5 of the Best Exclusive Use Castles for Luxury Weddings in Scotland
If your dream wedding involves grand architecture, sweeping landscapes and a sense of timeless romance, few settings rival Scotland’s historic castles. These venues combine centuries of heritage with five-star modern luxury, creating such a special and regal atmosphere. Add to that impeccable views surrounding the castles and impressive estate grounds, you’ll pinch yourself when you realise this is where you get to spend the weekend celebrating.
Whether you’re envisioning an intimate celebration surrounded by the Highlands or a lavish destination affair on a private estate, these five exclusive use Scottish castles offer incredible backdrops for a memorable wedding day.
1. Inverlochy Castle, Fort William
Nestled beneath the shadow of Ben Nevis, Inverlochy Castle is one of Scotland’s most enchanting luxury venues. Blending stately grandeur with an intimate, welcoming atmosphere, you’ll find impressive 19th-century architecture at every turn. The castle is also home to an award-winning, Michelin starred restaurant, making your wedding menu truly one to remember. Inside you’ll find ornate wood panelling, sweeping staircases and antique art and furniture, creating a wonderfully regal setting for both ceremonies and receptions. When hired out for exclusive use, you’ll benefit from bespoke wedding menus, a private butler service and complete seclusion. The venue can host up to 80 guests for the day, and also has 17 beautifully designed bedrooms available for your nearest and dearest to stay in.
Source: Inverlocky Castle
Source: One Fab Day
2. The Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle, Dornoch
Known for it’s prestige and upmost privacy, the atmospheric Skibo Castle is an exclusive invitation-only private members’ estate, where Madonna famously chose to get married. For this reason, it’s important to consider planning a wedding through a premium wedding planner, who is familiar with Skibo’s protocols and is able to gain you access. Set on a sprawling 8,000 acre estate, it offers couples and their guests total exclusivity, with access throughout the weekend to their gorgeous rooms, lakeside golf course and Michelin level dining. With the ability to host weddings of up to 100 guests, you can expect the highest level of service, discretion and indulgence.
Source: Carnegie Club
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3. Borthwick Castle, Near Edinburgh
Located just 12 miles from Edinburgh, Borthwick Castle dates back to 1430 and remains one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Scotland. The castle’s candlelit Great Hall and vaulted ceilings create an unforgettable sense of atmosphere for both ceremonies and receptions, and can host up to 85 guests. Here you can expect beautiful architecture, roaring fires, exquisite catering and luxurious suites for you and your guests to stay in. Filled with history and grandeur at every turn, it’s a great choice for couples who value heritage and intimacy and want to offer something that feels really unique to their guests.
Source: Amazing Spaces Weddings
Source: Amazing Spaces Weddings
4. Duns Castle, Scottish Borders
Nestled within 1,200 acres of enchanting parkland and forests, the family-owned estate of Duns Castle offers the ultimate fairytale wedding experience. Dating back to the 14th century, it is filled with grand interiors, luxurious suites and memorable reception rooms for weddings of up to 200 guests, with the option of outdoor ceremonies too. Approached via a drawbridge, it is timelessly romantic and really sets the tone from the off. The Great Hall makes for a dramatic ceremony setting, whilst the adjoining spaces are perfect for hosting opulent banquets and dances. It’s also a great choice if you fancy hosting a full wedding weekend, from welcome dinners in the library to a farewell brunches in the garden.
Source: Historic Houses
Source: Wildling Weddings
5. Glengorm Castle, Isle of Mull
Perched on the rugged coastline of the Isle of Mull, Glengorm Castle offers breathtaking sea views, ancient stone architecture and an atmosphere of wild romance. It makes for the perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty, and is ideal for smaller, heartfelt celebrations of up to 60 guests. Couples can enjoy exchanging their vows whilst overlooking the Atlantic before dining within the castle’s Grand Hall. Surrounded by spectacular Scottish scenery, we recommend planning your wedding between May and September to make the most of Scotland’s long golden evenings and outdoor photography opportunities.
Source: Manor Castles
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Scotland’s castles offer romance, grandeur, and timeless beauty that feels like nowhere else in the world. Whether you picture a candlelit ceremony in a medieval hall or a golden hour vow exchange overlooking a loch, these venues are all filled with a spellbinding atmosphere.
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