My Top 5 Favorite Scottish Castles for Live Painting Weddings This Year
This year, I’ve had the privilege of painting at some of Scotland’s most stunning castles during weddings. As a live painter and illustrator, I capture the joy of the day on canvas, creating a lasting memory for couples and their guests.
Many of my clients are American couples who choose Scotland for its romantic, historic castles.
Who doesn’t want to bring their family to Scotland for a week in the Highlands and a Highland wedding?
I’ve met some great people this year and witnessed Texans in tuxedos and cowboy boots!
Glenapp Castle (Ballantrae, Ayrshire)
Nestled on the Ayrshire coast, Glenapp Castle is a Victorian masterpiece surrounded by gorgeous gardens and woodlands. With its grand turrets and views over the Irish Sea, it’s a truly whimsical location. The combination of opulent interiors and serene landscapes made it a joy to paint.
Drumtochty Castle (Laurencekirk, Aberdeenshire)
Hidden in a lush forest, Drumtochty Castle is an elegant 19th-century mansion with a tranquil and secluded feel. It feels like a hunting lodge.
The grand ballroom, with its impressive chandeliers, and the peaceful grounds provided endless inspiration for an artist.
Logie House (Pitcaple, Aberdeenshire)
Logie House is a charming country venue with a more rustic and intimate atmosphere. Its essentially a moderised mansion house opposed to a castle.Its walled gardens and surrounding woodland paths add a cozy, natural vibe. It’s the perfect spot for couples who want a relaxed yet picturesque setting.
Errol Park (Perthshire)
Errol Park is a magnificent Georgian estate that blends countryside charm with grandeur. Its sweeping lawns, elegant interiors, and views of the River Tay make it a unique venue for anyone who loves period dramas.
Painting the scenes here felt like capturing a blend of timeless elegance and pastoral beauty.
Cornhill Castle (Biggar, South Lanarkshire)
Set in the rolling hills of the Clyde Valley, Cornhill Castle exudes grandeur with its turreted facade and breathtaking views. The sunsets here are spectacular, and the classic architecture provided the perfect backdrop for my live illustrations.
Biggar is a historic market town and worth a weekend visit.
Barnbougle Castle (South Queensferry, Edinburgh)
Barnbougle Castle is a one-of-a-kind venue, tucked along the shores of the Firth of Forth near Edinburgh. Originally rebuilt in the 19th century as a private retreat for the eccentric 5th Earl of Rosebery, it can be described as a very large regal game room house.
With just one bedroom, it offers an intimate and luxurious atmosphere, perfect for exclusive celebrations.
The castle’s rich wood interiors, grand library, and breathtaking views of the Firth of Forth create a unique and romantic setting. For a live painter, its dramatic location and cozy, candlelit charm make it a dream to capture. Small in scale but full of character, Barnbougle is truly unforgettable.
Other venues that stood out this year include
Fasque Castle (Fettercairn, Aberdeenshire)
Fasque Castle is a grand and stately venue nestled in the picturesque countryside of Aberdeenshire. This 19th-century baronial mansion offers a blend of elegance and warmth, with the main talking point is the spiral staircase in the foyer,making it an unforgettable place for weddings.
Its rich history as the ancestral home of the Gladstone family, including former Prime Minister William Gladstone, adds a sense of gravitas to the setting.
The castle’s interiors are a dream to paint, with their high ceilings and ornate details. The Drawing Room, with its tall windows and soft lighting, creates a cozy yet sophisticated space for ceremonies and receptions.
that provide endless inspiration for my artwork.
Fasque feels both regal and welcoming, with its charming mix of grandeur and modern comfort. The atmosphere is always lively yet intimate, making it perfect for couples looking for a venue that feels homely.
As a live painter, the first time I attended Fasque castle, I was walking the hallways and I bumped into a very tall, kilted bearded Scotsman.
I said “ oh, hello. Is this your castle?” He chuckled and said “ I wish. I am the footman”
Every castle has its own unique character, and it’s always a privilege to paint these incredible locations. Capturing a couple’s special day in these historic settings is a highlight of my work. If you’re dreaming of a castle wedding in Scotland, these venues are as enchanting as they come.
Please take me with you to couture your day on canvas.
www.fineartofweddings.com