Dunglass Estate: 10 Reasons To Choose This Scottish Wedding Venue

Dunglass Estate has proclaimed itself as one of the most unusual wedding venues in Scotland.

And with a 15th century partially ruined Gothic church at its heart, I think you would be inclined to agree.

There’s accommodation for up to 22 guests, spread across three properties in the grounds.

Furthermore you will find a beautiful marquee, with stunning views over the gardens and out to sea.

Let’s take a closer look at what a Dunglass Estate wedding would be like.

Dunglass Estate Location

There are a large number of beautiful wedding venues in East Lothian, and Dunglass Estate adds to that list.

What’s fantastic about this location is its proximity to Edinburgh.

You can drive the 35 miles from Scotlands capital in approximately 45 minutes, most of which can be done on main roads.

And when you arrive, you will find a place which feels a million miles away from the busy city.

Access for large coaches is not a problem, and there is plenty of onsite parking for you and your guests.

Dunglass Estate Setting

Dunglass Estate is an exclusive use wedding venue.

This means you will get the entire place all to yourself for the duration of your stay.

Just imagine the feeling of seclusion, surrounded by a beautiful forest.

And the stunning views across the well kept grounds, with the North Sea in the background.

Historic buildings are dotted around the gardens, some of which are hundreds of years old.

It’s a wonderfully private and relaxing place to host a wedding.

Dunglass Estate

The origins of Dunglass Estate actually stretch back to the 14th century.

A traditional tower house, built by the Earl of Hume, was the first structure to occupy the land.

However it was replaced by a more modern mansion in 1813.

In 1919 Francis James Usher bought the land, but sadly the original mansion fell into such disrepair that it had to be knocked down.

Consequently a new house was built in the late 1950s, and it’s this property that you can use for your wedding.

In addition to the main house, you will also get two 19th century cottages, the 15th century church, a marquee, and of course all the grounds.

Pretty much everything you need to have an exceptional wedding day.

Dunglass Estate Accommodation

You can sleep up to 22 guests in 11 bedrooms on the Dunglass Estate.

The accommodation is split between the 5 bedroom Dunglass House, the 3 bedroom Laundry Cottage, and the 3 bedroom Stable Cottage.

The 19th century Laundry Cottage was originally built to service the old mansion, and the Stable Cottage used to be where the carriages were stored.

Both have a nice ‘country living’ style.

Dunglass House has a great Bridal Suite with ensuite bathroom, and a lovely terrace for BBQs.

Furthermore all of the properties have recently been refurbished, creating charming yet contemporary dwellings.

Dunglass Estate Ceremony

Dunglass Church is licensed for religious, civil, and humanist ceremonies.

Civil ceremonies can also be had in the marquee, or in the main house providing your numbers are small.

It’s the 15th century Gothic church that really sets this place apart though.

Cared for by Historic Scotland, you genuinely step back in time as you enter this fabulous and romantic building.

And despite being half ruined the stone walls tell stories from times gone by, and create an atmosphere without equal.

In addition to this, you are given a relatively large amount of freedom to dress the place.

The capacity is up to 80 guests.

Dunglass Estate Reception

For more intimate receptions of up to 22 guests, and only between the months of October and March, you can have your wedding breakfast in Dunglass House.

However most people choose to use the fabulous marquee, with its capacity for 200 guests.

Set in a beautiful spot within the grounds, it has wooden floors with carpeted areas and lovely ivory lining.

In addition to this you get a dance floor, perfect for ceilidhs and discos, and comfy chill out sofas.

Tables, chairs, luxury toilets, and heating are included too.

Best of all, you get panoramic views over the gardens and out to sea.

Dunglass Estate Catering

The catering at Dunglass Estate is handled by Hickory.

In fact they actually manage the entire operation, and will be your point of contact from start to finish.

Over the years Hickory has worked on hundreds of weddings, and their award winning chefs have a reputation for fabulous food.

Menus are carefully planned using the freshest locally sourced produce.

And with East Lothian renowned for its fantastic larder, you know the ingredients will be of the highest standard.

Furthermore custom menus can be created to suit your theme, and a complimentary tasting session for two is included.

Dunglass Estate Grounds

Whilst the sun may not always be shining in Scotland, beautiful gardens really are the hallmark of a great wedding venue.

And Dunglass Estate has over 150 acres of them to explore.

The stunning grounds are made up of wild woodlands, manicured lawns, tended gardens, and even secluded beaches.

Activities such as falconry, clay pigeon shooting, and archery can be arranged.

In addition to this, there is a magical secret garden to discover.

Be sure to let your photographer know, as it’s a wonderful place for wedding photos.

Dunglass Estate Unique Feature

There’s so much more to do in East Lothian than just get married.

Mile upon mile of stunning coastline is there to be enjoyed, whether it’s on one of the world class golf courses, or simply a walk on the empty sandy beeches.

You will even find the Southern Upland Way right on your doorstep.

For the really adventurous, there’s the Coast to Coast Surf School a short drive from Dunglass Estate.

Probably a bit of a crazy idea, but I’m sure some people would love it.

Dunglass Estate Wedding Prices

For accurate Dunglass Estate 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 Dunglass Estate wedding cost:

• Exclusive use of Dunglass Estate (sleeps 10), price £8,495 for 2 nights (cottages not included).

The prices above are for a summer weekend.

Winter and midweek weddings could cost 30% less.

Dunglass Estate Conclusion

So those are my 10 reasons you should consider Dunglass Estate as your wedding venue.

Of course everybody has different tastes and opinions.

However if you are looking for an exclusive use country estate, with a magnificent 15th century church, accommodation for 22 guests, and a beautiful secret garden for wedding photos; then Dunglass Estate 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 Dunglass Estate’s website here.

Good luck with your wedding planning.