Dalhousie Castle is one of the oldest and most historic wedding settings in Midlothian.
Located near the village of Bonnyrigg, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH19 3JB, it is a 13th-century fortress which can boast the title of ‘Scotland’s oldest inhabited castle’.
Dalhousie Castle is only 8 miles from Edinburgh, yet it feels a million miles away due to its wooded parkland on the banks of the River Esk.
Dalhousie Castle was once the seat of the Earls of Dalhousie, the chieftains of Clan Ramsay.
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Fabulous feedback from our Dalhousie Castle newlyweds
Famous guests at Dalhousie Castle
Dalhousie Castle, with its storied past and medieval grandeur, has been a haven for distinguished guests.
Nestled amidst the picturesque Scottish countryside, this fortress-turned-hotel has welcomed a cast of notable figures, including members of royalty, acclaimed actors, and renowned personalities.
The castle’s timeless appeal has drawn the likes of Queen Elizabeth, further enhancing its regal legacy.
Hollywood legends such as Clint Eastwood have also sought refuge within its ancient walls, adding a touch of cinematic mystique to the castle’s history.
The rich tapestry of the guest list is a testament to its reputation as a luxurious retreat where history and modernity converge.
It offers an enchanting escape for those seeking the allure of medieval opulence in a contemporary setting.
With its majestic ambience and captivating surroundings, Dalhousie Castle continues to weave an extraordinary narrative that transcends time and welcomes illustrious guests to experience the magic of its castle hospitality.
We’ve photographed and filmed more weddings at Dalhousie Castle than any other setting outside of Edinburgh.
We love that every wedding at this exquisite location always feels unique.
Staircase and Landing
From the moment you enter the castle, you cannot fail to be impressed by the sense of the history of this fabulous old building.
The staircase and landing offer an interesting backdrop for photos and plenty of space for guests to gather and meet before and after your wedding ceremony.
Bedrooms and Suites
Many rooms are available for use during your wedding at Dalhousie Castle, with the bonus of various themed rooms and suites for you and your guests to retire to during your stay.
The Chapel
The Chapel at Dalhousie is a beautiful space for your wedding ceremony.
The most important part of your day will take place here, and it is available for religious, civil, and humanist wedding ceremonies.
French doors open directly from The Chapel onto the patio, where you can enjoy a celebratory glass of champagne with your guests.
If the weather is favourable, the patio is our favourite place for shooting family and friend’s formal photos.
The Falconry
Did you know that the Dalhousie has its own falconry?
A highlight of many wedding ceremonies is having your wedding rings delivered by a bird of prey.
Your wedding rings are placed in a small bag hooked onto the bird’s claws.
The Groom or Best Man usually has the role of wearing a heavy-duty falconer’s leather gauntlet, and the bird flies across the room, over the heads of your family and guests, and delivers the rings on cue.
It is quite a thrill to watch, and we’ve mastered the art of capturing a photo of the bird in flight!
Gardens
The extensive gardens at Dalhousie Castle are a great space for newly-wed photos.
From sweeping lawns to secluded woodland, there is also access to a field which offers a stunningly colourful backdrop for impressive newlywed photos.
The Sir Alexander Room
The Sir Alexander Room is where most of the evening celebrations take place.
With beautiful views over the estate, it has a dance floor where you can party the night away.
The Dalwolsey Suite
The Dalwolsey Suite is like a comfortable living room, ideally suited to an intimate dinner or drinks reception.
It has comfortable seating around a fireplace – the perfect room for a wee dram!
The Ramsay Suite
The Ramsay Suite is the largest function suite at the Castle.
It has vaulted arch windows, beautiful chandeliers, antique fireplaces and castle Thrones, so it’s an excellent room for your wedding meal.
While there, see if you can spot the secret staircase leading to the dungeon!
The Dungeon Gateside
The Dungeon Gateside at Dalhousie is the perfect space for an intimate wedding dinner.
Surely a castle isn’t complete if it doesn’t have a dungeon?
With suits of armour and historical weapons adorning the walls, it’s hard not to feel the sense of history enveloping you in the dungeon!
It’s also a great place for a few photos of the newlyweds!
The Library
The Library is the perfect place to relax. Order a drink from the bar, sit back on the comfortable seating, and relax in front of the large open fire.
Your special day is guaranteed to be memorable and unique, exactly like you! Make sure you contact us to enquire about our availability.
We would love to discuss all the wonderful photo opportunities available to you!
Dalhousie Castle real wedding photos
A few of our favourite real weddings at Dalhousie Castle. Click on the images below to view lots of photos.
Dalhousie Castle drone video
Contact the wedding team at Dalhousie Castle
You can contact the Dalhousie Castle wedding team here:
Address: Dalhousie Castle Hotel And Aqueous Spa, Bonnyrigg, Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH19 3JB.
Phone: +44 (0)1875 820153
Email address: [email protected]