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Edinburgh's Top 10 Wedding & Elopement Photo Spots


Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Botanic Garden, the Grassmarket, the School of Divinity courtyard, Circus Lane, the Royal Mile, the Vennel Steps, Dean Village, Victoria Street and the outside of St Giles Cathedral. Mix the big icons with the hidden lanes and you get castles, cobbles and colour all in one wee city.

Edinburgh's Top 10 Wedding & Elopement Photo Spots

Edinburgh, oh Edinburgh! A city bursting with charm, history, and jaw-dropping architecture at every turn. If you’re planning to get married in this magical city, you’re in for a treat.

Here is a round up of the top 10 spots that you should include in your Edinburgh City Wedding Photos.

From ancient castles to hidden lanes, to beaches, to an old volcano, Edinburgh has it all, and I’m here to guide you through the best of the best.

Greg & Josephine on their wedding day

1. Edinburgh Castle: Let’s start big with the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Perched atop Castle Rock, it’s the epitome of grandeur and romance. Imagine saying “I do” against the backdrop of centuries-old stone walls and panoramic views of the city below. Did you know you can actually get married inside the Castle?

If you’re not getting married inside, then you can get great views from around the city with Edinburgh Castle in the background.

Hannah & Tom on their wedding day

2. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: Get lost in the tranquillity of the Royal Botanic Garden. With its lush greenery and vibrant blooms, this place is a photographer’s dream. Sneak a kiss under the canopy of trees or pose amidst the colourful flower beds for a picture-perfect moment.

Olivia & Alex on their wedding day

3. Grassmarket: For a lively and vibrant atmosphere, head to the Grassmarket. Flanked by historic buildings and bustling cafes, this charming square offers endless opportunities for candid and romantic photos.

Dacia & Caleb on their wedding day in Edinburgh

4. School of Divinity Courtyard: Step back in time in the School of Divinity Courtyard. This hidden gem boasts stunning architecture and tranquil gardens, making it the perfect spot for intimate photos that capture the essence of old-world romance.

Hannah & Niall on their wedding day

5. Circus Lane: Take a stroll down Circus Lane and fall in love with its quaint charm. The colourful townhouses and cobblestone streets provide a whimsical backdrop for your love story to unfold.

Maisy & Des on their wedding day

6. Royal Mile: Step into history on the Royal Mile. With its medieval closes and grand facades, this historic street is a treasure trove of photo opportunities. Let’s wander and see what magic we can find.

Dacia & Caleb on their wedding day in Edinburgh

7. The Vennel Steps: Want to escape the crowds? Head to the Vennel Steps. Tucked away in the Old Town, these ancient stairs offer panoramic views and a sense of intimacy that’s perfect for capturing candid moments.

Dacia & Caleb on their wedding day in Edinburgh Greg & Josephine on their wedding day

8. Dean Village: Find peace and serenity in Dean Village. The rustic cottages and stone bridges along the Water of Leith provide a picturesque backdrop for romantic photos that feel straight out of a fairytale.

9. Victoria Street: Add a pop of colour to your photos on Victoria Street. With its vibrant facades and quirky shops, this lively street is full of personality and charm.

Pascale & Jonathan on their wedding day

10. St Giles Cathedral (Exterior): Last but not least, let’s not forget St Giles Cathedral. With its Gothic spires and intricate stone carvings, it’s a masterpiece of architecture that’ll add a touch of grandeur to your photos.

So, whether you’re planning a lavish affair or an intimate elopement, Edinburgh has no shortage of stunning backdrops to capture your love story. Get ready to go on an adventure and let’s make some magic together!

Your questions

Can you actually get married inside Edinburgh Castle?

You can, yes. And if you’re not getting married inside, you can still get great views from around the city with the castle in the background.

Where can we get photos in Edinburgh away from the crowds?

Head to the Vennel Steps, tucked away in the Old Town, with panoramic views and a much more intimate feel. The School of Divinity courtyard is another hidden gem.

Where are the most colourful photo spots in Edinburgh?

Victoria Street, with its bright shopfronts and quirky shops, and Circus Lane, with its colourful townhouses and cobbles. For greenery and flower beds, the Royal Botanic Garden.

Do these spots work for an elopement as well as a wedding?

Absolutely. Whether you’re planning a big do or an intimate elopement, Edinburgh has no shortage of backdrops, from ancient castles to hidden lanes.

Where are you getting married?

The areas and venues I know best, with real weddings from each.

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