As its name suggests, Kirknewton House Stables is a former stables block. It is about 10 miles from Edinburgh City Centre, but feels about 1000 miles away.  It’s location offers the ideal country setting, but without the long drive.  You would never know you were a stone’s throw away from Scotland’s Capital city.

The single story building has lots of character and this particular wedding venue lends itself to couples who wish to hold their ceremony and/or wedding outdoors.

The walled garden is great, private and informally sectioned off into interesting little areas, some of which can be set up as games areas.  This is a great way to amuse any small kids, or big kids alike; and would be perfect for a summer twist of an easter egg hunt.  Kirknewton Stables is an exclusive use venue, so you will have the whole place to yourselves.

There is a circlet of growing trees on a little mound in the grounds which look wonderful when in full blossom and creates a lovely centre piece for a marriage ceremony.  It also gives a canopy effect, so once all your guests are seated, it has a sense of intimacy as well as occasion.  The trees can be easily decorated by the couple, as simple or as quirky as they want.  The last time I was there, the couple had hung old jam jars with flowers in then off the branches, and because the sun was out they twinkled as they swayed in the gentle breeze.

If an outdoor wedding falls victim to our Scottish weather, the double doors lead back into the main function suite, which is just as stunning! With everything being on one level this venue lends itself to older or disabled guests.

 

By Edward McGough

Humanist Marriage Ceremony: St Andrews in the Square, Glasgow
Alternative Humanists: Plato’s Symposium