Scottish castle weddings carry a timeless romance that gently stirs the heart and sparks the imagination. When you’re looking for the best castles near Edinburgh for weddings, you’re stepping into a world where history and love intertwine, creating a truly unforgettable setting.
Edinburgh itself offers the perfect base for a fairytale celebration, surrounded by stunning castles full of character and charm.
If you imagine saying your vows surrounded by ancient stone walls, sharing your first dance in softly lit halls, or finding a quiet moment in a turret with views over the rolling hills, Edinburgh is an ideal starting point.
For those of you hoping to get married in a castle in Scotland, I’m here to help make that dream a reality by sharing my top five favourite castle venues near Edinburgh.
1. Winton Castle
I’m excited to begin with one of the most whimsical castles on the list, especially for those looking for historic castle wedding venues near Edinburgh. With 500 years of Scottish history, Winton Castle is a beautifully preserved Renaissance gem nestled in the peaceful East Lothian countryside, just 30 minutes from Edinburgh.
This isn’t a hotel, but a beloved family home owned by Sir Francis and Lady Ogilvy, offering couples a rare blend of grandeur and warmth. Surrounded by vibrant gardens and stunning views of the loch, Winton Castle provides exclusive use for weddings, ensuring your day is truly intimate and special, with a touch of old-world magic, of course.
With five stunning reception rooms and the option of a marquee on the croquet lawn, Winton can welcome both cosy celebrations and larger gatherings. It’s perfect for couples who want a wedding rich in history while also maintaining a relaxed and personal atmosphere.
2. Dalhousie Castle
For couples seeking luxury wedding venues close to Edinburgh, Dalhousie Castle offers a truly enchanting experience. This 13th-century castle, set within an expansive estate of parkland and forest beside the gentle South Esk River, is Scotland’s oldest inhabited castle, with over 800 years of history woven into its walls.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll be welcomed with warm Scottish hospitality that sets the tone for a day filled with elegance and heartfelt celebration. Inside, individually styled historic bedrooms, award-winning dining, and a serene spa provide unbeatable comfort and sophistication.
Outside, the lush gardens, scenic river walks, and even a falconry create magical (and epic) backdrops for your wedding photos.
3. Dundas Castle
Nestled within a sprawling 500-acre private estate just 20 minutes from Edinburgh’s city centre, Dundas Castle is one of my favourite castles near Edinburgh perfect for destination weddings.
This five-star exclusive-use castle offers complete privacy and flexibility to couples, making it ideal for intimate one-day weddings or even extended celebrations with your closest family and friends.
Dundas also stands out among Scottish castle weddings for its variety of stunning ceremony locations, including the dramatic medieval Great Hall to the cosy Croquet Room, complete with the most beautiful outdoor settings for photo opportunities.
As a photographer, I adore the elegant reception rooms and luxurious bedrooms, and you and your guests will fall head over heels for the castle’s dedicated team, who ensure every moment is seamless and unforgettable.
4. Neidpath Castle
Still wondering where to get married in a castle near Edinburgh? If you find yourself looking for something especially unique and spectacular, weddings at Neidpath Castle offer an authentic and atmospheric experience. Tucked away near Peeblesshire with breathtaking views over the River Tweed, this exclusive-use castle offers you a rare chance to step back in time.
Its rough stone walls, roaring log fires, and candlelit interiors create a deeply romantic setting filled with history and character, perfect for couples who want their wedding to feel intimate and steeped in Scottish tradition.
This is truly more than just a venue. Neidpath Castle is a place where history and love stories intertwine, once hosting figures like Mary Queen of Scots and inspiring poets like William Wordsworth.
Plus, with a dedicated wedding coordinator to tailor your day and help bring your vision to life, you don’t just get married here; you become part of the castle’s rich legacy.
5. Carlowrie Castle
A wedding at Carlowrie Castle promises couples and their guests an elegant celebration set against the serene backdrop of 32 acres of perfectly kept grounds, just 20 minutes from Edinburgh. This exclusive-use venue provides luxurious indoor spaces along with the natural beauty of its gardens, creating a truly memorable experience for all lucky enough to partake.
Couples can choose between the bright, airy marquee featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the gardens or the intimate Orangery which offers direct access to the grounds. Each space is thoughtfully crafted to create unforgettable moments surrounded by beauty and elegance.
With 21 luxurious bedrooms spread across the castle and its charming lodges, you and your guests can enjoy a relaxing, private retreat all in one place. The attentive team works closely with couples to craft a bespoke celebration, complete with a delicious wedding breakfast prepared by an award-winning chef.
Ready To Say ‘I Do’ To One Of These Royal Venues?
The timeless grandeur, enchanting charm, and luxurious elegance found in these listed castles are just a glimpse of the incredible venues where your love story can unfold. Edinburgh and the nearby countryside are home to many beautiful castles, each with its own story and special charm that can make your wedding day truly one of a kind.
If you’ve found the castle that feels just right, the next step is choosing someone to capture the moments that matter most. As an Edinburgh wedding photographer, it would be a true honour to tell your story with care, emotion, and a little bit of magic.
And if you’re still wondering where to get married in a castle near Edinburgh, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d love to help you discover even more remarkable castle wedding venues that suit your dream celebration perfectly.
