When The Howard Edinburgh closed its doors, it left a space in the city’s luxury wedding scene. But couples planning a romantic Scottish celebration are spoiled for choice — Edinburgh is a city of grand hotels, exclusive-use estates, and fairytale castles. Here are five of our favourite venues that carry on the tradition of elegance, intimacy, and unforgettable celebrations.
Prestonfield House
Just five minutes from Edinburgh’s Old Town, Prestonfield House is a masterclass in glamour and theatre. The interiors are a riot of colour and texture — velvet, gold leaf, and oil paintings — making every corner photograph-ready.
Weddings at Prestonfield
Ceremonies can be held in the rose-filled gardens or inside the Stables Ballroom with its sweeping drapes and candlelit drama. After the vows, treat your guests to Champagne on the lawn before moving inside for a grand dinner.
- Capacity: Up to 400 for a reception, 180 for a seated dinner
- Exclusive Use: Available for full buyout, including 23 opulent bedrooms
- Style: Baroque, decadent, luxurious
Newhall Estate
For couples seeking a countryside escape without losing easy access to the city, Newhall Estate is a gem. Located just 12 miles from Edinburgh, the estate spans over 1,000 acres and includes a walled garden, woodlands, and a picturesque reservoir.
Weddings at Newhall
This is an exclusive-use venue, which means your wedding feels like a private country house weekend. Hold your ceremony outdoors in the gardens or in the bright Coach House, then enjoy dinner in a marquee or barn-style setting.
- Capacity: Around 150 guests
- Exclusive Use: Yes, including accommodation for up to 40 guests on-site
- Style: Countryside romance, private estate elegance
Carlowrie Castle
Carlowrie Castle brings together heritage, design, and a thoroughly modern approach to weddings. Just 20 minutes from central Edinburgh, the castle sits in 32 acres of manicured grounds.
Weddings at Carlowrie
Couples can host a ceremony in the orangery-style marquee, on the lawn with the castle façade as a backdrop, or inside the stately drawing rooms. The castle is available for exclusive use, ensuring total privacy for your celebration.
- Capacity: 50–450 guests, depending on space and setup
- Exclusive Use: Yes, including 9 luxury bedrooms for up to 18 guests
- Style: Grand, romantic, exclusive-use
Dundas Castle
If a fairytale castle is your dream, Dundas delivers in spectacular style. Located just outside Edinburgh, this 15th-century castle is privately owned and only available for exclusive hire.
Weddings at Dundas Castle
The Auld Keep is perfect for an atmospheric ceremony by candlelight, while the Pavilion offers a light-filled space for larger celebrations. The lawns and terrace create beautiful settings for photos and drinks receptions with sweeping views.
- Capacity: Up to 200 for a seated dinner
- Exclusive Use: Yes, including 17 luxurious bedrooms
- Style: Fairytale castle, heritage elegance
The Balmoral
No list of Edinburgh wedding venues is complete without The Balmoral. Standing proudly on Princes Street, this Rocco Forte hotel epitomises city sophistication, offering views of the Castle and the Scott Monument.
Weddings at The Balmoral
Say “I do” in the Sir Walter Scott Suite with its lofty ceilings and crystal chandeliers, then host an elegant dinner in one of the hotel’s grand salons. The Balmoral is ideal for couples seeking a central location and the buzz of Edinburgh on their doorstep.
- Capacity: Around 260 guests in the main ballroom
- Exclusive Use: Partial exclusivity available (ballroom and salons)
- Style: Classic city glamour, luxury five-star service
Why Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city that wears its romance on its sleeve. Cobbled streets, historic architecture, sweeping views from Calton Hill — it’s a city that offers atmosphere by the bucketload. With these venues, you have the best of both worlds: grand city glamour, countryside seclusion, and castle magic, all within a short drive.
Plan Your Edinburgh Celebration
Whether you imagine an intimate city dinner, a castle weekend with all your favourite people, or a full-scale celebration under the stars, these venues can make it happen. Contact the 5 Star Wedding Travel Team for availability, pricing, and tailored recommendations for your perfect Edinburgh wedding.