The 6 Best Scottish Castles for Weddings

What images come to mind when you think of Scottish castles?

With an expansive history and a vibrant culture, Scotland is staking its claim as a place for the most beautiful weddings.

Sprinkled throughout the northern parts of the British Isles, Scottish castles make for an exciting wedding setting.

Whether you plan on wearing a kilt or not, holding special events in a place rich with history is a way to create lifelong memories. Each castle has a unique atmosphere and its own stories to tell:

Yours could be one of them.

Apart from the natural beauty, some of the added benefits of Scottish castle weddings include good transport links, proximity to interesting cities, affordability, and authenticity. There are countless castles to choose from, but the following are some of our favourites:

Dundas Castle

Source: ArchaicW

Looking for a blend of military history and peaceful surroundings?

Built in the 15th-century, Dundas Castle is truly an Edinburgh gem. Rich in character and oozing the charm of a more reserved building, this castle sits on the rolling fields of south-eastern Scotland.

Built to function as a family home in times of peace and a protected fortress in times of war, Dundas Castle’s façade bears the hallmarks of a traditional battle emplacement.

This ‘exclusive use’ castle can be enjoyed by you and your guests in private. With a 5-star rating, this luxury venue is host to in-house wedding coordinators and a catering manager.

Borthwick Castle

Source: Godot13

A true relic of the past, Borthwick Castle is steeped in history. Mary, Queen of Scots, is said to have been besieged there in 1567, while Oliver Cromwell attacked this Midlothian castle in 1650.

Constructed as a medieval fortification in the 15th-century, the castle takes advantage of the undulating landscape to create steep drops on all sides.

Lucky for you, this former defense tactic translates into some incredible, scenic vistas.

With a 12-meter long Great Hall, there’s room for your guests to have a unique dining experience. The Borthwick team will cater to your every whim with in-house chefs and waiters.

Melville Castle

Source: Melville Castle

Originally a tower, Melville Castle went under extensive reconstruction in the 18th-century.

Converted from a battlement into a castellated, Midlothian mansion, Melville could be the perfect backdrop for your celebrations.

The attractive neoclassical build is certainly a product of its time. Designed by James Playfair in 1786-91, this castle is a slice of Scotland’s architectural history.

With a 54-acre landscaped garden, has there ever been a better photo opportunity?

Melville Castle has been renovated with comfort in mind. Every room caters perfectly to the needs of a modern wedding.

Edinburgh Castle

Source: Derek Harper

One of the most iconic landmarks in Scotland, Edinburgh Castle looks out over the city from its volcanic perch.

How much history does this castle offer? You could always hold your wedding in St Margaret’s Chapel: Edinburgh’s oldest building.

Alternatively, enjoy the opulence of the Queen Anne Building. At a capacity of 170 guests, your reception can be as majestic as you dreamed.

With over 26 sieges recorded in the castle’s history, some believe it to be the single most attacked place in the world. Besides being Scotland’s most-visited attraction, Edinburgh Castle features some astounding cultural significance, unlike any other wedding venue.

Blair Castle

Source: MichaelFrey & Sundance Raphael

Feeling truly adventurous? Blair Castle sits on the southern border of the Cairngorms National Park.

With spectacular views and a fairy-tale exterior, the building held a key position on the main passage to the Highlands. Originally built in 1269, this Scottish castle has seen many renovations and adaptations.

From a Victorian ballroom to an outdoor seating plan in the ruins of St Bride’s Kirk, Blair Castle gives wedding planners a huge amount of options.

Craft your special day to perfection so your guests can experience it all.

Ackergill Tower

Source: Sian Abrahams

Ackergill Tower sits on the north-eastern tip of Scotland, looking out across the turbulent waters of the North Sea. Surrounded by gentle pastures, this isolated castle lets you enjoy a more natural wedding.

Make use of 13 unique function rooms and the grandeur of the Great Hall. The delicately restored interior adds a touch of intimacy and comfort to this historical setting.

With an in-house wedding planner and catering, Ackergill Tower has the right people to make your event happen.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional Scottish wedding experience, or just a picturesque backdrop, ancient castles can sometimes be the warmest, most intimate settings.

Originally designed to provide refuge to noblemen, now it’s time to get your clan together to create some happy memories.