The Rowantree wedding photographer photo of two brides posing closely and smile at the camera in an outdoor setting. One wears a dark jacket and tie with a kilt, and the other wears a white, one-shoulder wedding dress with floral details. They appear happy and affectionate on their wedding day.

Brilliant The Rowantree Wedding Photographer: Joyous Vows

For a truly atmospheric celebration, few places can match the distinct, moody feel of The Rowantree in Edinburgh. Hidden beneath the historic South Bridge, stepping inside feels like discovering an intimate, candlelit cave right in the heart of the Old Town.

This historic vault was the absolute perfect setting for Donna and Leanne’s unforgettable day, which was filled to the brim with fun, warmth, and genuine, unfiltered emotion. Finding the right The Rowantree wedding photographer is crucial for this specific space, and our images from their day vividly capture the effortless, beautiful connection between these two incredible people.

As a highly unusual wedding venue, the space demands a creative eye to truly do it justice. Donna looked incredibly sharp and stylish in a traditional kilt outfit, while Leanne looked absolutely beautiful in her dress.

One of our absolute favourite moments of the entire day was capturing Leanne walking down the aisle, accompanied by her beaming, proud Dad. You could see the pure excitement and joyful anticipation written all over both of their faces.

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The Rowantree Wedding Photos

  • Two silver wedding rings are tied together with rustic string on a piece of coarse, light brown hessian fabric. The rings rest side by side, with one being slightly thicker and more reflective than the other, symbolising a wedding or commitment.
  • Two elegant white high-heeled shoes with silver rhinestone bands near the soles are placed sole to sole atop a wooden ledge against a plain grey wall, with the heel tips touching the surface.
  • A close-up of a white high-heeled shoe with a platform toe. The platform is decorated with a band of small, sparkling diamanté. The shoe is resting on a textured, light brown surface.
  • A woman with light eyes, brown hair styled up, and subtle make-up smiles warmly at the camera. She is wearing a white top, and the background is softly blurred, highlighting her bright, friendly expression.
  • A close-up of the back of a woman’s head shows brown hair styled in an elegant updo with loose waves and twists. Small decorative hairpins with silver and crystal details are placed throughout the hairstyle. The background is softly blurred.
  • Six women in casual clothes sit and stand around a hotel room, smiling and applying make-up. A baby lies on the bed amid beauty products and bags. The room is bright with natural light from a window, and modern art hangs on the wall.
  • A white satin wedding dress hangs on a wooden hanger against a dark wardrobe. The dress is ruched with a fitted bodice, has floral embellishments on one shoulder and hip, and features ribbons at the front. A window and curtains are visible in the background.
  • A baby wearing a white shirt, checked trousers, and a bow tie sits on a bed surrounded by gift bags. An adult, partially visible, supports the baby with one hand and holds a mobile with the other. The baby has fair hair and blue eyes and looks slightly to the side.
  • A wooden clothes hanger with “Becky” spelt out in rhinestones is holding a green dress. Other wooden hangers and clothing are visible in the blurred background, with sunlight streaming in from a nearby window.
  • A delicate corsage made of white roses, green berries, and spiky greenery rests on a tan paper surface, with soft natural light highlighting its fresh, elegant arrangement.
  • Close-up of hands tying the laces on the back of a white, fitted wedding dress being worn by a bride. The dress features a corset-style lace-up design. The person tying the dress wears a silver bracelet. The background is softly blurred.
  • A smiling woman with dark hair styled in an elegant updo wears a white, one-shoulder dress with feathered details. She stands indoors against a softly lit, neutral background, looking directly at the camera.
  • Five women are in a bright, cluttered hotel room. Three sit on a bed in matching blue vests and checked shorts, smiling. One stands behind the bed and another woman in a floral dress takes a photo. A woman’s head is visible in the foreground.
  • Two women sit indoors on a bed, wearing navy vests. The woman on the right has long, wavy hair and smiles softly, while the woman on the left with straight hair laughs. A woman in the background holds a drink and wears a checked skirt and navy top.
  • A smiling woman in a white, one-shoulder dress decorated with large floral accents stands indoors. She has dark hair in an elegant up-do. Several other women, slightly out of focus, are in the background in a well-lit room with artwork and a mirror.
  • A person with short dark hair and wearing a waistcoat over a white shirt smiles in a mirror while tying a green tie. The background is softly lit, with some objects blurred on a counter, creating a warm, candid atmosphere.
  • A person wearing black dress shoes and dark socks bends down to tie their shoelaces on a zebra-print carpet. The person is dressed formally with a white shirt, and has a visible tattoo on their left wrist. Red confetti pieces are scattered on the carpet.
  • Close-up of a dark grey, textured blazer on a black hanger. The label inside the collar reads "SLANJ KILTS" in white text, with a lion graphic above the text. The inner lining of the blazer is smooth and black.
  • Two pairs of green tartan kilt flashes with blue, black, and yellow stripes lie side by side on a white, striped fabric surface. The flashes have frayed ends and are attached to silver garters. A brown box is partially visible at the top of the image.
  • Two people in suits share a joyful moment in a hotel room; one, older with grey hair, smiles as the younger, with short dark hair, playfully fixes his appearance. Beds with white linen and a flower garland are visible in the background.
  • Two people in matching grey suits and green ties smile joyfully in a well-lit room. One person leans in to kiss the other's cheek, while the other laughs with their hand on their partner's chest, showing a wedding ring. A bed and lamp are visible in the background.
  • A person in a traditional Scottish kilt outfit stands smiling in front of a classic red double-decker bus on a city street. The bus displays route 88 and "Special Service." Stone buildings line the street on a partly cloudy day.
  • A person with short dark hair, wearing a grey suit jacket, white shirt, and green tie, smiles whilst standing next to a reflective glass wall. They have a white rose buttonhole and round black earrings. Their reflection is visible in the glass.
  • A stone building with black shutters and flower boxes has two lifelike cow statues projecting from its wall. An arched stone bridge covers part of the street beside the building. The scene appears quiet and empty.
  • A model of a black and white cow appears to leap from a stone wall above a hanging flower basket and a Niddry Street South sign. Two windows with potted plants and a metal streetlamp are also visible on the old, textured building.
  • A classic red double-decker bus decorated with white ribbons is parked on a sunny city street. The sign reads "88 Special Service" and the route includes "Muirhouse, Granton." Old stone buildings line the background.
  • A small wooden easel on a barrel displays a wedding order of service sign listing times for the ceremony, drinks, photos, reception, wedding breakfast, and party, with elegant script and a small heart in the bottom right corner. Background is softly blurred.
  • Rows of empty golden chairs face a white-draped table with candelabra, set on a small stage against a stone wall. The arched ceiling is draped in red and purple fabric, creating a dramatic, dimly lit atmosphere reminiscent of a ceremonial or event space.
  • Several lit candles are placed in a row on a rough, stone ledge. The warm candlelight softly illuminates the textured stone wall, creating a cosy, intimate atmosphere in a dimly lit space.
  • A dimly lit stone room with a white-clothed table in the centre, two plates on top. Ornate candlesticks with lit candles flank the table. Wooden chairs line the walls, and the scene glows with purple and yellow lights.
  • A bride in a white dress sits smiling beside a man in a kilt on a vintage red bus. Bridesmaids in green dresses sit nearby, holding bouquets, all appearing happy. The bus has red tartan seats and a sign that says, “Welcome on board The Red Bus.”.
  • Two women in strapless green dresses step off a vintage red double-decker bus. One is holding a blush pink clutch and smiling, whilst the other holds a bouquet. The bus door is open, showing the wooden floor and floral decorations.
  • Four people in kilts and jackets stand laughing on a stone stage near a white-clothed table with candles. Behind them are red curtains and seated guests, some dressed formally. Warm lighting gives the scene a festive, celebratory atmosphere.
  • A smiling woman in a green dress walks down an aisle holding a small child. People in formal attire watch her, sitting and standing among red-cushioned chairs, in a brick-vaulted room with warm lighting.
  • Three women in strapless dark green dresses walk down an aisle at an indoor event with low arched stone ceilings. Guests, including a woman in a leopard print dress and black jacket, are seated on gold chairs along the aisle.
  • A bride in a white dress walks down the aisle with a man in a kilt, surrounded by standing guests in formal attire. They are in a stone-walled, arched room with red-cushioned chairs. A woman in a leopard print dress stands in the foreground.
  • A smiling bride in a white dress and a man in a kilt walk down an aisle in a rustic, brick-walled venue. Guests stand and watch, some taking photos, as they pass by rows of gold chairs. Warm, festive lighting creates a celebratory atmosphere.
  • A bride and groom kiss at their wedding ceremony in a warmly lit room with stone walls. The bride holds a bouquet, and several men in kilts stand nearby. An officiant reads from a book, and candles glow in the foreground. Guests watch from chairs in the background.
  • A wedding ceremony with two women, one in a kilt and the other in a white dress, smiling at each other. An officiant holds a book nearby. Two more people, one in a suit and another in a dress, stand beside them. Warm lighting and red curtains set the scene.
  • Three women in dark green dresses sit on chairs at an indoor event with stone walls and candles. They are watching something off-camera, smiling, with hands in their laps. Warm lighting highlights their faces and the setting appears formal or festive.
  • A bride in a white dress stands beside a groom in a kilt at an indoor wedding ceremony. Bridesmaids in green dresses, one holding a child, read from papers. Guests sit watching. Stone walls and candles create a warm, rustic atmosphere.
  • A wedding ceremony indoors shows a smiling bride in a white dress holding a bouquet, standing beside the groom in a kilt. An officiant reads from a book, whilst another woman in a green dress stands nearby. Warm lighting and red curtains create a cosy atmosphere.
  • A man in a kilt and a woman in a white jacket sit in the front row at a wedding ceremony, facing the altar. The audience behind them sits on gold chairs, watching attentively in a warmly lit, indoor venue.
  • A bride in a white dress and a groom in a kilt hold hands, facing each other during a wedding ceremony. An officiant stands between them, reading from a book. The background features stone walls, candles, and soft purple lighting.
  • A bride and groom, both smiling and holding hands, stand facing each other during a wedding ceremony. The groom wears a kilt; the bride wears a white gown. An officiant stands behind them, with candelabra and a stone wall in the background.
  • A bride in a white gown stands holding hands with a person in a kilt. Bridesmaids in green dresses smile and hold bouquets. The setting is indoors with stone walls, wooden doors, and lit candelabra, creating a warm, festive atmosphere.
  • A bride in a white gown and a groom in a kilt exchange rings, smiling, during their wedding ceremony. An officiant stands between them, holding a book. Another man in a kilt stands to the side. The stone-walled venue is softly lit with candles.
  • A bride in a white gown and a groom in a kilt exchange rings at an indoor ceremony. An officiant stands between them, smiling. Another man in a kilt stands to the groom’s right. The stone walls are lit with purple light and tall candelabras are behind them.
  • A bride in a white strapless gown hugs and kisses a groom in a dark jacket and tartan kilt. They are in front of a stone wall with lit candelabra. An officiant stands nearby, smiling and holding a book. The scene is warmly lit with purple accents.
  • A couple embrace joyfully at their wedding, the bride in a white dress and the groom in a dark jacket and kilt. They stand in front of a stone wall lit with pink lights, with candelabra, a table, and an officiant smiling at the scene.
  • Two women at a wedding ceremony sit at a long, white-covered table. One, in a white dress with floral details, signs a document, while the other, in a black suit with a buttonhole, looks on smiling. The background features stone walls and warm lighting.
  • A bride in a white dress smiles whilst a groom in a dark suit signs a document on a table; a woman stands to the side. The setting is warmly lit, with a brick wall and a silver candelabrum in the background, suggesting a wedding ceremony.
  • Two newlywed women in wedding attire sit at a table, kissing while holding hands. A bouquet and candles are on the table. Two women, one in a green dress and one in a suit, stand behind them smiling. The background is a rustic, purple-lit stone wall.
  • A newlywed couple stands smiling at the altar in a rustic stone venue, the bride in a white dress holding a bouquet and the groom in a kilt. Guests on both sides clap and cheer, with purple lighting and candles creating a festive, romantic atmosphere.
  • Two smiling brides walk hand-in-hand down an aisle. One wears a white dress holding a bouquet, the other a tartan kilt and jacket. Guests in formalwear sit and stand on either side, clapping and cheering in a warmly lit venue with brick walls.
  • Two smiling brides walk down the aisle holding hands. One wears a white dress holding a bouquet; the other wears a kilt and jacket. Guests in formal attire watch and celebrate. The background is warmly lit with candles and rustic decor, creating a festive wedding atmosphere.
  • A smiling couple descends a staircase wrapped in fairy lights. One person wears a dark jacket and a checked kilt, holding a bouquet. The other wears a white, one-shoulder wedding dress, holding the dress. Both seem happy and joyful at the celebration.
  • A smiling couple at their wedding, one in a checked kilt outfit holding a glass of champagne, the other in a strapless white wedding dress holding a bouquet and a glass of champagne. They stand in a doorway, with happy guests visible in the background.
  • Two women hug warmly in a dimly lit room with exposed brick walls. One wears a white dress and holds a champagne glass; the other wears a green dress. Pink lighting adds a festive glow to the celebratory setting.
  • Two people embrace joyfully at a warmly lit celebration under a brick archway. Others in the background hug and smile, some in formal attire and kilts. A wooden table with candles and glasses adds to the festive atmosphere.
  • A bride in a white dress hugs an older man in a suit at a warmly lit wedding reception. Guests in festive attire smile in the background. The setting features rustic brick arches, wooden tables, and soft candlelight, creating an intimate, joyful atmosphere.
  • A man in a suit and checked tie smiles whilst holding a glass of champagne, talking with two women at a lively indoor event. Warm pink and red lighting creates a festive atmosphere, and several people are visible chatting in the softly focused background.
  • Four women socialising at a lively indoor event; one woman in white hugs another in pink and smiles warmly at the camera, while a woman in silver and another older woman look on. The background is softly lit with purple and yellow lights.
  • A smiling woman in a white dress and a man in a dark suit with a buttonhole stand close together, posing for a photo at what appears to be a formal event or wedding. Both look directly at the camera with warm, happy expressions.
  • A woman in a pink sleeveless dress smiles whilst sitting at a table, looking at someone in a green dress. A man in a dark suit and tie sits blurred in the background. The setting appears warmly lit, likely at a formal or social event.
  • A bride in a white dress sits with bridesmaids in green dresses at a rustic, brick-vaulted venue. They smile and chat with a man in a kilt holding a drink. Warm lighting and stone walls create a cosy, festive atmosphere.
  • Three people sit on a bus seat dressed for a wedding. The person in the centre, wearing a suit and kilt, speaks into a microphone. The person on the left in a green dress laughs, whilst the person on the right in a white wedding dress holds flowers and a drink.
  • Two people dressed in formal wedding attire sit laughing joyfully on a bus. One wears a dark suit with a buttonhole and holds champagne; the other, in a white dress with floral detail, tilts their head back in laughter, also holding a glass. Rain dots the window behind them.
  • A bride in a white dress laughs joyfully whilst holding hands with a groom in a kilt and dinner jacket. Next to them, a bridesmaid with a microphone reads from a piece of paper, smiling. They’re sitting on a bus with red tartan seats, sharing a lively, celebratory moment.
  • A smiling couple pose outdoors on a stone path. One person wears a dark jacket, plaid kilt, and sporran; the other wears a white wedding dress and holds a bouquet of white and yellow flowers. They stand close together, looking happy. Stone steps are in the background.
  • The Rowantree wedding photographer photo of two brides posing closely and smile at the camera in an outdoor setting. One wears a dark jacket and tie with a kilt, and the other wears a white, one-shoulder wedding dress with floral details. They appear happy and affectionate on their wedding day.
  • Two people in wedding attire stand close together, smiling and touching foreheads. One wears a dark suit with a green tie and tartan kilt, the other a white, one-shoulder dress with floral details. They appear joyful in an outdoor, urban alleyway.
  • A couple share a kiss in a narrow, sunlit alleyway. The person on the left wears a black jacket and tartan kilt, holding a bouquet. The person on the right wears a white, ruched wedding dress with a train. They embrace, surrounded by stone walls and steps in the background.
  • A smiling couple stands in a narrow alleyway. One wears a black jacket, kilt, and boots while holding a bouquet; the other wears a white wedding dress with a long train. Sunlight highlights them, with stone and white walls on either side and steps behind.
  • Two women pose closely, smiling, in wedding attire. One wears a dark suit and tie, the other a white dress with flower details on the shoulder. They stand by a reflective surface, creating a soft reflection of their embrace, with a blurred outdoor background.
  • A woman in a white, floral-shouldered dress leans against a reflective glass surface, creating a mirrored image of her face and upper body. She has brown hair styled up and gazes softly at the camera against a blurred outdoor background.
  • A woman with light eyes and dark hair styled up smiles gently, wearing a white dress with large floral details. She is leaning against a reflective surface, creating a clear mirror image of her face and upper body beside her.
  • A person with short dark hair, wearing a grey suit, white shirt, and green tie, leans against a reflective glass surface. Their reflection is visible, and they are smiling at the camera. The background is softly blurred.
  • A person with short dark hair, wearing a green and blue tartan kilt, white shirt, green tie, and dark jacket, smiles whilst leaning against a reflective glass wall. Their reflection is visible, and they appear relaxed and confident outdoors.
  • A smiling couple walk hand-in-hand on a cobblestone street. The groom wears a Scottish kilt and jacket, while the bride wears a white gown holding a bouquet. Old stone buildings and greenery line the empty street in the background.
  • A smiling couple hold hands on a cobbled street. One person wears a grey jacket, white shirt, tie, and tartan kilt; the other wears a white, one-shouldered wedding dress and holds a bouquet of flowers. Both look happy and celebratory.
  • Two people sit side by side, showing only their legs and feet. One wears a white wedding dress with white heels, while the other wears a kilt, knee-high socks, and black brogue shoes. The ground beneath them is stone.
  • A couple in wedding attire share a kiss outdoors. One wears a dark suit, white shirt, and green tie with a heart tattoo on their neck; the other wears a white one-shoulder dress adorned with floral details. Lush greenery and stone walls are in the background.
  • A joyful person in a black jacket and tartan kilt laughs amid a wedding reception in a stone-walled venue. Guests in formal attire sit and stand around decorated tables, whilst warm lighting creates a festive, cheerful atmosphere.
  • A woman in a white dress with floral detail smiles and interacts with seated guests at a candlelit dinner, surrounded by glassware and bottles, in a rustic stone-walled setting. Warm light from candles creates a festive, elegant atmosphere.
  • A bearded man in a dark waistcoat and tie sits at a dinner table, smiling and talking with others. The table is set with glasses and bottles. Soft lighting and a silver candelabrum in the background create a warm, festive atmosphere.
  • A man wearing glasses, a white shirt, green tie, and dark waistcoat stands smiling and laughing in a warmly lit room. Beside him, another person in similar attire holds a microphone. Two people, slightly blurred, sit facing them. A candelabrum glows in the background.
  • At a wedding reception, a person in a waistcoat and tie smiles at another person, who is speaking into a microphone and wearing glasses. A woman in a white dress sits nearby, smiling. The background features a candelabrum and exposed stone wall.
  • Two people in matching waistcoats and ties stand by a round table at a formal event, one holding a microphone and reading from a paper while the other smiles. Seated guests listen attentively, set against a rustic stone wall, with food and drinks on the table.
  • A woman in a white dress wipes her eyes with a tissue, appearing emotional. She sits at a table, surrounded by people in formal attire, whilst someone beside her reads from a paper, likely during a wedding speech or toast.
  • A bride in a white dress wipes away tears, smiling, whilst seated at a table during a wedding reception. People in formal attire surround her, and one person stands nearby holding notes and a microphone, likely giving a speech.
  • A woman in a white dress sits at a table crowded with glasses and bottles, wiping tears from her face and smiling. People around her, mostly in formal attire, raise glasses in a toast, celebrating at what appears to be a wedding reception.
  • A smiling person in formal attire gives a toast, holding a piece of paper and raising a glass, while guests with raised glasses celebrate. One guest wipes away a tear, suggesting an emotional moment, and a candelabrum glows in the background.
  • A smiling newlywed couple wearing waistcoats and ties stands at a wedding reception; one holds a microphone and paper. Guests around them laugh, and a candelabra with lit candles sits behind them against a rustic stone wall.
  • A lively group at a formal event laughs together. A person in a waistcoat and tie holds a microphone to an older man with glasses, who is smiling and holding papers. Two women nearby are also laughing, with drinks, crockery, and decorations visible. A red and black curtain hangs behind.
  • A joyful wedding reception scene shows guests laughing around a round table set with food, drinks, and flowers. The bride and groom sit side by side, smiling, while an older man stands giving a toast. Warm lighting and stone walls create a festive, intimate atmosphere.
  • A group of people in formal attire sit around a round table at a wedding reception, laughing as an older man stands and gives a speech. The table is covered with glasses, bottles, and wedding decorations; the bride and groom are smiling joyfully among their guests.
  • A group of people in formal attire sit around a round table covered in dishes and glasses at a wedding reception. One man stands, speaking with a microphone, while others laugh and smile. The bride in a white dress is seated, and the atmosphere is joyful and festive.
  • A group of people dressed in formal and semi-formal attire, including kilts and dresses, stand around a table at a wedding celebration, raising their glasses in a joyful toast. The bride and groom are smiling and the atmosphere is festive and lively.
  • A woman in a white, one-shoulder dress holds a microphone and reads from a paper, speaking at an event. She stands indoors with a blurred audience in the foreground and elaborate decor behind her, suggesting a formal occasion.
  • An older man in a suit and tie sits at a table, smiling with his hand over his mouth, as if laughing. He is surrounded by blurred people in formal attire, with glasses and bottles on the table in the foreground. Warm indoor lighting.
  • A woman in a white, one-shoulder dress smiles and laughs while holding a folded piece of paper, speaking at an indoor event. Another person in the background also smiles, and guests are visible in the foreground. The atmosphere is joyful and festive.
  • A woman in a white dress, holding a microphone and folded paper, smiles whilst giving a speech. Another person nearby smiles at her. The setting is formal, possibly a wedding, with elegant décor and warm lighting.
  • A person in a waistcoat, holding a microphone, stands and smiles whilst giving a speech at a formal event. People sit at tables in the foreground, listening, with elegant decorations and candelabra visible in the warmly lit room.
  • At a formal event, a smiling woman in the foreground holds a microphone. In the background, a man in a waistcoat and tartan kilt faces a stone wall, covering his face with one hand. Several other people in formal attire are seated, watching the scene.
  • A person in a black waistcoat and tie stands holding a microphone and raising a glass in a toast, smiling at seated guests who also lift their glasses. The setting appears festive, with candles, drinks, and a red and black cloth backdrop.
  • A man in a waistcoat stands laughing and holding a microphone, speaking to seated guests at a formal event. The group listens attentively around decorated tables, with an ornate candelabrum and a stone wall in the background, suggesting a celebration or wedding.
  • A woman in a white dress with flower details laughs joyfully at an indoor event, surrounded by people in formal attire. The atmosphere appears festive, with blurred guests in the foreground and warm lighting highlighting her expression.
  • A white iced cake topped with two carved wooden hearts sits on a stand wrapped with string. Surrounding it are cupcakes with white icing and green fondant leaves. Three lit candles and stone steps are blurred in the background.
  • A tiered cupcake stand holds assorted cupcakes with white icing and green garnish, topped with a small white cake and silver “50” topper. The display sits on a white tablecloth in front of a rustic stone wall with candles and green decorations.
  • A bride and groom smile while cutting a small cake atop a tiered stand of cupcakes in a rustic, candlelit brick venue. The bride wears a white dress with floral details; the groom wears a dark suit. Guests watch and smile in the background.
  • A newly-wed couple in wedding attire kiss beside a tiered cupcake stand topped with a small cake, set in a rustic stone-walled room with arched ceilings. Guests watch in the background; soft candlelight and red uplighting add warmth to the scene.
  • A couple dances in the centre of a stone-floored room with arched brick ceilings, surrounded by formally dressed guests. The groom wears a kilt and waistcoat. People stand in a circle, smiling and watching, as a bright flash illuminates the scene from behind.
  • A joyful couple, one in a white satin wedding dress and the other in a black waistcoat with a tartan kilt, embrace and smile broadly whilst dancing. Onlookers in formal attire, some taking photos, watch under a vaulted brick ceiling.
  • A lively wedding dance scene: a couple, one in a kilt and one in a dress, dance together in a stone-walled, arched room, surrounded by smiling and clapping guests dressed in formal and semi-formal attire. Warm, colourful lighting enhances the festive atmosphere.
  • Two people warmly embrace and smile with their eyes closed at a joyful event. Both have short hair; one wears a white shirt and waistcoat, the other a light pink dress and a pearl bracelet. Other guests, blurred in the background, are also smiling.
  • A lively group of people at a stone-walled venue dance together. In the foreground, a man in a kilt and a woman in a dress clap and smile, whilst other guests, some in formal attire, watch and enjoy the celebration under coloured lights.
  • A bride in a white dress claps her hands, surrounded by guests. The guests, some in green dresses and one in a red dress, stand against a stone wall, smiling and clapping. The atmosphere is festive, likely at a wedding celebration.
  • Three men in formal wear, including waistcoats and ties, are laughing and holding hands while dancing at an indoor event. The older man in the centre looks joyful. Other guests, some dressed up, are smiling and watching in the softly lit background.
  • Two men in kilts joyfully dance together at an indoor celebration, smiling and making eye contact. Guests stand around them clapping and watching, some dressed formally. The venue has stone walls and beams, with purple party lights above.
  • A joyful bride in a white dress dances with a man in a tartan kilt as wedding guests in formal and colourful attire clap and smile around them in a stone-walled venue with warm, festive lighting.
  • A lively wedding celebration in a stone-walled room shows people dancing energetically. Several men in plaid kilts and waistcoats spin a woman in a white wedding dress. Guests in formal attire watch and smile, and colourful lights brighten the festive scene.
  • A joyful bride in a white dress dances with men in kilts under a stone-arched ceiling, surrounded by smiling guests. Colourful lighting and festive attire show a lively wedding celebration, with people watching and photographing the moment.
  • A bride in a white dress dances joyfully with two men in kilts and dress shirts, all smiling and holding hands, surrounded by cheering guests in formal attire under a stone-arched ceiling with colourful lighting.

Contact The Rowantree Wedding Photographer

An Intimate, Candlelit Cave in the Heart of the Old Town

There is a palpable magic to tying the knot beneath the cobbled streets of the capital. Before it became an exclusive events space, this venue was originally known as Lucky Middlemass’s Tavern.

It has a seriously impressive history, acting as the watering hole for key figures of the Scottish Enlightenment. Legends like Rabbie Burns, David Hume, and Adam Smith frequented this exact spot, which was the spiritual home of the famous Oyster Club.

Knowing you are celebrating your future in a space that holds centuries of passionate Scottish history adds a profound layer of romance to the occasion.

Every time we work as The Rowantree wedding photographer, we are struck by the gorgeous visual layout. The arched stone ceilings and original masonry provide a textured, rustic backdrop that looks phenomenal on camera. The warm flicker of candlelight bouncing off the ancient stone creates an ambience that simply cannot be replicated in a modern hotel suite.

Capturing Genuine Emotion: Donna and Leanne’s Ceremony

Donna and Leanne’s ceremony was, honestly, something incredibly special. There was an electric buzz in the air from the moment everyone arrived; friends and family were happily chatting, and there were already a few happy tears welling up before the music even began.

Their celebrant set the perfect tone for the afternoon, brilliantly mixing cheeky humour with genuine, heartfelt warmth as they shared Donna and Leanne’s unique story.

When the vows started, the room went completely quiet, save for the occasional ripple of laughter and a few emotional sniffles. The acoustics in these vaults make every spoken word feel deeply intimate and close.

Seeing Donna and Leanne exchange their rings, with so many proud, emotional faces looking on from the softly lit rows, really brought home how much this moment meant. It wasn’t just significant to the couple, but to absolutely everyone gathered there.

It struck just the right note: funny, wonderfully relaxed, and completely full of heart. Having an experienced The Rowantree wedding photographer ensures that these fleeting, quiet reactions from your guests are preserved forever.

Breathtaking Scenery at Dunsapie Loch

After the joyous flurry of tight hugs, happy tears, and kisses from family and friends, we all hopped aboard a vintage Red Bus and set off for some fresh air. We travelled to the breathtaking Dunsapie Loch, which sits beautifully nestled between Dunsapie Hill and the iconic Arthur’s Seat.

This provided an incredible visual contrast to the subterranean romance of the vaults. Surrounded by the sweeping, rugged beauty of the Scottish scenery, we captured some unforgettable, highly relaxed group photos.

We always recommend stepping away for a few moments of quiet reflection. If you are looking for ideas for your own portraits, explore our guide to the best photo locations in Edinburgh to see how diverse the city’s landscapes can be.

Three Unique Perspectives on Underground Vault Weddings

When couples first view an underground venue, they often have a few misconceptions. As your dedicated The Rowantree wedding photographer, we want to share three unique perspectives that most people completely ignore, but that make this venue an absolute dream for a bride-to-be:

1. The Magic of Directional Light. Many couples worry that a “cave” venue will be too dark for beautiful photos. However, a skilled photographer knows that the absence of flat, glaring window light is actually a massive advantage! The dark stone allows us to use soft, directional lighting and natural candlelight to create highly flattering, cinematic, and romantic portraits. You don’t have to worry about harsh midday sun casting awkward shadows on your face; the lighting here is always completely under control and beautifully moody.

2. The Acoustic Embrace Most people think about what a venue looks like, but rarely about what it sounds like. The curved stone ceilings of the vaults create a unique acoustic embrace. During the ceremony, the sound of your voices, the gentle acoustic music, and your guests’ laughter reverberate beautifully. It makes a gathering of 60 people feel like the most intimate, close-knit family dinner in the world.

3. The Ultimate Weather-Proof Celebration Planning a Scottish wedding always comes with a side of weather anxiety. The sheer brilliance of a subterranean vault is that it genuinely does not matter what the weather is doing outside. Whether it is blowing a gale or raining horizontally, the atmosphere down in the vaults remains incredibly warm, cosy, and inviting. It completely removes the stress of a “Plan B” from your wedding morning!

A Packed Dancefloor and Unforgettable Speeches

The whole day led up to a genuinely brilliant party. Transitioning from the emotional vows to the evening reception was seamless. The reception was packed with roaring laughter, deeply emotional speeches, heartfelt toasts, and a dancefloor that was absolutely bursting with energy.

We absolutely loved capturing Donna and Leanne spinning each other around on the dance floor, completely surrounded by all their favourite people. The energy in the room was phenomenal, and the historic stone walls echoed with the sounds of modern celebration. Capturing the authentic, unposed joy of the evening is exactly why we love what we do.

If you are currently planning your own city centre wedding, it is so important to find a team that understands the unique lighting and logistical flow of these historic spaces. Being The Rowantree wedding photographer is a privilege we take to heart, and we want to ensure you don’t spend your day feeling awkwardly posed or taken away from your guests for hours on end.

Let us capture the real, honest moments of your day just as they happen. We invite you to visit our website to see more examples of our wedding photography and to reach out to check our availability for your upcoming date.

Frequently Asked Questions About Edinburgh Vault Weddings

To help you plan, we have compiled a few answers to the most common questions couples ask when considering this magnificent space.

How many guests can The Rowantree accommodate for a wedding?

This venue is beautifully suited for more intimate gatherings. It can comfortably host between 50 and 70 day guests for your ceremony and wedding breakfast, with the capacity expanding to accommodate up to 110 guests for the evening reception and party.

Where exactly is the venue located in Edinburgh?

The venue is nestled deep within the 18th-century South Bridge. The entrance is on Niddry Street South, placing you right in the bustling heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town and making it incredibly accessible for guests.

Does a The Rowantree wedding photographer need special equipment?

Because the venue is an underground stone vault, natural light is nonexistent. A professional photographer will use high-end lenses capable of shooting beautifully in low light, alongside discreet, creative off-camera flashes to highlight the stunning original stonework without ever compromising the room’s romantic, candlelit ambience.

Can we have a humanist ceremony in the vaults?

Absolutely! The venue is fully licensed to host civil, religious, handfasting, and humanist ceremonies. The intimate acoustics make it an incredibly moving space for highly personal vows.

Are there other historic exclusive-use venues you recommend nearby?

If you love the idea of deep Scottish history but want something above-ground with a slightly larger capacity, we highly recommend exploring beautiful, restored medieval fortresses in the Lothians. For example, Borthwick Castle offers incredible 15th-century architecture and luxury. You can see more details and photos of this venue style by visiting our Borthwick Castle wedding photographer page.

What is the history behind the venue?

The space spans centuries of rich history. It was originally Lucky Middlemass’s Tavern, a famous spot immortalised in Robert Fergusson’s poem “Cauler Oysters”. It was the primary gathering place for the Oyster Club, hosting legendary figures of the Scottish Enlightenment. During excavations in the 1990s, hundreds of tonnes of rubble were removed by hand, uncovering thousands of original oyster shells!

Check The Rowantree Wedding Photographer Availability

We are Claire and Jonathon, The Rowantree wedding photographer couple with over 700 weddings of experience. Should our combination of elegant portraits and honest storytelling appeal to you, we would be honoured to connect. See why couples choose our documentary approach to wedding photography.

The Rowantree Contact Details

The Rowantree,
253-255 The Cowgate,
Edinburgh,
EH1 1NN

Telephone: +44 (0) 131 510 1080
Email: hello@unusualvenuesedinburgh.com

Wedding Photographer

Meet Jonathon: From Design Masterpieces to Picture-Perfect Moments

Before stepping behind the lens full-time, Jonathon ran a successful print and graphic design business right here in Edinburgh. However, after marrying Claire and experiencing his own wedding day, he had a lightbulb moment: his true passion wasn't just printing images on a page, but actually being the one to capture the raw, authentic moments that make those images matter.

That realisation led to a bold career switch. Today, Jonathon is one of Scotland’s most experienced and sought-after wedding photographers. He uses his sharp designer's eye to perfectly frame every shot, seamlessly blending artistic flair with a relaxed, documentary approach and striking editorial and fine art photos. Whether it’s an intimate city elopement or a grand luxury wedding, Jonathon has the technical skill and the calm demeanour to capture it flawlessly.

Why Couples Trust Jonathon (and why you will, too!):

  • Unmatched Experience (700+ Weddings): He’s seen it all. This incredible milestone means Jonathon has a sixth sense for anticipating moments, ensuring he is always in the right place at the exact right time.
  • The Designer's Eye: His background in graphic design means your photos aren't just snapped; they are meticulously composed and beautifully lit.
  • Authentic & Timeless Style: He focuses on natural storytelling and documenting real, unposed emotions that will never go out of fashion, balanced with wow-factor editorial newlywed photos.
  • A Personalised Approach: Your love story isn’t a copy-paste job, and neither is Jonathon’s approach. He takes the time to understand exactly what matters most to you.
  • Award-Winning Service: Recognised across the Scottish wedding industry for creative wedding photography and outstanding, friendly customer service.

With a reputation built on genuine passion, deep expertise, and an absolute eye for the perfect shot, Jonathon is exactly who you want in your corner on your big day.

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