Did You Know You Can Legally Get Married Anywhere in Scotland?
Yes, you can legally get married absolutely anywhere in Scotland.
One of the most beautiful things about eloping here is that your day doesn’t have to be scripted or stuck in a venue that doesn’t feel like you. Unlike most places, Scotland doesn’t tie you to a licensed venue or stuffy registry office. Whether you want to say your vows beside a loch, on a quiet hillside, or under a waterfall in the Highlands and Islands—you absolutely can.
You get to choose a place that truly matters to you and build your day around what feels right.
Whether it’s somewhere already part of your story or a brand new spot marking the start of your next chapter, the freedom is yours to create a wedding that’s uniquely you—from where you stand to say “I do,” to how the whole day unfolds.
Why Scotland Is Different
In most parts of the UK, legal weddings can only take place at licensed venues. That’s not the case here.
In Scotland, it’s the person conducting the ceremony—not the location—that makes the marriage legal. That gives you a huge amount of freedom to choose a spot that’s meaningful, personal, or just plain beautiful.
So whether you’re getting married in a remote glen or on a white-sand beach with no one else around, it still counts.
Where Can You Get Married? (Basically, Anywhere)
Let’s be clear: when we say “anywhere,” we mean almost anywhere. You’re not limited to hotels or function rooms. You can choose a place that reflects your relationship—not someone else’s idea of what a wedding should be.
Some real options couples have gone for:
A mountain summit at sunrise
Beside a loch with your dog as your only guest
A cosy Airbnb in the Highlands
Your grandparents’ back garden
A white-sand beach on the west coast
A windswept headland on the Isle of Skye
That one spot where you always pull over on road trips together
Just remember—if the land is privately owned, you may need to get permission. But beyond that, the location is yours to choose.
Making It Legal: What You’ll Need
Even with all this freedom, there are still a few practical steps to take:
Submit marriage notice forms (M10s) at least 29 days before the ceremony (and no more than 3 months in advance). These are sent to the local registry office that covers the area you’ll be getting married in.
Choose an authorised celebrant or registrar. Humanist and independent celebrants are especially popular for outdoor weddings and elopements—and they’ll walk you through the whole process.
Make sure your location is safe and reachable, especially for your celebrant and your two witnesses.
It’s a relatively straightforward process, especially with the right celebrant by your side.
A Few Favourite Places to Consider
Whether you’re dreaming of a lochside ceremony, a white sandy beach (yes, we do have them), or a quiet spot beside a waterfall in the Highlands and Islands—there’s no shortage of incredible places to get married in Scotland.
Some favourites to consider:
Isle of Skye – Wild, dramatic, and constantly changing with the light.
Glencoe – Cinematic landscapes and moody skies.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs – Easily accessible but still full of magic.
Cairngorms National Park – Forests, mountains, and peaceful lochs.
The Outer Hebrides – Secluded beaches and unbelievable light.
Wherever you end up, just bring your boots, prep for the weather, and maybe pack some midge spray… just in case.
And honestly? That perfect spot might be somewhere only you know about. That’s the beauty of it.
Final Thoughts
Scotland gives you the freedom to have a wedding that feels like you. No pressure, no pretence—just a meaningful day in a place you love, with the person you love.
If you’re planning a wedding or elopement and want relaxed, natural photography to match—I’d love to hear your plans. Let’s grab a coffee and chat about your dream spot.
And if you’re ready to dive into the legal side of things, you can find all the official info and marriage notice forms over on mygov.scot.
