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Venues - Oxenfoord Castle, Pathhead, Midlothian
"Whether you are organising a corporate event or wedding, Oxenfoord Castle is a unique location, with the benefit of being yours exclusively from the moment you arrive until the time you leave. In the midst of glorious park and woodland, yet only 12 miles from the centre of Edinburgh, the Castle is beautifully situated and conveniently located."
Brian's View:
More of a large house than a castle, nevertheless its a fantastic venue for a large-ish wedding. Set deep in its own grounds, it can't be seen from the main road and the surrounding forest cuts off any traffic noise, so there is an immediate feeling of serenity around it - except when the helicopters take-off!
The wedding co-ordinator is well organised and offers an island of calm surrounded by the barely-controlled chaos that is a wedding event. Rooms are large and airy with bright, but not garish, decor.
Photography inside offers good lighting from south-facing, large bay windows if it's raining and delivers a historical and elegant feel. Outside, the large lawns and gardens offer good group shots and the opportunity for candid, reportage photography during the champagne celebration.
Set in Oxenfoord grounds (but not a part of the castle) is Cranstoun church which is as cute and picturesque a church as you can get. Most couples get married in the church then make their way down the gardens to the castle.
Pros: Out-of-town venue; castle/large house; suitable for 100 + guests; wedding co-ordinator present on the day; extensive gardens and grounds; cute church on-site; fabulous summer wedding venue; good photography venue.
Cons: Cars and/or private bus required; separate catering (managed by wedding co-ordinator; ballroom is split set-up for 120 guests (makes speeches a wee challenge); no overnight stay.