SCOTTISH CASTLE ELOPEMENT/Elopement in the Scottish Castle/Elopement in the castle
Where to go for your Scottish Castle Elopement
As a Scotland wedding photographer, Scottish castle elopements s hold a special place in my heart. The weight of centuries of history, the raw, magnetic beauty of the ancient stone walls, and the stunning backdrops of woodland and mountains make them the perfect romantic setting. And not to mention, the breathtaking backdrop of a centuries-old castle is guaranteed to give you breathtaking elopement wedding photography.
But with over 1500 castles in Scotland to choose from, how do you find the one that speaks to your heart? So to help you choose, I’ve put together a list of my top 10 Scottish castles.
SCOTTISH CASTLE ELOPEMENT/Elopement in the Scottish Castle/Elopement in the castle
NEIDPATH CASTLE
Have you ever dreamed of having the keys to a castle? Then Neidpath Castle is for you. With the option to have the castle exclusively to yourselves for one or several nights, this is the perfect place for a Scottish elopement wedding.
With breathtaking views over the River Tweed and the rolling hills of the Scottish borders, it’s the perfect place to forget about the outside world and focus purely on your love for each other.
But it’s not just the scenery that makes Neidpath Castle so special. The interior of the castle is steeped in history, and incredibly atmospheric. So let me take you on a virtual tour!
At the very bottom, there are dungeons (I know! Dungeons!) and a guest bathroom. As soon as you enter the main door, there is a beautiful, awe-inspiring chamber with an arched ceiling, where you can have your ceremony.
On the second floor, there is a room, with white wood-panelled walls and large historic paintings. On the third floor, there is a living room the colour of faded brick, and an en-suite bedroom with orange walls and a Victorian-style bathtub. On one of the walls, there is a secret passage to the next level – the last floor with a balcony offering beautiful views across the rolling hills. The castle is an amazing place to stay overnight, and the setting makes it perfect for your Scottish elopement photography!
Location – Peebles, EH45 8NW
Nearest Airport – Edinburgh (45 minutes)
SCOTTISH CASTLE ELOPEMENT/Elopement in the Scottish Castle/Elopement in the castle
THIRLESTANE CASTLE
Thirlestane Castle is a wonderful blend of history and modern sophistication. The romantic and beautiful 16th-century red brick castle has been lovingly maintained. And offers an element of luxury for your Scottish elopement you won’t get from some of the older, more raw castles on this list.
The castle is situated in the Scottish Borders and surrounded by green fields and deciduous old trees. With plenty of rooms on offer for you and your guests, it’s a great place for a Scottish elopement wedding if you want a castle setting, but luxury and comfort are a big priority.
The ceremony can be held outside, by a rocky bench overlooking the back of the castle. Or under an old tree whose branches form a natural umbrella. On a rainy and gloomy day, you can get married in a chamber with walls painted a beautiful shade of green, and adorned with beautiful paintings in golden frames.
Location – Lauder, TD2 6RU
Nearest Airport – Edinburgh (60 minutes)
SCOTTISH CASTLE ELOPEMENT/Elopement in the Scottish Castle/Elopement in the castle
FINGASK CASTLE
Fingask Castle is as quirky and characterful as it is beautiful. The romantic, charming castle is surrounded by a wonderful garden filled with topiary, winding paths, stone globes and statues.
And the inside of the castle is just as beautiful. The orange-coloured staircase is decorated with portraits of the owners throughout history. And the bookcase at the bottom of the staircase is filled with antique books that you can pick up and read.
Spend your downtime sitting in front of the roaring fire in the living room, or meandering through the garden with its infinite hidden treasures. There are also several rooms you can stay a few nights in, as well as a modern pavilion for larger weddings.
Location – Perth, PH2 7SA
Nearest Airport – Edinburgh (60 minutes), Glasgow
SCOTTISH CASTLE ELOPEMENT/Elopement in the Scottish Castle/Elopement in the castle
AUCHEN CASTLE
Nestled amongst trees and with mountains climbing into the sky on one side, the enchanting Auchen Castle is one of my favourites.
As beautiful as the castle and the surroundings are, my favourite thing about the castle is its small pond. As you open the old wooden gate and venture down an overgrown path, you begin to feel like Alice entering Wonderland. On a tall tree near the shore, there’s a wooden swing, perfect for a few romantic moments on the shore of this secluded pond, with the castle in the background and mountains in the distance.
The inside of the castle is amazing as well. Each of the beautifully decorated rooms is unique, making it a wonderful place for you and a few guests to stay overnight after your Scottish elopement.
Location – Moffat, DG10 9SH
Nearest Airport – Glasgow (1 hour 10 minutes), Edinburgh (1 hour 25 minutes)
SCOTTISH CASTLE ELOPEMENT/Elopement in the Scottish Castle/Elopement in the castle
FYVIE CASTLE
Fyvie Castle is famous for its distinctive pastel pink colour. But don’t let the beauty of the 800-year-old fortress fool you! With the death mask of a hanged murderer hanging on display, as well as countless legends and ghost stories adding to its rich history, this castle offers a unique- and at times unsettling- atmosphere. And if your dream of a Scottish elopement is in any way because of the country’s rich history and character, Fyvie is the perfect place.
The inside is lavishly decorated with antiquities, armour and arresting oil paintings. There’s a picturesque lake with a boathouse on one side, home to all kinds of ducks, swans and other waterfowl. Around the castle there are several centuries-old trees, hinting at the beauty of the castle at the height of its splendour.
Location – Turriff, AB53 8JS
Nearest Airport – Aberdeen ( 35 minutes), Edinburgh ( 2 hours 50 minutes), Glasgow (3 hours 25minutes)
SCOTTISH CASTLE ELOPEMENT/Elopement in the Scottish Castle/Elopement in the castle
DUNSKEY ESTATE
Nestled within 2000 acres of the sprawling Scottish countryside, Dunskey Estate is the perfect place for two hearts to join together in the most intimate, romantic way possible – through an elopement.
As you make your way up the winding driveway, the sight of the elegant estate rising up before you will take your breath away. Built-in the grand Scottish castle style, Dunskey Estate will transport you and your partner to a world of old-world charm and sophisticated romance that you won’t soon forget.
The estate itself is full of hidden nooks and crannies perfect for those private moments you’ll treasure forever. Take a walk through the estate’s enchanting gardens, hand in hand with your partner, surrounded by the scent of wildflowers and the gentle rustle of leaves. Or explore the intimate courtyards, each one more charming and romantic than the last.
The castle itself is full of grandeur that will take your breath away. From the sweeping archways to the soaring ceilings, everything about Dunskey Estate is designed to make you feel like royalty. Imagine saying your vows in the presence of history, surrounded by the ornate details of the castle’s interior that have been meticulously maintained over centuries.
And then there’s the romantic nature of Dunskey Estate itself – a place where peace and tranquillity seem to reign supreme. Here, you’ll be able to truly appreciate the beauty of love and the joy of sharing this special moment with the person you hold nearest and dearest to your heart.
As you exchange rings, with the sky above and the earth below, you’ll feel an unforgettable sense of peace and calm surrounding you. Simply take in the moment, and feel the thrill of the rest of your lives stretching out before you.
Dunskey Estate is the perfect place for two hearts to come together in the spirit of true love – a place that will always hold a special place in your heart as the scene of an unforgettable, magical moment. Let the estate be your guide, your witness, and your forever home as you begin your happy journey together.
Location – Portpatrick, Stranraer DG9 8TJ
Nearest Airport – Glasgow (2 hours 20 minutes), Edinburgh (2 hours 50 minutes)
SCOTTISH CASTLE ELOPEMENT/Elopement in the Scottish Castle/Elopement in the castle
CULZEAN CASTLE
Well, what can I say? Culzean Castle is simply stunning.
Set in a 640-acre estate of woodland, deer parks, lakes and hidden follies, the castle is the gem in a vast, wonderfully scenic Scottish crown. Perched proudly atop cliffs, the stylish castle overlooks one of the most beautiful gardens I have ever seen in my life. The palm trees in the garden make you feel like you’re in the Mediterranean!
But just in case the Scottish weather interrupts your Mediterranean dream, there’s a greenhouse near the castle where you can hide from the rain.
I can’t describe the endless gems of the castle grounds in just a few short paragraphs. So I recommend checking out the website so you can get a real idea of just how amazing this place is! And so there really is no end to the photo opportunities if you choose to have your Scottish elopement here. We could explore for days and still not scratch the surface.
The inside of the castle is filled with all sorts of memorabilia and treasures from people who have lived there, with the dramatic Oval Staircase at its heart.
Location – Maybole, KA19 8LE
Nearest Airport – Glasgow (1 hour 15 minutes), Edinburgh (1 hour 55 minutes)
SCOTTISH CASTLE ELOPEMENT/Elopement in the Scottish Castle/Elopement in the castle
CASTLE FRASER
Castle Fraser is one of the oldest tower houses in Scotland. At almost 700 years old, the dove grey castle is like something from a fairytale, adorned with countless spires and towers.
At the front is a large gate leading to a tiny square courtyard. To the right is a tall old tree, adding even more charm and magic to the castle. The traditional walled garden is filled with seasonal flowers and shrubs. And I was most enchanted by the pear and apple trees, which grow on the wall with their branches outstretched.
From an elopement photography point of view, my favourite shot has got to be the view of the castle straight from the meadow.
Location – Inverurie, AB51 7LD
Nearest Airport – Aberdeen (25 minutes), Inverness (2 hours), Edinburgh (2 hours 30 minutes), Glasgow (3 hours 5 minutes)
SCOTTISH CASTLE ELOPEMENT/Elopement in the Scottish Castle/Elopement in the castle
DRUM CASTLE
The last on our list is the 700-year-old Drum Castle. Visually, the castle is captivating in its simplicity and symmetry from the rear. And its hundreds of years of colourful history make it a fascinating place for your Scottish elopement.
But I’d say the most enchanting thing about Drum Castle is the grounds. There’s a beautiful garden nearby with a delicate white gazebo in the middle. And just a short walk from the castle, are three paths leading into ancient forests, with some of the oak trees there dating back to the 1700s. The tranquil and romantic atmosphere of this woodland is the perfect setting for your couple’s portraits after your elopement.
Location – Drumoak, AB31 5EY
Nearest Airport – Aberdeen (20 minutes), Edinburgh (2 hours 20 minutes), Glasgow (2 hours 50 minutes)
SCOTTISH CASTLE ELOPEMENT/Elopement in the Scottish Castle/Elopement in the castle
FENTON TOWER
Oh, Fenton Tower – a Scottish Castle near Edinburgh, where love is felt in every corner and the quietness of the countryside creates the perfect atmosphere for a relaxed and intimate elopement.
The moment you walk through the stone archway and step into the picturesque grounds, you are transported to a fairytale dreamland where the love that you share with your significant other deserves to be celebrated. The grand tower looms over you, an imposing yet comforting presence that speaks of generations of love and commitment.
Inside, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with elegant furnishings and romantic touches that make you feel right at home. The castle walls seem to be whispering sweet nothings and encouraging you to steal away into one of the castle’s stunning suites. Each room is uniquely decorated, with luxurious linens and comfortable furnishings that make you want to stay and snuggle for eternity.
The views from the castle towers are breathtaking, with rolling hills and panoramic vistas that offer the perfect backdrop for capturing unforgettable moments. The sound of the countryside and the quietness of the night gives you time to connect with your significant other and share meaningful experiences that will stay with you forever.
With Fenton Tower as the backdrop of your elopement, your love story becomes intertwined with the tales of kings and queens and the romanticism of historical legends. The expansive castle grounds provide a unique setting that evokes feelings of love, joy, and companionship.
Come elope at Fenton Tower, where the charm of history and the beauty of nature combine to create a site unlike any other. Experience a moment so magical it will seem like it was taken straight out of a fairytale.
Location – North Berwick EH39 5JH
Nearest Airport – Edinburgh (50 minutes), Glasgow (1 hour 40 minutes)
SCOTTISH CASTLE ELOPEMENT/Elopement in the Scottish Castle/Elopement in the castle
DRUMTOCHTY CASTLE
Nestled amidst breathtaking Scottish countryside, Drumtochty Castle stands as a beacon of old-world charm and timeless romance. Looking out onto acres of lush greenery that stretch out as far as the eye can see, there’s no denying that this Scottish Castle is the perfect place for any couple looking to elope in style.
As soon as you set foot on the castle grounds, you’ll feel a sense of serenity and peace wash over you. That’s because Drumtochty Castle exudes a special kind of energy all its own – one that makes you feel instantly at home. It’s as if the castle has been waiting for you and your partner to come and make it your own, embracing you with open arms and welcoming you into a world of love.
Whether you’re exchanging vows in the Great Hall or exploring the castle’s little-known nooks and crannies, there’s no denying the sense of magic that pervades every aspect of what Drumtochty Castle has to offer. The castle’s rich history comes to life through the intricate decorations and tapestries that line the walls, allowing you to feel as if you’re a part of something much bigger than yourselves.
And then, of course, there’s the natural light that floods the castle’s many rooms, creating an ethereal and almost otherworldly feel. As you and your partner take in the splendour of Drumtochty Castle, you’ll feel as if you’ve fallen into a dream, where everything is soft, warm, and endlessly romantic.
As you say your vows, surrounded by the little touches of magic that only Drumtochty Castle can offer, you’ll feel your heart swelling with emotion and love. The sound of your partner’s voice, the steady warmth of their hand in yours, and the gentle breeze that carries the scent of wildflowers – all of these will come together to create a memory that lasts a lifetime.
Drumtochty Castle is the perfect place for two hearts to become one, a place that will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who choose to elope within its walls. So as you embark on the journey of a lifetime with your partner, let the castle be your guide, your witness, and your forever home.
Location – Auchenblae, Laurencekirk AB30 1TP
Nearest Airport – Aberdeen (40 minutes), Edinburgh (2 hours), Glasgow (2 hours 30 minutes)
EILEAN DONAN CASTLE
Eilean Donan Castle is the most iconic castle in Scotland.
The castle stands majestically on an island, surrounded by the waters of Loch Duich. As you cross over the stone bridge, the centuries-old castle looms above you. Conifers blanket the slopes on the other side of the loch, and the unfathomably ancient mountains lie patiently in the distance.
From an elopement photography point of view, Eilean Donan Castle looks beautiful from all sides. Not only from the more recognizable side, with the bridge forming a beautiful arch, and the castle in the background. But also from the courtyard side. If you’re looking for a quintessentially Scottish setting for your Scottish elopement, Eilean Donan Castle is a perfect choice.
But of course, this means the castle is very popular. So it’s best to choose the off-season months to get married there. In Autumn, when the days are getting shorter and the sunsets are getting earlier. Or in winter, when peal-white snowflakes form a beautiful, down carpet.
Location – Dornie, IV40 8DX
Nearest Airport – Inverness (1 hour 50 minutes), Glasgow (3 hours 45 minutes), Edinburgh (4 hours)
SCOTTISH CASTLE ELOPEMENT/Elopement in the Scottish Castle/Elopement in the castle
DUNNOTAR CASTLE
Dunnottar Castle is one of the most magical and breathtaking places in Scotland, perfect for your Scottish castle elopement. The castle ruins stand on a 160-foot high cliff, surrounded on three sides by the wild waters of the North Sea.
The raw beauty of the crumbling ruins are at once both haunting and exquisitely romantic.
The uninterrupted views of the sea on three sides make it one of the most beautiful places for a sunrise ceremony. But I love it most on a cloudy, windy day when dark clouds create a dramatic background for this once-proud fortress.
Nearby, on the left, there is a small crescent-shaped beach. If you turn left into the path, you will see the castle standing on the cliff in all its glory.
Location – Stonehaven, AB39 2TL
Nearest Airport – Aberdeen (30 minutes)
Looking for a Scottish elopement photographer?
I love to capture the raw moments of emotion throughout your day. Telling the story of your elopement adventure in an authentic, romantic way. Giving you photos that will transport you back to how you felt in the moment, with your beloved in your arms and a majestic Scottish castle at your back.
