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Best wedding venues to get married in Edinburgh
This wedding season I visited some new Edinburgh wedding venues as well as getting to work at my favourite ones again. Whenever someone asks about wedding venues in Edinburgh there are a few I can recommend as a great place to get married:
Outdoor ceremony wedding venues
Getting married outdoors in Scotland is never a bad idea, and many venues provide both options for an indoor and an outdoor wedding ceremony.
The Royal Botanic Garden
I have worked at the Botanics many times, mostly capturing weddings at the Caledonian Hall. The Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh is a stunning place to get married, no matter the time of year. It’s especially spectacular in spring, when the trees are in bloom, and in autumn, when the garden is filled with vibrant yellow and red foliage. The Caledonian Hall was recently refurbished, and I was really impressed with the décor! There are several options for a wedding ceremony at the Botanics, with John Muir Grove being the most popular ( for obvious reasons! ).
Hayley & Jack’s Botanic Garden wedding
Prestonfield Hotel
Prestonfield House, offers a truly opulent and theatrical wedding experience. This 5-star luxury hotel provides a range of versatile spaces to accommodate different wedding sizes. For grand celebrations, the Stables Ballroom can host between 120 to 500 guests, equipped with professional sound and lighting. For more intimate gatherings, their elegant dining rooms, such as the Rhubarb Restaurant, cater to smaller parties. Additionally, the stunning garden lawns provide a picturesque outdoor setting, ideal for drinks receptions and wedding ceremony.
Micro wedding venues in Edinburgh
Micro weddings have become increasingly popular since lockdown, and even now, with no restrictions, many couples still prefer an intimate celebration with their closest family and friends. As a result, small wedding venues are in high demand, and some larger venues have started offering. micro wedding packages too.
The Timberyard
Timberyard is an award-winning restaurant set in a former warehouse, just a short walk from the Grassmarket. I love its stylish industrial aesthetic, which creates a unique setting for intimate weddings. There’s also a small courtyard, perfect for wedding ceremonies and drinks receptions. With a capacity of 75, Timberyard is best suited for small celebrations and micro weddings. For bride and groom portraits, I recommend a short walk to the Vennel, just around the corner, for stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. A dream venue for food lovers, Timberyard’s dishes are true works of art!
Riddle’s Court
You might have lived in Edinburgh your whole life and never noticed this charming yellow building on the Royal Mile. Riddle’s Court, an A-listed tenement with its distinctive external staircase and quirky character, is a hidden gem. A relatively new wedding venue, it offers an excellent alternative to City Chambers for intimate celebrations. Perfect for small weddings and elopements, it can host up to 60 guests for a meal in The Library. For wedding photos, there are plenty of great spots nearby, including the Grassmarket and the area around St Giles’ Cathedral.
Unique Wedding Venues in Edinburgh with a Vibe
I’m always excited to discover new wedding venues, especially those that break away from the traditional hotel or castle setting. Unusual venues bring a unique atmosphere to a wedding and make for a truly memorable experience.
The Old Dr Bell’s Baths
Once a Victorian swimming pool, Dr Bell’s Baths is a truly unique wedding venue in the heart of Leith. With its high ceilings and abundance of natural light, it’s a dream setting for wedding photography. This venue is perfect for couples who love a DIY approach, allowing them to create a personalised and one-of-a-kind celebration. There’s also a small courtyard, ideal for a drinks reception and group photos. While it’s located near a busy street, there are plenty of great photo spots just a short walk away.
Laura & Ali’s wedding at the Old Dr Bell’s Baths
Edinburgh Zoo
Edinburgh Zoo is one of the most unique and quirky venues in the city to get married! While the park is a popular visitor attraction, weddings take place in The Mansion House, a separate building full of character. Ceremonies are held in the MacMillan Room, which offers stunning views of the Pentland Hills. After saying “I do,” couples can take a stroll through the zoo with their guests, visiting the famous penguins and other parts of the park. A wedding at the zoo is a truly unforgettable experience!
Megan & Chris’ animal themed wedding at the Edinburgh Zoo
City Centre wedding venues
There’s nothing more convenient than getting married right in the heart of Edinburgh. With easy access to transport links, accommodation, and some of the city’s most iconic locations for photos, a central wedding venue makes planning seamless.
The Balmoral Hotel
An iconic luxury hotel, The Balmoral is one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious wedding venues, offering breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat. Couples getting married here even have exclusive access to the rooftop for unforgettable photos. The hotel boasts 10 elegant event suites, accommodating up to 400 guests, making it ideal for both intimate celebrations and grand weddings. Known for its exceptional dining, attentive staff, and impeccable service, The Balmoral ensures a seamless and sophisticated wedding experience. Plus, its prime location next to Waverley Station makes it a perfect choice for destination weddings.
Sarah & Toby’s destination wedding at the Balmoral Hotel
The Signet Library
A stunning Georgian venue just off the Royal Mile, The Signet Library offers timeless elegance with its grand architecture and atmospheric library setting. Perfect for couples who love classic and sophisticated surroundings. The Signet Library is a unique and elegant wedding venue in the heart of Edinburgh, accommodating up to 220 guests. Wedding ceremonies take place in the atmospheric Lower Library, while the Upper Library, with its grand columns and ornate ceiling, provides a stunning setting for the wedding meal and evening celebrations. The venue’s impressive staircase is perfect for family group photos, and its location next to St Giles’ Cathedral offers plenty of beautiful backdrops for newlywed portraits.
More unique wedding venues in Edinburgh
Nestled at the foot of the Pentland Hills, The Free Company is a farm shop and seasonal restaurant offering a simple, rustic setting with incredible food. Located in Balerno, it’s a perfect alternative to traditional wedding venues, ideal for couples looking for a relaxed countryside vibe.
The Biscuit Factory
An industrial-style venue in Leith, The Biscuit Factory hosts a variety of events, including unique urban weddings. Its top-floor space can accommodate up to 120 guests, making it a great choice for couples looking for a stylish, city-chic celebration.
Collective
Located on Calton Hill, Collective offers an intimate setting within the City Observatory, perfect for elopements and micro weddings of up to 40 guests. Catering is provided by The Lookout by Gardener’s Cottage, and with panoramic views over Edinburgh, it’s hard to find a wedding venue with a more stunning backdrop.
