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Choosing the Perfect Edinburgh Wedding Venue: A Comparative Guide

Your wedding venue sets the stage for one of the most significant days of your life, and in the historic city of Edinburgh, the options are as diverse as the love stories they host. In this guide, we'll explore five enchanting venues—The Scotsman Hotel, The Signet Library, Prestonfield House, Borthwick Castle, and Carberry Tower—and help you discover which one aligns best with your vision, catering to different tastes, party sizes, and age groups.

Nov 14

Best Edinburgh Wedding Venues

These are not in order of best venue, or even favourite. Each venue is best for different couples and wedding parties.

Your wedding venue sets the stage for one of the most significant days of your life, and in the historic city of Edinburgh, the options are as diverse as the love stories they host. In this guide, we'll explore five enchanting venues—The Scotsman Hotel, The Signet Library, Prestonfield House, Borthwick Castle, and Carberry Tower—and help you discover which one aligns best with your vision, catering to different tastes, party sizes, and age groups. For more Edinburgh wedding planner tips, please have a look at my Edinburgh wedding blogs

1. The Scotsman Hotel: Timeless Elegance for All Ages

Strengths:

  • Cinematic Appeal: Ideal for couples seeking a venue that seamlessly blends historic charm with cinematic allure.

  • Intimate Gatherings: Perfect for smaller weddings and elopements.

  • Central Location: Appeals to couples who desire the convenience of being in the heart of Edinburgh.

Best Suited For:

  • Young Couples: Those looking for a modern, yet timeless venue.

  • Intimate Weddings: Ideal for smaller gatherings and elopements.

  • All seasons

2. The Signet Library: A Regal Affair in Historic Surroundings

Strengths:

  • Regal Ambiance: Perfect for couples who dream of a wedding in a historical, opulent setting.

  • Grand Spaces: Suitable for larger wedding parties.

  • Exquisite Architecture: Appeals to those who appreciate classic elegance.

Best Suited For:

  • Traditionalists: Couples seeking a classic, timeless backdrop.

  • Larger Weddings: Best for those with a sizable guest list.

  • All seasons

3. Prestonfield House: Romantic Grandeur in a Picturesque Setting

Strengths:

  • Idyllic Gardens: Appeals to couples desiring a romantic outdoor ceremony or reception.

  • Luxurious Interiors: Ideal for those who appreciate decadent, richly decorated spaces.

  • Versatile Spaces: Suitable for various wedding sizes.

Best Suited For:

  • Nature Lovers: Couples who wish to incorporate beautiful gardens into their wedding.

  • Versatility: Suitable for both intimate and larger weddings.

  • Spring - Autumn

4. Borthwick Castle: A Fairytale Fortress for Intimate Celebrations

Couple stand afore the roaring fireplace of the great hall in Borthwick castle

The great hall dining experience at Borthwick Castle

Strengths:

  • Historical Significance: Appeals to couples who want to exchange vows in a castle steeped in history.

  • Exclusive Atmosphere: Perfect for intimate weddings and elopements.

  • Breathtaking Surroundings: Offers picturesque views of the Scottish countryside.

Best Suited For:

  • History Enthusiasts: Couples seeking a unique historical setting.

  • Intimate Ceremonies: Ideal for smaller, more private weddings.

  • All seasons



    Please have a look at my full day wedding photography Borthwick Castle


5. Carberry Tower: Timeless Romance in a Tranquil Setting

Married couple in Scottish wedding attire stand afore the beautiful Carberry Tower castle in Edinburgh

Strengths:

  • Parkland Setting: Appeals to those desiring a serene, nature-inspired wedding.

  • Versatile Spaces: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies.

  • Historic Charm: Offers a blend of history and natural beauty.

Best Suited For:

  • Nature-Inspired Couples: Those who want a tranquil setting.

  • Flexible Events: Suitable for a range of wedding sizes, small and large equally effective.

  • All seasons

Please have a look through my full day Carberry Tower wedding gallery

Choosing Your Ideal Venue: A Personal Journey

In the rich tapestry of Edinburgh's wedding venues, each location weaves a unique story. Consider your personal style, the size of your wedding party, and the ambiance that resonates with you and your partner. And when the time comes to capture these precious moments, entrust your memories to an Edinburgh wedding and elopement photographer who understands the distinctive charm of your chosen venue.

Remember, your wedding day is a celebration of your unique love story, and selecting the perfect venue is the first step toward crafting a day that reflects your individuality and shared dreams. I personally believe the first, and most important decision you will make - yes that’s right, more important than your search of wedding photographers Edinburgh - is your venue. Every other supplier and event on the day is affected by this choice.

While I have favourite things about each of these venues - there isn’t a best Edinburgh wedding venue. It is too specific to the couple, of which are all different. There is a best venue you for you and your guests, and your unique wedding.

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