Murthly Castle & Chapel

Murthly Castle is situated in a spectacular and unique position in the historic heart of Scotland, on the banks of the River Tay. Standing in a wonderful parkland setting, the castle dates from the 14th century.

The chapel makes the most romantic and idyllic setting for a highland wedding. The castle is steeped in history and was originally built as a royal hunting lodge. It is rumoured that Bonnie Prince Charlie took refuge in one of the towers after the Jacobite Rebellion of 1745-46, and in the 1830s and 1840s Native Americans lived there for a short time. The castle is still a private family home, inhabited by the same family since 1615.

Murthly Estate extends to some 12,000 acres with extensive formal grounds around the castle, which were laid out from the 1660s onwards. The approach to the castle is via a two-mile long drive, which leads you through beautiful parkland, containing some of the tallest and most impressive trees in Scotland.

The Chapel
The Chapel of St. Anthony the Eremite stands majestically at the top of a steep bank, from where there are views of the River Tay (one of Scotland’s finest salmon rivers) and Birnam Hill (which appears in Shakespeare’s play Macbeth).

Dating from the 16th century, the chapel is sheltered by ancient yews and tall Douglas firs, and is suitable for both large and small wedding parties. The interior is truly stunning, with the décor creating a warmth and spirituality rarely matched elsewhere. The tiled floor, gilded fixtures, stained glass, arched fresco, and hammer-beamed ceiling all add up to give your wedding ceremony the setting it deserves.

The chapel can seat up to 200-250 guests, although it is equally suitable for a small intimate wedding of up to 50 guests. Situated in the heart of the estate, it offers guests total privacy. A double row of yew trees, some over 500 years old, takes you on a short walk from the castle to the chapel.

The Castle
For civil ceremonies and receptions, two spectacular rooms are available for wedding parties of up to 60 people. The largest and most impressive rooms in the castle, they overlook the walled garden, which is also at your disposal. The Music Room echoes the elegant rococo style of the Palace of Versailles in France, while the Victorian Dining Room features walls hung with their original maroon velvet and a hammer-beamed ceiling studded with golden bees.

The Walled Garden
For larger parties, the wide expanses of lawn in the walled garden ensure plenty of room for a large marquee, leaving the more intimate, colourful parts of the garden free for you and guests to explore. The garden’s layout dates from the 1660s and retains many of its original features, such as the summerhouse, fountain, and yew and box hedges. A fine view of the castle, which overlooks the garden from the top of a bank, adds to the atmosphere, as does sensitive exterior lighting after dark.

Rental
Wedding ceremony only Chapel & walled garden
From £1,350
Three hours

Wedding ceremony only Chapel, walled garden, castle reception room
From £1,650
Three hours

Ceremony and Reception Chapel & walled garden
From £3,350
Ends at 12.30am

Ceremony and Reception Chapel, walled garden, castle reception rooms
From £4,150
Ends at 12.30am

N.B. Murthly Castle can host a wedding reception for up to 60 people.

For larger parties a marquee in the walled garden will be required.

Not included:
Minister, toilets, band stage, catering, hire of equipment, marquee, heating, flowers etc.

Travel Distances:

Perth: 8 miles
Pitlochry: 20 miles
Edinburgh: 50 miles
Glasgow: 65 miles