Last month I had the absolute pleasure of using Carlowrie Castle as a backdrop for some photos which I’ll be sharing over the coming weeks/months. I discovered the place on Instagram and as much as social media can get a bad rep, one thing it’s really good for is finding new places. This is not somewhere I would ever have stumbled upon or come across otherwise, it’s an exclusive use venue for weddings or events situated on the outskirts of Kirkliston, close to Edinburgh airport.
As we made our way down the long driveway, which starts with a little glimpse, eventually revealing the full view, I think my jaw was on the floor. Although I’d looked at hundreds of photos on Instagram, it was even more spectacular in person.
The castle was built by the Hutchison family in 1852 before being purchased by the Marshall family 130 years later in 1982. For 25 years it was a family home which is extraordinary. Can you imagine growing up in a real life castle akin to all the Disney princesses we admire? It’s incredible and I can only imagine the fun and entirely unique memories made from such an experience during our generation.
In 2012, Andrew Marshall bought the castle from his parents, recognising the potential and setting the wheels in motion to turn it into an exclusive use events venue. It opened in 2015 and it wasn’t long before it was recognised as one of the Top 3 venues in Europe with less than 2o0 bedrooms and it’s easy to see why.
With the castle having only been owned by two families across the 168 years it’s been in situ, it’s managed to retain 100% of its charm and charisma. Any external restorations or renovations have been sympathetically done to maintain the authentic and historic features. The gardens are absolutely immaculate, I can’t even begin to imagine how much work must be involved as they are extensive yet manicured in the most tasteful way. They offer different areas, atmospheres and places to mingle to suit the wide variety of events that take place. There are little nooks in amongst the wider spanning greens as well as a tennis court and a kids playground.
Although I wasn’t able to venture inside, it’s safe to say I had the best time exploring the grounds and exquisite setting. It’s a very special place and during Autumn the climbing ivy turns a deep red which is striking against the neutral coloured stone. It gives the place an added vibrancy and I’m so grateful I got to experience it at the height of Autumn.
Thank you to the Carlowrie Castle team for a wonderful day!
