11 amazing venues for an outdoor wedding in Scotland 2024
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There’s nothing better than spending a day in the Scottish sunshine – except perhaps spending your wedding day in the Scottish sunshine, surrounded by all your favourite people and with tipples on tap all day long… Sounds amazing, doesn’t it?
Well, luckily for you we’ve rounded up the best venues in the country for hosting your nuptials in the great outdoors, whether you’re looking for manicured lawns that look like they’re fresh out of Bridgerton or a rugged shoreline that’s got more atmosphere than you can shake a stick at.
First, consider what you’re after (a romantic elopement with just the two of you, an intimate celebration for 20 or a grand ol’ knees up?) then read on to find out about our 11 favourite al fresco wedding venues, guaranteed to give you a wedding you’ll remember forever.
If you’re thinking big when it comes to guest numbers, take a look at Bachilton Barn where the outdoor capacity is listed as ‘Sky’s the limit’ – woohoo! Set within 700 acres of serene Perthshire countryside, the rustic converted barn is a beautiful backdrop for those planning to say ‘I do’ in the large outdoor area.
Mother nature has you covered here as the trees leading up to the gazebo form a perfect natural aisle, then the pond is a pretty spot for your romantic couple shots.
Meanwhile, your guests can mingle around the charming picnic benches. FYI, we’re in love with Bachilton Barn’s free online Couple’s Hub where to-be-weds get access to room measurements, décor lists, planning assistance and more. Stress-free wedmin, here we come!
Website | t. 01738 505722 | Email | Facebook | Instagram
Cornhill Castle’s sprawling grounds make it the perfect al fresco wedding venue. Set in the beautiful countryside in Biggar, just an hour from Glasgow and Edinburgh, couples can plan a magical castle wedding with a spectacular ceremony in the gorgeous grounds overlooking the banks of the River Clyde.
And if the Scottish sun isn’t shining? There’s a dedicated wedding pavilion decorated beautifully for the occasion.
Accommodating up to 180-day guests and 200 evening guests, Cornhill Castle offers various all-inclusive and bespoke wedding packages to suit you – plus a unique newlywed stay in the three-level Balmoral honeymoon suite in the turret of the castle… Lush!
The castle has stunning features and photo spots throughout, and a selection of accommodation (some with hot tubs), a restaurant and a bar.
Website | t. 01899 220001 | Email | Facebook | Instagram
Opulence, luxury, indulgence… If these are the themes you’re channelling for your big day, you’re going to want to explore Crossbasket Castle, complete with its atmospheric bedrooms (we’re talking ornate period-style beds and original antique chandeliers) and four-storey private bridal tower.
It also serves contemporary cuisine from the Roux culinary dynasty, don’t you know!
But this sensitively renovated 17th century castle is just as enchanting outside as it is inside.
The luxurious five-star hotel sits on a vast country estate overlooking the mesmerising waterfalls on the River Calder, and the manicured gardens with that magnificent castle backdrop create a vibe that couldn’t feel more like it’s straight out of a fairytale. Expect a truly magical experience here…
Dalmeny Park is an impeccable Scottish mansion, nestled within expansive and breathtaking gardens and grounds – perfect for al fresco nuptials.
The wedding planning team recommends exchanging your vows amid beautiful blooms and cherished loved ones at the Rose Garden on the exclusive patio.
Meanwhile, the bandstand provides an ideal location for your chosen melodies to the fill the air as you make your way down the aisle.
Post-ceremony, embrace the magic with an outdoor drinks’ reception.
With 20 luxurious bedrooms and suites, designed with comfort and style in mind, Dalmeny Park is made to make you feel at home. And with the Orchid Restaurant, bar and lounge offering fine food all day, you’ll want to extend your stay and prolong the celebrations.
Website | t. 0141 881 9211 | Email | Facebook | Instagram | X
Nestled on the Dougarie Estate on the Isle of Arran, this unique beach-side property is simply made for romantic outdoor weddings. Beautifully perched on the west coast of the island, exclusive use Dougarie Boathouse is brimming with dreamy ceremony spaces – outside at the boathouse, on the sandy beach just around the corner or even up at serene Loch Iorsa.
You’ll find loads of gorgeous nature-based photo opps at your fingertips too – the stepping stones over the River Iorsa and Dougarie Estate itself (it can be booked for photos even if you’re not staying there) are firm faves.
But make sure to head to the back of the Boathouse as the sun goes down over the sea because it’s photographer’s dream! Wet weather plan needed? The garden will fit a marquee if you need one.
Website | t. 01770 840259 | Email | Facebook | Instagram
Set in five acres of picturesque countryside amongst the foothills of Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, it’s no surprise Fruin Farm is an ideal destination for an al fresco wedding.
Marry under the lurching oak that sways over a dragonfly pond or on the front lawn, surrounded by fields and views down to the loch. And if a May wedding is what you are wanting then why not steal yourselves away to the bluebell woods for a photoshoot.
All while your chosen al fresco dining menu of pizza, hog roast or BBQ lingers in the air to whet the appetite.
If you don’t quite trust the Scottish weather, why not make Fruin Farm’s glass-fronted steading your contingency plan? You’ll still be able to enjoy the glorious vista of hills and Lochs that made you fall in love with the venue in the first place.
Lochside Hotel
If you want to marry next to the water, the enchantingly picturesque loch-side views at this venue will wow you. Lochside (see – it’s in the name!) has a spacious private patio right next to the loch where you can immerse yourself in the sounds of nature as they reverberate during your ceremony and toast to your newlywed status afterwards.
And if the weather doesn’t cooperate, you can dash indoors to the beautiful Glen Caol Suite.
After the day is over, you and your guests can retire to one of the luxury lodges then unwind in style post-wedding at the venue’s award-winning spa. Celebrate the fact wedding planning is over by pampering yourself with a range of treatments and relaxing in the inviting thermal suite.
Website | t. 01290 333000 | Email |Facebook | X
Nestled along breathtaking Scottish coastline, Marine North Berwick hotel offers an unforgettable setting for al fresco nuptials, with the iconic Bass Rock as your backdrop.
Dreaming of an outdoor ceremony? You’ll love the stunning private garden. And just steps from the hotel, you’ll find the beach, perfect for sunset wedding portraits and first looks.
In case of inclement weather, the venue’s Fidra Suite and its floor-to-ceiling windows offer a perfect alternative for bringing the outdoors in, with views of the Firth of Forth over to Craigleith.
The hotel also boasts newly renovated guest rooms, a scenic bar and restaurant and a tranquil spa – everything you need to celebrate in style.
PS Did you know Marine North Berwick was named National Wedding Hotel of the Year 2023 by Hotels of the Year Scotland?
Website | t. 01620 897300 | Email | Facebook | Instagram
Often couples who put the planet at the heart of everything they do look for a wedding destination that has the same ethos – and Philiphaugh Estate is a lovely example of this.
But that’s not it’s only draw to this Selkirk venue. As soon as you stroll through the picturesque woodlands and step through the wrought iron gates of this charming place, you’ll be surrounded by apple trees, beautiful flowers and scented herbs – and you’ll find it’s a versatile space to create a dream day with the help of the expert team.
They know all the tips and tricks to enhance an al fresco celebration, from fruity cocktails using apples fresh from the orchard to crafting a bouquet from the florals and greenery on-site. Oh, did we mention… The historic venue’s Victorian Walled Garden has just opened… Swoon!
Website | t. 01750 21766 | Email | Facebook | instagram
Let us set the scene… romantic sea views with the Isle of Arran in the distance, an iconic lighthouse and that beautiful dusky light – you can only have arrived at Trump Turnberry, a truly exquisite place in which to tie the knot.
This iconic five-star luxury Ayrshire venue is true to its word when it promises exceptional wedding packages, because where else can you enjoy the opulence of horses in white plumes and a magnificent carriage in which to ride after your vows?
The luxurious theme continues inside too, from the Grand Ballroom (the largest in Scotland) with its sparkling chandeliers and chic outdoor terrace to the utterly divine accommodation and beautiful on-site ishga spa.
Want to enjoy the great outdoors the morning after too? Book the world-class Links golf course or clay pigeon shooting and take in the surroundings.
website | t. 01655 333 991 | Email | facebook | instagram | X
A marquee wedding is a pretty yet practical way to take advantage of all the joys of a getting married in the fresh air whilst making sure you have somewhere to shelter should the heavens open during your special day – and we’ve got just the place for you to make it all happen.
Millearne Gardens is a secluded setting with picturesque Perthshire views, lovely landscaped gardens and a grand country home backdrop.
Exclusively yours for the day, you can erect whichever structure you like (chic marquee, funky tipi or rustic yurt?) and decorate it how you wish – let your creative juices flow, to-be-weds!
When the celebrations are over, retire to the lovingly restored bridal suite, which sits in the original stables of Millearne House and was originally the chauffeur’s quarters.
Website | t. 07545 454 857 | Email | Facebook | Instagram
Have you got your hearts set on a micro-wedding?
Make sure you check out our round-up of some of the most stunning venues from across the country here
