Planning a Scottish elopement? Whether you're dreaming of a romantic Highlands escape or a quiet, remote ceremony, this step-by-step elopement guide covers everything you need to know
“From the freedom and beauty, to the people and passion, Scotland has it all when it comes to eloping,” says Rona Burstow of Humanist Society Scotland, who conducted the ceremony for this couple. (Photo: Seán Bell Photography)
Eloping in Scotland has come a long way from its traditional definition of secretly marrying without parental approval. Today, many couples are choosing to elope not to hide their love, but to embrace a more intimate, stress-free, and often more affordable wedding experience.
Whether you're dreaming of exchanging vows on a windswept Highland hill or beside a peaceful loch, elopements are growing in popularity across Scotland.
Tempted by the idea? We’ve put together everything you need to know about how to elope in Scotland – and the experts who can help bring your romantic escape to life.
What does it mean to elope?
As mentioned above, eloping means to "run away secretly with the intention of getting married"... but, unless you're keeping it as a surprise for your friends and family, secretly hiking for the hills isn't necessarily the norm nowadays.
Instead, a modern version of an elopement can take place in lots of forms. It's thought that eloping now means to get married with little to no guests, in a way that is completely crafted around what you value most.
Can you have guests at an elopement?
Ultimately, yes. A traditional elopement has just the couple in attendance (plus two legal witnesses, of course), these days modern elopements come in all shapes and sizes.
Whether it is a micro wedding with a few guests in tow or bringing your dog to be by your side, the world of eloping is your oyster!
Why should I elope in Scotland?
The main answer to this is that eloping gives couples the freedom to make the day entirely their own.
“There is no pressure with an elopement. It’s just about the two of you – and maybe the odd Highland cow passing by,” laughs Brian Baxter, a celebrant with Fuze Ceremonies.
“While there’s scope to do exactly what you want in a 'traditional’ wedding, eloping allows couples to focus solely on each other and the meaning behind the moment.”
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Scotland is also the ideal place to exchange vows if you’re after stunning backdrops.
“We’ve got some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world – mountains, lochs, oceans, cliffs, forests, even cities – and you can be legally married pretty much anywhere,” explains Sarah Tonnar, who plans weddings through her business, Swoon Elopements.
“This means you can pick a spot that truly speaks to you.
“We’re also lucky to have some of the most talented vendors in the business who’ll be able to help you bring it all to life.”
Scottish elopements are becoming more and more popular. (Photo: Sam McGregor)
The benefits of eloping in Scotland
"You can make your vows by the side of a loch, at the top of a mountain, on a beautiful beach, in the shadow of a historic castle, in the middle of a forest or even in the grounds of a graveyard: every elopement is unique and memorable,” smiles Paul Browett, aka The Scottish Celebrant.
“We can’t always guarantee that an outdoor elopement will include sunshine, but if you’ve picked the right spot it will have brilliantly breathtaking views. Eloping also feels extremely romantic and intimate, which can result in stunning photos and everlasting memories.”
Can you get married anywhere in Scotland?
Unlike in very many countries around the world, the good news is that in Scotland you can get married pretty much anywhere. Just bear in mind that you do need to have specified the exact spot in advance, so it can be stated on your marriage schedule.
There may also be some restrictions if the land is privately owned, clarifies Craig Flowers of Independent Humanist Ceremonies.
“We are spoilt for choice with our scenery and venues, but always remember that you need permission from the venue or land-owner ahead of time in order for a ceremony to be conducted there.”
Where to elope in Scotland?
There’s no doubt about it: Scotland’s landscapes will provide a striking backdrop for your day, so you’ll hardly be struggling for a location.
A few of the most popular locations for eloping in Scotland are in the highlands, specifically Glencoe, or at Gretna Green which has been a magnet for runaway lovers since 1754!
Additionally, there has been in a rise in city centre elopements – in fact, internet sensation and Scottish influencer Jilly Cross (known online as Jilly Isabella) tied the knot with former Rangers footballer Andy Halliday in July 2024 at Glasgow City Chambers.
The couple shared the happy news on Instagram with a series of candid snaps of them walking around the city centre and also in the back of a taxi.
Check out this low-key emotional Glencoe elopement – with wellies, fleeces and atmospheric photos in the rain
Eloping to Gretna Green
Unlike the Marriage Act in England, which forbade couples under 21 from marrying without parental consent, Scotland’s age restriction was 16.
Today, Gretna Green continues to honour its historic past while embracing the present. In fact, couples still journey there from across the world, drawn by the romance of tradition and the promise of something deeply personal.
All you need to know about Gretna Green weddings, ceremonies and elopements
How to legally get married in Scotland
Now the most important part: the legalities. “For a marriage to be legal in Scotland, both you and your partner must be at least 16, and you need two witnesses,” Sarah says.
“These could be your photographer and wedding planner. Then, all that’s required is a registrar or registered celebrant to make it official.”
Paul has a few points to add: “The couple must notify the registry office of the area where the elopement is taking place, by submitting Marriage Notice (M10) forms, along with supporting documents, anywhere between 90 to 29 days before the wedding.”
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What is the M10 form and how much does it cost?
Your M10 forms will ask for key personal details – things like your full name, date of birth, address, parents’ names, and whether you’ve been married before.
It also asks for the place and date of the proposed marriage, so you can’t decide on the day itself to tie the knot on a beach if you’d previously specified the top of Ben Nevis.
You’ll need to gather a few supporting documents to send with the completed M10s, and those documents must be originals, not photocopies – things like a birth certificate, photo ID (for example, a passport or driving licence), and a recent bill or statement that shows your name and address.
At its most basic, the cost for eloping – just like for any marriage in Scotland – is £100 (£45 for your M10, £45 for your partner’s, plus £10 for entry to the marriage register).
“Eloping is all about keeping it personal,” explains Sarah Tonnar from Swoon Elopements. (Photo: The Future Before)
See how to fill in the marriage M10 form for getting married in Scotland
Eloping to Scotland from overseas
It’s not just us locals who see the beauty of eloping in Scotland; many couples from overseas are drawn here too.
“If you’re coming from outside the UK to get married here, you may require additional visa documents to do so,” says Paul. “The registry office will then provide a marriage schedule which will be signed on the day of the wedding by both of you, an officiant and two witnesses.”
Brian at Fuze Ceremonies further explains how couples from abroad can make things even simpler.
“There are no residence requirements when eloping to Scotland, so anyone can get married here,” says the celebrant.
“When eloping, you can choose either a legal or symbolic ceremony. A symbolic wedding is the simplest option as it does not include the legal aspects of registering for a marriage in a foreign country.”
How much does a Scottish elopement cost?
With couples in the UK reportedly spending on average more than £20k on a wedding, according to Bridebook, it is little wonder that many of us are looking for more cost-effective approaches.
Paul has some insights into how eloping could be just the ticket: “Generally speaking, the cost of an elopement will be much less than a conventional wedding. Without the need for a large venue, decor and paying for lots of guests, it is clear that an elopement is simpler and less expensive.
“Surrounded by a small number of people – or just yourselves – out in the stunning Scottish scenery, you already have the most impressive aisle to walk down, and after having a beautifully intimate and personal ceremony, you can stroll off into the sunset.”
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Brian agrees that eloping not only gives couples who are travelling from abroad the freedom to choose their wedding day schedule, it allows them more control over their expenses and budget.
“Elopements can be as expensive or as affordable as you choose,” he believes. “Your only unavoidable expense will be the air fare to get to Scotland. Then, you can decide what to spend your budget on – to hire a kilt or buy a dress, for example, or pay for flowers, accommodation and a photographer.”
“When it comes to the weather, the best thing you can do is stay flexible and open- minded – like this couple here,” says wedding and elopement photographer, Loraine Ross. (Photo: Loraine Ross)
What to do if it rains on your wedding day
Scotland does many things well, but one thing it truly excels at is giving us four seasons in one day. If you’re eloping somewhere like Skye or Glencoe, remember the weather is beyond your control.
“Our weather is known for being temperamental, and that can be a factor, depending on your plans,” says Brian.
“However, you just have to keep in mind that this is part of the charm of a Scottish outdoors wedding. You can get swirling mist, pouring rain and bright sunshine all in the space of a single hour, and that makes for beautiful photos and fun memories.”
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Emma Crowe, from weddings and events planning business White Heather Events, also encourages you to embrace the ever-changing weather.
“Some couples worry that it could spoil their day, but even cold and rainy days have their positives, especially for moody and atmospheric photographs – there’s beauty in every season here,” she smiles.
“Even when it’s really bad, there’s often a break in the clouds just around the corner. Elopements give you great flexibility to take advantage of the best part of the day, as you don’t need to stick to a plan or to exact timings as you would for lots of guests in a normal venue.”
Advice to make your elopement a success
Personalise it
“Content-wise, we approach every elopement ceremony in the same manner as a traditional one. We gauge a tone that’s right for each couple, and prepare a script in advance for consideration before fine-tuning it until it’s just right.” – Craig Flowers, Independent Humanist Ceremonies
Plan how you'll get there
“There are plenty of stunning remote locations to choose from, but some spots require hiking or driving to get there. If you’d rather not drive on your wedding day, speak with your planner or photographer about transportation.” – Paul Browett, The Scottish Celebrants
Discuss your plans with your suppliers
“You won’t necessarily need as many suppliers as you would with a typical wedding, but the ones you do book must be suitable for what you have in mind – a photographer and celebrant, for example, who are up for the adventure.” – Emma Crowe, White Heather Events
