-life castle.
Scottish castles are dotted all over the country, so whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh or are more of a rural planner, there’s something for everyone. Want dramatic cliffside views? Head for the Highlands. Dreaming of a romantic garden ceremony? There are estates with blooming walled gardens that look like something out of a period drama.
And you don’t need royal connections to pull it off. Scotland’s wedding laws are super flexible, so you can say your vows pretty much anywhere that takes your fancy—inside a grand hall, out in a wildflower meadow, or even beside a loch with a castle ruin in the background.
The best part? The price. The average Scottish wedding comes in at £18,617, over £2,000 less than the UK average of £20,882. That’s a whole lot of money saved to go towards your dress, drinks, or even a boost to your savings. Start married life off on the right foot with a bit of extra cash in your pocket.
Looking for your fairytale venue? Check out these stunning Scottish castles that are the perfect backdrop for your “I dos”.
Gothic and traditional, Neidpath Castle in Peebles near Edinburgh is a four-storey castle sat above the River Tweed. It’s full of character, with beautiful stone walls, vaulted ceilings, and views that’ll make your photographer swoon. Ideal for smaller, intimate weddings, it offers that timeless, romantic atmosphere without feeling too formal. Plus, with only two weddings hosted per week, you’ll have sole use of the venue for up to four days. Very exclusive!
If you’re looking for something a little bigger, Coats Paisley is a breathtaking Gothic revival church on the outskirts of Glasgow. Built in 1894, Coats Paisley can accommodate everything from religious to humanist ceremonies before converting into a venue suitable for 250 of your nearest and dearest. It’s got all the grandeur you’d expect with stained glass windows, soaring ceilings, and that wow-factor aisle entrance. But, at the same time, it doesn’t skimp on the modern amenities that keep things comfy behind the scenes. Perfect if you want that dramatic, cathedral-style castle setting without sacrificing flexibility or personal touches.
Although beautiful, we know a castle on its own won’t be enough for some couples. Some couples want a palace, and The Atholl Palace Hotel near Pitlochry absolutely delivers. Nestled in the heart of Highland Perthshire, this grand Victorian hotel is a stunning option. With sweeping grounds, turreted towers, and views over the Tummel Valley, it’s the venue of dreams for couples that have a taste for the dramatic. Plus, it can accommodate up to 250 guests, meaning it’s ideal for those dreaming of a big, white wedding.
On the other hand, if you’d like something smaller (or feeling bougie on a budget), consider Cornhill Castle in South Lanarkshire. With a full wedding license, a grand ballroom, and a beautiful view of the River Clyde, it’s a venue fit for royalty. But, it needn’t come at the cost of royalty. With packages starting at £2,025, Cornhill Castle is proof you don’t need to blow the budget to get that fairytale feel with a castle wedding venue in Scotland.
In spite of their beauty, and the beauty of their setting, Scottish wedding venues tend to run a little cheaper than the UK average. You can expect to pay £5,685 for your Scottish castle wedding, a reduction of some £300 on the UK average of £5,945. Not too shabby!
Although there is an abundance of Scottish castles to choose from, the most popular ones (especially those with jaw-dropping views or Insta-worthy interiors) can book up fast. On average, couples tend to secure their dream castle venue around 12 to 18 months in advance. However, if you truly have your heart set on somewhere, or have specific needs when it comes to accessibility or travel, booking 24 months ahead is recommended.
We know it seems like a long time, but trust us—it flies by! And having your dream castle wedding venue locked in early gives you a solid foundation to start planning everything else. Don’t miss out on the perfect spot by dilly-dallying!
Lean into your Scottish heritage and bring elements of traditional Celtic weddings into your big day. Tartan, handfasting, ceilidhs, and whisky tastings are all timeless additions that add a personal and patriotic touch. Whether it’s incorporating your clan colours into the decor or walking down the aisle to the sound of a bagpiper, these little nods to tradition can make your castle celebration feel even more meaningful.
On the other hand, you could go full fairytale and embrace the royal vibes that a castle wedding venue brings. Whether you want to recreate Cinderella’s royal ball or embrace the more understated traditions of the British Royal Family, Scotland is the ultimate stage. You could opt for a horse-drawn carriage, request that guests don their best regal attire, or even sit down for a grand candlelight banquet in the ballroom. Whatever your choice, castles provide the perfect setting for that once-in-a-lifetime level of romance.
