HITCHED HIGHLANDS
IN THE
Everything You Need to Know Before Getting Married at One of Scotland’s Most Iconic Castles
A Borthwick Castle Wedding Guide
Why Choose Borthwick Castle for Your Wedding?
If you’re searching for a Scottish castle wedding venue, Borthwick Castle offers something rare.
It feels like a true destination wedding venue... historic, atmospheric, and completely immersive yet it’s just 30 minutes from Edinburgh and easily accessible for guests travelling from around the globe.
This is a venue for couples who want:
A full experience, not just a venue
Privacy and exclusivity
A wedding that feels timeless rather than trend-led
How Many Guests Can Borthwick Castle Hold?
One of the most important things to understand about Borthwick Castle is its intimate capacity.
Day guests: Up to approx. 60
Evening guests: Typically around 80 (depending on setup)
Accommodation: Around 10–12 bedrooms within the castle
This makes it ideal for:
Smaller, intentional weddings
Couples who want to spend real time with their guests
A full weekend experience rather than a single-day event
Ceremony Options at Borthwick Castle
The Great Hall (Most Popular)
The heart of the castle.
-
High ceilings and historic stone walls
-
Candlelit atmosphere
-
Long aisle with dramatic entrance
This is where most couples choose to say their vows — and it photographs beautifully.
Outdoor Ceremony (Weather Dependent)
The castle grounds offer a softer, natural alternative.
-
Views across the countryside
-
Perfect for spring and summer weddings
-
Can be paired with indoor backup
Intimate Ceremony Spaces
For smaller weddings, there are smaller rooms within the castle that create a more private, almost elopement-style feel.
Wedding Reception at Borthwick Castle
Receptions at Borthwick Castle lean into long-table dining and shared experience.
Expect:
-
Candlelit dinners in the Great Hall
-
Long banquet-style tables
-
Speeches echoing through stone walls
-
A relaxed, intimate evening atmosphere
This is not a large, high-energy ballroom.
It’s slower, more intentional, and deeply personal.
What Is Exclusive Use and Why It Matters
When you book Borthwick Castle, you get exclusive use of the entire venue.
That means:
-
No other weddings or guests
-
Full access to all rooms and grounds
-
A completely private experience
For many couples, this is what makes the venue so special.
It feels like the castle is yours for the day (or weekend).
Getting Ready at Borthwick Castle
The morning of your wedding is often overlooked — but here, it becomes part of the story.
-
Spacious historic rooms for bridal prep
-
Natural window light perfect for photography
-
Quiet, calm atmosphere
Everything happens in one place, which keeps the day feeling relaxed and connected.
Photography at Borthwick Castle
Borthwick Castle is known for its moody, editorial aesthetic.
Key features:
Deep shadows and contrast
Candlelight and firelight
Textured stone backdrops
Natural, documentary moments
It suits couples who prefer:
Honest storytelling
Less posed photography
A timeless, cinematic feel
Practical Information You Should Know
Location: Near Edinburgh, Scotland
Nearest airport: Edinburgh Airport (approx. 30 minutes)
Best for: 40–60 guest weddings
Style: Historic, atmospheric, intimate
Accommodation: On-site for close family or wedding party
Best Time of Year to Get Married Here
Spring: Fresh, soft light, quieter
Summer: Longer days, outdoor options
Autumn: Rich tones that complement the castle
Winter: Candlelight, fireplaces, and a truly intimate feel
Other Wedding Venues to Consider Nearby
If you love Borthwick Castle but want to explore similar options nearby, these are worth considering:
Dalhousie Castle
A slightly larger castle venue with spa facilities and a more traditional hotel feel.
Carberry Tower
Elegant estate venue with beautiful grounds and a lighter, more classic interior style.
Dundas Castle
A luxury castle venue with a grander scale and higher guest capacity.
Each offers a different take on the Scottish castle wedding experience, but Borthwick remains one of the most intimate and atmospheric.
Final Thoughts
A wedding at Borthwick Castle is about more than just the setting.
It’s about how the day feels.
Slower.
More connected.
Less about performance, more about presence.
For couples travelling from England or across the UK, it offers that perfect balance — a true Scottish wedding experience without the distance of the Highlands.
Supplier info for featured wedding -
Planning: @novuweddings on behalf of @timelesswhiteweddings
Photography: @wearethe_jamess
Design & Styling Genius: @junie_poonie
Fabric + Aerial Creatives: @boomtingbunting
Floral Design: @fauna_flower_folk
Videography: @lawsonfilmsuk
Venue: @borthwickcastle
DJ - @djcoast2coast