Top Wedding Venues | Karen Simpson Photography

Top Wedding Venues

Top Wedding Venues in Ayrshire for Stunning Photography

Ayrshire is known for its breathtaking landscapes, historic venues, and stunning coastal views, making it a dream destination for couples planning their wedding. As a wedding photographer based in Ayrshire, I’ve had the pleasure of working at many of these incredible venues, and I can confidently say that they offer some of the best backdrops for creating beautiful wedding memories. Here’s a look at some of the top wedding venues in Ayrshire that are perfect for couples seeking a stunning setting for their big day.

 1. The Waterside Hotel
Located in West Kilbride, The Waterside Hotel is an exceptional wedding venue offering stunning views of the Ayrshire coastline. It is one of my favourites! It’s the perfect setting for couples who want a mix of contemporary elegance and natural beauty. The hotel’s beachfront location allows for incredible seaside wedding photos, with the dramatic skies and crashing waves providing a gorgeous backdrop. The venue’s chic, modern interiors also offer plenty of opportunities for stylish indoor shots, while the beautifully landscaped gardens are ideal for capturing romantic, outdoor moments. 

 2. Rowallan Castle
Rowallan Castle is the epitome of a fairy tale wedding venue. Nestled in the Ayrshire countryside, this historic castle offers a regal setting with its stunning architecture and sprawling gardens. As a photographer, the castle provides endless opportunities for romantic and dramatic shots, from the grand entrance to the beautifully maintained gardens and interiors. The rolling hills and scenic views create a magical atmosphere that ensures your wedding photos will be nothing short of spectacular.

 3. Lochside House Hotel & Spa
For couples seeking a more peaceful, countryside setting, Lochside House Hotel & Spa is a hidden gem. Overlooking the tranquil Loch Creoch, this venue is ideal for weddings. The lush gardens and serene loch provide beautiful, natural backdrops for your wedding photos, especially during sunset when the light reflects off the water. Whether you’re planning an outdoor ceremony or an indoor celebration, Lochside House offers a perfect balance of elegance and calm, making it an ideal choice for romantic, nature-inspired wedding photography.

 4. Enterkine House Hotel
If you’re looking for a venue that offers a mix of classic elegance and countryside charm, Enterkine House Hotel is the perfect choice. This Georgian mansion, set on a private estate, provides a peaceful and picturesque setting for weddings. The expansive grounds, with rolling hills and woodlands, offer a natural, rustic backdrop for wedding photography, while the mansion itself exudes elegance and sophistication. Enterkine House is ideal for couples who want a relaxed yet refined wedding in the heart of the Ayrshire countryside.

 5. The Gailes Hotel
Located near Irvine, The Gailes Hotel offers a contemporary and versatile setting for weddings. Its chic and modern design blends beautifully with the surrounding Ayrshire countryside, offering a mix of stylish indoor spaces and scenic outdoor areas for photography. The venue is perfect for both large celebrations and intimate gatherings, with stunning gardens and terraces providing ideal spots for outdoor ceremonies and photos. Whether you prefer sleek, modern shots or natural, outdoor moments, The Gailes Hotel offers plenty of opportunities to capture the magic of your wedding day.

Why Choosing the Right Venue Matters for Photography

The venue you choose plays a pivotal role in the style and feel of your wedding photos. Ayrshire’s variety of stunning locations offers everything from elegant castles and serene lochside venues to modern hotels and dramatic coastal landscapes. Each of these venues provides unique features, such as historic architecture, scenic gardens, or breathtaking sea views, ensuring your wedding day is captured in a way that reflects your personal style.

As an experienced wedding photographer familiar with these venues, I work closely with couples to make the most of their chosen location. From capturing the sun setting over the loch at Lochside House to embracing the windswept beauty of the Ayrshire coastline at The Waterside Hotel, the right venue will help create unforgettable images that tell the story of your day.

 Looking for Your Perfect Venue?
If you’re planning your wedding in Ayrshire and want advice on the best venue for stunning photography, or if you’re ready to book your wedding photographer, feel free to get in touch. I’d love to discuss your vision and help capture every special moment of your big day.

Bride and groom walking holding hands at Enterkine