10 Scenic Outdoor Wedding Locations Near Aberdeen
Aberdeen and the surrounding Aberdeenshire area are known for their stunning natural beauty, making them perfect settings for outdoor weddings. Whether you envision exchanging vows in a secluded forest, on a beach with coastal views, or surrounded by the grandeur of a castle, this region offers many options for unforgettable outdoor ceremonies. Here are ten of the best scenic outdoor wedding venues near Aberdeen.
1. Drumtochty Castle Gardens
Nestled in a forested area, Drumtochty Castle offers breathtaking gardens for outdoor weddings. The castle itself serves as a grand backdrop, and the surrounding woodlands and landscaped gardens provide a romantic, secluded atmosphere. Couples can exchange vows amidst towering trees and lush greenery, adding a touch of fairytale magic to the day.
Why Choose Drumtochty Castle?
Secluded forest surroundings
Stunning 19th-century architecture as a backdrop
Private gardens and open spaces for ceremonies and receptions
2. Haddo House and Gardens
Haddo House, with its immaculate gardens and grand architecture, is a top choice for couples seeking an elegant outdoor venue. The grounds feature well-maintained flowerbeds, tree-lined pathways, and water features that create a picturesque setting for wedding photos. Couples can choose from various locations on the estate to exchange their vows, each offering its own unique charm.
What Makes Haddo House Stand Out?
Beautifully landscaped gardens with colorful blooms
Historic mansion offering indoor and outdoor options
Stunning locations for wedding photography
3. Cairngorms National Park
For adventurous couples looking for a dramatic, natural setting, Cairngorms National Park is an awe-inspiring choice. The park offers diverse scenery, from rolling hills to serene lochs and expansive moorlands. While more suited to smaller, intimate gatherings, a ceremony here promises breathtaking views and unforgettable memories.
Reasons to Choose Cairngorms National Park:
Panoramic views and diverse landscapes
Perfect for adventurous couples and nature lovers
Ideal for unique, intimate ceremonies in the heart of nature
4. Duthie Park Winter Gardens
Duthie Park is an oasis of greenery and flowers within Aberdeen, and its Winter Gardens offer a unique twist for outdoor-inspired weddings. The gardens are home to exotic plants and flowers, creating a lush backdrop for wedding photos. The park itself provides open spaces, scenic paths, and even a boating pond, making it an ideal spot for relaxed, family-friendly celebrations.
Highlights of Duthie Park:
Variety of exotic and native plants in the Winter Gardens
Easily accessible location within Aberdeen
Beautiful paths and open spaces for photos and gatherings
5. Crathes Castle Gardens
Crathes Castle is surrounded by enchanting gardens with ornate flower beds, ancient trees, and manicured lawns. The castle itself adds a timeless charm to the setting, and its gardens provide an array of vibrant backdrops for both small and larger weddings. The grounds also feature a unique walled garden, adding a touch of intimacy and privacy.
Why Crathes Castle is a Top Choice:
Beautiful formal gardens with colorful flowers and lush greenery
Historic architecture and a walled garden for added privacy
Offers both outdoor and indoor options within the castle
6. Balmoral Castle Grounds
For couples looking for a royal touch, the grounds of Balmoral Castle, the Scottish residence of the royal family, offer stunning options for outdoor ceremonies. While permission is required for weddings here, the impressive backdrop and lush estate make it worth considering for a grand celebration. The surrounding hills and river Dee also provide unique opportunities for photography.
What Makes Balmoral Castle Special?
Royal grounds with a historic and majestic setting
Scenic views of the surrounding hills and river
Unmatched prestige and grandeur
7. Pitmedden Garden
Pitmedden Garden is known for its unique formal garden design, featuring intricate floral patterns, manicured lawns, and beautiful water features. This venue is perfect for couples seeking a sophisticated, visually stunning outdoor space. The colorful flower beds and decorative hedges make for incredible photography opportunities.
Key Highlights of Pitmedden Garden:
Intricately designed formal gardens with seasonal flowers
Charming, intimate atmosphere for elegant ceremonies
Perfect for photography with colorful, symmetrical layouts
8. Stonehaven Beach
For a relaxed coastal wedding, Stonehaven Beach offers an ideal location. The scenic shoreline, rugged cliffs, and soothing sound of waves create a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for beach-loving couples. With Dunnottar Castle visible in the distance, this venue offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
Why Stonehaven Beach is Ideal:
Coastal views and ocean sounds create a peaceful ambiance
Stunning photo opportunities with nearby cliffs and Dunnottar Castle
Perfect for beach-inspired, informal weddings
9. Fyvie Castle Lake and Gardens
Fyvie Castle offers a scenic lake, surrounded by lush gardens and ancient trees, making it a magical place for an outdoor ceremony. The reflections on the lake provide a stunning, romantic backdrop, while the castle itself adds an element of history and grandeur. Fyvie Castle’s gardens offer ample space for wedding parties of all sizes.
What Makes Fyvie Castle Special?
Scenic lake and gardens with breathtaking views
Historic setting with grand architecture
Ideal for both intimate and large gatherings
10. Aberdeen’s Cove Bay
Cove Bay is another beautiful seaside location that provides a rugged, natural setting for an outdoor wedding. With cliffs, rock formations, and breathtaking views of the North Sea, it’s perfect for couples looking to incorporate Aberdeen’s coastal scenery into their big day. Cove Bay’s dramatic landscape also makes it ideal for stunning wedding photos.
Why Cove Bay is a Great Choice:
Dramatic coastal landscape with unique rock formations
Tranquil setting with a natural, untouched feel
Ideal for couples wanting a peaceful, scenic backdrop
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