KEEP THE FAITH

Located at the eastern edge of Edinburgh’s New Town, Mansfield Traquair is known as “Edinburgh’s Sistine Chapel” and it’s easy to see why. When artist Phoebe Anna Traquair was first commissioned by the Catholic Apostolic Church, the intention was to create a church filled with paintings of apocalyptic and biblical scenes. Yet far from being an imposing setting for your wedding, the brilliant colours of the murals make for a truly captivating space. One of Mansfield Traquair’s main attractions is its versatility. Behind the iconic red doors lies a huge and flexible space, ready to use as you wish. Whether you want a seven-piece band, to conga round the tables, or watch aerial artists swing from silks, this is the perfect setting. mansfieldtraquair.co.uk

Mark Wild Photography

Òran Mór

Òran Mór started life as Kelvinside Parish Church back in 1862 and has been a stalwart of Glasgow’s West End ever since. Now a thriving arts and entertainment venue, with a Gaelic name meaning “great melody of life” or “big song”, Òran Mór retains all its religious fixtures for a truly aweinspiring setting for your wedding. Traditional church features blend seamlessly with contemporary additions like the celestial ceiling mural by acclaimed Scottish artist and author Alasdair Gray. You’ll love how the space is flooded with natural light and original stained glass windows really set the scene for your big day. More intimate ceremonies are held in the gallery while larger weddings are accommodated in the stunning auditorium. oran-mor.co.uk/weddings/

Whatever your own personal beliefs, there’s no denying that when it comes to sheer drama, religious buildings have it by the bucket-load. From lofty cathedrals reaching high up to the heavens, to more humble village churches, venues with a spiritual leaning are always sure to impress.

Morris-Jones Photography

The Harbour Chapel

For couples who love all the atmosphere of religious spaces, The Harbour Chapel in Dunbar, East Lothian is well worth shortlisting. The former church retains all of its original features from the scallop shelled oak pulpit and the balcony, to the magnificent stained glass windows that originate from St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh. The beautifully restored Wesleyan Chapel is the oldest in Scotland and dates back to 1764. Today though, along with the original pews and wooden carvings you’ll find a fully stocked bar to have your ceremony and reception all in the one beautiful, ecclesiastic space. The elegant banqueting tables can seat up to 80 for dining and a further 40 guests can then join the evening celebrations. harbourchapel.com

Nicholas Frost Photography When only a grand country house will do for your wedding, Haddo House is definitely worth considering. Designed by William Adam in 1732 and home to the Gordon family for over 250 years, this grand Palladian-style mansion in Aberdeenshire has everything you could wish for. Having played host to its fair share of royalty and dignitaries, it’s the perfect setting for all your honoured guests. Inside the house itself, you’ll have the pick of the Library and Drawing Room for your ceremony but if you’re opting for a religious ceremony the beautiful chapel within the grounds is the picture-perfect spot for your vows. Ceremonies for all Christian denominations are welcome and there’s room for 110 guests within its hallowed walls. nts.org.uk/venue-hire/haddo-house/weddings

Drum Castle

Dating back to the 13th century, Drum Castle has all the history and romance you could wish for in a wedding venue. Within its thick stone walls, you’ll find elegant reception rooms, including the restored Library where you can hold a ceremony for up to 50 guests. However, nestled in the castle’s grounds you’ll find Drum’s 16th-century chapel which can provide the beautiful backdrop for a religious ceremony.

Exposed stone and wooden beams marry with stained glass, to create an intimate space for 45 guests to witness your ‘I do’s’. After the ceremony, delight in the castle’s gardens and extensive grounds - perfect for your photographs. Then you can host your wedding breakfast in the castle’s impressive Dining Room (capacity 50) or, for larger weddings, erect a marquee in the grounds. nts.org.uk/venue-hire/drum-castle/weddings

Dunglass Estate

Once described by Robert Burns as “The most romantic sweet place I ever saw,” Dunglass Estate is ideally located on the border between East Lothian and the Scottish Borders. The estate has everything from a rugged coastline to ancient woodland and beautifully landscaped gardens. But the pièce de resistance has to be the half-ruined 15thcentury Dunglass Church. The building fell out of religious use during the Reformation and was used as a farm building in the 1700s but it’s now favoured by countless couples, carried away by the romance of marrying in the historical building. Then following your ceremony you’ll love the recently refurbished events venue within the estate. The décor is light and airy and there’s plenty of space for dancing. dunglassestate.com