The Signet Library: 10 Reasons To Choose This Scottish Wedding Venue

The Signet Library is well known as one of Edinburgh’s finest places to enjoy afternoon tea.

And once you set eyes on the meticulously restored, Corinthian columns and ornate balustrades, you will see why.

Not only can you experience lunch in this stunning 19th century building, but you can also have both your wedding ceremony and reception here.

Could this be one of the most unique wedding venues in Scotland?

Let’s take a closer look at what a Signet Library wedding would be like.

The Signet Library Location

If you’ve been to Edinburgh, especially during festival time, then you will have almost certainly walked passed The Signet Library.

It is located at the top of The Royal Mile, right next to St. Giles Cathedral.

And despite occupying this prime tourist location, once inside the building it is calm and peaceful.

There is no parking to speak of, but you can bring in cars to drop off supplies and people.

The Edinburgh Old Town also has an endless list of hotels for your guests to stay in.

If you are looking for wedding venues in Edinburgh and like the idea of something a little different, then definitely go and see The Signet Library.

The Signet Library Setting

As the name suggests, The Signet Library is actually a working library.

It is not open to the public, but it is open to members, with lawyers still using it to study.

If you would like to have your ceremony their during the week, then it will have to be after 6pm.

Your reception can be had at anytime though.

Exclusive use is for weekend weddings only, and this guarantees no other events on at the same time.

Given how utterly unique this place is, getting it all to yourself sounds wonderful.

The Signet Library

Considered one of Edinburgh’s finest Georgian buildings, The Signet Library is supremely elegant and steeped in history.

The function rooms retain the most incredible period features, with small fortunes having been spent on restoration.

If you are looking for a wow factor, then look no further.

The gorgeous design details, will impress even the most discerning of guests.

Sadly you can’t stay the night in these surroundings, but I once rented a lovely apartment right next door.

So there’s definitely great accommodation minutes away.

The Signet Library Ceremony

St. Giles Cathedral is a possibility for your ceremony.

However if you want to get married in The Signet Library, then the Lower Library is your best option.

The tall fluted Corinthian columns, gold leaf decor, and ornate cornicing, make for a stunning room.

A long aisle can be created, with up to 150 guests seated either side, and your service can be held under the archway.

After you have said your vows, the room can be converted into a nice drinks reception space, where you can mingle with your guests.

Civil, religious, and humanist ceremonies are all welcome.

The Signet Library Reception

When it’s time for your wedding meal, your guests can stroll up the grand staircase, and into the Upper Library.

This room is spectacular, with a beautiful cupola painting depicting Apollo and the Muses.

It also has a stained glass window, celebrating Queen Victoria’s Jubilee, and custom furniture made by William Trotter.

There are some practical features too, such as a wooden dance floor, and built in PA system for speeches.

It really is a beautiful setting, and quite possibly one of the best reception rooms in Scotland.

With space for up to 220 guests, it’s very versatile too.

The Signet Library Catering

The Signet Library has a long standing relationship, with the award winning Heritage Portfolio.

Its chefs are passionate about creating exquisite wedding food.

So passionate in fact, they have been granted a Royal Warrant for catering services.

From delicate canapes to delicious main courses, they can provide it all.

If you do decide to book The Signet Library, a tasting session can be arranged for you to sample the menu.

Heritage Portfolio’s in house wine connoisseurs, will even help you to select the right bottle’s.

The Signet Library Wedding Photographs

A common problem with city centre wedding venues, is a lack of suitable locations for photographs.

It is possible to take pictures outside The Signet Library, making use of the natural light.

However you will more than likely become a bit of a tourist attraction, with so many people passing by.

Fortunately there are a number of great indoor spaces, to get those all important wedding photos.

The rooms are light and airy, with the ornate features making for interesting backdrops.

The Grand Staircase is a particularly nice spot for a photo or two.

And with so many great indoor locations, you won’t have to worry about the weather being nice.

The Signet Library Winter Wedding Package

I am a big advocate of a winter wedding.

People tend to get married in the summer, due to the prospect of nicer weather.

Something which is by no means guaranteed in Scotland.

However when it comes to wedding venues, they can be significantly cheaper, if you choose a less popular time of year.

Opt for The Signet Library between November and March, and it can be had for £120 per person (minimum 70 guests).

This would include exclusive use of the venue from 2pm until midnight, a drinks reception, a three course wedding breakfast, and half a bottle of wine per person.

There are some great add-ons too, such as canapes (£1.80 per person), and evening buffet (£6.60 per person).

The Signet Library Royal Connections

Every other year, the Queen attends the installation of the Knights of the Thistle, at The Signet Library.

The Royal party and the Knights assemble in the Lower Library, where you would have your ceremony.

Members of the Royal family also visit The Signet Library, at other times of year.

So host your wedding here, and you are practically Royalty!

The Signet Library Wedding Prices

For accurate The Signet Library 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 The Signet Library wedding cost:

• Exclusive use of The Signet Library (ceremony & reception), price £3,600 (minimum 80 guests).
• Catering (drinks reception and canapes, three course wedding breakfast with wine), prices from £125 per person.

The prices above are for a summer weekend.

Winter and midweek weddings could cost less.

The Signet Library Conclusion

So those are my 10 reasons you should consider The Signet Library as your wedding venue.

Of course everybody has different tastes and opinions.

However if you are looking for an exclusive use venue, in Edinburgh’s Old Town, with a stunning reception hall, and Royal Warrant catering; then The Signet Library 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 The Signet Library’s website here.

Good luck with your wedding planning.