Description
Welcome to Rothesay Castle: Your Dream Wedding Venue
Planning your wedding? Rothesay Castle offers a truly unique and romantic setting that blends history with timeless elegance. Dating back to the early 13th century, this rare circular castle stands out among Scottish venues, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your special day.
Owned and cared for with pride, Rothesay Castle is deeply connected to Scotland’s royal heritage, having been home to the Stewart kings. Its dramatic moat and striking gatehouse create an unforgettable atmosphere for your ceremony and wedding photos.
Ceremony Spaces Tailored to Your Celebration
- The Great Hall: Restored in 1900, this grand space features thick stone walls and a warm, wooden beamed ceiling. It comfortably seats up to 60 guests or welcomes 100 standing—perfect for a classic, elegant ceremony.
- St. Michael’s Chapel: For a more intimate and historic feel, this 15th-century chapel in the courtyard offers a romantic setting for up to 40 seated or 60 standing guests. It is fully wheelchair accessible.
- The Courtyard: Say your vows outdoors in the heart of the castle. This stunning open-air space is wheelchair accessible and can host up to 60 seated or 100 standing guests, ideal for a fresh-air celebration.
We welcome religious and humanist ceremonies, and civil ceremonies can be arranged with the local registrar. Please note, Roman Catholic ceremonies are not permitted on site. Even if your ceremony is held elsewhere, Rothesay Castle is available to hire as a dramatic and historic backdrop for your wedding photography.
A Venue Steeped in History
Rothesay Castle was originally built by the Stewart family to defend against Norse invasions and later became a favored residence of Kings Robert II and Robert III in the 14th century. The impressive gatehouse you see today was added in the late 1400s by James IV and James V. After a period of decline, the castle was carefully restored in the 19th century.
Today, Rothesay Castle continues its legacy by hosting unforgettable weddings, combining historic charm with expert care to make your day truly special.
Overview of Rothesay Castle
Wedding Ceremony & Reception
Wedding Venue Details
Location & Contact Details for Rothesay Castle
What makes Rothesay Castle a unique wedding venue in Scotland?
Rothesay Castle is a rare circular castle dating back to the early 13th century, offering a romantic and historic setting with a dramatic moat and striking gatehouse. Its deep connection to Scotland’s royal heritage and beautifully restored spaces provide a breathtaking backdrop for every wedding.
What ceremony spaces are available at Rothesay Castle for weddings?
Rothesay Castle offers three distinct ceremony spaces:
- The Great Hall: Seats up to 60 guests or 100 standing, featuring thick stone walls and a wooden beamed ceiling.
- St. Michael’s Chapel: A 15th-century chapel with seating for 40 or standing for 60 guests, fully wheelchair accessible.
- The Courtyard: An outdoor open-air space hosting up to 60 seated or 100 standing guests, also wheelchair accessible.
Is Rothesay Castle accessible for guests with mobility needs?
Yes, both St. Michael’s Chapel and the Courtyard at Rothesay Castle are fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and inclusion for all your guests during the celebration.
Can I have a religious or civil ceremony at Rothesay Castle?
Rothesay Castle welcomes religious and humanist ceremonies. Civil ceremonies can also be arranged in cooperation with the local registrar. Please note, however, that Roman Catholic ceremonies are not permitted on the premises.
Is it possible to use Rothesay Castle for wedding photography only?
Absolutely. Even if your ceremony takes place elsewhere, you can hire Rothesay Castle as a dramatic and historic backdrop for your wedding photography, capturing timeless memories in a unique setting.
What is the maximum guest capacity for weddings at Rothesay Castle?
The maximum capacity depends on the chosen ceremony space:
- The Great Hall: up to 60 seated or 100 standing.
- St. Michael’s Chapel: up to 40 seated or 60 standing.
- The Courtyard: up to 60 seated or 100 standing.
What historical significance does Rothesay Castle hold?
Built originally by the Stewart family to defend against Norse invasions, Rothesay Castle was a favored residence of Kings Robert II and Robert III in the 14th century. The gatehouse was added by James IV and James V in the late 1400s. The castle underwent careful restoration in the 19th century and remains a symbol of Scotland's royal heritage.
Are there any restrictions on the types of ceremonies allowed at Rothesay Castle?
While Rothesay Castle welcomes religious, humanist, and civil ceremonies, Roman Catholic ceremonies are not permitted on site. Couples should plan accordingly when choosing their ceremony type.
Can Rothesay Castle accommodate outdoor wedding ceremonies?
Yes, the castle's Courtyard offers a stunning open-air venue perfect for outdoor weddings. It is wheelchair accessible and can accommodate up to 60 seated guests or 100 standing guests, providing a beautiful fresh-air setting for your vows.
Where is Rothesay Castle located, and how accessible is it for guests?
Rothesay Castle is located at PA20 0DA, Rothesay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, GB. Its picturesque location combines historic charm with scenic surroundings, making it a memorable and accessible venue for guests traveling to your wedding.
