Is it possible to get married in a Scottish castle hotel?
Yes! Each castle hotel listing on this site has a notation if weddings are possible, but if you visit the various regional pages, you’ll find links to many private great houses and castles that are phenomenal venues to hold a wedding.
It is fairly simple to marry in Scotland, but you must plan ahead even though there is no residency requirement. Oh, and you must be at least 16 years of age!
The first order of business is to contact the registrar in the district where you wish to marry at least 15 days in advance. However, it would be prudent to allow 4 weeks, more if you have been married previously. Either you or your future spouse must appear at the registrar’s office 7 days before the wedding. In case of a religious ceremony, one of you will need to pick up the “Marriage Schedule” at that time.
Required documents:
- Passport
- If you do not hold a U.K. passport, you will need a visa, regardless if you need one to enter the country as a tourist. For further information on the visa requirement, visit the UK visas website.
- Birth Certificate
- If married before, a decree absolute of divorce or a death certificate. In case of a divorce, the registrar must verify the information with the court where the divorce took place. You cannot marry until this has been completed. You must produce a certificate from your embassy that states you are free to marry. U.S. citizens can bring in their decree absolute of divorce paperwork. Again, allow plenty of time.
You will need to make an appointment with a clergyman or minister to marry you. The location can be anywhere you want, or you may marry in the registrar’s office if you wish.
Bring two witnesses who are at least 16 years of age.