Doubletree North Queensferry | Autumn Wedding

DoubleTree North Queensferry is a brilliant spot for a big hotel wedding by the sea with its cracking views over the Firth of Forth and the Queensferry Crossing – which twinkles at night.

I live in North Queensferry, so I’m a bit biased about this location, but I also know the village inside out – from the iconic spots to the hidden gems that most visitors never find.

(I also love to shine the light on Fife as a wonderful wedding location, click the button below to explore my Fife weddings page)

That’s why I was thrilled when Katie and Zara chose DoubleTree North Queensferry for their wedding.

It gave me the chance to take them beyond the usual photo locations and create something unique and personal. There are so many spots to explore beyond the usual pier pictures.

For Katie & Zara, we went the extra mile and got access to the 18th-century sailor’s graveyard, normally locked to the public. It added a quirky, Halloween vibe to their day, and we had such a laugh exploring.

I first met Katie years ago when I photographed her mum Gaye’s wedding to Richard, so it felt extra special to now be capturing her wedding day. We had a lot of laughs during their pre-wedding shoot with their characterful dog, Lois, who’s also had his own doggy photoshoot, where we captured his cheeky character. Unfortunately, he was perhaps too cheeky to bring along to the wedding.

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I love Katie and Zara’s outfits. Katie rocked a tailored burgundy suit, which added an extra autumnal pop of colour and perfectly complemented Zara’s sweetheart dress and red hair, which, in turn, perfectly complemented the red hues of the Forth Rail Bridge. I also love that they had matching hoodies to cosy up in later in the evening – a playful and personal touch that was so very them!

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Their wedding, held the day before Halloween, had loads of fun, seasonal details but stayed true to their personalities—laid-back and full of life. I loved the dried flowers, which looked lovely with the blue bridesmaid dresses.

If you’re looking for a big hotel wedding venue, DoubleTree North Queensferry is a fantastic choice. With its amazing view to enjoy, it’s incredibly accessible too—just a 15-minute walk from the train station or a minute’s walk from the bus stop on the bridge. But what makes it even more special is the way the village offers countless opportunities for unique photos, whether you want to stick to the classics or find something a little different.

Katie and Zara’s day was filled with laughter, love, and a lot of fun—a perfect reflection of their relationship. It was such a privilege to be a part of it all and capture these memories for them. If you’re planning a wedding here, I’d love to show you all the best spots and help you create something truly unforgettable!

The Pawfect Wedding At Balmule House

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I’ve got to get this in here, this is a heartwarming tail of the pawfect wedding, sorry, cheesetastic!

Andrew and Emma embarked on a heartfelt journey to tie the knot in the enchanting landscapes of Scotland, and they didn't do it alone—Koda, their beloved 5-month-old retriever puppy, played a significant role in their joyous celebration. Like Gavin and Stacey, they had met on holiday and then had a long distance relationship between Wales and Essex.  

Choosing the pretty Balmule House, set in the countryside just outside Dunfermline, as the backdrop for their intimate ceremony, Andrew and Emma opted for an elopement surrounded by their closest family members and their furry companion, Koda.

 Dressed in a fetching tartan bow tie, Koda was by Andrew's side, lending a paw in the preparations and eagerly observing the ceremony with genuine canine curiosity.

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But Koda's involvement didn't stop there. Thanks to Andrew's dedication to training, Koda had mastered a charming trick called 'middle,' where he skillfully maneuvered between Andrew's legs. This endearing trick became an unexpected highlight, adding a touch of whimsy and playfulness to their group photographs and is a definite training tip for anyone planning a wedding with their pup!

Koda proudly joined in the group photographs, effortlessly becoming a cherished member of the wedding party.

Puppies get tired and after all the excitement of the group photos, Koda crashed on the sofa during the drinks reception. We left Koda to nap and headed out for some golden wedding portraits around the lovely grounds at Balmule House. After a while, the groomsmen brought Koda out to join Andrew and Emma so they could enjoy some pictures with him. Koda's lively spirit added an extra layer of joy and warmth to moment.

"Dog-friendly" weddings are becoming more common, and for good reason. Our furry friends bring so much joy, love, and happiness into our lives, so why not include them in one of the most important days of our lives? Not only do they add an element of cuteness and fun, but they also serve as a reminder of the love that we have for our pets.

Here's to Andrew and Emma, their beautiful love story, and their pawfect wedding. May their marriage be filled with many more cherished moments with Koda by their side. And to all the pet lovers out there planning their own wedding, consider making it a dog-friendly affair. Trust me, it will be a day you'll never forget.

The PAwfect Team:

Venue: Franc and his wonderful team at Balmule House

Celebrant: John Tonner from Fuze Ceremonies

Modern Pipes: by Dean Saunders

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Are you Planning a wedding at Balmule House?

Get in touch today, I’d love to be part of your amazing wedding team.

Pratis Barns - Wedding Photography Guide

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Hi, I’m Ali, as a professional wedding photographer, I’ve been lucky enough to photograph beautiful weddings at Pratis Barns since 2015.

My job isn’t just about taking photos—it’s about making sure you feel relaxed, enjoy every moment, and end up with photos that bring all the joy and emotion of your day flooding back.

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7 Reasons to love a Pratis Barns Wedding?

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Pratis Barns is nestled just outside Cupar in Fife, with breath-taking views over the Forth Estuary, it’s a rustic and romantic dream. It’s also wonderfully convenient—just 25 minutes from St. Andrews and an hour from Edinburgh.

Here are 7 reasons I think you may love a Pratis Barn wedding:-

1. So Much Space: With six barns spread across 30 acres, you’ve got endless room to create a day that’s completely yours.

2. All-Inclusive Convenience: Everything’s on site—guest accommodation, catering, and a “Wonder Room” packed with props for those personal DIY touches.

3. Romantic Ceremony Barn: The rustic charm of this barn, with its exposed beams and twinkling lights, reminds me of Ross & Emily’s candlelit wedding in F.R.I.E.N.D.S. It’s truly magical.

4. Perfect Flow: With separate barns for each part of your day, there’s no need to shuffle guests around while spaces are reset. Everything feels seamless and easy.

5. Incredible Backdrops: The barns, the fields, the views over the Forth—Pratis is packed with spots for gorgeous, natural photos.

6. Family Fun: Lawn games, secret hideaways, and so much space make it an amazing place for kids to run around and have a blast.

7. Something for Everyone: Whether your guests want to dance the night away in the party barn or relax by the firepits under the stars, they’ll have the best time.

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Layout of Pratis Barns

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No matter the weather or the time of year, there are endless places at Pratis for stunning photos.

I’ve created a map to help you visualise the space, I hope it helps with your planning, perhaps Pin It for later!

View fullsize

• The Ceremony Barn: Romantic and rustic with twinkly fairy lights, exposed beams and pretty stonework, it’s a perfect setting to say “I do” and the paved walkway outside is fantastic for fun confetti shots and links to ceremony barn to the other spaces.

• The Day Barn: Bright and airy, it’s a lovely spot for guests to relax and soak in the views across the Forth. During the evening party, it’s the ideal breakout area with cozy seating and fire pits just outside, perfect for laughter and drinks as the sun sets.

• The Party Barn: Linked to the day barn, the party barn is big and ready for meals, ceilidhs, first dances, and epic parties—it’s where the magic happens after dark.

• The Grounds: The walled garden, the fire pits or the driveway surrounded by fields. I love exploring the outside spaces around Pratis.

Ceremony Barn.

Ceremony Barn.

Day Barn.

Party Barn.

Party Barn.

Grounds.

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Flexible, Tailored Photography Packages

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Your wedding is as unique as you are, so I’ve designed my photography packages to fit around you. Whether you need just a couple of hours of coverage or a full day of storytelling, I’ve got you covered.

What makes my packages different?

• You Choose What You Need: Add just the hours you need with hourly rate pricing from 2-10 hours.

• Personal Planning: I’ll help you create a photography plan that suits your day perfectly.

• Next-Day Previews: Because I know you’ll be desperate to see those first photos right away.

• Little Extras: Like a free mini shoot with 8+ hours of coverage or 10% off albums when booked in advance.

For all the details, head over to my weddings info page.

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Favourite Pratis Barns Memories

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Every wedding at Pratis Barns has its own magic, and I’ve been lucky to capture some incredible moments:

• Claire & Ross stealing a quiet moment in their campervan to enjoy wedding treats.

• Mairi & Joe bringing along Mairi’s horse, Cuddles, for some unforgettable photos.

• Claire & Sam getting everyone on the dancefloor for a massive Strip the Willow ceilidh.

• Krissa & Gordon nailing an incredible jive that had their guests cheering.

• Lucy & Jack hugging after their first kiss

Every couple makes their day their own, and it’s such a joy to be part of it.

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Pratis Barns Accommodation

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Pratis Barns now offers Pratis House, a stunning farmhouse that’s been beautifully renovated. With space for 15 people, it’s perfect for getting ready in the morning or relaxing with your nearest and dearest.

There are also some brilliant options nearby, including:

• Montrave House: The closest accommodation to Pratis this characterful converted stable accommodation for 7 people, also includes 8 luxury wigwams with hot tubs. Although next door, both venues have long driveways so it’s a long walk.

• Dairsie Castle: A quirky 12th-century castle, full of character from it’s modern renovation, it sleeps 14 people and is just 16 minutes away.

• The Old Manor Hotel: A classic, cozy option just a 10-minute drive from Pratis.

Or, why not look for a holiday cottage in one of Fife’s picturesque East Neuk fishing villages?

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Let’s Chat About Your Wedding!

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If you’re planning your wedding at Pratis Barns, I’d love to hear all about your ideas. Pratis is one of my favorite places to work, and I’d love to help you create beautiful memories of your day. Get in touch or head over to my weddings info page to find out more about how I can help.

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Low Light Wedding Photography

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When you’re shooting in a dark space you could whack on an obtrusive flash and use it in every shot but I love the challenge of using the natural light at Pratis.

With the limited light, you have to plan the light in every shot to perfectly capture the atmosphere but the result is beautiful!

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Get In Touch

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Pratis Team

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Nicola, Patrick & Louise are fantastic, contact them at:

Pratis Barns, Leven, Fife, KY8 5NX

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Balmule House - Country House Wedding Venue Fife

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Balmule House

Balmule House is a 500yr old mansion house which is now a country boutique hotel. It is tucked away in the beautiful countryside just 3 miles north of Dunfermline. It’s small size makes it perfect to book out for an exclusive wedding.

They offer an option to put a marquee in the garden for larger weddings (up to 500 guests) but having an intimate wedding in the house makes the most of the beautiful characterful spaces.

Wedding Photography Prices

Country House Wedding

The house sits up on a hill surrounded by 30 acres of woodland and looks down over the countryside.

It has pretty spaces outside including a lawn, a long tree lined driveway, a walled garden and woodshed.

These spaces were brilliant to explore for photos but the inside spaces are equally as beautiful which would make it a brilliant venue for an autumn or winter wedding.

Relaxed Venue

Matt & Hannah hired the entire house for their wedding and everyone seemed so relaxed and really enjoyed just having fun all day.

It’s beautifully renovated with lots of period features which make the space feel homely.

I imagine in the winter it is super cosy as each room has a nice fireplace.

Beautiful Light Rooms

Matt & Hannah used 3 spaces within the house for their wedding.

The main reception room can accommodate up to 40 people for a wedding ceremony.

The dining room also accommodates 40 guests for a meal and the space hosts larger number for the evening reception.

For larger weddings there is the marquee option which can take up to 500 guests.

Dining Room

The south facing dining room overlooks the walled garden to the west and the fields to the south.

The bay window is a beautiful feature and brings in lots lovely light which is great for your photographs.

Normally this space is furnished with lovely sofas but it is very versatile and the management just seamlessly change the spaces to suit the required function.

I used this space for a family shoot a few years back so if you’d like to see it as a cosy seated area, click the button below.

Boutique Hotel

The house has 8 bedrooms which all have their own unique character which was a really fun feature of the hotel.

Hannah had this massive bridal suite to get ready in which was a fabulous space and had a vast impressive bathroom to match.

Pretty Spaces

I love the staircase in the house, it was a great place to capture some pictures of Hannah on her way to the ceremony.

Well Looked After!

What makes a brilliant wedding venue? It’s not just the location, space and the pretty features of the venue but the management.

Franc, the owner, seems to sincerely want the couples who choose Balmule to have an amazing time which is my main aim to.

The exclusive use means the management are just looking after you on the day and bride and grooms love this.

I’ve heard great things about how well they are treated and how lovely an experience it was.

I have seen plenty couples stressed on their wedding day because they are not so well looked after and I truly believe being able to trust your suppliers is essential. I always want my couples to feel completely comfortable and trust that I know exactly what they want and Balmule seem to be the same.

Main Hall

When you first enter the house you enter via an arched entrance porch which is a lovely place to have a welcome sign for the wedding party.

You then enter an entrance hallway which leads into the main hall. The comfy seating in the hall was a great waiting area for guests who arrived early for the ceremony, it then became a good place for mingling during the drinks reception and then Matt & Hannah used the area for their cake cutting and then dancing.

I really loved how versatile the spaces all were.

Walled Garden

The walled garden is full of cute pathways lined by box hedging. It’s a lovely place to go for a walk and enjoy a bit of time together and get some photos taken.

It’s also a nice space for your guests to enjoy or for some family photos.

The main car park sits behind the walled garden so guests can walk through the garden when they arrive which is a nice welcoming approach.

Golden Light

Matt & Hannah were married in May when the evenings are long and we went out during the golden hour to explore the grounds and get some photos as the sun was going down.

Whatever the time of year it is nice to get out the hour before sunset to catch some of the golden light.

In the winter the daylight hours are so short but when it is sunny you get low light much of the day and it is beautiful for photos.

Planning a wedding in Dunfermline?

I live in North Queensferry which is perfectly located for weddings in Fife & Edinburgh and it’s only 10 minutes from Dunfermline (I also cover weddings further afield).

If you’d like to know more, check out my weddings page and get in touch, I’m happy to answer any questions and help you with your wedding.

Find out more:-

- Wedding Information (to find out more)

- Pricing Brochure (if you’d like to get an idea of cost)

- Edinburgh Wedding Blog (for more wedding inspiration)

Contact Ali

Read More?

I have some other guides for venues nearby, click the name if you’d like to read more:-

- Pratis Barns, Cupar

- The Old Course Hotel, St. Andrews

- Dunfermline Weddings & Photo Shoots

- South Queesferry Weddings

Old Course Hotel Wedding Guide | 10 Best Places to Explore

(And Why I’d Love to Be Your Photographer!)

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Hi, I’m Ali! I’ve been lucky enough to photograph weddings at The Old Course Hotel since 2018 - it’s a fantastic venue choice. From the iconic views to the incredible spaces, every wedding here feels grand and wonderful. If you’re planning your wedding there, here are 10 reasons why you’ll love it (and how I can make sure your photography is just as unforgettable).

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1. That Iconic Swilcan Bridge Shot

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Let’s start with a bang! The Swilcan Bridge on the famous Old Course is legendary, and it’s a must for your wedding photos. Whether it’s just the two of you soaking in the moment or a fun group shot with your bridal party, this is the kind of image that belongs on your wall forever.

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2. The Magical Conservatory

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The Conservatory is one of my absolute favourite spots at the hotel. It’s bright, airy, and has stunning panoramic views. Plus, it’s a dream to photograph—no awkward pillars or dark corners, just clean lines and natural light. Whether you go for elegant simplicity or full-on floral magic, this space always shines.

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3. A Romantic Beach Escape

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There are two beaches just a short walk or 2 minute drive from the hotel, and they are both breath-taking. Picture the two of you strolling hand-in-hand along the dunes at West Sands Beach, the waves crashing in the background—it’s pure romance. If it’s sunny the soft light here is incredible, and it’s perfect for those intimate, dreamy photos you’ll treasure forever. The beach is also a popular location for an engagement shoot.

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4. Stunning Suites for Morning Prep

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The suites at The Old Course Hotel are designed with weddings in mind. There’s tons of space for your bridal party (and all their stuff!), and the natural light is perfect for capturing those beautiful getting-ready moments. Oh, and the views over the golf course and beach? As you’re getting ready you can watch golfers try to shoot their ball over the replica railway sheds - which house the Hall Of Champions event space - into the famous 17th hole. The rooms I’ve been in have all been split into two spaces giving you different spaces for different functions during your prep.

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Want to know more about Fife weddings?

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5. Escape to the Jigger Inn

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Need a breather during the day? The Jigger Inn (which was once the station master’s lodge for the station which once stood on the Old Course Hotel site) is a cosy pub steeped in history, and it’s right next to the hotel. It’s such a fun spot to sneak away for a quiet moment together, and it makes for some really unique, relaxed photos.

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6. Cheers with a View at The Road Hole Bar

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The Road Hole Bar is the ultimate spot for a celebratory toast. With panoramic views of the golf course, the sea, and St Andrews itself, it’s a showstopper. Plus, their whisky collection is incredible—perfect for adding a little Scottish flair to your day.

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7. Incredible Team to Make Your Day Stress-Free

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The team at The Old Course Hotel is amazing. They’re friendly, attentive, and always go the extra mile to make sure everything runs like clockwork. I work closely with them to slot your photography seamlessly into the day, so you can relax and enjoy every moment.

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8. Spaces for Every Kind of Celebration

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From intimate dinners at Sands to epic parties in the Hall of Champions (accommodating up to 450ppl) or the popular Ballroom (sitting up to 130ppl), the hotel has a space to suit every wedding style. I love capturing the variety here—each spot has its own vibe, and together, they tell the story of your day perfectly.

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9. The Charm of St Andrews

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St Andrews is one of Scotland’s treasures. For centuries, people have traveled from across the world to visit—not just golfers, but pilgrims before them. Personally, I love exploring the town’s food, beaches, and its charming, photogenic landmarks. Aside from the beaches, my highlights are the pier, the cathedral, St Salvator’s Chapel, and the quaint cobbled streets. If you’re up for a little adventure on your wedding day, taking a moment to explore and soak it all in, I’d love to capture some magical moments around this gorgeous town.

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10. Golf (and Those Views!)

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If you’re not a golfer, you’ll still appreciate the views over the famous Old Course. Your guests will love watching the action on the greens, and the landscape makes for some truly epic photos. It’s a reminder that you’re celebrating somewhere really special.

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Ready to Chat About Your Old Course Hotel Wedding?

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If you’re planning your wedding at The Old Course Hotel or elsewhere, I’d love to hear all about it! My goal is to make sure your photography is as relaxed and fun as your day. Let’s capture the magic, the joy, and everything that makes your wedding uniquely yours.

Get in touch today—I can’t wait to hear from you! For prices and more info, click here to visit my wedding information page.

Dunfermline Photography

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Dunfermline

Dunfermline is such an under appreciated town, it was once the home of Kings.

I grew up with the story on King Malcolm III offering shipwrecked Margaret (Saint Margaret Of Scotland) shelter in Dunfermline. She created a new church which became Dunfermline Abbey which is where Robert The Bruce is buried and his name is round it’s spire.

I also loved the story of Andrew Carnegie sneaking into the gardens of Pittencrieff House to play and later returning as a rich tycoon to buy the house and grounds and gift them to the people of Dunfermline.

The colourful ancient buildings of Abbot House and Pittencrieff house are so fun for photos. Personally I wish every building was this colourful!

“The Glen” Pittencrieff Park

I love this park!

It’s my favourite place to photograph people enjoying themselves as there are so many brilliant places to explore.

Kids love to explore the paths, feed squirrels, follow the peacocks or play in the playparks.

It’s full of beautiful plants, historic buildings and a river which runs down the dark moody valley called Dunfermline Glen.

Dunfermline CITY CHambers Weddings

The Dunfermline City Chambers is the prettiest registry office I have photographed in. It’s a far cry from the boring office like rooms of many other registry offices.

The ceremony room has stunning vaulted ceilings, historic artworks a grand staircase to lead you up to it.

Outside the building has beautifully detailed turrets and an incredible clock tower with four faces which is prominent when you look at the Dunfermline skyline.

Dunfermline Abbey and the Dunfermline City Chambers are right next to the park.

There are also some other churches close by including St. Leonard’s Church and the Catholic St. Margaret’s Memorial Church.

The Glen Pavilion is within the park and is a popular place for Dunfermline Weddings. It has lots of different spaces you can book for an event.

If you want to find out more about my wedding photography, please click the button below.

Wedding Photography

Dunfermline Abbey

The abbey is the most prominent building on the Dunfermline skyline with it’s distinctive tower and spire.

It is one of Scotland’s most important cultural sites and in the grounds you can also see the ruins of Dunfermline Palace.

The abbey looks different depending on the angle you look at it from, so it is fun to capture in photographs from around Dunfermline

The abbey is Church of Scotland and maintained by Historic Scotland and you can find out more about getting married there by visiting their website.

Pittencrieff House

Pittencrieff House is bright orange and I love using it as a backdrop for photos especially in the autumn.

It has a massive lawn at the front perfect for babies to crawl on or for a picnic or for flying a kite.

Next to the house you’ll also find the hot houses, formal gardens and routes off to Dunfermline Glen.

Beautiful Paths To Explore

Pittencrieff park is always changing and the gardens around Pittencrieff house are full of seasonal planting which is brilliant to explore during shoots.

I think this is why I love it so much as with the house and the planting, I can guarantee to get some lovely colours in your photos, but I can also get some moody dark photos too if desired by exploring the more natural woodland areas.

Graduation Photographs Dunfermline

Rachel’s gran gifted Rachel a graduation shoot to celebrate her COVID affected graduation so we explored various parts of the park.

Rachel wanted photos to reflect her personality as-well as some more traditional photos.

Graduation Photography

Dogs Photo Shoots In Dunfermline

You can’t visit the park without seeing dogs and it’s a great place to explore for a dog photo shoot.

Often people ask if they can bring dogs along to family shoots and yes, you can, but you can also book a specific dog photo shoot if you really want some special dog photos.

Ask about pets?

Peacocks & Squirrels

When I was a child the park was filled with the distinctive noise of Peacocks and they are the symbol of the park with the Peacock Cafe named after them.

They have been absent for a long time but recently they have bred new birds and it’s lovely to see them parading around happily exploring the park.

The squirrels are also great fun and are very friendly and fun for kids to watch and feed.

The Moody Forest Maternity Photo Shoot

When Magda & Javier wanted a moody outdoor flamenco maternity photo shoot we chose the Glen and loved exploring the dark moody greens of the darker forest areas.

Visit my family page for more about maternity and baby photo shoots.

Family Portraits