DUNNOTTAR CASTLE WEDDINGS
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GETTING MARRIED AT DUNNOTTAR
A castle atop the moody, sweeping cliffs of Stonehaven? Check. Game of Thrones location? Check. Fantastic and memorable wedding venue? Double check!
Not only does all of this, plus the stunning sea views, make for a gorgeous backdrop, but a Dunnottar Castle wedding offers so much more than just a scenic location.
REASONS TO HAVE A DUNNOTTAR CASTLE WEDDING
Sea, Beaech, Castle & more
This venue really does have it all – an epic castle, rugged clifftops, a nearby beach, and an archaic and super romantic set of stone chapel ruins – all within a half-hour drive of Aberdeen City.
The History
Fans of Game of Thrones may recognise Dunnottar Castle, but its real history is just as dramatic. Built on a 440-million-year-old volcanic cliff, the site has been used for thousands of years – from Pictish settlements dating back to 5000 BC to early Christian worship led by St. Ninian. Over the centuries it has witnessed Viking invasions, royal bloodshed, and repeated destruction, adding to the powerful atmosphere the castle holds today.
Ideal for micro weddings and elopements
Despite being an impressive size, the castle can only host a maximum of 60 people – hence why it is ideal for elopements and microweddings.
EPIC CLIFFTOP Castle Ruins
You don’t need to be a die hard Lannister fan to understand why Dunnottar Castle made for an ideal location for the popular HBO series, Game of Thrones. Eagle-eyed fans will have spotted the castle in season 8, episode 5 – ‘The North Remembers’.
PERFECT FOR
ADventure ELOPEMENTS
WEDDING CEREMONY LOCATIONS
Couples can say their vows within the refined walls of the Castle Drawing Room or outside within the exterior grounds (weather permitting, of course!). Once you book your Dunnotter Castle wedding, you will be assigned a dedicated wedding coordinator to oversee and orchestrate your wedding or elopement.
Those planning on having a clifftop ceremony will need to bear in mind that even in the height of summer, Scottish weather – particularly at an elevation of 160 feet with the sharp north winds whipping about – can be unpredictable and, well, downright unruly! Dress accordingly – a tartan or faux fur wrap can be a stylish and practical accessory. And be prepared to high-tail it into the castle if the heavens decide to open up or the winds become so strong that your mother-in-law’s fancy hat goes sailing off into the sunset!
We also recommend sensible footwear for to-ing and fro-ing outside – maybe keep your stilettos just for walking down the aisle or even just the photoshoot.
GETTING TO DUNNOTTAR CASTLE
This Medieval-era fortress can be found some two miles south of Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire and I situated atop an impressive 160-foot clifftop that overlooks the roaring waves of the North Sea. Access to Dunnottar requires walking up and down a lot of stairs. However the clifftop view (the best view!) is easily reached without much walking.
WHY CHOOSE ME TO PHOTOGRAPH YOUR DUNNOTTAR CASTLE WEDDING?
Dunnottar Castle is a venue that demands experience, and I’ve photographed weddings here before and know the space well – from navigating the grounds to making the most of its dramatic backdrops. I bring extensive experience shooting weddings in every kind of Scottish weather imaginable, from high winds to horizontal rain, so no matter what the day throws at us, your photos will still be beautiful, atmospheric, and completely stress-free.
DRAMATIC CLIFFTOP CASTLE BY THE SEA
PLANNING A WEDDING AT DUNNOTTAR
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GET MARRIED AT DUNNOTTAR VENUE
Getting married at Dunnottar Castle costs a minimum of £3000. As of late 2025 the venue has changed who it works with to plan and coordinate the weddings, so prices may vary. Please get in contact with Dunnottar Castle directly to confirm pricing.
HIRE FEES
FROM £3000
DUNNOTTAR CASTLE VENUE QUESTIONS
Q&A
Is Dunnottar Castle free to visit?
Those with Historic Houses memberships may visit the castle for free (when not booked for a wedding or private function). However, non-members will be expected to pay a small fee to enter the building.
How do we book wedding photography at Dunnottar Castle?
Fill in the form below to access pricing and book a call to chat through your plans.
Is Dunnottar Castle accessible?
No, unfortunately due to the number of stairs, Dunnottar Castle is not very accessible. However, the clifftop view is easy to reach without climbing any stairs.
Can you get married at Dunnottar Castle?
Yes! You can have a maximum of 60 guests at your Dunnottar Castle Wedding.
Is there onsite accommodation at Dunnottar Castle?
No, there is not onsite accommodation at Dunnottar Castle. You and your guests will need to stay elsewhere.
Is there parking at Dunnottar Castle?
Yes, there is a parking lot at Dunnottar Castle but it is small and fills quickly. We recommend car sharing to maximize space.
WEDDINGS AT
Dunnottar Castle
