Scotland’s Best Wedding Venues: Lowland Charm and Highland Majesty

Friday, June 6th, 2025

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Scotland’s landscapes steal hearts for a reason – whether it’s the gentle beauty of the Lowlands or the wild drama of the Highlands, every corner offers something magical for your wedding.

What truly sets Scottish wedding venues apart is how they blend breathtaking settings with warm hospitality, creating celebrations that feel both spectacular and deeply personal.

Drawing on years of knowledge and countless visits as a Scottish wedding planner, I’ve curated this list of Scotland’s best venues from across the Lowlands and Highlands. Each offers something truly special while also delivering top-tier service, stunning backdrops and that unforgettable Scottish atmosphere.

THE LOWLANDS:
Elegant, accessible and full of character

Including both the Borders and the Central Belt, the Lowlands offer easy accessibility from cities alongside proper Scottish charm. Expect historic castles, coastal views and venues that balance grandeur with approachability.


Glenapp Castle, Ayrshire

Why couples love it:

This Victorian castle on the Ayrshire coast manages to feel both grand and intimate, like your own private fairytale. The sea views from the terrace are spectacular, and you can’t fault the team’s attention to detail that ensures everything runs smoothly.

Perfect for:

Couples who want castle romance without stuffy formality. The exclusive use policy means you and your guests can really make yourselves at home.

Don’t miss:

The walled garden ceremony spot – it’s like something from a storybook.

Dundas Castle, South Queensferry

Why couples love it:

Just 20 minutes from Edinburgh, Dundas offers the full castle experience with none of the hassle. The team here are great at creating celebrations that feel traditional yet fresh, whether you’re after a grand ballroom reception or a cosy fireside whisky tasting.

Perfect for:

Couples who want easy accessibility without sacrificing that proper Scottish castle vibe.

Don’t miss:

The woodland ceremony area – magical in any season!

Carberry Tower, Musselburgh

Why couples love it:

This quirky mansion near Edinburgh is full of personality – think grand staircases paired with colourful, contemporary interiors. The walled garden makes for beautiful photos, while the team’s flexible approach suits couples who want to put their own stamp on the day

Perfect for:

Those after a relaxed, creative vibe in historic surroundings.

Don’t miss:

The Tower Suite for the newlyweds. It’s wonderfully romantic!

Greywalls Hotel, Gullane

Why couples love it:

Overlooking Muirfield’s famous golf course, Greywalls offers understated elegance in spades. The Lutyens-designed gardens are a particular highlight, and the hotel’s intimate scale creates a wonderfully personal atmosphere.

Perfect for:

Smaller weddings (up to 60 guests) where every detail matters

Don’t miss:

Sunset drinks on the croquet lawn – take advantage of a truly beautiful setting.

Mar Hall, Bishopton

Why couples love it:

This Gothic revival mansion near Glasgow delivers grandeur without pretension. You can get married indoors in the garden pavilion or Morton Hall, or opt for an alfresco ceremony in the beautiful garden. The 240-acre estate also offers endless photo opportunities.

Perfect for:

Couples who want a touch of drama alongside easy access to Glasgow or Edinburgh.

Don’t miss:

A Champagne reception on the terrace: the views over the Clyde are truly stunning.


THE HIGHLANDS:
Where drama meets romance

From Perthshire northwards, the Highlands offer some of Scotland’s most iconic wedding backdrops from misty glens and ancient castles to landscapes that’ll take your breath away.

Inverlochy Castle, Fort William

Why couples love it:

Nestled beneath the iconic Ben Nevis, Inverlochy is the epitome of Highland luxury with crackling fires, loch views and service that’s attentive without being stuffy. The Michelin-starred food is a major draw for the foodie couples.

Perfect for:

Those who want a proper Highland experience with every comfort, especially those for whom the wedding breakfast is a priority.

Don’t miss:

A post-dinner whisky in the library.

Achnagairn Castle, Inverness

Why couples love it:

This exclusive-use castle near Inverness is all about warm Highland hospitality. From the candlelit Great Hall to the woodland ceremony options, it’s ideal for couples who want their guests to feel part of a true Scottish celebration.

Perfect for:

As it sleeps 54, it’s great for bigger celebrations where you want everyone to stay on site together.

Don’t miss:

The tower suite’s roll-top bath, which is perfect for a post-wedding soak.

Kinloch Lodge, Isle of Skye

Why couples love it:

Clan MacDonald’s ancestral home is the definition of a Highland hideaway – cost fires, locally foraged feasts and views that’ll make your heart skip a beat. It’s wonderfully intimate, making it a glorious setting for smaller weddings.

Perfect for:

Food-loving couples who want a relaxed, personal celebration.

Don’t miss:

The seafood platters –Skye’s langoustines are legendary.

The Fire Arms, Braemar

Why couples love it:

This art-filled boutique hotel brings whimsical luxury to the Highlands. Each room tells a story, while the location, surrounded by Cairngorms National Park, is nothing short of spectacular.

Perfect for:

Creative couples who want a historic setting enhanced by quirky details and stylish touches.

Don’t miss:

The Flying Stag pub for an unforgettable pre- or post-wedding ceilidh.

Cromlix, Dunblane

Why couples love it:

Andy Murray’s Perthshire retreat mixes country house charm with contemporary luxury. The historical on-site chapel is a particular highlight, while the tennis court (naturally) is a fun touch.

Perfect for:

Sporty couples, or those who love modern Scottish style.

Don’t miss:

Champagne and oysters by the loch.


Tips for choosing your Scottish wedding venue 

While all these venues are exceptional, there are three things to consider when choosing the right one for your wedding.

Your wedding vibe

Do you want a more formal affair, or are you looking for a wedding ceremony that’s laid back and relaxed? The venue instantly sets the tone for whatever vibe you’re going for. You should get a feel for this as soon as you walk in the door.

Your guests’ experience

Scottish venues can often be a toss-up between easy access for guests versus remote beauty that takes more effort to access. Think about the guests you’re planning to invite, and how they’ll be able to travel to your venue. It may be that you consider laying on transport to help guests if you’ve got your heart set on a venue that’s truly off the beaten track.

Your wedding priorities

What matters most to you for your wedding? Is it award-winning food, epic views, on-site accommodation? Make a list of your top priorities, then make sure that your chosen venue ticks all the boxes.

And my pro tip?

Visit in your wedding season if possible – an Ayrshire garden looks very different in February vs August!

If you’re planning a luxury Scottish wedding, I’d love to help. Please get in touch to discuss my wedding planning services and see how we could work together to create a bespoke celebration that tells your unique love story.

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