Explore the best beach, lochside and waterfront wedding venues in Scotland for 2025 and 2026, from romantic retreats to luxury coastal estates
(Photo: Adrian Houston)
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Looking for the perfect beach, lochside or coastal wedding venue in Scotland? Whether you're dreaming of saying ‘I do’ with your toes in the sand, celebrating by the picturesque shores of a scenic loch, or hosting a romantic seaside ceremony with dramatic sea views, this guide will help you find the ideal spot for your special day.
At Tie the Knot Scotland, we’ve handpicked some of the most breathtaking waterside wedding venues in Scotland – from luxury 5-star resorts and exclusive-use lochside estates, to charming coastal castles and rustic retreats on the water’s edge.
Whether you're planning a destination wedding in Scotland or a local celebration, you'll find options for every style and guest list. Expect wedding venues offering everything from outdoor ceremonies with panoramic views to seafood menus and bespoke wedding packages.
Read on to explore the best Scottish waterfront wedding venues for 2025, 2026 and beyond – complete with pricing details, guest capacities, accommodation options, and more.
Ardoch Loch Lomond, West Dunbartonshire
Ardoch Loch Lomond is a unique exclusive-use lochside wedding venue in Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, an area of outstanding beauty in Scotland, with capacity for up to 80 day guests (100 in the evening).
Ardoch is different from other wedding venues because all profit goes directly to Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS), a charity that provides care and support to children who have life-shortening illnesses, and their families.
Set only one mile from the shores of the loch itself on high ground, the venue boasts some of the most incredible panoramic views of the iconic loch and mountains.
Outdoor wedding ceremonies and drinks receptions can be set up on the main lawn to take advantage of the views of the nearby loch (weather permitting). This spot is also one of the best for capturing wedding photos with Loch Lomond in the background.
Floor-to-ceiling windows in the dining area also ensure guests can soak up the surroundings.
If the newlyweds and guests want to take a wedding boat trip on Loch Lomond, suppliers can be found nearby and the Ardoch wedding team would be happy to advise.
They are there to help deliver your vision; there’s no such thing as a ‘set wedding’ at Ardoch Loch Lomond so come with a wide-open mind.
Ardoch is on a 133-acre private estate near the pretty village of Gartocharn in West Dunbartonshire on the south-east side of Loch Lomond within the Trossachs National Park. It is 27 miles from Glasgow and Stirling, and 73 miles from Edinburgh.
Yes it’s exclusive use, meaning you can enjoy the entire Ardoch estate on a completely private basis just for you and your guests.
Ardoch can host weddings for up to 80 for dinner and up to 100 in the evening.
A maximum of 50 day guests is included in its standard wedding venue hire which includes the space for dining in the contemporary Barn.
For 51-80 day guests, the Barn will be used in conjunction with the addition of Ardoch’s own marquee to cover the outside patio area, bringing the outdoors in. (There is an additional charge to include using the patio area with marquee for dining.)
Ardoch can sleep up to 33 guests over 18 well-appointed ensuite bedrooms. Some boast the most amazing views towards Loch Lomond within the area, while others look onto the ever-changing hills and mountains.
Get in touch with the team for a bespoke proposal, but all packages will include:-
- - Exclusive use of the estate 133 acres of private grounds
- - Accommodation for a maximum of 33 guests in 18 well-appointed ensuite bedrooms
- - Full Scottish breakfast for residents on Saturday and Sunday
- - Access from 3pm on Friday
- - Check-out 11am on Sunday
- - Capacity for dining up to 50 day guests and up to 80 using the marquee
- - Maximum 100 total evening guests
- - Ceremony in the house or gardens/grounds
- - Tables with white linen tablecloths and napkins
- - Crockery, cutlery and glassware
- - Outdoor patio seating
- - SONOS sound system throughout the public areas
- - Fully licensed bar and all glassware
Ardoch is venue-hire only, so there is no in-house catering, but the venue works with a preferred wedding caterer to provide a delicious choice of menus. Couples can also bring in their own choice of caterer, by special arrangement.
Barnbougle Castle, near Edinburgh
(Photo: First Light Photography)
Part of the Rosebery Venues portfolio that also includes Rosebery House and barn wedding venue Rosebery Steading, Barnbougle Castle is a 13th-century fortress just 20 minutes from central Edinburgh. Originally built to defend a Norman noble family, the historic waterfront wedding venue in Scotland now offers a luxury backdrop for exclusive events.
Its extraordinary setting, on the banks of the Firth of Forth, makes Barnbougle Castle one of Scotland’s most sought-after waterside wedding venues, whether you dream of an outdoor wedding ceremony on the coast or drinks reception by the water.
A large sea-facing terrace with uninterrupted views looks out onto the expanse of the Forth and is a popular space for outdoor wedding ceremonies of up to 120. Waterside drinks receptions can be arranged too and thanks to the terrace’s wide vistas, it can be a pretty spot as the light shifts and sun sets in the evening.
There’s a private beach with pale sand a short walk away, which is a striking backdrop for wedding photographs (with the castle rising in the background), or simply for the newlyweds to take some private time together before rejoining the celebrations.
For those who prefer the grandeur of the castle interiors for the ceremony, dinner and reception – the barrel-vaulted banqueting hall really is spectacular – the seaside terrace is a popular choice for evening drinks or as a viewpoint for spectacular fireworks display later in the evening.
If needed, a canopy can be added without compromising the view.
Even inside the castle wedding venue, the coastal setting is apparent through dramatic picture windows that frame the views of the Forth.
Bespoke arrangements such as boat trips or coastal excursions can often be organised through local providers and the well-connected events team will be happy to assist with recommendations (as they are for all parts of wedding planning).
Barnbougle Castle sits at the edge of the Dalmeny Estate, near South Queensferry and the landmark Forth Bridges, looking directly out over the Firth of Forth. It's around a 20-minute drive from Edinburgh city centre and 15 minutes from Edinburgh Airport.
Yes, this castle is only available for exclusive use and is not open to the public. Guests may only access Barnbougle Castle when attending a private event such as a wedding.
The main banqueting hall seats up to 140 guests, and up to 200 standing, but there’s space to pitch a marquee for up to 450 guests on the lawn.
No, there is no on-site accommodation at Barnbougle Castle itself. However there are plenty of local options nearby.
The newly refurbished Water Tower, located on the Dalmeny Estate, offers a peaceful and romantic retreat for two. It is often used as a bridal suite or love nest for the newlyweds.
For the wedding party and guests travelling further afield, the events team can recommend nearby hotels and local guest houses that are all trusted suppliers.
Interested couples are encouraged to get in touch with the Rosebery Estates events team who can compile a bespoke wedding proposal.
Barnbougle Castle does not provide catering in-house, but works with premium and creative wedding caterers in Scotland that put a focus on Scottish ingredients, seasonality and provenance.
Carrick Castle Estate, Argyll
(Photo: Corinne Moffat Photography)
Set on the shores of Loch Goil and surrounded by breathtaking Highland scenery, this Argyll estate comprises two different versatile wedding venues: a rustic barn for weddings of 2 to 120 guests, and Castle Craigard, an intimate castle wedding venue with its own chapel that accommodates from 2 to 24 guests. There’s also a large self-catering eco-lodge that sleeps up to 16.
If you’re after a laid-back lochside or waterfront wedding in Scotland, the good news is that at Carrick Castle Estate, there are multiple indoor and outdoor locations that couples can make use of to ensure they bring their wedding vision to life backdropped by views of the loch or waterfalls.
The top lawn of the lodge overlooks Loch Goil and is ideal for both an outdoor wedding ceremony, a stretch tent ceremony and a marquee or tipi reception.
Castle Craigard is right on the water’s edge and its tower is a fabulous spot for newlywed photos offering panoramic views of Loch Goil, trees and hills.
If a wedding photo by a cascading waterfall is a must, there are waterfalls on the estate that can be reached by a drive in a vintage Land Rover Defender – a nice chance for ‘us time’ for the newlyweds.
Carrick Castle Estate is situated in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park with views over Loch Goil in Argyll. The village of Lochgoilhead is close by. It would be around 90 minutes’ drive from central Glasgow and around 2.5 hours from Edinburgh.
Yes. The dry-hire blank-canvas barn and lodge are available for exclusive use. Nearby Castle Craigard is also exclusive use.
An intimate wedding venue in Scotland, Castle Craigard can host wedding ceremonies and receptions for up to 24 guests.
The rustic wedding barn, meanwhile, has ceremony and reception space for up to 120 guests.
Carrick Castle Estate can sleep 22-34 guests on-site and all accommodation has views of the loch or surrounding countryside.
The luxury eco-lodge sleeps 16 (3 doubles and 5 double or twin) and has fantastic spa facilities, including hot tub, steam room and sauna.
Castle Craigard sleeps 12 across 5 doubles and 1 twin. This manor house with viewing tower has an outdoor hot tub and BBQ area, games room and private chapel.
There are other lodges and farmhouses for wedding guests to stay in that are a short walk away from the wedding venues.
There is an array of wedding packages at different price points available at Carrick Castle Estate. Visit its website for the full overview.
A DIY rustic barn wedding at Carrick Castle Estate costs from £13,950 for 2025 (£13,950 for 2026; £14,400 for 2027).
This includes:
- - Barn venue hire for a wedding up to 120
- - Accommodation for 22 guests for 3 nights
- - Tables, chairs and lighting
- - Event toilets
- - Arch and aisle runner
There’s also the option for an all-inclusive VIP barn wedding package with prices from £168,900 for 2026 that would accommodate 56 guests for 5 nights and a wedding for up to 120. This luxury option also includes catering, beverages, photography, venue styling, flowers and much more.
A DIY intimate wedding at Castle Craigard costs from £7,800 for 2025.
This includes:
- - Intimate wedding for up to 24
- - Accommodation for 12 guests for 3 nights
- - Choice of ceremony location
- - Tables and chairs
Drive in the estate’s Land Rover Defender
All-inclusive intimate wedding packages are also available at Castle Craigard with prices from £27,800 (2025), as are midweek micro weddings or elopements with prices from £2,400 for 1 night for 12 guests.
Castle Craigard is now available for anniversaries, family getaways, and private events of many kinds. Rates start at £1,200 per night (minimum 3-night stay).
Please note: This offer applies only to accommodation-only bookings in 2025.
Unless booking one of the all-inclusive wedding packages, couples will have to hire an external caterer to provide wedding food and drink at Carrick Castle Estate. The wedding team will be able to provide a supplier list to help with this.
Hotel du Vin St Andrews, Fife
Looking right out onto the North Sea in the East Neuk of Fife, Hotel du Vin St Andrews promises a seaside wedding of dreams. The romantic St Andrews wedding venue offers couples the services of an in-house wedding planner to help them smoothly organise their ceremony and celebration, and make sure it all comes together perfectly on the big day itself.
If you’re looking for a small wedding venue by the sea in Scotland, the hotel’s private MacAllan Room has an exquisite bay window taking full advantage of the views over the coast towards golf’s famous Old Course.
Located just steps from the Old Course and West Sands Beach, Hotel du Vin St Andrews is one of the most picturesque wedding venues in Fife.
With easy access to photo landmarks like the Swilcan Bridge, cliff tops and Victorian bandstand, it’s a wedding location your guests will remember forever.
Hotel du Vin St Andrews is in the heart of the popular old town, situated within a traditional stone terraced building on The Scores with stunning views of the famous West Sands beach.
While Hotel du Vin St Andrews is not an exclusive-use venue by default, this could be arranged for an additional fee.
The biggest suite, the Swilcan Suite Ballroom, can host up to 120 for ceremony and dinner and up to 160 for evening reception. The capacity of the smaller Macallan Boardroom is 24 (26 by arrangement).
The hotel can offer preferential rates for guests across its 42 stylish bedrooms and suites. Upgrade to a Superior Sea View Rooms, Junior Suite or Suite to take advantage of the waterfront views.
Wedding packages at this Fife hotel cost from £84 per person. They include:
- - Wedding breakfast room hire
- - Three-course menu
- - Classic drinks package
- - Glass of fizz for the toast
- - Tea and coffee
- - Table linen
- - Place cards
- - Discounted room rates for wedding party
- - Menu and wine tasting for the couple
All food and drink is provided in-house. Select from pre-compiled menus or work with the team to create a bespoke menu. As you might’ve guessed from the name, wine is a speciality and couples can tap into the services of a sommelier to guide them through the comprehensive wine list.
Fairmont St Andrews, Fife
A big guest list is not a problem at this large 5-star Fife coastal wedding venue that can accommodate weddings of any size from two to 1,000.
Fairmont St Andrews sits on a private 520-acre estate (including two world-class championship golf courses) where dramatic cliff-top sea views of the North Sea abound.
This luxury and prestigious wedding venue in Scotland features opulent accommodation and indulgent dining, and offers a selection of elegant ballrooms and scenic outdoor terraces for memorable wedding ceremonies and receptions.
At the heart of the hotel, the spectacular glass-roofed Atrium with its huge fish-themed hanging art installation is a popular location for a drinks reception overlooking the North Sea. The Robert Louis Stevenson Suite has a beautiful terrace area which also shares sea views.
Couples marrying there benefit from the services of a dedicated wedding team and bespoke menus, alongside indulgent spa treatments and access to the two golf courses.
If couples quite literally want to make a splash, the hotel works closely with Blown Away, a popular water sports business based on West Sands Beach in St Andrews which offers water-based activities such as surfing and paddle boarding.
The hotel is located just outside of iconic golf town, St Andrews and boasts spectacular views of the North Sea as soon as you drive down the driveway.
No, the resort is not exclusive use; however couples will have privacy and dedicated, attentive service no matter which wedding space they hire.
Fairmont St Andrews is one of Scotland’s largest wedding venues with a maximum capacity of 1,000 guests.
It offers 15 different event spaces, each with different capacities depending on room and table configuration.
If you have a big guest list and are looking for a suitable wedding venue in Scotland, the Robert Burns Ballroom can seat 440 people banquet-style. There is also a host of smaller, more intimate wedding spaces available.
There are 213 spacious luxury rooms in the hotel, with a Deluxe Seaview Suite usually reserved for the newlyweds.
The Kingdom of Fife Suite is the hotel’s premiere suite that boasts panoramic views of the sea, the town of St Andrews and on a clear day, Carnoustie, from its own personal balcony.
There are also detached four-bedroom Manor Homes on the wider estate, each sleeping up to eight with their own farmhouse kitchen and formal dining areas. They are often used for pre- or post-wedding celebrations.
Prices are upon enquiry to the wedding team at the hotel. There are a variety of packages available depending on the size of wedding you are planning.
- - For 10-49 guests there are Intimate and Intimate Plus packages.
- - For 50+ guests there are the Kittocks, Torrance, and St Andrews Bay packages.
- - For up to 350 guests there is also a self-catered package available.
Fairmont St Andrews has an exceptionally talented kitchen team on site, with extensive wedding menus to select from. It also offers the option of hiring an external caterer for self-catered weddings.
The Dougarie Boathouse, Isle of Arran
(Photo: Meggy Mac Photography)
Unique Isle of Arran seaside wedding venue, The Dougarie Boathouse is located on the west side of the island and has direct access to a beach that’s even more spectacular at sunset.
Gleddoch Golf & Spa Resort, Renfrewshire
(Photo: Sheila Galvin Photography)
The award-winning Renfrewshire wedding venue Gleddoch Golf & Spa Resort near Glasgow has panoramic views of the River Clyde, nestled amongst landscaped gardens.
Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort, Renfrewshire
A five-star wedding venue near Glasgow, riverside Mar Hall sits on the banks of the Clyde with views to the Kilpatrick Hills.
Lodge on Loch Lomond, Luss
(Photo: CIA Photography)
Wedding ceremonies at Lodge on Loch Lomond can take place outdoors on a private patio right on Loch Lomond, with wedding spaces inside that soak up the views too!
Venachar Lochside, Callander
(Photo: Caro Weiss)
Trossachs wedding venue Venachar Lochside is, as the name suggests, right on the shores of a loch, one of the most romantic outdoor wedding ceremony spots in Scotland.
The Vu, Bathgate
(Photo: Mike Cook Photography)
A package-based wedding venue in central Scotland, The Vu in West Lothian sits on a freshwater reservoir and has two different wedding suites, The Water Lily and The Oasis.
Planning a waterside, lochside or coastal wedding in Scotland
Can I get married on a beach in Scotland?
Yes. Wedding ceremonies in Scotland may take place at any indoor or outdoor location, including on a beach, providing it is accessible to your chosen celebrant or registrar and you have the landowner’s permission (if required) to do so. Read more about planning your wedding ceremony in Scotland here.
If you choose to get married on or near a beach in Scotland and the weather is good, you may be lucky enough to get some amazing ‘golden hour’ or sunset photos later in the day.
No matter the time of year or weather, your photographer should be able to capture amazing photos. Check out our wedding day photography weather tips.
Can I get married at Loch Lomond?
Yes. The area is home to lots of scenic wedding venues such as Ardoch Loch Lomond and Lodge on Loch Lomond (see more information above).
Discover even more incredible Scottish waterside venues on our venue directory.
