Best Scottish Borders Wedding Venues: The Ultimate Guide
Whether you are looking for a romantic historic castle, a rustic farm with rolling views, or a relaxed country house, the Scottish Borders has it all.
The Scottish Borders offers a romantic, rural escape that feels a world away from the city’s hustle. However, we bring the same high-end service that has established us as premier wedding photographers in Edinburgh, ensuring your countryside wedding looks just as editorial and stylish.
Below is our curated list of the best Scottish Borders wedding venues we have photographed and filmed. This region offers some of the most dramatic scenery in Scotland, from the wild uplands of the Lammermuir Hills to the lush Tweed Valley.
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We had a great time and felt so comfortable!
Jonathon 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.
We absolutely love our wedding pictures
Jonathon 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
Discover Your Dream Scottish Borders Wedding Venue For 2026
Having photographed and filmed over 700 weddings in the last two decades, we have developed extensive knowledge of the Scottish Borders’ most cinematic settings. This isn’t just a standard directory of Scottish Borders wedding venues; it is a curated collection based on real weddings we’ve covered across the region. To help you plan, we have categorised every venue—from historic castles to rustic barns—so you can find your perfect match.
Pro Tip: After exploring these venues, take a moment to read our essential guide: Top Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer.
Found the perfect spot? Let’s chat! Tell us about your plans, and let’s talk about capturing your wedding story in the magnificent Borders countryside.
Scottish Borders Wedding Venues Map
Castles & Historic Estates
The Scottish Borders is famous for its dramatic fortifications and grand estates. These Scottish Borders wedding venues are perfect for couples seeking history, drama, and a “fairytale” atmosphere.
Duns Castle
Duns Castle is a stunning 14th-century Gothic castle set within a 1,200-acre estate.
It features a nature reserve and a beautiful lake (the Hen Poo), an ideal spot for photos.
The castle interiors are grand yet intimate, making it ideal for everything from elopements to larger celebrations.
Wedderburn Castle & Barns
Wedderburn Castle & Barns is an elegant Georgian estate that offers the best of both worlds: a grand castle for a classic luxury wedding, and rustic barns for a more relaxed, party atmosphere.
The castle’s light-filled ballroom is perfect for ceremonies and champagne receptions.
Thirlestane Castle
Few Scottish Borders wedding venues can match the fairytale grandeur of Thirlestane Castle in Lauder.
With its rose-pink sandstone and soaring turrets, it looks like it has been plucked straight from a storybook.
The State Drawing Room features one of the finest plasterwork ceilings in Europe.
Neidpath Castle
Perched on a cliff overlooking the River Tweed, Neidpath Castle is raw, romantic, and dramatic.
Unlike polished hotel castles, Neidpath retains its medieval ruggedness, making it perfect for atmospheric, candlelit ceremonies.
Traquair House
As Scotland’s oldest inhabited house, Traquair House offers a wedding experience steeped in history.
You can get married in the ancient chapel or the walled garden, and the famous Bear Gates provide a dramatic backdrop for your couple portraits.
Barony Castle
Located in Eddleston near Peebles, Barony Castle is impressive among Scottish Borders wedding venues for its unique feature: The Great Polish Map of Scotland—a massive 3D concrete relief map in the grounds.
It features a variety of function suites and a beautiful outdoor altar.
Country Houses & Exclusive Use
If you want a more personal, “house party” vibe where you can relax with your guests for a whole weekend, these exclusive-use country houses are ideal.
Netherbyres House
Located in Eyemouth, Netherbyres House is the “anti-stately home of our Scottish Borders wedding venues”
It is a Victorian mansion on the outside, but features modern interiors that are incredibly cool, quirky, and colourful.
It is an exclusive-use venue that encourages a laid-back vibe.
Cringletie
Cringletie is a Baronial mansion just outside Peebles, famous for its walled garden and huge historic yew hedge.
It feels intimate and luxurious, with a focus on fine dining. The conservatory offers beautiful light for ceremonies and is a worthy listing among our Scottish Borders wedding venues.
Branxholm Park
Branxholm Park near Hawick describes itself as a “fairytale” venue, and it delivers.
It is known for its all-inclusive wedding weekends where you can stay for days with your guests.
It features a magical woodland chapel and is a worthy consideration on your search for Scottish Borders wedding venues.
Clint Lodge
Located near St Boswells, Clint Lodge is a charming country house venue that feels like a home away from home.
It is perfect for marquee weddings on the lawn with sweeping views of the Eildon Hills.
Kailzie Gardens
Situated just outside Peebles, Kailzie Gardens is a hidden gem for outdoor lovers searching for Scottish Borders wedding venues.
Famous for its snowdrops and walled garden, this is a fantastic spot for a marquee wedding or an intimate outdoor ceremony surrounded by nature.
Hotels, Spas & Inns
For convenience, onsite accommodation, and reliable service, these hotels are the best in the region.
Peebles Hydro
One of the most iconic hotel Scottish Borders wedding venues, Peebles Hydro stands high above the town offering commanding views of the Tweed Valley.
It is a grand resort-style venue with a large ballroom, perfect for big weddings.
Carfraemill
Located at the foot of the Lammermuir Hills, Carfraemill is a dream for foodies.
It combines the comfort of a hotel with the flexibility of a marquee wedding.
It is famous for its incredible local produce and welcoming atmosphere.
Dryburgh Abbey Hotel
Dryburgh Abbey Hotel is unique among Scottish Borders wedding venues for its location next to the historic ruins of Dryburgh Abbey.
You can capture breathtaking photos in leafy gardens before heading back to the hotel for a riverside reception on the banks of the Tweed.
Cardrona Hotel Peebles
The Cardrona Hotel Peebles is one of the large, versatile Scottish Borders wedding venues, set on a championship golf course nestled in the Tweed Valley.
It’s well-suited for larger weddings and offers ample on-site accommodation and spa facilities.
The Tontine Hotel
Located in the heart of Peebles, The Tontine Hotel is one of our family-run Scottish Borders wedding venues, offering a warm, personal touch.
It’s an excellent option for couples who want a town-centre wedding with easy access to the River Tweed.
Mansfield House Hotel
Overlooking the town of Hawick, the Mansfield House Hotel is a Victorian building with approximately 10 acres of grounds.
It offers a traditional hotel wedding experience with wood-panelled rooms.
View our Mansfield House Hotel wedding reception highlights video.
Barns, Farms & Unique Venues
Looking for something a bit different? These venues offer rustic charm and a sense of community.
Runningburn
Situated on a working farm near Kelso, Runningburn is a spectacular purpose-built marquee and barn venue.
Perched on a hill, it offers unmatched panoramic views of the Cheviot Hills.
Hawick Rugby Football Club
For a wedding with a true sense of community, Hawick Rugby Football Club is a popular local choice from our Scottish Borders wedding venues.
It offers ample capacity for evening receptions and a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere, making it ideal for large parties.
Beautiful Churches
For a religious ceremony before heading to your reception venue.
Denholm Church
Situated in one of the most picturesque villages in the Borders, Denholm Church overlooks a vast, leafy village green.
It offers a warm, traditional setting for your ceremony, with the green itself serving as a fantastic space for guests to gather for confetti and congratulations before heading to your reception.
Cavers & Kirkton Parish Church
Rich in heritage, Cavers & Kirkton Parish Church near Hawick is a beautifully preserved sanctuary set amidst rolling countryside.
It stands close to the historic ruins of Cavers House, offering a unique opportunity to capture moody, atmospheric portraits that blend the warmth of the church with the drama of the past.
Cranshaws Village Church
Tucked away in the wild beauty of the Lammermuir Hills, Cranshaws Village Church is perfect for intimate, peaceful ceremonies.
Its location offers privacy, making it a spiritual and romantic starting point for a wedding reception at nearby venues such as Wedderburn or Duns Castle.
A Complete Guide to Planning a Scottish Borders Wedding
The Scottish Borders is often referred to as the romantic heart of Scotland. It offers a landscape of sweeping valleys, pine forests, and the iconic River Tweed, providing a dramatic yet accessible alternative to the Highlands. For couples who want the romance of remote Scotland but need the convenience of being just an hour from Edinburgh, this region is unmatched. As experienced Scottish Borders wedding photographers, we adore the unique topography here—the rolling hills create a layered, cinematic backdrop that looks truly majestic in wedding films and photos.
Choosing Your Wedding Style in the Borders
One of the defining features of Scottish Borders wedding venues is their deep connection to history. This isn’t just about pretty buildings; it’s about authentic, centuries-old character, offering a distinct aesthetic from the coastal venues further north.
The “Weekend Wedding” Experience
If you dream of playing “Laird and Lady” for the weekend, the Borders is the ultimate destination for exclusive-use estates. Venues like Duns Castle and Branxholm Park are designed for extended celebrations, not just single days. This allows you to turn your wedding into a mini-holiday, hosting a rehearsal dinner or a post-wedding clay pigeon shoot, making full use of the private grounds.
Rustic Barns & Country Charm
While famous for castles, the region’s agricultural roots mean you are spoilt for choice with converted farm venues. Runningburn offers the perfect blend of a relaxed, festival-style atmosphere and high-end facilities. These spaces are fantastic for couples who want to add their own DIY touches and enjoy a more informal party vibe, complete with festoon lighting and hay bales.
Fortresses & Fairytales
The Borders is arguably the capital of Scotland’s castles. From the raw, medieval cliffs of Neidpath Castle to the fairytale turrets of Thirlestane Castle, the architecture here is bold and impressive. Unlike some polished city venues, these castles often retain their rugged, authentic feel, providing a deeply atmospheric setting for your vows.
The Photographer’s Perspective: Light & Landscape
Visually, the Scottish Borders is defined by its valleys. Unlike the flat coastal plains of East Lothian, the landscape here rises and falls, offering incredible depth for photography.
Chasing the Light
The rolling topography creates dynamic lighting conditions. As the sun lowers, it casts long, dramatic shadows across the valley floors while the hilltops remain illuminated. This “layered” light effect is unique to the region and creates moody, cinematic portraits that aren’t possible in flatter areas.
Adventure & Footwear
If you want to make the most of locations such as the Eildon Hills or the banks of the Tweed for your portraits, we highly recommend bringing sturdy boots or wellies. The best viewpoints often require a short walk across grassy fields or woodland paths. The resulting images—sweeping vistas of the glorious countryside—are well worth the temporary swap from high heels.
Travel & Connectivity for Guests
Accessibility is excellent, making the Borders a practical choice for guests travelling from near and far. The historic Borders Railway has transformed travel in the region, whisking guests from Edinburgh Waverley to Tweedbank in under an hour.
Scenic Drives
For those driving, the scenic A68 and A7 routes offer easy connections from both the north and south (ideal for guests travelling up from England).
Local Hospitality
The region is dotted with charming market towns like Peebles, Melrose, and Kelso. These hubs offer a wide range of accommodation options, from large luxury spa resorts like Peebles Hydro to cosy coaching inns and B&Bs, ensuring your 100+ guests can enjoy a comfortable, memorable stay just minutes from your venue.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scottish Borders Wedding Venues
How far are the Scottish Borders wedding venues from Edinburgh?
The Scottish Borders is surprisingly accessible. Most venues in Peebles (like Neidpath Castle or Cringletie House) are just a 45 to 60-minute drive from Edinburgh city centre. Venues further south or east, such as Duns Castle or Wedderburn, are approximately 60-75 minutes away. For guests travelling without a car, the Borders Railway is a convenient option, running from Edinburgh Waverley to Tweedbank (near Melrose and Galashiels) in under an hour, making it easy to connect with taxis for the final leg of the journey.
Can we get legally married anywhere in the Scottish Borders?
Yes! In Scotland, the law allows you to marry anywhere that is safe and dignified, provided you have a celebrant or registrar. This means you can have a religious, humanist, or civil ceremony inside a grand castle, in a rustic barn, or outdoors on the banks of the River Tweed. You must apply for a Marriage Schedule through the local registrar’s office (usually in Peebles, Galashiels, or Duns) closest to your chosen venue, no earlier than 3 months and no later than 29 days before the wedding.
What are the best Scottish Borders venues for large weddings?
If you have a guest list of 150+, you need a venue with capacity to match. Peebles Hydro is renowned for large-scale celebrations, thanks to its grand ballroom. Thirlestane Castle offers a marquee option on the Rose Garden lawn for large-scale events. For a rustic vibe with plenty of space, Runningburn is purpose-built to handle larger parties without feeling crowded.
Are there plenty of accommodation options for guests?
Unlike the remote Highlands, the Scottish Borders is well populated with historic towns such as Peebles, Melrose, Kelso, and Hawick. These towns offer a wide range of accommodation, from 5-star spa hotels to charming B&Bs and self-catering cottages. Additionally, many exclusive-use venues like Branxholm Park and Duns Castle offer extensive on-site accommodation, allowing your bridal party and close family to stay with you for the duration of the festivities.
We are looking for a rustic barn wedding—what are the best options?
The Borders is known for its agricultural heritage, making it a popular destination for barn weddings. The Lodge at Carfraemill offers a permanent marquee with a distinctively rustic, farm-to-table feel. Runningburn provides a modern take on the barn concept, with incredible views of the Cheviots.
Is the Scottish Borders a good location for wedding photography?
As Scottish Borders wedding photographers, we believe this region is among the most photogenic in the UK. The landscape is more dramatic and “layered” than the Lothians, offering rolling hills, lush forests, and river valleys. Specific highlights include the Eildon Hills for sunset portraits, the Bear Gates at Traquair House, and the dramatic cliff-edge views at Neidpath Castle. The region is ideal for couples seeking “cinematic” wedding photos with a sense of scale and drama.
Can we have an outdoor ceremony in the Borders?
Absolutely. Many venues have dedicated outdoor ceremony spaces. Kailzie Gardens and the walled garden at Traquair House are stunning floral settings. Barony Castle features a unique stone altar in the woodland. However, we always recommend having a “Plan B” for Scottish weather—fortunately, most Borders venues have beautiful indoor alternatives, such as conservatories or Great Halls.
Let’s Tell Your Story at The Best Scottish Borders Wedding Venues
We are Claire and Jonathon, a couple of photographers at many Scottish Borders wedding venues with over 700 weddings of experience. If you love our natural, joyful style, we would be honoured to hear your plans.
