Photography & Best Midlothian Wedding Venues Guide
Just minutes from Edinburgh, Midlothian offers a wide variety of wedding settings, from the rolling Pentland Hills to historic fortresses and luxury steading conversions.
As wedding photographers who frequently capture love stories in this historic county, we have had the privilege of working at many of the region’s finest spots. Because we know these Midlothian wedding venues so well, we created this guide to help you find the perfect setting. Whether you are looking for a dramatic castle, a rustic barn, or a peaceful church ceremony, Midlothian has it all.
Midlothian offers the perfect balance of rolling countryside and city convenience, often just a stone’s throw from the bypass. We know this region intimately. If you are looking for a team that understands the lay of the land at venues like Dalhousie Castle and Borthwick Castle, explore our work as award-winning Edinburgh wedding photographers to see how we capture these local estates.
Below is our curated list of the best Midlothian 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 Midlothian, 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
Plan Your Dream Wedding in Midlothian (2026 & Beyond)
After photographing hundreds of weddings, we know that Midlothian offers the perfect balance of rural beauty and city accessibility. We haven’t just listed these venues; we’ve curated this guide based on real experience to help you find your perfect match.
Pro Tip: Once you’ve explored the venues, be sure to read our essential guide, “Important Questions to Ask a Wedding Photographer.”
Found your venue? Now, let’s discuss your wedding photography.
Check our wedding photography prices For 2026 & Beyond
Full-day coverage, half-day options, and transparent packages to fit your day.
Midlothian Wedding Venues Map
Historic Castles
Dalhousie Castle
As Scotland’s oldest inhabited castle, Dalhousie Castle is one of our favourite Midlothian wedding venues and offers a truly authentic historic experience just minutes from the city bypass.
With its own private chapel, a dungeon for unique drinks receptions, and a falconry that can deliver your rings during the ceremony, it creates an unforgettable atmosphere for a fairytale wedding.
Melville Castle
Located on a secluded estate on the outskirts of Edinburgh, Melville Castle offers the grandeur of a country house hotel with a relaxed, welcoming vibe.
Surrounded by 54 acres of woodland and featuring a beautiful marquee option, it is ideal for couples seeking a fairytale setting with the convenience of being close to the city.
Borthwick Castle
Steeped in 600 years of history and famously a refuge for Mary, Queen of Scots, Borthwick Castle is one of the most spectacular exclusive-use Midlothian wedding venues.
Its dramatic Great Hall, twin towers, and luxurious bedchambers make it the ultimate choice for a grand, history-filled celebration.
Oxenfoord Castle
Set in glorious parkland near Pathhead, Oxenfoord Castle is a hidden gem designed by Robert Adam.
It offers exclusive use, magnificent gardens for your portraits, and a stunning library for your ceremony.
One of our Midlothian wedding venues, offering a perfect location for couples seeking a private, elegant country-house feel.
Country Estates, Barns & Unique Venues
Glencorse House
Nestled in the foothills of the Pentland Hills, Glencorse House is one of our romantic, exclusive-use Midlothian wedding venues that feels miles from anywhere.
It is one of the few venues that boast a private on-site church (Glencorse Kirk) for your ceremony, followed by a reception in a marquee overlooking the lake and lush walled gardens.
National Mining Museum Scotland
For couples seeking something truly alternative to the traditional castle wedding, the National Mining Museum is Midlothian’s ultimate industrial-chic venue.
Set within the restored Lady Victoria Colliery, it features exposed brickwork, towering Victorian engineering, and the stunning “Black Diamond” room.
It is a photographer’s dream for dramatic, edgy portraits.
Rosebery Steading
A stunning 18th-century steading conversion, Rosebery Steading blends rustic charm with modern luxury.
Located in the heart of the Midlothian countryside, the property’s “steading” barn style and expansive courtyard offer a stylish, contemporary wedding venue that is both versatile and highly photogenic.
Churches & Religious Ceremonies
Glencorse Kirk
Situated within the grounds of Glencorse House, this historic 17th-century kirk is famous for its appearance in the TV series Outlander.
It offers a romantic, intimate setting for a religious or humanist ceremony before you head to the marquee for your reception.
Rosslyn Chapel
World-famous for its intricate stone carvings and links to the Holy Grail (and The Da Vinci Code), Rosslyn Chapel is one of our favourite Midlothian wedding venues, with a breathtaking location for a church wedding.
The level of detail in the architecture provides a dramatic and historic backdrop, unlike anywhere else in Scotland.
St. John’s & King’s Park Church, Dalkeith
Located on the edge of King’s Park, St John’s is a beautiful Episcopal church offering a traditional, peaceful setting for your vows.
It is an excellent option for couples planning a reception at nearby venues such as Melville Castle.
St Mary’s Scottish Episcopal Church, Dalkeith
Situated within the stunning Dalkeith Country Park, St Mary’s Scottish Episcopal Church is a gem of Victorian Gothic architecture.
It offers a serene, historic setting for your ceremony, surrounded by some of Midlothian’s most beautiful parklands.
A Complete Guide to Planning a Midlothian Wedding
Midlothian is often described as Edinburgh’s historic playground. It offers a rare combination of ancient woodlands, rolling Pentland Hills, and river valley scenery that feels worlds away from the capital, despite being just minutes from the city bypass.
For couples who want the convenience of Edinburgh (most venues are within 20–30 minutes of the city centre) but the romance of a country escape, this region is unrivalled. As experienced Midlothian wedding photographers, we find the landscape here offers a distinct richness—deep greens of the Esk Valley and dramatic stone architecture—perfect for creating timeless, cinematic wedding photos and films.
Choosing Your Wedding Style in the Heart of History
One of the main reasons we recommend Midlothian wedding venues to couples is the incredible density of history and variety packed into this county. From royal hunting grounds to industrial heritage, the architectural styles here are diverse.
The “Exclusive Use” Experience
If privacy is your priority, Midlothian is home to some of Scotland’s most prestigious exclusive-use castles. Venues like Borthwick Castle and Oxenfoord Castle allow you to take over the entire property. This is ideal for an atmospheric “castle takeover” wedding, where you can host a rehearsal dinner in the Great Hall or a falconry display on the lawn, turning your wedding into a full weekend experience.
Rustic Barns & Heritage Steadings
You don’t need to travel far to find rustic charm. The region’s agricultural roots have produced stunning conversions that blend old-world character with modern luxury. Rosebery Steading is a prime example, offering a high-end barn aesthetic with state-of-the-art facilities. These spaces are perfect for couples seeking a stylish, festoon-lit atmosphere that looks incredible in relaxed, candid photos.
Historic Fortresses & Romantic Kirks
For those seeking drama, Midlothian is “Castle Country.” While Dalhousie Castle offers the full fairytale hotel experience with a dungeon for unique drinks receptions, the area is also famous for its spiritual sites. Rosslyn Chapel and Glencorse Kirk (famous for its Outlander appearance) offer breathtaking, cinematic backdrops for your ceremony, steeped in romance and legend.
The Photographer’s Perspective: Light & Locations
From a photography perspective, Midlothian is unique due to its varied topography. Unlike the flat coast, the undulating hills and wooded river valleys create pockets of incredible light and shadow.
The “Golden Hour” The open landscapes near the Pentland Hills and the elevated positions of venues like Glencorse House allow us to capture stunning sunsets over the water or the rolling hills. The lack of tall city buildings means the light lingers longer in the evening, giving us an extended window for those romantic “golden hour” portraits just before dusk.
Woodland & River Logistics. If you plan to utilise the stunning grounds at Melville Castle or the banks of the River Esk for photos, we always recommend bringing a spare pair of flat shoes or wellies! The ancient woodlands offer some of the most romantic scenery in Scotland—tall trees, lush ferns, and stone bridges—but exploring them to get the best shot is much easier in comfortable footwear.
Travel & Accommodation for Guests
A significant advantage of a Midlothian wedding is unbeatable accessibility. Sitting just outside the Edinburgh City Bypass (A720), Midlothian wedding venues offer fast, direct travel for guests arriving from the airport or the city centre.
Borders Railway The Borders Railway line has transformed access to the region, with stops at Eskbank, Newtongrange, and Gorebridge making it easy for guests to travel by train from Edinburgh Waverley in under 25 minutes.
Local Stays. Unlike remote country locations where accommodation is scarce, Midlothian is well-served. From luxury suites at Dalhousie Castle to comfortable hotels in Dalkeith and Bonnyrigg, there is plenty of accommodation for your guest list. Plus, with Edinburgh so close, guests who prefer to stay in the city can easily grab a short taxi ride home at the end of the night.
Frequently Asked Questions About Midlothian Weddings
What are the best wedding venues in Midlothian?
Midlothian is famous for its historic castles and exclusive-use estates. The top-rated Midlothian wedding venues include Dalhousie Castle (Scotland’s oldest inhabited castle), Borthwick Castle (luxury exclusive use), Melville Castle, and Glencorse House (famous for its private Kirk). For a rustic or modern feel, Rosebery Steading offers a stunning luxury barn experience.
How close are Midlothian wedding venues to Edinburgh?
Midlothian is exceptionally convenient for destination weddings and city-based guests. Most major venues, such as Melville Castle and Dalhousie Castle, are within 20-30 minutes of Edinburgh City Centre and approximately 25 minutes from Edinburgh Airport, making travel by taxi or the Borders Railway line easy.
Can I have an Outlander-themed wedding in Midlothian?
Yes! Midlothian is home to Glencorse Old Kirk, the actual filming location for Jamie and Claire’s wedding in the TV series Outlander. Situated on the grounds of Glencorse House, it is one of the most romantic and sought-after ceremony locations in Scotland for fans of the show.
Why should I hire a local Midlothian wedding photographer?
Hiring a photographer familiar with Midlothian wedding venues is crucial for handling the region’s unique lighting conditions. Unlike the open coast, Midlothian features deep valleys, ancient woodlands, and dimly lit historic castle interiors. An experienced local photographer will know exactly where to find the best light during the “Golden Hour” and the secret locations at venues like Dalhousie and Borthwick that visiting photographers might miss.
Are there any wedding venues in Midlothian with on-site accommodation?
Yes, many Midlothian wedding venues offer extensive on-site accommodation. Dalhousie Castle and Melville Castle operate as hotels with ample guest rooms. Borthwick Castle and Rosebery Steading offer luxury accommodation for the bridal party and close family as part of their exclusive-use packages.
What is the average cost of a wedding venue in Midlothian?
Venue costs in Midlothian vary depending on exclusivity and season. A hotel-based wedding package at a venue like Dalhousie Castle might start at approximately £80- £120 per person. However, exclusive-use Midlothian wedding venues such as Borthwick Castle or luxury steadings can range from £5,000 to £20,000+ for venue hire alone, depending on the duration of the stay (e.g., a weekend takeover).
Where can I find a photographer for my Midlothian wedding?
If you are looking for natural, cinematic wedding photography that captures the drama of Midlothian’s castles and landscapes, Love Wedding Photos and Film specialises in this region. We have shot extensively at Dalhousie, Glencorse, and beyond. Check our availability here.
Let’s Tell Your Story at The Best Midothian Wedding Venues
We are Claire and Jonathon, a couple of photographers at Midlothian wedding venues with over 700 weddings of experience. If you love our natural, joyful style, we would be honoured to hear your plans.
