Celebrations on Loch Ness are in top ten of small wedding destinations - with couples hoping Nessie might make an appearance
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Loch Ness has been named as one of the most desired destinations for a small wedding by holiday website, www.lastminute-cottages.co.uk.
As small ceremonies remain the order of the day during the current coronavirus uncertainty, Scotland has been named as the best spot for weddings as current Scottish law allows couples to get married anywhere, as long as a minister or celebrant is present.
After analysing location appearances, safety/social distancing regulations, local marriage laws and Covid-19 infection rates, the website published the top 10 wedding locations for those who are keen to get married this year.
The full list of the 10 best locations to get married in during the pandemic were:
1. Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye
Their vibrant blue and green backdrop were described as being the ideal setting for a remote ceremony.
2. Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven
The enchanting setting is a "beautifully unique venue to exchange vows, with stunning views of the coast and the iconic castle ruins as your ceremony backdrop".
3. The Kelpies, Falkirk
The team recommend heading to this popular landmark at night, when not only will you avoid any crowds but will get to witness the vibrant light display.
4. Outer Hebrides
A gorgeous wedding spot is around every corner, on these scenic Scottish islands meaning you'll be spoilt for choice.
5. Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh
The experts say that despite this being a popular hotspot for locals, the gardens are over 37 acres meaning a quiet space can be found for a cosy ceremony around every corner.
6. Glen Coe
The stunning Glen Coe is described as the perfect remote wedding location for film lovers as the likes of James Bond and Harry Potter have been filmed there.
7. Loch Ness
The freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands is described as being inundated with beautiful waterfront spots perfect for wedding ceremonies - with the chance of Nessie popping up as an unexpected guest.
8. Orkney Islands
Stunning coastlines with white sandy beaches and turquoise seas and archaeological sites make the Orkney Islands a wonderful setting for more adventurous couples.
9. Dean Village, Edinburgh
Described as a hidden gem, the tranquil village’s cobbled streets line the water way meaning a "picture-perfect wedding is guaranteed".
The added bonus being that it just a short walk from Edinburgh's city centre.
10. Loch Lomond
The team point out that charming villages and a whole host of adventure activities from water sports to horse riding are just a "short drive away" from the waterfront, ensuring your wedding stay will be "one to remember".
When compiling the list, the site's travel experts considered factors such as government safety precautions and social distancing guidelines, the number of reported Covid-19 cases within the area, local Covid-19 enforcements in place, venue availability, travel methods and the aesthetic value of the location.
Currently the Scottish government is advising that couples must give notice to the district registrar at least 28 days before their planned wedding date, with the attendance of a celebrant or minister needed to perform the ceremony.
Matt Fox, CEO and co-founder of LastMinute-Cottages.com, said, “Despite the easing of lockdown measures, thousands of couples have had their wedding day cancelled or postponed as a result of the pandemic.
"The current uncertainty around travelling overseas also means that eloping abroad isn’t a feasible option either. So, with that in mind, we wanted to work with our travel experts to create a list of viable places that would make for a beautiful wedding location.
“Some people might not be surprised to see that every area identified is in Scotland, as its marriage laws are a lot more lenient than England and Wales.
"Another factor that really swings in the country’s favour is how easy it is to travel to, the majority can simply drive there, cutting out the need to travel on public transport, which many are understandably reluctant to do right now.
“There are some gorgeous locations on the list, which are not only free to get married at, but are also remote, private and very romantic. We hope the list helps any engaged couples affected at this time, motivated and inspired to continue with their wedding plans!”
