Edinburgh Castle
Using Edinburgh Castle as a wedding venue
I did not think it was possible to hire Edinburgh Castle for a wedding ceremony or reception until I researched the topic. Edinburgh Castle is one of Historic Scotland's many castles available for hire on special occasions such as weddings.
The Castle is probably the most stunning wedding venue in Edinburgh as well as the most expensive one. But before deciding to get married in the castle there are a few essential things to remember.
These guidelines apply to Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle, Urquhart Castle and all other monuments and historic buildings owned by Historic Scotland.
Essential Edinburgh Castle wedding information
- You cannot bring your own caterer and must only use those contracted by Historic Scotland. They are known to be the best in the business, though.
- You get access to a single venue within Edinburgh Castle although all grounds are available as a backdrop for wedding photography. You don't have exclusive use of the castle but daytime visitors are asked to respect your privacy.
- A wedding package -- chairs, candles, flower stands, altar table -- and the venue booked within Edinburgh Castle are included in the price.
- No smoking or confetti are permitted on the grounds of the castle.
Wedding venues inside Edinburgh Castle
The first of the 4 available venues for a ceremony is the Gatehouse Suite. It has a capacity for 40 guests and is suitable for a smaller ceremony. The best of this venue is the private terrace overlooking the Royal Mile and parts of Edinburgh.
The Jacobite Room is the second venue in Edinburgh Castle available for wedding hire and can accommodate up to 100 guests. It is large enough to hold a reception while photographs and drinks can be had on the Castle battlements overlooking Edinburgh's Princes Street. The venue is for exclusive use and can be hired only outside opening hours.
The Queen Anne Building in Edinburgh Castle is quite large and accommodates up to 120 people. It is for exclusive use for both the wedding ceremony and reception.
The fourth and last of the wedding venues inside Edinburgh's medieval fortress is St. Margaret's Chapel, the oldest building in the castle. Unfortunately it is quite small -- maximum capacity is 25 guests -- but quite atmospheric. It's also one of the best vantage points in Edinburgh.
How to make your wedding as Scottish as possible
You cannot get married in Edinburgh Castle without those Scottish details. Kilts are available for hire throughout the city. Having the groom, best man and other guests wear traditional or modern kilts ads to the atmosphere of your wedding. You can also hire a bagpiper or a harpist to play at your wedding.
>> Back to Edinburgh Castle guide index
All Edinburgh Castle articles:
History of Edinburgh Castle A few snippets of historical information regarding Edinburgh Castle and the One o'Clock Gun.
Edinburgh Castle photography Tips for taking pictures from and of Edinburgh Castle.
Edinburgh Castle as wedding venue Information on using Scotland's number one castle as a wedding venue.
Photos of Edinburgh Castle Picture gallery of Edinburgh's medieval fortress.
Attraction Details - Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh Castle tourist information including opening times, directions, entrance fees, contact info.
Edinburgh Castle on the web Links to other web pages related to Edinburgh Castle.
Also see:
Hotels near Edinburgh Castle Ideas for accommodation close to the Castle.
Tour of Edinburgh Castle Best things to see on an Edinburgh Castle tour.
Edinburgh attractions and sightseeing All of the best attractions in Edinburgh plus pictures and sightseeing tips.
