Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle: royal and historic wedding venue in Stirling

Host your wedding at Stirling Castle – one of Scotland’s most famous castles and a venue steeped in centuries of romance, ceremony and tradition. Set atop Castle Hill and overlooking the city, this former royal residence offers couples the chance to marry in truly regal surroundings.

Weddings take place exclusively outside public opening hours, meaning you’ll have private access to the castle’s magnificent ceremony and reception spaces. A dedicated events manager will help plan your celebration, and a professional MC is included to assist with speeches and key moments throughout the day.

Wedding ceremony and reception spaces

Fall in love all over again in Stirling Castle’s wedding ceremony and evening reception spaces.

The Chapel Royal

•  Capacity: up to 240 for the ceremony, 200 for dinner and dancing

•  Ceremony types: religious or humanist

A spacious option for both your ceremony and reception, this elegant chapel stands as a large rectangular building with Renaissance windows and a central entrance framed by a triumphal arch along its southern front. 

While it has been redecorated since, it was initially built in just seven months on the orders of James VI for the baptism of his son and heir Prince Henry in 1594.

The Great Hall

•  Capacity: up to 300 guests

The Great Hall is considered one of Scotland’s most prestigious banqueting venues and has retained many of its original 16th-century features since its renovation. 

Its raised dais area is ideal for top table placement or dancing, and the minstrels’ gallery and trumpeter’s loft serve as optional areas for entertainment.

History of Stirling Castle

Renowned as one of Scotland’s greatest stone castles, Stirling Castle sits high on a volcanic outcrop at the lowest crossing point of the River Forth. Its long, tumultuous history dates to as early as 1110, with numerous royal dramas unfolding over the centuries.

Over the centuries, it has hosted coronations, royal births and military sieges. Mary Queen of Scots was crowned here in 1543, and her father James V spent much of his reign at the castle – making it a truly historic and meaningful place to begin married life.

FAQs

Where is Stirling Castle?

Stirling Castle is in Stirling and sits atop Castle Hill, overlooking the city. It’s less than a 40-minute drive from Glasgow, and just over an hour from Edinburgh.

Is Stirling Castle exclusive use?

No, Stirling Castle is a popular tourist attraction and remains open to the public during the day. However, exclusive use of the castle can be arranged outwith opening hours.

Is there accommodation?

No, Stirling Castle does not have on-site accommodation. However, Stirling has many nearby hotels available for you and your guests.

Is Stirling Castle accessible?

While Stirling Castle’s wedding spaces are fully wheelchair accessible, including adapted toilets and disabled parking spaces, the castle’s historic nature can present some challenges for those with limited mobility.