Drumtochty Castle

Drumtochty Castle – exclusive use castle wedding venue near Aberdeen

Drumtochty Castle brings together historic architecture, atmospheric interiors and sweeping landscapes for couples seeking a dramatic Scottish castle backdrop. Located near Auchenblae and just over an hour from Aberdeen, the castle estate includes manicured gardens, lakeside locations, luxurious suites and multiple event spaces designed for both intimate and large celebrations.

The refined Gold Room, grand Ballroom and extensive grounds allow couples to shape their celebration around the estate, while guests enjoy on-site accommodation, leisure activities and the tranquillity of a private countryside retreat.

Wedding spaces at Drumtochty Castle

St Palladius

Located at the entrance to the estate, St Palladius is a characterful church with stained-glass windows, wooden pews and a traditional Highland feel. It can accommodate up to 120 guests.

Please note: only religious ceremonies can be held at St Palladius.

The Gold Room

Inside the castle, the Gold Room offers soft ivory and gold detailing, period features and a white baby grand piano — creating an elegant space for ceremonies or drinks receptions for up to 120 guests.

The Ballroom

The heart of the castle, the Ballroom accommodates:

• Up to 120 guests for dinner

• Up to 180 guests for dancing

The room features an ornate ceiling, Neo-Gothic floor-to-ceiling windows and a statement fireplace, providing a striking backdrop for the evening celebration. After dinner, the Ballroom transitions seamlessly into a generous dancefloor.

Outdoor space

Couples can exchange vows within the estate’s manicured gardens or beside the lake. Both offer peaceful, scenic settings for outdoor ceremonies and relaxed drinks receptions.

Wedding catering and drinks

Drumtochty Castle’s resident chefs follow an estate-to-plate approach, featuring local Scottish produce — including venison from the estate. Catering options include:

• Three-course wedding menus

• Handmade canapés

• Hot fork evening buffets

• Rehearsal dinners

• Menu tasting before the wedding

Drinks are available through the castle’s bar team, or couples may bring their own for a corkage fee.

On-site accommodation

Drumtochty Castle accommodates up to 110 guests across the estate:

• The Bridal Suite: A spacious suite with ensuite and dedicated dressing room

• The Castle: 11 stately rooms, including deluxe suites, king-sized doubles, and twins.

• The Wings: Three interlinked apartments for up to 22 guests, each with living space, kitchen and bedrooms

• The Stables: 11 self-catering apartments for up to 43 guests

• The Lodges: Four two- or three-bedroom cottages accommodating up to 22 guests

Estate activities

Guests can enjoy a range of leisure activities on the estate and nearby, including:

• Clay pigeon or simulated game shooting on-site

• Golf at nearby award-winning courses

• Visits to local attractions, including Fettercairn Distillery and the Cairngorms landscape

The complete wedding package

Drumtochty Castle also offers an all-inclusive package including:

• Exclusive use of the castle, St Palladius and estate grounds

• Afternoon tea for the bridal party on arrival

• Full Scottish breakfast on both mornings for all accommodations

• Use of the Ballroom with all crockery, glassware and cutlery

Newlywed testimonial

“Not only is the castle itself the most magical location you could ask for when hosting a wedding, but everything about our stay from the food to the staff was truly impeccable…

“Nikki, Tamsin and Eve are an absolute delight to work with… We are so thankful to them for making our day everything we hoped for and more…

“The castle is incredible, but the people there truly made our stay… If you’re thinking of booking Drumtochty as a venue, do it, you will not regret it!” – Madison Dunlop, October 2025

FAQs

Where is Drumtochty Castle?

Drumtochty Castle is situated in Aberdeenshire, near the village of Auchenblae, just over an hour’s drive from Aberdeen city centre.

What is the capacity of Drumtochty Castle?

Drumtochty accommodates up to 120 guests for ceremonies, receptions, and dinners, with space for up to 180 guests for dancing.

On-site accommodation is available for up to 110 guests across the castle, wings, stables and lodges.

Does Drumtochty Castle offer a wedding coordinator?

Yes. Drumtochty Castle’s dedicated wedding team will support you throughout the planning process and be on hand for the duration of your wedding stay.

Is external catering permitted for weddings at Drumtochty Castle?

No. All wedding cuisine is provided by the castle’s resident chefs.

Is Drumtochty Castle an accessible wedding venue?

All reception rooms, including the Ballroom, and the toilet facilities are level-access on the ground floor of the castle, accessed via a ramp at the main entrance.

Accessible accommodation is available in the West and North Wings, and many Stables’ rooms are also on the ground floor.

Please note that St Palladius Church has stepped access and is not wheelchair accessible.