Edinburgh, the incredible capital of Scotland, is a unique destination for a wedding that combines history, romance and tradition. With its representative medieval architecture and the atmosphere of the city that seems taken from a storybook, this place offers the perfect setting for couples looking for an unforgettable wedding in Edinburgh.
Every corner of Edinburgh tells a story, from its imposing castles to its stone streets, making it a special place to say “I do.” A wedding in Edinburgh is also an opportunity to learn about Scottish traditions that can give a different touch to your big day. From bagpipes to traditional dances, everything will make your wedding even more meaningful.
If you are thinking of getting married in the Scottish capital, choosing one of its emblematic castles can be the key to an unparalleled ceremony. These monuments are perfect for a wedding with medieval charm, surrounded by a landscape that combines the elegance of nature with the luxury of architecture.
In this article, we will guide you through some of the best castles and traditions that will make your wedding in Edinburgh unique. Here we go!
Movie-worthy castles to say “I do” at your Edinburgh wedding:
Edinburgh Castle
Yes, that’s its name. This iconic castle is one of Scotland’s most famous landmarks, perched atop Castle Rock and offering panoramic views of the entire city. Perfect for ceremonies with a royal touch, the castle offers several spaces adapted for weddings, such as its halls or gardens.
In addition to its impressive architecture, Edinburgh Castle stands out for its thousand-year history, which includes the Stone of Destiny and the Scottish crown jewels, which can be the ideal setting for unforgettable photographs.
Due to its privileged location, guests will enjoy a unique experience in which they can explore the surroundings before and after the ceremony. This place is perfect for those who want to mix elegance and comfort at their wedding in Edinburgh.
Dalhousie Castle
Very close to the capital, Dalhousie Castle is an architectural gem that combines luxury and romance. This 13th-century castle is surrounded by forests next to the River Esk, and offers an idyllic setting for all types of weddings.
The castle has multiple rooms for ceremonies and banquets, each decorated with medieval details, such as vaulted ceilings, stone fireplaces and windows overlooking the Scottish landscape. In addition, the castle gardens are perfect for a spectacular photo shoot.
If you are looking for the ultimate luxury for your wedding in Edinburgh, in this place you will have the opportunity to stay in the castle suite, and not only you, your guests will also have rooms inside the castle! This option is perfect if you want your loved ones to record this fabulous experience in their memories.
Plus, the location is renowned for its kitchens, offering customised menus using local ingredients – all designed for an unforgettable day!
Craigmillar Castle
Known as Edinburgh’s “second castle”, Craigmillar is a perfect choice for those looking for a less crowded, historic setting. Located in a quiet area, this 15th-century castle offers a more relaxed yet equally impressive atmosphere than larger castles.
Its ruins right next to the well-kept gardens provide the perfect contrast for your wedding photos. The castle allows for both ceremonies in its restored chapel and outdoor events in its gardens, making it a versatile space for different wedding styles. With its stunning views of Edinburgh, this venue is ideal for an intimate wedding full of character.
Access to the castle is also easy, and its proximity to Edinburgh city centre allows guests to enjoy the city whilst celebrating your wedding in this historic venue.
Lauriston Castle
Located on Edinburgh’s North Shore, Lauriston Castle offers spectacular views of the River Forth and a serene setting surrounded by Victorian gardens. This 16th-century castle is perfect for an elegant wedding with a classic Scottish feel.
The main hall, decorated with antique furniture and period details, is ideal for intimate ceremonies, while its gardens and terraces offer options for an outdoor reception. The combination of indoor and outdoor makes Lauriston a versatile and attractive space for any style of wedding.
In addition, the castle allows you to customize every detail of your event, from the decoration to the catering, ensuring that each couple can create a unique wedding.
The outdoor spaces are also perfect for incorporating Scottish traditions such as the ceilidh, a traditional dance that will delight your guests.
Dundas Castle
Just outside the city, Dundas Castle is one of the most exclusive properties for a wedding in Edinburgh, combining tradition with all the modern comforts to make your wedding a comfortable and magical experience at the same time.
The castle offers numerous possibilities when it comes to holding your wedding, as its halls are perfectly designed to be the best indoor venue for a ceremony, although its picturesque courtyard is perfect for doing it outdoors.
For couples looking for a personalized and luxurious experience, Dundas Castle offers the possibility of renting the entire property for a completely private event. Celebrating your wedding at this place means surrounding yourself with history and luxury, while enjoying spectacular views and an intimate atmosphere that your guests will remember forever.
Borthwick Castle
Half an hour from Edinburgh is one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in Scotland, Borthwick Castle, a place full of history and majesty with stone walls and spiral staircases.
This castle offers a very welcoming atmosphere, and its halls full of tapestries are perfect for ceremonies and banquets with a medieval touch.
Borthwick Castle also has the option of hosting the bride and groom and their guests, allowing the celebration to last a whole weekend, organizing whiskey tastings or historical tours of the castle.
This castle is ideal for those who want a wedding in Edinburgh with an authentic atmosphere and a touch of exclusivity, turning the event into a unique experience for everyone.
Carberry Tower Castle
Set in a rural setting, this castle combines elegance and warmth in a natural setting ideal for a romantic Edinburgh wedding.
It has a private chapel for more intimate ceremonies, although if you are thinking of something more multitudinous, Carberry Tower Castle has numerous classically decorated rooms, as well as gardens ideal for outdoor events.
One of the advantages of Carberry Tower Castle is its ability to accommodate a large number of guests, offering luxury accommodation in its rooms and suites. This makes it an excellent option for destination weddings, where guests can enjoy a full weekend in a dream location.
Scottish traditions to incorporate into your Edinburgh wedding:
The playing of the bagpipes
There’s nothing more Scottish than a bagpipe, and so the addition of a bagpiper during the ceremony is important to add personality to an Edinburgh wedding. The player usually accompanies the bride during the entrance by playing a typical piece from the country, or can even adapt to the musical taste of the bride and groom.
Even if you are not Scottish by birth, including a bagpipe at your Edinburgh wedding is a way of paying homage to this vibrant culture.
In addition, bagpipes can be used at other times during the event, such as the exit of the bride and groom or even during the reception, which ensures that the Scottish atmosphere is present at every moment.
The exchange of tartan
One of the most emotional traditions of a Scottish wedding is the exchange of tartan, a checkered cloth that represents the family clan. This act symbolizes the union of two families and the beginning of a new one. During the ceremony, the tartan of each family can be intertwined or placed on the shoulders of the bride and groom. Many couples choose to personalise their own tartan to reflect their roots or even design a completely new one to represent their union.
Including this tradition in your Edinburgh wedding is a unique way to honour Scottish culture and create an unforgettable memory that lasts beyond the wedding day. It is, without a doubt, one of the most special and meaningful moments of a Scottish ceremony.
The quaich: the cup of friendship
The quaich is a traditional Scottish cup used at weddings to represent togetherness and friendship. During the ceremony, the bride and groom share a drink, usually whisky or wine, from this cup, sealing their commitment and promising to share both the sweet and bitter moments of life together.
In addition, the quaich can be personalised with engravings that include the names of the bride and groom or the wedding date, making it a special keepsake.
Using the quaich is also an opportunity to include guests, who can participate in a collective toast, strengthening the sense of family.
The ceilidh: traditional Scottish dance
The ceilidh is one of the most fun and unforgettable traditions of a Scottish wedding. This traditional dance, full of energy and rhythm, involves all the guests, who join together in pairs or groups to follow the steps to the beat of the music.
It is usually accompanied by a live band, and includes traditional Scottish songs that are very representative of popular culture. The dance steps are guided by a “caller”, who explains the sequences so that everyone can participate, regardless of their experience.
In addition, at a wedding in Edinburgh in a castle it is ideal to include this tradition in the majestic gardens, and take advantage of the space once again, this time for something more playful.
The use of the kilt
The kilt, an iconic garment of Scotland, is a symbol of cultural pride and tradition that is often present at Scottish weddings. The bride and groom, best men and family members often wear kilts, each with the tartan design that represents their family or clan.
This garment, in addition to being visually striking, adds an authentic touch to the wedding and reinforces the connection with Scottish roots. Kilts are often combined with formal jackets, brooches and other accessories, creating an elegant and representative outfit.
Its use is not limited to the Scots; many international couples choose to include it in their wedding as a tribute to the local culture.
Natalia Ortiz helps you organize your wedding in Edinburgh
Planning a wedding in such a magical city full of history can seem like a challenge, but with the help of Natalia Ortiz, from Weddings and Events by Natalia Ortiz, organizing your wedding in Edinburgh becomes an easy task, since she and her team take care of everything: decoration, menu, invitations, music… Her experience in international events ensures that both you and your guests will enjoy a unique experience without complications.
If you’re looking for inspiration for a castle wedding, you can take a look at the wedding of Narvana and Gadiel, who got married on the shores of a castle in Spain or this sunset wedding in a medieval castle in France.
And if you’re still thinking about how to propose and you want to do it in a castle too, we’ll tell you which are the most beautiful castles in Europe for it!