Auchen Castle: 10 Reasons To Choose This Scottish Wedding Venue

Auchen Castle joins a long list of beautiful castle wedding venues in Scotland.

Set in a stunning acreage made up of private gardens and Italian terraces, it has incredible views over its own lake and the surrounding countryside.

In addition to the 26 bedrooms you will also find a designated ceremony room, and a lovely dinner reception space where you can enjoy their award winning cuisine.

Outdoor ceremonies are possible in the incredible gardens, and should you require lots of space a marquee can be put up too.

Let’s take a closer look at what a Auchen Castle wedding would be like.

Auchen Castle Location

If you are looking for wedding venues in Dumfries and Galloway, then Auchen Castle is certainly worth considering.

Both Glasgow and Edinburgh are roughly 60 miles away, with a journey time of 1 hour from Glasgow on the M74 motorway.

You can drive from Edinburgh in around 90 minutes.

And once you arrive you will find onsite parking for up to 60 cars, and suitable access for large coaches.

Auchen Castle Setting

The setting at Auchen Castle is one of tranquility and seclusion.

Thick woodlands surround the main building creating an atmosphere of isolation, and the beautiful terraced gardens are guaranteed to make you feel relaxed.

It doesn’t have to be an exclusive use wedding venue, that will largely depend on the package you choose and the limits of your budget.

However if your pockets are deep enough the estate can be closed off to the general public, leaving you with your own fully staffed private castle.

Auchen Castle

Auchen Castle actually dates back to the 13th century, when Sir Humphrey de Kirkpatrick built a structure on the land.

He was close friends with Robert the Bruce, and as a result King Robert almost certainly visited.

The more contemporary building you see today was completed in 1849, and includes fairytale turrets and gilded staircases.

Over the years it has played host to John Lennon, Margaret Thatcher, and the King of Norway.

And with its Italian gardens and private lake, it really is a lovely place for a wedding.

In addition to the plentiful accommodation, there are also some excellent public rooms for your ceremony and reception.

Auchen Castle Accommodation

You can sleep up to 52 people in 26 bedrooms at Auchen Castle.

16 of the rooms are classic doubles, with a further 6 luxury doubles which are very spacious and enjoy views over the lake.

If you are lucky enough to get one of the 4 castle suites, you can expect tall ceilings, period features, excellent views, and four poster beds.

Each of them is unique, and one of them even has a replica of Anna Boleyn’s bed.

With regards to the Bridal Suite, any of the four castle suites will play this role perfectly.

Auchen Castle Ceremony

Auchen Castle is licensed for religious, civil, and humanist ceremonies both inside and outside.

The Ceremony Room is the perfect indoor choice, with its two large bay windows flooding the space with light.

Your guests will enjoy great views over the Italian gardens, as you tie the knot in front of the fireplace.

With tall ceilings, wooden floors, and neutral colours, this room has a capacity for 45 guests.

If you would like to get married outdoors, the Italian gardens in front of the fountain could be fantastic.

This area can seat 120 guests, and has the castle as a striking backdrop.

Auchen Castle Reception

For your dinner reception, the Grand Dining Room at Auchen Castle is a beautiful choice.

It has large bright windows revealing views over the lake and towards the Moffatt Hills.

And with tall ceilings, neutral decor, and chandeliers it really is a lovely space.

The capacity is 130 guests seated comfortably.

For something a little more intimate, there is also the William Younger Suites.

These interconnecting rooms can seat up to 36 guests, and have a nice private wood panelled bar.

If neither of these choices appeal, a marquee on the lawn is also possible.

Auchen Castle Catering

The catering is handled internally at Auchen Castle, and they have been awarded the Eat Scotland Accreditation for high standards in cuisine.

Set menus have been created for you to choose from, ranging from three to five courses.

And all of the ingredients used are fresh, organic, plus locally and responsibly sourced.

There’s even a children’s menu for your younger guests to choose from.

Drinks packages have also been created to suit all tastes and budgets.

Auchen Castle Grounds

For me the hallmark of a great wedding venue is beautiful grounds.

And in this regard Auchen Castle does not disappoint.

The estate extends to 35 acres and includes private gardens, dense woodlands, and even its own private lake.

If you are planning a summer wedding, then you and your guests will definitely enjoy these outdoor spaces.

You can even have lawn games arranged such as archery.

More importantly though, when it comes to your wedding photos your photographer should have no problem finding some beautiful backdrops.

Auchen Castle Unique Feature

Providing you are planning an outdoor ceremony, you can actually have the rings delivered by an owl at Auchen Castle.

Bonnie the Barn Owl can swoop in and land on the gloved hand of either the groom, best man, or supervising falconer.

Could be a nice piece of entertainment for you and your guests.

You can also arrange for everyone to meet Bonnie after the ceremony, which would be great fun for the kids in your group.

Auchen Castle Wedding Prices

For accurate Auchen Castle wedding prices, you should contact the venue directly.

Their wedding packages can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

However to give you an approximate Auchen Castle wedding cost:

• Exclusive use of Auchen Castle (52 people b&b), price £7,000.
• Wedding Breakfast, prices from £48 per person.

The prices above are for a summer weekend.

Winter and midweek weddings could cost less.

Auchen Castle Conclusion

So those are my 10 reasons you should consider Auchen Castle as your wedding venue.

Of course everybody has different tastes and opinions.

However if you are looking for an exclusive use Scottish Castle, surrounded by beautiful Italian gardens, with accommodation for 52 people, and award winning cuisine; then Auchen Castle just might be the place for you.

Whilst you are here, you should take a look at some of the other wedding venues in Scotland, featured on White Rose.

You can also find Auchen Castle’s website here.

Good luck with your wedding planning.