CASTLES

Brimming with history, you can exchange vows in impressive surroundings in these four stunning venues

Fingask Castle

Sherbrooke Castle Hotel

Literary fans will love this one A rural and romantic Perthshire venue, you’ll feel like the king and queen/king and king/queen and queen of the castle here as you cast your eyes over the River Tay to the Kingdom of Fife. Big wedding parties will love to eat, drink and dance in the spectacular pavilion, a modern and fully decorated space that’s super-flexible. You’ll get up to 200 guests in the Pavilion – or an impressive 250 by using its handy extension.

If you’re going for a larger celebration, you’ll be delighted to hear that the much-loved castle is set on a small estate that’s peppered with fully equipped self-catering cottages and luxury potting sheds – there’s space for up to 70 of your guests. Meanwhile, the bridal suite offers rooms for three couples (ideal for accommodating everyone during wedding prep) to stay in the lap of luxury. Simply sink into your sumptuous four poster bed and soak up the grandeur of the original paintings and furniture that surround you.

Looking for something smaller? The historic castle itself is perfect for intimate weddings of up to 40 – and, FYI, The Long Gallery has been called one of the prettiest rooms in Scotland. Outside, lose yourself in the magic of ‘Scotland’s surrealist garden’. You’ll find spectacular topiary staggering across the lawn, bumping into stone globes, marble balls and even a figure of Alice (in Wonderland). You’ll find other literary and historical characters scattered among the pleasure gardens, which date back to the 17th century… Literary buffs and photographers are going to love it here! fingaskcastle.co.uk

Live it up in this city castle Set in stunning grounds in a leafy suburb on the Southside of Glasgow, this magnificent castle has been transformed into a luxury four-star hotel. Hosting just one wedding per day, the rich red sandstone castle and its private gardens will be all yours.

There are suites and packages to suit one and all so go intimate or invite up to 200 of your nearest and dearest. Either way, rest assured you’ll be treated like a VIP, from your complimentary wedding stationery to a wedding breakfast made with only the finest Scottish produce. As the evening draws to a close, the hotel’s accommodation combines traditional grace with modern efficiency – opt for a beautifully appointed room that’s steeped in history or go for one of the contemporary suites.

Just ten minutes from Glasgow city centre, you couldn’t be more connected but saying “I do” nestled in this historic haven, you’ll feel anything but. sherbrookecastlehotel.com

Kilmartin Castle

This venue has all the charm When travelling around Scotland, Stef and Simo couldn’t find a castle to stay in that really ‘felt like a castle’ once inside. But when they stumbled upon Kilmartin Castle, they knew they’d found something special – life-changing in fact! In 2018, they left their jobs and headed to Kilmartin to create the Scottish castle experience they’d hoped to find as travellers themselves. And in 2019 they completed the exciting restoration, offering a sumptuous bed and breakfast experience unlike any other.

But why not take it a step further? This imaginatively and luxuriously renovated masterpiece is available for exclusive hire and would be just perfect for your relaxed and intimate micro-wedding. Kilmartin is rustic yet extravagant, grand yet cosy, and sleeps 10 exclusively for a minimum of three nights. Alternatively, it’ll fit eight for a B&B takeover for at least two nights. You’re really going to love it here.

We’ve completely fallen for the romantic atmosphere in the candlelit dining room, complete with original stone walls and a barrel-vaulted ceiling but must admit that, set in wild and unspoiled Argyll on the breathtaking west coast of Scotland, you’ll find as much beauty and splendour outside Kilmartin Castle as you will inside. kilmartincastle.com

Broomhall Castle

The one with a rich history History buffs will love the tales of Broomhall Castle near Stirling, built in 1874 and architecturally influenced by Balmoral Castle, the Queen’s official Scottish residence. When the Johnstone brothers (whose business was ship building and wool mills) fell out, the younger of the two built the castle with a tower from which to look down upon his elder brother. Unfortunately, their business fell into decline, and they sold up to an Italian riding school. Four years later, the castle became Clifford Park School for Boys.

During the Second World War, while the schoolmaster and boarders feasted outside, the castle went up in flames – a strategy that meant German planes bombing the Clyde shipyards could fly out over the Ochil Hills, guided by light of the burning building. Extensively damaged, the ruin was finally rebuilt in the 80s and used as a nursing home. The last part of its journey came in 2003 when the current family refurbished it with hosting in mind.

Now, the baronial mansion can be exclusively yours, whether you’re having a small wedding or one with up to 100 day guests – and a further 50 in the evening. Those who wish to stay can choose one of the 17 beautifully furnished, en-suite rooms. broomhallcastle.co.uk

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