Scotland offers a combination that’s hard to replicate elsewhere – dramatic landscapes, centuries-old castles, private estates, refined hotels and a strong culture of exclusive-use weddings. It’s a destination built for multi-day celebrations, intimate guest lists and weddings that feel atmospheric and offer a level of exclusivity that’s hard to match elsewhere.
This guide draws on first-hand visits to some of Scotland’s leading venues across the Highlands, Perthshire, Argyll, Glasgow and beyond. We’ve explored estates in person, walked the grounds, viewed ceremony spaces and spoken directly with venue teams. What you’ll find here is based on experience, not brochures.
Whether you’re dreaming of a candlelit castle dinner, a four-day countryside escape, or a modern luxury hotel wedding, this is everything you need to know before you start planning.
Planning a Wedding in Scotland: Practical Considerations
Here’s what we see most often when couples plan destination weddings in Scotland:
- Many venues specialise in exclusive-use hire, making multi-day celebrations straightforward
- Ceremony locations are flexible, with indoor and outdoor options
- Weather is changeable and unreliable – most venues advice against outdoor weddings
- Accommodation is often onsite or nearby, reducing guest travel
- Late licences vary by venue and location
- Scotland has a well-established network of planners and suppliers experienced with international weddings
If you’re planning a weekend-long celebration, our guide to planning a multi-day wedding in Scotland goes into more detail.
Legal Considerations
Scotland has one of the most flexible legal frameworks for weddings in Europe.
Civil, religious and humanist ceremonies are all legally recognised, and ceremonies can take place indoors or outdoors with venue approval. Humanist weddings, in particular, are extremely popular with international couples.
All couples must submit a Marriage Notice (M10) to the registry office local to their venue. Documentation requirements vary depending on nationality.
You can find a full breakdown in Scotland wedding legalities explained.
When to Get Married in Scotland
Scotland works differently to warm-weather destinations – the experience changes with the seasons, but each has its own appeal.
- Spring (March-May)
Fresh greenery, blossom and good daylight. Often quieter than peak summer. - Summer (June-August)
Long daylight hours and the best chance of outdoor ceremonies. This is peak season, with higher demand and pricing. - Autumn (September-October)
One of Scotland’s strongest seasons. Rich colours, cinematic landscapes and excellent light for photography. - Winter (November-February)
Atmospheric interiors, fireplaces and candlelight. Ideal for intimate weddings and exclusive-use castles.
You can read more in our guide to the best time of year to get married in Scotland.
Wedding Venues in Scotland
Scotland offers an exceptional range of venue styles, many of which are available on an exclusive-use basis.
From grand castles and private islands to refined country house hotels, venues are well suited to destination weddings where guests stay onsite and celebrations unfold over several days.
You can explore our full guide to wedding venues in Scotland, or see a selection of featured venues below.
Featured Scottish Wedding Venues
- Isle of Eriska
A private island venue on Scotland’s west coast, ideal for secluded, multi-day weddings. - Cromlix House
A refined country house hotel offering exclusive-use options and exceptional hospitality. - Inverlochy Castle
A grand Highland castle with mountain views, suited to private, elegant celebrations. - Crossbasket Castle
A historic castle just outside Glasgow, combining accessibility with exclusive-use privacy.
Choosing a Scottish Wedding Venue
Choosing a wedding venue in Scotland often comes down to how you want the celebration to feel, not just how many guests you’re inviting. Location, privacy and whether you’re planning a single day or a full weekend tend to shape decisions early on.
Castles, country house hotels, private estates and island venues all offer very different experiences, particularly when it comes to exclusivity, accommodation and guest flow. We explore these differences in our guide on how to choose a Scottish wedding venue, including what to consider beyond the headline imagery.
If having the venue entirely to yourselves is important, you may also want to explore exclusive-use weddings in Scotland.
Scottish Wedding Inspiration
Scotland is particularly well suited to weddings that lean into atmosphere – from candlelit castle dinners and fireside drinks to lochside ceremonies and private island stays.
Our Scottish wedding inspiration guide brings together real celebrations and venue-led ideas to help you visualise how different settings, seasons and styles translate in practice.
Guest Travel and Accommodation
Scotland is well connected for international guests.
Main airports:
- Edinburgh (EDI)
- Glasgow (GLA)
- Inverness (INV)
Many couples arrange:
- Group transfers from airports
- Coaches between venues and accommodation
- Onsite or nearby room blocks
- Clear guest travel guidance ahead of the wedding
What does a Scottish destination wedding cost?
Costs vary by season, exclusivity and guest numbers, but Scotland is generally transparent and predictable.
- Exclusive-use castles – from £18,000+ per night
- Country house hotels – from £8,000+ per night
- Hotel weddings – £150–£250+ per guest
- Full multi-day celebrations – typically £40,000–£200,000+
FAQs
What documents do we need to legally marry in Scotland?
You’ll need to submit an M10 form to the local registry office, plus ID (passports), birth certificates, and relevant documentation for international couples such as a Certificate of No Impediment.
How far in advance should we book a Scottish wedding?
Luxury estates typically book 12-24 months in advance, with peak summer dates going first. Winter weddings have more flexibility.
Can we legally marry outdoors in Scotland?
Yes. Civil, religious, and humanist ceremonies can all take place outdoors with venue approval.
Do we need a planner for a Scottish wedding?
Highly recommended, especially for:
- multi-day itineraries
- international groups
- large castle weddings
What is the best time of year for a Scottish wedding?
Summer for outdoor events, autumn for scenery, and winter for atmospheric castle celebrations.
How much does a Scottish destination wedding cost?
Typical full weekend celebrations range from £40,000 to £200,000+ depending on exclusivity and guest numbers.
What locations are best for international guests?
- Glasgow & Edinburgh (ease of transport)
- Perthshire (central)
- Loch Lomond (close to airports)
Highlands and islands are ideal for couples wanting a retreat experience.
Are humanist weddings legal in Scotland?
Yes – Scotland is one of the few places where humanist ceremonies have full legal status.
Can we stay onsite with our guests?
Most luxury venues offer 20-60 bedrooms and lodge accommodation. Exclusive-use properties require full takeovers.
Do venues allow children, pets, and extended stays?
Policies vary – but many estates are child-friendly, dog-friendly, and suited to multi-night stays.