Understand
Why thousands of couples choose Scotland as their dream wedding destination
Overview
Scotland has become a major destination for couples choosing to marry away from home, with nearly a quarter of all marriages registered in the country involving non-residents. Figures from the National Records of Scotland show that 6,596 of the 27,191 weddings recorded in 2025 involved neither partner being a resident. Couples from around the world are drawn to Scotland by its historic castles, dramatic scenery, romantic traditions, and unique cultural atmosphere.
Key points
- Nearly a quarter of marriages registered in Scotland in 2025 (6,596 out of 27,191) involved non-resident couples.
- Gretna Green remains the most popular destination for visiting couples, hosting more than half of Scotland's destination weddings (3,492 last year).
- Gretna Green's fame dates back to 1754, when English law changes prompted runaway couples to cross the border to marry without parental consent.
- International couples are attracted by Scotland's historic castles, countryside beauty, and heritage elements such as bagpipes and ceilidhs.
- Many couples note that planning weddings from abroad is straightforward due to Scotland's established wedding industry.