By Scotland’s Leading Wedding & Elopement Planner, Weddings by Sara Jane

When it comes to locations for a romantic elopement wedding, Scotland gives you almost too much to choose from.  So where to begin?  Here’s a run down on top wedding planner, Sara Jane’s favorite locations for a stunning elopement wedding in Scotland:

1. The Lodge on Loch Goil

It’s not everyday you get the chance to get married in your own private treehouse overlooking a loch, and this stunning spot is part of a beautiful country hotel and lodge where you can not only enjoy a ceremony in the most spectacular spot, but also benefit from the cosy accommodation and on site wedding team.  For more info visit the Lodge.

2. Crossbasket Castle

Imagine getting married in your own private castle turret, followed by a romantic meal for two in your own private dining room, all topped off with luxury castle accommodation and superb catering and staff?  This is what the quirky little Crossbasket castle has to offer.  For more info visit Crossbasket Castle. 

3. The Island of Skye

When you think of a Scottish elopement, the magnificent Island of Skye is probably top of your list of destination with the most stunning landscapes and a wide range of historic castles and ruins, none more infamous than the breathtaking Eilean Donan.  This location is the perfect choice for couples looking for a truly wild elopement with the gorgeous landscapes as the focal point of their celebration.

4.  The Boathouse at Ardanaiseig

Having traveled the lengths and breadth of Scotland, few places rival this gem in terms of raw potential for dramatic photography.  Nestled on the banks of the beautiful Loch Awe, the lovely countryside hotel of Ardanaiseig offers it’s Boathouse as the ideal location for a honeymooning couple, where you can benefit from the accommodation and hotel services and also enjoy a stunning ceremony location on the banks of the loch.

5.  St. Anthony’s Chapel Ruins

This quirky little location is about the closest thing we have in terms of wedding venues for a city wedding with wild landscapes:  St Anthony’s Chapel Ruins.  Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Holyrood Park with spectacular view across the city, it offers the ideal location for an outdoor ceremony steeped in history, followed by a photoshoot in one of the world’s most vibrant and energetic citites.  Applications to marry at this gorgeous location are through the Park Ranger.

6.  Prestonfield House

If it’s drama you’re after, then Prestonfield House offers in in spades.  This is one of the most quirky and opulent venues in Scotland with famous past guests including Winston Churchill and Elton John.  The unique decor is perfect for a cosy, winter wedding celebration and the venue offers packages tailored to eloping couples to include accommodation in one of their gorgeous suites with a private ceremony and dinner in their small, but perfectly formed function rooms.

7.  Dunnottar Castle Ruins

This venue is one I really love with unparalleled views and a true atmosphere of Scotland, the ancient castle ruins at Dunnottar is the ideal location for a romantic Scottish elopement.  We plan numerous weddings at this stunning location every year, complete with an elopement package at a local country lodge or castle hotel where you can enjoy a champagne reception, romantic meal and luxury accommodation after your rugged outdoor ceremony.

8.  Dalhousie Castle

If it’s your dream to get married in a truly traditional Scottish Castle, then look no further than the beautiful Dalhousie Castle, located just outside Edinburgh.  With four poster beds and curling turrets, you really do feel like you’re in an ancient castle and the venue tailor packages to fit eloping couples which includes everything they will need for their stay.  Get married in the stunning chapel with a ring delivery by owl, paraded by a traditional bagpiper and then eat dinner in the magnificent castle dungeon before retiring to your suite.

9. The City of Glasgow

For adventurous couples, Glasgow city offers a truly urban experience where you can enjoy the best of Scottish Hospitality in the thick of the city filled with entertainment and stunning architecture.  Choose from a wide array of bars, restaurants and historic buildings for your ceremony and then wander the city with your photographer to capture images of your big day.

10. Glenapp Castle

This is a venue that encapsulates everything Scotland has to offer, from the rugged clifftop setting and amazing landscapes to luxury castle accommodation.  I always think of this as the perfect fairytale setting offering the very best of both worlds. The castle comes with the benefit of all the luxury of a wedding castle but you still have the beautiful landscape on the doorstep.  With an array of local activities from picnics to private boat trips, this is the ideal setting for a romantic elopement to Scotland.

For help planning your dream elopement to Scotland, visit Weddings By Sara Jane