Best East Lothian Wedding Venues: The Ultimate Guide
Known as “Scotland’s Sunshine Coast,” East Lothian wedding venues offer some of the most spectacular wedding settings in Scotland. Just a short drive from Edinburgh, this region combines rolling countryside, dramatic clifftops, and golden beaches with some of the finest historic estates in the UK.
As Edinburgh wedding photographers who frequently work along this beautiful coastline, we have had the privilege of capturing love stories at many of the region’s top spots. Whether you are looking for a rustic barn, a grand seaside hotel, or an exclusive-use estate, East Lothian has it all.
Below is our curated list of the best East Lothian wedding venues we have photographed and filmed. Click the links to see full galleries and real wedding stories from each stunning location.
We promise to create fabulous photos of you on your wedding day in East Lothian, but don’t just take our word for it:
Zoe and BillyJonathon and Claire are the loviest couple.. from our very first communication they made us feel special and were so interested in who we are as people! They tailored everything just for us, and had they not radiated such beauty and kindness, we wouldn’t have even known they were there… and for two people like us who HATE getting photos taken, we had a great time and felt so comfortable!
We got married on 31st December, and they gave up their own celebrations with their families to help us capture ours...
We truly hit the jackpot, and wouldn’t ever trust anyone else to capture our special celebrations and moments!
Please don’t pass up the opportunity on having these two look after your special day! Very trustworthy and fantastic value for money.
Helen and DanielJonathon and Claire - we cannot thank you both enough for being the best - from start to finish, it has been a dream to work with you both! If you are reading this and considering booking - DO IT!!
Thank you both SO MUCH for everything, we absolutely love our wedding pictures and how beautifully you have captured our day and the memories we’ll have forever - we are still so blown away by how perfectly everything turned out and on an absolute high!
We also wanted to say how grateful we are to have had you both at our wedding. You were just such a joy to be around and put us both at ease.
You got us and the vibe of the day so perfectly, and our family and friends have also said how brilliant you both were! Thank you so much!!! Helen & Daniel xxx
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Plan Your Dream Wedding on Scotland’s Sunshine Coast (2025 & Beyond)
After 20 years and over 700 weddings, we know East Lothian inside out. We haven’t just listed these East Lothian wedding venues; we’ve curated the ultimate guide based on real experience, categorised and alphabetised to help you find your perfect match.
Pro Tip: Once you’ve explored the venues, make sure to read our essential guide on Important Questions to Ask a Wedding Photographer.
Found your venue? Now let’s find your photographers.
Luxury Estates & Manors
Archerfield House
Located near North Berwick, Archerfield House is the definition of luxury and is worthy of being one of our top East Lothian wedding venues.
Whether you choose the grandeur of the main house or the stunning Waterfront pavilion with views across the Forth, this venue offers impeccable service and style.
It is a massive estate with a spa, golf courses, and endless photo opportunities.
Broxmouth Courtyard
Steeped in history and famously the spot where Queen Victoria planted a tree, Broxmouth Park is an exclusive-use venue near Dunbar.
With its private lake, stunning “Hill of Time” for portraits, and a rustic yet elegant courtyard for your reception, it is a favourite for couples who want total privacy and natural beauty.
Carberry Tower
Steeped in royal history (a young Queen Elizabeth II frequently stayed here), Carberry Tower near Musselburgh is the epitome of a fairytale castle.
With its rose garden, sweeping staircase, and impressive rooms, it offers a magnificent setting that feels both grand and intimate. A must-see among East Lothian wedding venues.
Dunglass Estate
Perched on the edge of the cliffs, Dunglass Estate is arguably one of the most romantic venues in Scotland and one of our favourite East Lothian wedding venues.
Its 15th-century Gothic church ruin is a breathtaking spot for ceremonies, while the modern pavilion offers a fantastic space for parties.
The sea views and secret gardens make it a photographer’s dream.
Royal Musselburgh Golf Course
Located at the gateway to the East Lothian coast, this historic club offers a picturesque woodland setting with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The main Function Suite is a versatile, bright space overlooking the parkland course, making it a great choice for couples seeking flexibility, excellent catering, and scenic green backdrops for their photos.
Churches & Religious Ceremonies
Dirleton Kirk
Located just across the green from the castle, Dirleton Kirk is a picturesque 17th-century church set in one of Scotland’s prettiest villages.
The Archerfield Aisle offers a historic touch, and the short walk to the ruins of Dirleton Castle for newlywed photos makes it a logistically perfect ceremony spot.
Gladsmuir Church
Sitting quietly between Tranent and Haddington, Gladsmuir Church is a hidden gem among East Lothian wedding venues for couples seeking a traditional, peaceful ceremony.
Its ruined original walls in the churchyard add a touch of history, while the active church offers a warm, welcoming space for your vows.
Our Lady Star of the Sea
This intimate Roman Catholic church in North Berwick is a beautiful setting we’ve had the pleasure of photographing and filming at on many occasions.
Situated two minutes from the seafront, it allows you to have a meaningful religious service followed by newlywed portraits on the beach.
Coastal & Historic Hotels
Marine North Berwick
Overlooking the West Bay and the iconic Bass Rock, the Marine Hotel is a Victorian grand dame, beautifully restored and one of our top East Lothian wedding venues.
It offers all the grandeur of a coastal resort with stylish, modern interiors. It is perfect for couples seeking the classic “seaside chic” vibe with luxury service.
The Venue at Eskmills
Located in Musselburgh on the banks of the River Esk, The Venue At Eskmills is a fantastic blend of industrial heritage and modern design, and one of the most popular East Lothian wedding venues due to its proximity to Edinburgh.
This restored mill features exposed brickwork, a large courtyard, and a spacious, light-filled interior, making it highly versatile for parties of all sizes.
Historic & Dramatic
Dirleton Castle
For pure romance, it is hard to beat the ruins of Dirleton Castle.
Managed by Historic Environment Scotland, this 13th-century fortress features some of the most beautiful gardens in the country (including the world’s longest herbaceous border).
It is a spectacular backdrop for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and couple portraits.
Bonus: Best Engagement Spots
Yellowcraig Beach
While not a wedding venue itself, Yellowcraig Beach near Dirleton is one of our absolute favourite spots for pre-wedding engagement shoots.
With views of Fidra Island (the inspiration for Treasure Island) and sweeping dunes, it is the perfect place to get comfortable in front of the camera before your big day.
Tyninghame Beach
With its long, secluded beaches and clifftop walk, Tyninghame Beach has long been a favourite location for us, both for couples’ photo shoots and long walks with our dog.
Fantastic views of the Bass Rock offer a striking backdrop for picture-perfect moments.
Gosford Estate
Located near Longniddry, Gosford Estate is a hidden treasure trove for photography. Gosford House is the main building on the estate and is quite possibly the grandest of all East Lothian wedding venues.
With its dramatic neoclassical mansion, ornate ponds, and wild woodlands, it offers an incredible variety of backdrops in one location.
It is ideal for couples seeking a blend of architectural grandeur and natural beauty for their pre-wedding photos.
A Complete Guide to Planning an East Lothian Wedding
East Lothian is described as Scotland’s answer to the “Hamptons.” It offers a rare combination of golden coastline, rolling agricultural land, and high-end luxury that rivals anything on offer elsewhere in the UK.
For couples who want the convenience of Edinburgh (most venues are within 30-40 minutes of the city) but the escapism of the countryside, this region is unrivalled. As experienced East Lothian wedding photographers, we find that the quality of light here is distinct from the city—softer, warmer, and perfect for cinematic wedding photos and films.
Choosing Your Wedding Style on the Coast
One of the main reasons we recommend East Lothian wedding venues to couples is the sheer variety of architectural styles available within a small geographic area.
The “Exclusive Use” Experience
If privacy is your priority, East Lothian is home to some of Scotland’s finest exclusive-use estates. East Lothian wedding venues like Broxmouth Courtyard and Dunglass Estate allow you to take over the entire property for a weekend. This is ideal for “house party”- style weddings where you want to host a BBQ the night before or brunch the morning after, extending the celebration beyond one day.
Rustic Barns & Industrial Chic
You don’t need to travel to the Highlands to find rustic charm. The region has a strong agricultural heritage, meaning converted barns and mills are a speciality. The Venue at Eskmills and the rustic spaces at Broxmouth cater to couples seeking a relaxed, festoon-lit atmosphere that looks incredible in candid photos.
Historic Castles & Grand Houses
For those seeking drama, the coastline is dotted with historic fortifications. While Tantallon Castle (a ruin on the cliffs) is a spectacular backdrop for portraits, fully functioning East Lothian wedding venues like Archerfield House offer the grandeur of a stately home with modern 5-star amenities.
The Photographer’s Perspective: Light & Locations
From a photography perspective, East Lothian is unique due to its orientation. Many of the beaches face north and east, but the curve of the coastline means you can catch stunning sunrises and dramatic sunsets.
The “Golden Hour”
The open, flat landscapes of the farmlands around Haddington and Dunbar mean the sun remains visible for longer in the evening than in the city centre, where buildings block the light. This gives us a longer window for those romantic “golden hour” portraits just before dusk.
Beach Photography Logistics
If you plan to visit spots like Yellowcraig or Tyninghame for photos, we always recommend bringing a spare pair of flat shoes! The dunes offer some of the most romantic scenery in Scotland—wild grass, soft sand, and views out to the Bass Rock—but they are best enjoyed comfortably.
Travel & Accommodation for Guests
A significant advantage of an East Lothian wedding is accessibility. The A1 runs like a spine through the county, making travel from Edinburgh fast and direct.
Trains
The North Berwick and Dunbar lines are reliable and fast (North Berwick is just 33 mins from Waverley), allowing guests to stay in the city if they prefer.
Local Stays
Unlike remote Highland venues where accommodation is scarce, towns like North Berwick, Gullane, and Dunbar are packed with high-quality B&Bs, boutique hotels, and golf resorts, ensuring your 100+ guests have plenty of options nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions About East Lothian Weddings
Why is East Lothian known as the “Sunshine Coast”?
East Lothian famously has a microclimate that makes it one of the sunniest and driest regions in Scotland. For couples concerned about unpredictable Scottish weather, venues here—such as Dunglass Estate or Archerfield—offer a higher likelihood of a dry wedding day than those on the west coast or in the Highlands.
How far is East Lothian from Edinburgh for wedding guests?
It is incredibly accessible. Most major East Lothian wedding venues (such as The Marine North Berwick or Carberry Tower) are just a 20 to 45-minute drive from Edinburgh city centre via the A1. This makes it easy for guests to stay in the city and travel out, or for you to hire transport for the day.
What are the best beach wedding locations in East Lothian?
If you want sea views, Dunglass Estate and The Marine North Berwick overlook the coast directly. For engagement shoots or elopements, Yellowcraig Beach (with views of Fidra Island) and Tyninghame Beach offer stunning, unspoiled backdrops that look incredible in wedding photos, especially at sunset.
Are there many barn wedding venues in East Lothian?
Yes, East Lothian is home to some of Scotland’s finest rustic and barn venues. The Venue at Eskmills offers a restored industrial vibe, while estates like Broxmouth Courtyard provide a more traditional, exclusive-use rustic setting surrounded by woodland.
When is the best time of year to get married in East Lothian?
Because of the “Sunshine Coast” microclimate, outdoor weddings are viable here from May through September. As photographers, we particularly love October, when the harvest light hits the golden fields and coastline, creating some of the most cinematic wedding photos imaginable.
Let’s Tell Your Story at The Best East Lothian Wedding Venues
We are Claire and Jonathon, a couple of photographers at East Lothian wedding venues with over 700 weddings of experience. If you love our natural, joyful style, we would be honoured to hear your plans.
