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We all know that deciding on the perfect place to tie the knot is a massive deal. After all, this is where you and your partner will first come face-to-face as bride and groom and where you’ll be saying those all-important words, “I do.” No wonder it gives a lot of soon-to-wed couples a bit of the jitters!
There are many options available to you as you choose your wedding theme and venue, but if you’ve got romantic and old-school vibes, how about considering a country house wedding? And, get this, there could be no better place to have this kind of celebration than in Scotland. You know what we’re talking about — historic castles straight out of a fairy tale, decadent dining halls for the royal feast, and maze-like corridors adding a dash of mystery. It’s the perfect recipe for that unforgettable, magical wedding you’ve always envisioned!
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Why Choose Scotland For Your Wedding?
Scotland is quite a popular wedding destination, and it’s easy to see why. It’s got a killer combo of enchanting charm, epic folklore, and unreal landscapes that can give even the top Instagram destinations a run for their money. From majestic mountains, serene lochs, and lush parks to the hip urban vibes of Glasgow and Edinburgh, it’s got something for everyone. Now, imagine getting click-worthy wedding snaps against these lush backdrops – definitely keepers, right?
Moreover, Scotland lets you say ‘I do’ under the open sky! Unlike many other areas in the UK, getting hitched al fresco is totally okay here, as long as you have the landowner’s consent. So, whether you’ve fantasized about a stately home wedding or dreamed about tying the knot amidst stunning landscapes, Scotland’s got you covered.
The process is pretty breezy, and it’s more flexible about age restrictions than many other places. For anyone local, there are loads of charming Scottish wedding traditions that can add an extra sprinkle of magic to your big day.
Don’t call Scotland home? No sweat; you just need to get a marriage visitor visa and are good to go. Plus, it’s pretty relaxed when it comes to the legalities in wedding preparations – even more so than anywhere else in the UK.
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Photography by Wildling Weddings
Alright, let’s make this fun, as planning your wedding should be a joyful experience! The first thing you must remember is that your wedding should reflect who you are as a couple, so consider a venue that matches your style. Then there’s the big question of when you want to say “I do”: your preferred date might impact your venue choices, so take this into consideration as well when looking at your options.
You might have to kiss a few frogs before finding your dream venue, so visit multiple country house wedding venues before deciding. But at the end of the day, this journey is about creating beautiful memories, so make sure to have fun scouting for the one that fits just right.
And don’t worry – our team of experts are happy to help you find the perfect spot to say your wedding vows. Here are some of our favorite picks for country house wedding venues in Scotland:
Altskeith Country House
Altskeith Country House is a total gem sitting in the middle of Scotland’s stunning countryside. Picture this: a luxury house, the calm beauty of Loch Ard, and the Trossachs National Park making up your backyard. If you’re after some peace and a bit of splendor, and you’re itching to make memories, this is your spot.
Once you step foot inside this classy house, consider yourself submerged in a world of luxury and chill vibes. Their rooms? Think old-school elegance meets all the mod-cons you could want. They’ve thought of everything to make your time here one for the books. We’re talking killer lake views and fireplaces cozy enough to make you forget about your Netflix binge list.
Photography by Altskeith Country House
Springkell
A stunning Palladian Mansion that dates back to 1734, Springkell is located in Dumfriesshire, a few miles away from the famous Gretna Green. The venue itself is situated right in the middle of gorgeous gardens and is circled by untouched woods – just the kind of backdrop you’d dream of for your big day. Plus, there are loads of romantic hideaways in the house and its grounds that are perfect for some swoon-worthy wedding snapshots.
Oh, and did we mention they’re licensed for all sorts of ceremonies? Springkell has got you covered for Civil, Religious, and Humanist weddings, same-sex Civil Partnerships, and even blessings. Pretty sweet, huh?
Logie Country House
Aside from bagging the Best Scottish Aberdeenshire Wedding Venue award, Lorie Country House is also steeped in history, having sat on estate lands since 1492. Don’t let that scare you away, though – it’s super fancy and comfy but without any stiff vibes. And the scenery? It’s straight out of a movie, with the house, built in 1680, sitting at the foot of Bennachie and overlooking the river Urie. Add in fields, forests, and visits from deer, otters, red squirrels, and owls, and it’s simply wedding venue heaven.
If you’re looking for a lavish, laid-back, and super memorable spot to say ‘I do,’ this multi-award-winning house and its grounds could be all yours on your wedding day. This insanely gorgeous 17-bedroom private house is situated right in the middle of one hundred and thirty acres of Aberdeenshire picturesque goodness. It’s 16 miles west of Aberdeen, in the Royal Burgh of Inverurie.
How to get the BEST wedding photos – tell me where to send these tips!
Ardkinglas Estate
Ardkinglas is a real slice of heaven – hidden away, peaceful, and just downright beautiful. You get there through an old woodland; then, you’re hit with the fabulous view of the lawns stretching out to Loch Fyne. It truly is a hidden treasure, which is why it has also been used as a shooting location for a few TV dramas and films over the years.
The estate itself is enormous, encompassing 4800 hectares, surrounded by impressive mountains and forests all around. It is a versatile venue where you can host your wedding or civil ceremony anywhere: in the house, decks, or woodland garden. Reception-wise, there’s ample lawn for a marquee, or you can opt for a more intimate gathering in any of their iconic rooms.
Fenton Tower
An epic 16th-century structure 20 miles east of Edinburgh, sandwiched between Gullane and North Berwick, Fenton Tower offers stunning scenery of the East Lothian countryside and Lammermuir Hills, making it a perfect base for your wedding. Panoramic views from the tower are also incredible, giving you a sense of having your private paradise.
With such a fantastic backdrop, it definitely sets the stage for your big day in the most extraordinary and romantic way. So if you’re thinking of a wedding—big or small—Fenton Tower’s got your back as they can help you host up to 32 guests indoors, or you can pitch a marquee outdoors for up to 300 people.
The Roman Camp Hotel
Dreaming of a wedding venue that’s both romantic and oozing with charm? The Roman Camp has got you covered! This impressive hotel snuggles up to the River Teith, surrounded by its own 21 acres of gardens and woodland, and is just a stone’s throw away from the village of Callander. It is a historic gem that started life in 1625 as a hunting lodge for the Dukes of Perth before flipping the script and becoming a hotel and restaurant in 1939.
Nestled in one of Scotland’s most gorgeous spots – the Trossachs and Loch Lomond National Park – The Roman Camp is a go-to spot for civil weddings, providing a few amazing options for your ceremony: pick from the plushy public rooms, a stone altar on the riverbank, or the secret chapel and library tucked away in the hotel.
Haddo House
Just around the corner from Ellon in Aberdeenshire, you’ll find Haddo House, this super luxurious estate decked out with pretty stunning gardens. This gem was designed by William Adam in 1732 and has been home to the Gordon family for over two centuries. Today, it is one of Scotland’s most impressive country cribs, boasting a brilliant Palladian style.
Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, Haddo House has many spaces where you can fit up to 160 of your closest friends and family. Plus, it even has its private chapel – talk about convenience! And if it’s a photo op you’re after, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The gardens and grounds offer a stunning backdrop for pictures, marquee setups, and outdoor activities. Then, if you can peel your eyes away from the blooming flowers and geometric beds, you’ll also discover a pretty awesome lime tree avenue leading right to Haddo Country Park.
While not exactly located in Scotland, this list will not be complete without these venues:
Iscoyd Park
An ultra-charming Georgian manor house right next to a picture-perfect cricket pitch, this venue is tucked away just where Shropshire meets North Wales and Cheshire. This spot’s recently been spruced up and still has that lived-in, homey atmosphere, allowing you and your guests to feel relaxed, warm, and welcomed during your stay.
Think of it as a place where old-school Georgian charm gets a chill, modern twist. Surrounded by gorgeous countryside views, entering the premises of Iscoyd Park is like stumbling upon a private haven of elegance or stepping into a postcard. Super picturesque, is what we’re saying.
Knowle Country House
Imagine gardens that are a riot of color all year round and a Victorian Summerhouse that doubles up as a bar in the warmer months. Think Pimms and Champagne Cocktails under the trees – nice, right? That’s the Knowle Country House for you.
Located in Kent, this place is a seriously stunning Gothic Victorian mansion surrounded by three acres of classic English gardens and orchards. One of the best parts? You get this entire place to yourself on your big day, no matter how big or small your crew. You’ve also got two lovely spots to choose from: the Garden Room or the Gazebo in the Rose Garden, which are both pretty enough to make all your guests go ‘aww’ while you walk down the aisle.
Friern Manor Country Hotel
A mind-bogglingly stunning Georgian manor venue, Friern Manor Country House Hotel in Essex, England, is not your average wedding locale. This family-owned-and-operated establishment offers stunning event spaces and exemplary service, situated on four acres of scenic landscape. Here, you and your guests can enjoy a memorable wedding celebration.
What’s more, it is licensed for on-site civil ceremonies, which means you can have your entire wedding celebration right here, from start to finish. Pick from the South Lawns Conservatory or the Old Coaching Stables to say your “I do” against a backdrop that’s straight out of a storybook. Plus, with the killer scenery, your wedding photos will surely be off-the-charts amazing.
