Scottish Castle Weddings
by Paris Permenter & John Bigley

He's your Prince Charming. Your knight in shining armor. When you're with him, you feel like a princess.

And fantasies about your wedding are just as regal. You picture a day in a setting as special as your relationship, a location whose rich history will be an anchor from which to begin your life as husband and wife. A setting that could only be described as magical.

It doesn't take a magic wand to make your wishes come true--only a trip to Scotland. With its numerous castles and marriage laws that make it easy for foreigners to say I do, you'll find that Scotland just might be your fairy godmother, making your wedding dreams a reality.

Castle weddings range from small to large, from traditional to those in Celtic wear and Renaissance costumes. You'll find a full range of options available, from numerous castles (not to mention historic abbeys) to wedding extras such as bagpipers, reception dinners, and more. If you'd like to see your guy in a kilt, that's an easy order as well; numerous outfitters can tailor a tartan or even rent the necessary wear.

The only difficult part of a Scottish castle wedding might be selecting the castle of your dreams. Here are two of the best known choices:

EDINBURGH CASTLE

Overlooking the city of Edinburgh, this castle commands attention. Perched atop an ancient volcano, the castle is the top tourist attraction in Scotland and one of its most recognized sights. With a chapel dating back to the Norman period, Edinburgh Castle is considered one of the world's most famous castles and is home to Scotland's Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.

Wedding ceremonies with up to 25 guests are conducted in the Gatehouse Suite, located just inside the entrance to the castle. With its round turrets, the suite makes the perfect private setting for your ceremony, quiet even when the public is touring the castle grounds. Edinburgh Castle is available for weddings from October through May.

An adjoining apartment is used for drinks and appetizers following the ceremony. And the two of you can have your first photos as husband and wife taken out on the balcony, complete with a backdrop of Edinburgh and the Royal Mile, the one-mile road that leads to Holyrood Palace, the summer royal residence.

The perfect place to spend your wedding night after an Edinburgh Castle wedding? The Caledonian Hilton Edinburgh. Castle view rooms look directly onto the castle, the perfect way to end the perfect day.

STIRLING CASTLE

Located between Edinburgh and Glasgow in the midst of what is termed Braveheart country thanks to its links with William Wallace, Stirling Castle may not be as well known as its Edinburgh cousin but many consider this castle to be Scotland's finest. The childhood home of Mary, Queen of Scots and also the grand structure where the monarch was crowned, the regal fortress is an elegant setting for any wedding.

Like Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle is also perched atop a volcanic outcropping, standing like a topper crowning an immense wedding cake. You'll find several venues for your memorable day.

Many brides select the Chapel Royal, available for groups of up to 150. With its barreled ceiling, the regal room makes an excellent site for wedding ceremonies as well as for dinners and dancing. Weddings at the Chapel Royal are scheduled from October to March. (Couples who wish to hold the wedding ceremony and reception can opt for an all-inclusive package available year around.)

Nearby, the 16th century Great Hall is another favorite for wedding receptions. The Great Hall is considered one of the most prestigious venues in Scotland. An event for author J.K. Rowling was held here to celebrate the launch of the latest Harry Potter movie.

And when it's time to take your wedding photos, the Queen Anne Gardens lend a magnificent backdrop with views of the castle or of the Royal Gardens. Some speculate that the earthworks seen in the Gardens were the base for King Arthur's round table.

Brides can opt for many special touches to their weddings, from trumpeters in the Great Hall to bagpipers to beat the retreat when everyone makes their exit.

For more on booking either Edinburgh Castle of Stirling Castle, call 0131 668 8973 or see Historic Scotland.

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