Tucked away in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, The Rowantree is a venue designed for couples who value intimacy, atmosphere, and a strong sense of place. Rather than scale or spectacle, it offers warmth, character, and history, making it particularly well suited to smaller weddings that prioritise connection and storytelling. It is the kind of space where a wedding feels gathered rather than staged, and where every guest feels part of the day rather than an observer.

The building itself carries centuries of Scottish social history. Formerly known as Lucky Middlemass’s Tavern, it was once a meeting place for some of Scotland’s most influential thinkers, including Robert Burns and David Hume. That heritage still lingers in the timber beams, stonework, and low-lit rooms, giving the venue a lived-in authenticity that cannot be replicated. From a photographic perspective, this depth of history adds an unspoken richness to the images, grounding modern celebrations in a much older narrative.

The Rowantree works beautifully for weddings where everything happens under one roof. Ceremonies, dining, and evening celebrations can flow naturally from one space to the next, which keeps the day relaxed and cohesive. With capacity for around 30 to 60 daytime guests and up to 110 in the evening, it strikes a rare balance: intimate without feeling restricted. This scale allows me to work unobtrusively, capturing genuine moments and interactions without the sense of distance that larger venues can create.

Light and texture play a major role here. The restored interiors retain their original features, creating a warm, enveloping atmosphere that lends itself to natural, expressive photography. Candlelight, soft ambient lighting, and dark wood surfaces combine to produce images that feel timeless rather than trend-driven. Over the years, I’ve found that couples who choose The Rowantree tend to value emotion and authenticity, and the venue supports that beautifully.

Located within Edinburgh’s historic core, The Rowantree also offers something rare: a strong sense of privacy in the middle of the city. Once inside, the noise and pace of the Old Town seem to fall away, allowing the wedding to feel self-contained and personal. Having photographed weddings here, I understand how to work with the space, its light, and its rhythms, ensuring the character of the venue enhances the story of the day rather than competing with it.