TTKS Visits: historic, city-centre wedding venue, Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh

Many of Scotland’s grandest venues are pretty remote – I’m thinking castles, country houses and the like. They’re fabulous – but not exactly what you’d call handy.

If, like me, your family don’t live in this country, or you’re planning on inviting a lot of people who’ll have a fair bit of travelling to do to reach the celebrations, it might be simpler for all concerned to host your bash in a city, with all the easy transport and accommodation options that come with that.

Is the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh easy for wedding guests to get to?

But, I hear you say, you still want that ‘grand venue’… Well, the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh could be the solution.

It gracefully combines the regal vibe of a castle with the class and convenience of a modern city space. It’s on Queen Street, mere minutes from Waverley Station and the main bus routes; and if you’re flying in, the tram from the airport couldn’t make it easier. You can picture guests stepping off trains, finding their hotels and wandering over without needing a car or a taxi.

Practicalities like that might not be the first thing you think about when venue hunting, but take it from someone who has often needed her boyfriend to chauffeur her to venues in the past: it’s freeing to be able to make your own way.

What is the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh like inside?

On the morning I visit the RCPE, the autumn air is crisp and cool and I have the pleasure of being shown around by event executives Hannah and Helen, both brilliant at adding colour to what’s already an atmospheric place.

The pillars and statues of the exterior are impressive, but it’s the interior that steals the show. “You don’t have to wait for the wow,” Hannah says, taking the words right out of my mouth.

The ornate architecture, rich colours, intricate ceilings – and of course the endless shelves of books – mean you won’t have to do much to make it wedding-ready, though the generous space certainly suits dramatic decor if you so choose.

Where do wedding ceremonies and receptions take place at RCPE?

I’m told that most couples marry in the New Library, and from there the day flows naturally. After the ceremony, there’s often a big group photo on the staircase, followed by a confetti toss out on Queen Street.

While guests enjoy drinks in another room, the couple sneak off for photos in the private Queen Street Gardens just across the road. The College has keys to both the east and central gates; as part of your package, you are allowed access to the gardens for two hours – a much more peaceful alternative to a public park, and a lovely contrast to the more formal interior backdrops.

Then it’s through to the Great Hall for dinner, before a ‘turnaround hour’ where guests head back to the New Library for cocktails while the hall is reset for dancing. The party often starts at 8.30pm, with a generous 1am finish.

Let yourself be inspired by this romantic Scottish Japanese wedding at the Royal College of Physicians in Edinburgh 

How flexible are the wedding spaces at the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh?

The rooms here are flexible. The Cullen Suite (my favourite, with its beautiful Bridgerton blues) is often used earlier in the day but can easily be repurposed – a calm space for grandparents, a quiet area for children or a handy overflow for bigger guest lists. It also catches lovely light for photos.

The New Library’s balcony and hallway are Helen and Hannah’s favourites for those more dramatic shots. “The College is such a photogenic venue,” they both say, almost in unison.

I am allowed to climb the small spiral staircase to reach the New Library’s balcony, as I do so picturing guests streaming into the space below, looks of awe on their faces as they take in their surroundings, with a string quartet playing in one corner.

What should couples know about styling rules at this historic wedding venue?

As this is a historic building, there are a few rules in place to protect it, but nothing too restrictive: real candles are only permitted on dinner tables; confetti is strictly outside; there’s no pinning or sticking up decorations; and it’s a no to helium balloons, drones or beer kegs.

On the day, florists can start from 10am and guests arrive from midday. The team handle logistics with your caterers, who’ll lay out menus, favours and place cards, but any styling changes are done by your florist or decor supplier.

What hidden spaces make this Edinburgh wedding venue unique?

Throughout the tour I’m shown several lovely hidden corners. The courtyard Physic Garden is filled with medicinal plants grown by College Fellows and makes a charming breakout spot for drinks or evening photos.

There’s even an outdoor projector for couples to play slideshows on the garden wall after dark – an unexpected detail that creates a great talking point. Another insider perk is the Vice-President’s Office, set aside for couples as a private space to take a breather, meet their celebrant or simply enjoy a quiet moment together.

Is the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh suitable for elopements?

Elopements – which have definitely risen in popularity lately – are a smaller-scale option which the venue handles beautifully. The intimate package allows up to 10 guests and gives couples two hours in either the Cullen Suite or the New Library.

Most then head out for dinner nearby. It’s a really good option for those wanting a short, stylish ceremony without the full reception to follow. Before I leave, I ask what piece of advice the pair most often dish out.

“Keep it about you,” Hannah says. “It’s so easy to fall down a Pinterest hole and lose sight of what you actually want.” Helen nods: “And take 10 minutes together on the day – you’ll blink and it’s gone.”

Two suggestions that feel perfectly in keeping with this venue: elegant, thoughtful and quietly focused on what really matters.

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