EILEAN DONAN CASTLE WEDDINGS
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GETTING MARRIED AT EILEAN DONAN CASTLE
If you’re planning an elopement in Scotland, chances are you’ve come across Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most photographed castles, as a venue option. Eilean Donan Castle is an iconic 13th century fortress accessible only via bridge, located just minutes from the Isle of Skye. The venue is ideal for couples wanting a private ceremony and photo experience, without the challenges of hiking.
REASONS TO HAVE An Eilean Donan castle WEDDING
Exclusive Use
During busy months, couples can say their vows in the evening after the castle is closed to the public. This means you’ll have an evening ceremony with exclusive use for your ceremony and drinks reception. During the quiet months, exclusive use of the castle can be arranged for any time of day. It’s important to note that exclusive use only applies to the castle interior and courtyard. There is still public access to the bridge. Please note that Eilean Donan does not have catering facilities so your wedding meal will need to happen elsewhere.
Indoor and outdoor locations
Eilean Donan can seat up to 70 people for an indoor ceremony, but weather abiding there are also options for outdoor ceremony locations (only suitable for smaller groups). I recommend an outdoor ceremony location when possible for gorgeous views out to the water with the mountains of Skye in the background.
ONSITE ACCOMMODATION
Eilean Donan Castle does have onsite accommodation that looks out over the castle. You’ll have uninterrupted views onto the castle and can spend your evening with a cozy fire or bbq-ing outside on a nice day. For those who don’t want to stay for a full week, there are other accommodations close by, such as the Eilean Donan Apartments, that are just a minute or two drive away from the castle.
WEDDING CEREMONY LOCATIONS
Indoor ceremonies take place in the Banqueting Hall, which can seat up to 70 people. This is a dark and moody space with backlighting that can make it challenged to photograph. Weather permitting and with a smaller group, you can have your ceremony outside with water and mountain views.
GETTING TO Eilean Donan Castle
Located in the north-west of Scotland, Eilean Donan Castle is about 4 hours from Edinburgh along narrow, curving country roads. Give yourself plenty of time to make the journey and make sure you have a good night’s rest before hitting the road.
WHY CHOOSE ME TO PHOTOGRAPH YOUR Eilean donan castle WEDDING?
Eilean Donan Castle is a gorgeous venue, with a number of different locations and lighting scenarios. It’s important to have a photographer that’s comfortable with both flash and natural light, who doesn’t mind climbing over rocks to get the best shot, and who knows the best spots on Skye for couple’s photos.
Say ‘I Do” at Scotland’s most photographed castle.
PLANNING A WEDDING AT EILEAN DONAN CASTLE
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GET MARRIED AT EILEAN DONAN CASTLE?
Prices for weddings at Eilean Donan Castle vary depending on the time of year and the number of guests. Elopements in the busy season can expect to pay several thousand pounds for exclusive use of the castle after closing (for a two hour slot). Your package includes
HIRE FEES
CHECK WITH VENUE
EILEAN DONAN CASTLE WEDDING QUESTIONS
Q&A
Can you get married at Eilean Donan Castle in Scotland?
Yes! Eilean Donan Castle offers wedding and elopement packages that include exclusive use of the venue for several hours.
Can you have a wedding reception at Eilean Donan Castle?
You can host your drinks reception at Eilean Donan Castle, but the castle does not have catering facilities for food.
How far is Eilean Donan Castle from the Isle of Skye?
Eilean Donan Castle is only about a 15 minute drive from the Skye bridge, however to get to many of the popular photo locations (Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, etc), it can be up to a two hour drive.
Can you take wedding photos at Eilean Donan Castle?
Yes, as part of a wedding package you have exclusive use of the castle for wedding photos. Without booking, it’s unlikely you’ll be permitted to take photos, however after the castle closes you can take photos on the rocks outside the gates, with the castle in the background.
Is there a recommended photographer for Eilean Donan Castle weddings?
Wildling Weddings is a great choice to photograph your Eilean Donan Castle wedding. The castle requires an understanding of flash and use of natural light to really make the most of it. Plus, we know plenty of great spots to go on Skye for wedding photos.
How much does it cost to get married at Eilean Donan Castle?
Cost for a wedding at Eilean Donan varies depending on the time of year and guest count. Please get in touch with the castle directly for a quote. Elopements in the busy season can expect to pay several thousand pounds for a two hour exclusive use slot in the evening.
WEDDINGS AT
Eilean donan castle
