We’re thrilled to be a recommended Edinburgh City Chambers wedding photographer and are honoured to have photographed more weddings at this beautiful venue than anyone else.
There are many fabulous settings for couples getting married in Edinburgh, and the Marriage Suite at City Chambers, 253 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1YJ, does not disappoint.
The Edinburgh Registry Office is the perfect wedding venue and features in our top 20 wedding venues in Edinburgh.
Are you getting married and searching for the best Edinburgh Registry Office wedding photographer? Contact us to check our availability!
City Chambers wedding photography blog posts
Click on an image to see lots more photos of real weddings at the Edinburgh City Chambers Registry Office.
City Chambers High Street, Old Town location
Ceremony rooms at City Chambers
As the most experienced and sought-after Edinburgh City Chambers wedding photographers and videographers, we’ve been honoured to photograph over 100 weddings at this fabulous location in Edinburgh.
We always enjoy the atmosphere created by and the fantastic service provided by the Edinburgh City Chambers team!
City Chambers Edinburgh Registry Office is in the perfect location for anyone wanting to get married in the city.
It has excellent transport links and an abundance of hotel accommodations to choose from.
Council Chamber
Imagine celebrating your wedding in Edinburgh’s most iconic and grand civic space – the Council Chamber. With breathtaking city skyline views and timeless elegance, this room is a dream setting for your big day. Whether planning a romantic ceremony for up to 120 guests or a lively evening reception, the Council Chamber’s versatility ensures it can perfectly cater to your vision.
Boasting an impressive domed ceiling, a striking fireplace, and murals rich in history, this room exudes a regal charm that will add an unforgettable atmosphere to your celebration. The coats of arms of the spouses of Scotland’s Kings and Queens provide a stunning backdrop for your vows, making your wedding feel like a page straight out of a fairytale.
The additional gallery space is a hidden gem, perfect for accommodating extra guests or offering your photographer the chance to capture your day from unique, elevated angles. This vantage point allows us to create dramatic, frame-worthy shots that highlight your celebration’s intimate moments and grandeur.
When the festivities call for dancing, the flexible layout allows the carpet to be lifted, transforming the space into a stunning dance floor. Whether it’s your first dance or a lively ceilidh, the Council Chamber seamlessly transitions into the perfect party setting that accommodates up to 200 guests.
As experienced wedding photographers, we understand how to make the most of such a remarkable setting. From capturing candid moments under the elegant dome to showcasing the stunning cityscape as your backdrop, our expertise ensures your wedding memories are as striking as the venue.
The European Room
The European Room is a true gem for couples dreaming of a wedding in Edinburgh steeped in elegance and history. Lined with captivating paintings by William Hole, showcasing six centuries of Edinburgh’s vibrant past, this ornate space offers a unique and timeless backdrop for your special day. Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or a stylish celebration, the European Room radiates charm and sophistication.
With a capacity for up to 90 guests in a theatre setting, 60 for a formal dinner, or 110 for a lively reception, this space is perfect for creating unforgettable memories with your nearest and dearest. The room also connects seamlessly to the Councillors’ Lounge, adding extra flexibility for your wedding day flow.
As photographers specialising in capturing the beauty of Edinburgh City Chambers weddings, we’re passionate about documenting your love story in stunning venues like the European Room. Imagine the glow of warm wood tones, the intricate details of historic artwork, and the romance of the setting, all beautifully preserved in your wedding photos. Our experience in wedding photography means we know exactly how to make the most of this gorgeous room, ensuring every detail of your day is captured with artistry and care.
The Diamond Jubilee Room
Imagine celebrating in the Diamond Jubilee Room at Edinburgh City Chambers, steeped in history and elegance. Once the meeting place of Edinburgh’s Town Council, this stunning space exudes grandeur and charm, making it the perfect setting for an intimate wedding. Positioned at the head of the main staircase and illuminated by three breathtaking chandeliers, it offers a romantic atmosphere that’s as timeless as your love story.
Whether you’re planning a cosy dinner for up to 24 guests or an elegant reception for up to 30, the Diamond Jubilee Room provides a beautiful backdrop for your special day. Its large central table and heritage features make it ideal for creating unforgettable moments with your closest family and friends.
As your wedding photographers, we’ll capture every detail of this enchanting setting – from the warm glow of the chandeliers to the emotional moments shared around the table.
The Alexander Suite
The Alexander Suite on the ground floor of Edinburgh City Chambers offers a beautiful ceremony room for up to 36 guests, with views over the south quadrangle courtyard.
Consisting of three tastefully decorated rooms, the Alexander Suite is Edinburgh’s most popular venue to get married in Edinburgh.
The Guest Lounge overlooks Princes Street and the New Town to the north. The suite is fully accessible and includes a waiting lounge with facilities, plus a ‘Signature Room’ for the registrar to meet the couple before the ceremony.
Guest Lounge
Part of the Alexander Suite, couples can meet family and guests in the comfortable Guest Lounge with fantastic views across Edinburgh’s New Town and the Kingdom of Fife.
Signature Room
Part of the Alexander Suite, newlywed couples sign the marriage schedule in a smaller adjoining Signature Room.
The Wee Neuk
The Wee Neuk room in Edinburgh City Chambers is the most intimate ceremony space, available Monday to Thursday only. It accommodates a couple and two witnesses, making it ideal for:
- Simple, no-frills ceremonies
- Couples planning a larger celebration elsewhere
- Elopements
- Registration-only civil partnerships (no formal ceremony)
Please note that only the standard ceremony is available here, with no modifications.
Recommended locations for newlywed photos
Photoshoot locations – 1 hour booking
After your wedding at the Edinburgh City Chambers Marriage Suite, you can take full advantage of the city centre location.
Pictures can be taken inside the marriage room and in the reception area. A bonus is the beautiful staircase, which offers plenty of natural light for photos.
Outside, there are many more opportunities to capture beautiful moments against the backdrop of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Iconic locations and landmarks are all within easy reach, with gorgeous newlywed photos guaranteed.
The many sights of Edinburgh provide ample inspiration for taking the wedding day photos you will look back on for many years to come.
One hour of coverage provides enough time to shoot fabulous photos at most, if not all, of the following locations within 2 minutes walk of Edinburgh City Chambers Registry Office:
Quadrangle
Edinburgh City Chambers Quadrangle offers exquisite architectural grandeur and historic charm.
Its ornate details and commanding presence provide a regal setting for captivating and sophisticated photos.
St Giles’ Cathedral
The ancient steps and ornate doors of St Giles Cathedral offer a dramatic frame for newlywed pictures, combining intricate architecture with historical significance.
This unique setting provides a visually compelling scene for photography and is located directly opposite Edinburgh City Chambers.
Parliament House
Parliament House, just a few steps from Edinburgh City Chambers, offers a majestic backdrop, combining classical elegance and historical significance.
A complex of several buildings housing the Supreme Courts of Scotland, its architectural splendour and iconic presence create a dignified setting for timeless and captivating photos.
Parliament Square
Parliament Square is picturesque, surrounded by historic landmarks such as St Giles’ Cathedral, The Signet Library and the French Consulate.
The charming square near Edinburgh City Chambers offers architectural beauty and cultural richness, making it an ideal spot for newlywed photos.
Royal Mile
The most famous street in Edinburgh leads directly to Edinburgh City Chambers and is a must-do location for newlywed photos.
The Royal Mile offers a picturesque setting with its historic architecture and cobbles, creating a charming backdrop and capturing the essence of romance and tradition.
Photoshoot locations – 2 hour or longer booking
Two hours or more of coverage allows for the same newlywed photo locations above, plus choose additional coverage at one of the following locations, most of which are within walking distance of Edinburgh City Chambers:
Victoria Street & Vennel
Victoria Street in Edinburgh is a photographer’s dream and is within 2 minutes’ walk of Edinburgh City Chambers.
This iconic cobbled streetscape boasts picturesque, vibrant, colourful shop facades, charming architecture, and a winding layout that adds character to each shot.
The historic cobblestone street, lined with unique shops and cafes, offers a picturesque setting, making it an ideal location for capturing the essence of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Our shoot concludes with a great view of Edinburgh Castle, just 10 minutes’ walk from Edinburgh City Chambers.
The Vennel is a hidden gem for photography. It provides stunning views of the cityscape and the iconic landmark Edinburgh Castle.
The narrow, cobblestone path creates a picturesque atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for capturing the historical charm of Edinburgh’s landscape.
Princes Street Gardens
Stroll down The Mound to the beautiful gardens directly beneath Edinburgh Castle.
Princes Street Gardens is an Edinburgh City Chambers wedding photographer’s delight, boasting lush greenery, vibrant floral displays, and stunning Castle on the Rock views.
The juxtaposition of nature and historic landmarks provides an enchanting backdrop, creating diverse photo opportunities from serene moments to iconic cityscapes in the heart of Scotland’s capital.
Calton Hill
The elevated location offers some of the best views across Edinburgh, including one of the best views of Edinburgh Castle!
Calton Hill in Edinburgh offers breathtaking photo opportunities with its panoramic views of the city’s skyline (you can even see across the Old Town to Edinburgh City Chambers).
Iconic landmarks like the National Monument and Nelson Monument provide unique backdrops.
The diverse scenery, including lush greenery and historic structures, creates a picturesque setting for capturing memorable moments, making it a photographer’s favourite.
Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat
Edinburgh’s extinct volcano is an oasis of tranquillity just a few minutes from the city centre, offering fabulous views of the Old Town.
Arthur’s Seat is a photographer’s paradise, offering panoramic views of the city, dramatic landscapes, and a historic ambience.
The volcanic peak provides a breathtaking backdrop, making it an exceptional location to showcase our city’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Wedding photo examples
A selection of a few of our favourite photos of newlyweds married at Edinburgh City Chambers. View more Edinburgh City Chambers newlywed photo examples on our blog posts above.
Wedding photography prices for Edinburgh City Chambers
Special Offer for weddings in January & February 2025.
Up to £150 discount off all remaining dates in January and February 2025.
One hour £249 (was £349) – save £100.
Two hours £498 (was £648) – save £150.
Offer only applies to Edinburgh City Chambers photography bookings made after 14th November 2024 for weddings taking place Monday – Thursday during January and February 2025. Hurry, limited dates are available!
From booking to beyond: Your complete wedding photography journey
Edinburgh City Chambers Collection One – £349
One hour of photography with one photographer
Saturday or Sunday minimum is two hours for £649
Extra coverage is £299 per hour
Coverage starts with arrivals at venue
Ceremony photos
Newlywed photos with family and/or friends at City Chambers
Fun, relaxed newlywed photo session nearby on Royal Mile/ in Old Town
Candid moments captured
Jonathon can be one of your witnesses if required
Option to include Claire as your second witness to your ceremony (contact us for details if you also require a second witness)
All photos are individually edited in our signature style and supplied as high-resolution digital files in colour + black and white
‘Sneak peek’ preview, usually within 48 hours
Digital download + online private gallery with print options
Edinburgh City Chambers Collection Two – £549
Includes discreet multi-camera video of your ceremony, recorded with crystal clear audio.
One hour of photography with one photographer
Saturday or Sunday minimum is two hours for £849
Extra photography coverage is £299 per hour
Coverage starts with arrivals at venue
Ceremony photos
Newlywed photos with family and/or friends at City Chambers
Fun, relaxed newlywed photo session nearby on Royal Mile/ in Old Town
Candid moments captured
Jonathon can be one of your witnesses if required
Option to include Claire as your second witness to your ceremony (contact us for details if you also require a second witness)
All photos are individually edited in our signature style and supplied as high-resolution digital files in colour + black and white
‘Sneak peek’ preview, usually within 48 hours
Digital download + online private gallery with print options
Video can be streamed, downloaded and shared
What’s included when you hire us
Free Consultation
Chat and discover with no pressure to book. Phone, or choose our video call option via Zoom or WhatsApp.
Ongoing support and ideas
Help and advice about anything wedding-related, from our initial meeting until your big day and beyond. With years of experience, we have many tips and advice to share.
Fabulous photos in our signature style
Beautifully photographed, all your pictures are professionally retouched and supplied as watermark-free in colour and black-and-white high-resolution JPEG format. We’ll also supply a few ‘sneak-peek’ preview images within a few days.
Password-protected web gallery
We respect your privacy – only you can choose who views your images. View your pictures online and easily order gallery-quality prints, including framed prints and canvas. Share your gallery with family and friends for convenience.
Unlimited high-resolution digital download of all images
USB sticks were so yesterday. Streaming/downloading means easy sharing all of your pictures with family and friends. Unlimited downloads/shares.
Safe backup of all your photos
We’ll safely archive every image for at least two years, ensuring peace of mind if you have a technology meltdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people can attend a marriage or Civil Partnership ceremony at the Edinburgh City Chambers Registrar’s Office?
Alexander Suite – 36 seated guests plus the couple standing
European Suite – 70 seated guests plus the couple standing
Wee Neuk – 8 seated guests plus the couple
Does this maximum number of attendees include children under 12 years of age?
Yes, children over two are included in the maximum number of attendees.
Is there parking at Edinburgh City Chambers?
There is one parking space within the Quadrangle (one car only) for the duration of the wedding. However, this is subject to change. City Chambers staff will let you know as soon as possible if parking is suspended. On-street parking is nearby at Blair Street, Niddry Street, Chambers Street, St Giles’ Street and Blackfriar’s Street, with longer-term parking available at Q-Park Greenside Place and NCP Castle Terrace.
How do I access the Quadrangle during the Fringe Festival in August?
As there is strictly no parking available in the Quadrangle during the whole month of August, you must access it on foot. The nearest vehicle access is George IV Bridge.
u003cstrongu003eIs there access for my disabled guest?u003c/strongu003e
Your guest can be dropped off at the front door within the Quadrangle, but the vehicle cannot park if the space is in use.
u003cstrongu003eWhat time should my guests arrive?u003c/strongu003e
Guests should arrive 10 minutes before your ceremony starts.
Can my guests throw confetti?
Unfortunately, confetti is not allowed within Edinburgh City Chambers or the Quadrangle. However, you can throw biodegradable confetti beyond the Quadrangle boundary on the Royal Mile. See our guide on confetti at weddings.
Where is the nearest smoking area for my guests?
Smoking is not permitted within the City Chambers or the Quadrangle, but it is allowed on the Royal Mile.
Can I play music at my ceremony?
Yes, you can choose to have music played for guests’ arrival, walking into the ceremony suite, signing the marriage schedule, and exit music for when you leave the ceremony suite. You can play music via City Chambers’ Bluetooth speaker through your own device (phone, iPad, etc.)
Can a Piper pipe me into the room?
Pipers are not permitted inside the City Chambers. However, they can pipe you from the main entrance doorway into the building.
Can I be escorted into the marriage suite?
Yes – you can ask any one of your guests to escort you down the aisle. Alternatively, the couple can both walk in together.
Do I have to exchange rings?
No – many couples choose to exchange rings; however, you may want to leave this part out or exchange something other than rings.
Can I have a photographer?
Yes, you can have a photographer, and we are the most experienced photographers at City Chambers; the registrar will chat with your photographer briefly just before the ceremony.
Can I have a videographer?
Yes, the registrar will speak with the videographer before the ceremony. The videographer cannot install specialist equipment until 15 minutes before the ceremony. Cables and obstructions to exits and the aisle are not permitted. We, Love Wedding Photos And Film, have filmed many weddings at City Chambers and are experts at setting up our equipment quickly and safely.
Can I change the wording of the ceremony?
Yes, you can change the ceremony’s wording and tailor your vows to make it unique. City Chambers offers an amended ceremony booklet with suggestions and areas where they suggest changes.
Can I have a reading during the ceremony?
Yes, readings can be incorporated into your ceremony. Please submit a copy of the reading(s) with your notice forms and let City Chambers staff know who you have chosen to do this for you. We recommend no more than 2 – 3 readings.
Can I have an additional element to my ceremony?
Yes—handfasting, drinking from the quaich, and jumping the broom are all additional elements that can be incorporated into your ceremony. The couple must provide the equipment. Please note that one of your guests will have to perform the additional element. The registrar can only read the wording.
Do I need to provide witnesses?
You are required by law to have two witnesses present at your ceremony who are 16 years of age or over and can understand the ceremony. The Registration Department is unable to provide you with witnesses. Your witnesses do not need to bring any ID documents on the day unless your chosen witnesses look under the age of 16. If you cannot provide your own witnesses, then you have two options. The first option is to ask a couple of strangers on the street if they would like to witness your marriage ceremony. The alternative that works well for our clients is that when you hire us to photograph and film your wedding, and there are two of us working for you, we are happy to be your witnesses at no extra charge. For photo or video packages with one photographer/videographer, we can supply an extra witness (contact us to discuss). We advise arranging your second witness in advance to save stress and inconvenience on your wedding day!
What is the dress code for a registrar’s wedding?
There is no dress code; please wear what you feel comfortable in. Some wedding parties have guests wearing full wedding attire, but others come casually.
Can I use my own pen to sign the marriage schedule?
The marriage schedule needs to be signed in a black fountain pen – you can use your own fountain pen as long as it has black permanent ink.
Can we open a bottle of champagne to celebrate?
No food or drink can be consumed in any of the ceremony suites. We have photographed newlyweds popping open a bottle of champagne in the Quadrangle and on the Royal Mile.
Can we cut a wedding cake?
No food or drink can be consumed in any of the ceremony suites.
Can we bring our dog?
Unfortunately, only assistance dogs are permitted in City Chambers. However, you can bring your pet to the photoshoot after the ceremony!
How much does it cost to get married at City Chambers Edinburgh?
Prices start at just £155 for a small ceremony in the Wee Neuk and rise to £615 for a weekend ceremony in the European Room. Note that these prices are correct at the time of publishing this page and are subject to change without notice; be sure to confirm costs directly with City Chambers.
What are the legal requirements for getting married at City Chambers Edinburgh?
Marriage
Complete a M10 form and submit it within the legal timescale as detailed below.
You can download the
M10 form and guidance notes on the National Records of Scotland website.
Civil partnership
Complete a CP10 form and submit it within the legal timescale as detailed below.
You can download the CP10 form and guidance notes on the National Records of Scotland website.
Documents you must submit
Along with the completed form, you are required to submit your
– birth certificate
– passport if born after 1983 – we do not require to see your passport if you were born in the UK before 1983.
– proof of address dated within the last 3 months.
– If you have been married before, you are required to submit your divorce of annulment document
– death certificate of your former spouse or civil partner.
All documents must be originals. A photocopy of passports will be accepted, but the original must be seen at a later date.
If you are not British
A Declaration of Status by Non-UK Nationals form should be completed by
all parties to a marriage or civil partnership whose nationality on their notice form is not shown as British.
You may need to provide a Certificate of No Impediment (CONI). This is a document from your home country stating you are free to get married or have a civil partnership. If you have been a resident in the UK for more than two years, evidence of this will be accepted in place of a CONI.
Contact the UK Border Agency for advice on entry requirements to the UK under immigration rules for marriage and civil partnerships.
Any documents that are not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation.
When and how to submit your forms and documentation
Submit a M10 or CP10 each with all the relevant documentation six to eight weeks prior to your intended ceremony. The minimum notice period is 29 days. Should you be subject to immigration control it is recommended to give three months’ notice.
All correct fees must be paid at the time of lodging. If you have booked a civil ceremony with the registration offices or for a registrar to attend at an agreed venue, then you will have already paid the lodging notice fees.
Do not submit any more than three months before your marriage or civil partnership.
Where to submit your forms and documentation
M10s and CP10s for
– civil ceremonies in the City Chambers
– civil ceremonies in South Queensferry Forth View or Dalmeny Room
– all agreed venues out with City Chambers
– all religious and belief system ceremonies (including humanists)
It is advised that you make an appointment to submit your forms in person at the City Chambers.
Make an appointment to lodge your notice forms in person.
The drop-in box at the City Chambers is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Friday.
Please ensure you have completed the checklist before dropping off or posting paperwork, or you can post the forms and relevant documents to the following:
The Registrar
City Chambers
253 High Street
Edinburgh
EH1 1YP
Please ensure you have correct postage
0131 529 2600
the marriageandcp@edinburgh.gov.uk
Contact the wedding team at City Chambers
If you would like to know how much getting married at Edinburgh registry office wedding costs, you can contact the City Chambers wedding team here:
Address: Edinburgh City Chambers, 253 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1YJ.
Phone: +44 (0)131 529 2600
Email address: marriageandcp@edinburgh.gov.uk