Glencoe Lochan Elopement | Nikki & Jordan

Nikki & Jordan eloped intimately on a beautiful summer day at Glencoe Lochan. The day started at Glencoe House, getting ready with their sisters by their side, sharing their first look in the gardens overlooking Loch Leven and then we all walked joined by their Humanist Celebrant Claire Digance (she is so funny!) to the ceremony spot which they picked the day before. They exchanged their vows and we went for a little stroll around the Lochan taking some group photographs and signing the Marriage Schedule on a bench. Afterwards we hopped into my tiny van and we went for a little hike and quick little picnic at one of Glencoe’s magical viewpoints. The route there included a little river crossing and I am happy to report I was the only person who got wet feet.

Once back at the Glence House their relaxed day continued with some amazing vegetarian food and evening in a hot tub with the beautiful sunset views across the loch.

Elopement Guide: Getting married at Glencoe Lochan

Glencoe Lochan is actually a man made loch nested in a beautiful forest amongst the hills of Glencoe. It’s conveniently located close to the Ballachullish village, just a stone throw from the Glencoe House and has a quite good access – just short walk from car park on a maintained path suitable even for wheelchair users. It isn’t usually too busy so it makes a great place to hold an intimate ceremony if you need a good access.

In Scotland you can get married literally anywhere, but it’s always good to get the land owner permission if possible. Glencoe Lochan and the surrounding woods are maintained by the Forestry and Land Scotland, so you should get in touch with them and apply for permit.

Fees: You can get married at Glencoe Lochan for no charge, you just need to apply for the permit and be consicous of the Outdoor Access Code – eg. leave no trace. There is a fee for Commercial Photography which is applicable to weddings and which was £150 in 2021. You’ll also need to fill in Photography permit form 6 weeks in advance before the event. If you choose not to have a Professional Photographer, there is no need for permit for photos taken by your guests.

Getting married in forest in Scotland

If you’re planning to get married in a forest in Scotland, there is a good chance that it is governed by the Forestry and Land Scotland. In which case you’ll need to apply for permit and photography permit (with applicable commercial photography fee) if you’re hiring professional wedding photographer.

You can see the interactive map of the Forestry and Land Scotland here – some popular areas include Glen Affric, Loch Katerne in Trossachs and Loch Lomond and Glencoe Lochan.