5 Reasons to Get Married at Cormiston Farm: Scotland's Hidden Gem Wedding Venue

If you have started searching for wedding venues near Edinburgh, you have probably come across all the usual names. You will see glossy websites, perfectly styled shoots, and venues that pop up in every “best venues” list. But if you are after something a bit more authentic, relaxed, and genuinely unique, I have got a secret for you.

Let me introduce you to Cormiston Farm.

Exterior of the house at Cormiston Farm

It is the kind of place you probably have not heard of before, and honestly, that is part of what makes it so special. Cormiston Farm is a beautiful, family-run wedding venue just outside Biggar, on the edge of Midlothian and the Scottish Borders. It is less than an hour from Edinburgh, surrounded by rolling countryside, and feels like a proper countryside escape without being too far from the city.

The website is not fancy. The photos online do not really do it justice. But trust me, this place is something special. So, if you are looking for a rustic, sole-use wedding venue with stunning views and a genuinely personal feel, here are five reasons why Cormiston Farm might just be the perfect spot for you.

Chairs set up for outdoor wedding ceremony at Cormiston Farm
Barn courtyard at Cormiston Farm wedding venue
Sheep in field at Cormiston Farm

1. It Is a True Hidden Gem

Cormiston Farm is the definition of a hidden gem. You will not find it featured in every wedding magazine or popping up on endless Pinterest boards. It is not plastered across social media with thousands of followers, and the website is refreshingly simple. And yet, when you see the place in person, it completely wins you over.

There is something special about getting married somewhere that feels like a secret. A venue that your guests probably have not heard of before but will talk about for months afterward. I have photographed weddings at Cormiston Farm where guests arrived unsure of what to expect and left saying, “How have I never heard of this place before?”

It is got that magical mix of feeling like a proper countryside retreat while still being super convenient to get to from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and beyond. If you love the idea of getting married somewhere that feels authentic and untouched by wedding trends, this is your place.

Bride and groom looking out at Wedding guests in outdoor ceremony on lawn of Cormiston Farm

2. The Views Are Next-Level

Let’s talk about those views. The farm is surrounded by open countryside, with rolling hills stretching out as far as you can see. When you stand on the lawn, looking out over the Borders landscape, it feels like you are in the middle of nowhere. But in reality, you are just a short drive from the city.

The outdoor ceremony spot takes full advantage of the scenery. You can say your vows on the lawn with the hills as your backdrop, and honestly, it does not get much better than that. Whether it is a sunny summer afternoon or a crisp autumn day with the leaves turning golden, the views always deliver.

And from a photographer’s point of view, this place is a dream. You do not need to wander far for stunning photos. The gardens, the open fields, the charming farmhouse, and the barn all offer brilliant backdrops. Plus, if you are up for a little adventure, a quick stroll into the nearby fields gives you some incredible wide-open landscape shots.

Couple kissing with Scottish Borders hills in background during outdoor wedding ceremony
Couple exchanging wedding rings in outdoor Scottish wedding ceremony
Couple holding hands under arches in farm yard at Cormiston Farm

3. The Barn Is Rustic, Cosy, and Full of Character

If you are after a rustic barn wedding, Cormiston Farm absolutely nails it. The old stone barn has been converted into a brilliant reception space while still holding onto its authentic charm. It is not one of those venues that tries too hard to be “rustic chic.” The barn is genuinely rustic, with exposed beams, stone walls, and that cosy, welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone relax the moment they walk in.

What I love most about the barn is how customisable it is. The space is essentially a blank canvas, so you can make it as simple or as decorated as you like. String up some festoon lights, add a few wildflower arrangements, and you have got yourself a gorgeous, laid-back wedding setting. Or, if you want to go all-out with hanging installations or long farmhouse tables, the barn works for that too.

And then there is the tiny pub built into the barn. Yes, you heard that right. Tucked away in the corner is a proper little traditional Scottish pub. It is one of those brilliant details that guests absolutely love. There is something about grabbing a pint from a cosy, wood-panelled bar that instantly makes the wedding feel like a relaxed, country celebration.

Long tables set up for wedding in rustic barn at Cormiston Farm
Traditional small pub bar attached in rustic barn at Cormiston Farm
Groom looking out over rustic barn with fairy lights at Cormiston Farm

4. It Is Family-Run, and You Feel It

Cormiston Farm is not one of those wedding venues where you feel like just another booking in a busy calendar. It is run by a local family who genuinely care about making your wedding day the best it can possibly be. From the first visit to the final farewell, you will be looked after with that warm, friendly Scottish hospitality that makes such a difference.

I remember photographing a wedding here where the family went above and beyond to make sure everything ran smoothly. They were setting up extra heaters when the evening turned chilly, helping guests find taxis at the end of the night, and just generally making sure everyone felt right at home.

That kind of personal care is priceless. If you want a wedding venue where the people behind the scenes actually care and want to make your day amazing, Cormiston Farm is exactly that.

Couple laughing outside rustic barn at Cormiston Farm

5. It Is a DIY Wedding Dream

If you love the idea of making your wedding day truly yours, Cormiston Farm is a brilliant choice. It is a DIY-friendly venue, which means you are not stuck with restrictive packages or a list of approved suppliers. You can bring in your own caterers, design your own decor, and put your stamp on the day.

Want a pizza van parked outside for the evening? No problem. Fancy serving cocktails from a vintage caravan bar? Go for it. I have seen couples set up garden games on the lawn, turn the barn into a flower-filled wonderland, and even have an outdoor BBQ with long trestle tables for a super relaxed dinner.

The flexibility makes the whole day feel more personal. And if you are not sure where to start, the family is always happy to share advice or suggest local suppliers they have worked with before.

Bride getting ready in lace wedding dress in house at Cormsiton Farm
Couple walking down farm track at Cormiston Farm on wedding day
Shot glasses lined up for wedding guests at Cormiston Farm

Cormiston Farm: The Hidden Gem You Have Been Looking For

Cormiston Farm might not have the slickest website or the most polished Instagram feed, but that is exactly what makes it special. It is a genuine, down-to-earth, and utterly charming wedding venue that offers everything you need for a fun, relaxed, and beautiful day.

From the stunning countryside views to the cosy barn and the family who genuinely care about your wedding, this venue has all the ingredients for an unforgettable celebration. It is close enough to Edinburgh to make logistics easy but far enough away to feel like a proper escape.

Wedding guests cheering and celebrating during group photo at Cormiston Farm

So, if you are looking for a wedding venue that feels personal, authentic, and full of character, take a look at Cormiston Farm. It really is one of Scotland’s best-kept wedding secrets. And if you would like to see more or chat about what it is like to get married here, I would love to help.

Previous
Previous

How to Plan and Organise Your Wedding Group Photos Without the Stress

Next
Next

Top Tips For Getting The Best Confetti Photos