Leith Hall: 10 Reasons To Choose This Scottish Wedding Venue

Leith Hall may look like a French chateau, but it’s actually the Scottish ancestral home of the Leith family.

Now in the care of the National Trust, it is one of the most unique wedding venues in Scotland.

But what would getting married at Leith Hall be like?

Well I have gone out to visit the estate, and been given all the details by the National Trust for Scotland; so I think I am in a good position to answer that question.

Let’s take a closer look at what a Leith Hall wedding would be like.

Leith Hall Location

There are a number of National Trust for Scotland properties, located in the North East.

And I’m sure that there are more reasons for this, than just the beautiful Aberdeenshire countryside.

But it is a very picturesque part of Scotland, and is part of the reason why wedding venues in Aberdeenshire are so popular.

Better still, Leith Hall is only 35 miles from Aberdeen, so within easy coach journey distance.

Huntly is less than 7 miles away too.

Leith Hall Setting

As with all National Trust for Scotland properties, Leith Hall is open to the public.

The presence of tourists can be a disadvantage of these types of wedding venues.

However Leith Hall is only open at certain times of the year, for guided tours.

This should mean you can get exclusive use of the Hall for your special day.

The grounds and gardens are always open to the public, but given the size of the estate, that is not likely to be a problem.

Leith Hall History

Built in 1650 by James Leith, on the former site of the medieval Peill Castle, Leith Hall was used as a family home for nearly 300 years.

In fact the estate was never sold, and as a result ten generations of Leith’s lived there.

In 1745, Andrew Hay of Rannes took refuge at the Hall, after fighting for Bonnie Prince Charlie in the Battle of Culloden.

It was also used as a military hospital during World War One, looking after as many as 500 patients.

The laird at that time, used to put on concerts to entertain the wounded.

Just after World War Two, the National Trust for Scotland took possession, and they have looked after it ever since.

Leith Hall

Leith Hall is classified as a 17th century Scottish tower house.

In my opinion, these types of structures tend not to be the prettiest from the outside.

They were built for defence, not aesthetics; tall with thick walls and small windows.

However this one bares a striking resemblance to a French Chateau, and I think it looks rather nice.

The interior does not disappoint either.

Full of family treasures, the house is quirky and curious.

Be sure to look out for the giant turtle shell, brought back in 1902 from the Ascension Islands.

Leith Hall Ceremony

This is definitely a wedding venue for more intimate ceremonies, unless you want to put a marquee up on the lawn.

The Music Room is your indoor option, and can accommodate up to 40 guests.

It features a Romhildt-Weimar grand piano, a series of family portraits, and stunning views over the estate.

If you fancy braving the elements, then the Walled Garden could be a fantastic choice, with its colours and fragrances, and unusual circular Moon Gate.

Ceremonies of up to 70 guests are possible here.

You will also have the option of a civil, religious, or humanist affair.

Leith Hall Reception

If you are just looking for a drinks reception, then Leith Hall offers a number of options.

The Music Room and the Great Hall can both accommodate up to 40 guests.

You could also go for the Drawing Room, with its provincial plasterwork, and ornate crystal chandelier.

It is located opposite the Dining Room, and both these locations can hold 15 guests each.

If the sun is shining, 70 guests can also be accommodated in the Walled Garden.

In terms of dining, the Music Room can seat up to 32 guests.

Or for something very intimate, the Dining Room is suitable for 12 guests.

Of course a marquee on the lawn, with Leith Hall as a spectacular backdrop, is also possible.

Leith Hall Gardens

Virtually all of these old estates have beautiful gardens, and Leith Hall is no different.

The National Trust for Scotland does a wonderful job of keeping them alive.

At 186 meters above sea level, they are the highest gardens under NTS care.

You and your guests will be able to enjoy a gentle stroll, through flowering trees, shrubs and roses, ornamental grass, and you will even see fruits and vegetables being grown.

It’s very peaceful and picturesque, and the perfect setting for a wedding.

Leith Hall Grounds

The grounds at Leith Hall offer you 280 acres of beautiful Scottish countryside.

If you take the time to explore, you will see a whole host of wildlife, including Badgers, Otters, Red Deer, and Tawny Owls.

Pictish stones are also dotted around the estate.

The best way to see it all, is on one of the three way marked trails.

You have the Pond Walk, which goes around the pond, with a possible detour to see the 19th century Ice House.

There’s the Kirkhill Trail, through beautiful woodland, with a possible detour to see the Old Churchyard with medieval origin.

And lastly the Craigfall Trail, which is a steep grass path up Craigfall Hill to incredible vistas.

Perhaps not ideal for your wedding day, but great for a return visit.

Leith Hall Wedding Photographs

If you have read any of my other wedding venue articles, you will know I put great value on suitability for photographs.

After all, even the best photographer will struggle to get great shots in a hotel carpark.

Ideally you want sweeping landscapes or beautiful gardens, as backdrops for your images.

A light and airy indoor alternative is also very useful, in case the rain starts.

Leith Hall is typical of most National Trust for Scotland properties, in that the gardens and grounds are second to none.

Your wedding photographer will have no problem finding a beautiful setting, to capture those all important images.

Leith Hall Wedding Prices

For accurate Leith Hall wedding prices, you should contact the venue directly.

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

However to give an approximate Leith Hall wedding cost:

• Music Room (ceremony & drinks reception), price £900.
• Walled Garden (ceremony & drinks reception), price £600.
• Leith Hall (ceremony & reception), price £2,000.
• Lawn Hire (marquee), price £1,800 (marquee not included).
• Wedding Breakfast, prices from £54 per person.
• Drinks Package, prices from £15 per person.

The prices above are for a summer weekend.

Winter and midweek weddings could cost less.

Leith Hall Conclusion

So those are my 10 reasons you should consider Leith Hall as your wedding venue.

Of course everybody has different tastes and opinions.

However if you are looking for something with character and charm, the looks of a French Chateau, stunning gardens, and perfect photo opportunities; then Leith Hall 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 Leith Hall’s website here.

Good luck with your wedding planning.