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5 Reasons The Hermitage Perthshire Is Perfect for a Woodland Photoshoot in Scotland
Discover The Hermitage Perthshire — a magical woodland near Edinburgh with waterfalls, history and fairytale light. Perfect for photoshoots, couples and weddings.
If you’ve been searching for the best places for photos in Perthshire — or wondering what makes The Hermitage so special — let me share why this woodland gem near Dunkeld should be at the top of your list.
Just over an hour from Edinburgh, The Hermitage feels like something out of a Scottish fairytale. Towering Douglas firs mixed with native deciduous species, rushing waterfalls, and golden autumn light make it one of my favourite locations to include in my Scotland photoshoots. It’s peaceful, easy to reach, and every inch of it feels magical through the camera lens.
Find Out More About Adventure Family Photoshoots
1. It’s Easy to Reach from Edinburgh — But Feels a World Away
The Hermitage sits just outside Dunkeld in Perthshire, about 1 hour 15 minutes north of Edinburgh. It’s part of the National Trust for Scotland and has a well-maintained woodland path that loops to the famous Black Linn Falls — a short, scenic walk suitable for most ages.
🚗 Parking: There’s a National Trust car park right at the entrance (£5 for the day), and from there, it’s only a few minutes to reach the first viewpoint.
What I love most is how accessible it is — you can be among ancient trees and the sound of rushing water without trekking for miles. It’s the perfect spot if you want the feel of a wild Scottish adventure but with comfort and convenience.
2. The Waterfalls and Foliage Are Magic for Photos
Whether it’s misty winter air or golden autumn sunlight filtering through the trees, The Hermitage is a photographer’s dream. The combination of soft light, vivid greens, and dramatic textures makes portraits feel cinematic and timeless.
The star of the show is Black Linn Falls, viewed from Ossian’s Hall, a stunning 18th-century folly built as part of the Duke of Atholl’s landscaped garden.
💡 Photographer’s Tip:
The filtered light under the tall trees is flattering all day long, so you’re not chasing golden hour. But autumn is extra special — the colours pop, the air feels crisp, and the leaves glow gold and amber.
3. Ossian’s Hall Adds History, Drama and Character
Ossian’s Hall is what makes The Hermitage truly unique. Built in the 1700s, this ornate viewing platform was designed to surprise guests (including Queen Victoria) visiting Dunkeld House.
With its dramatic view of the waterfall and hidden mirrors inside, it’s full of old-world charm and atmosphere.
From a photography point of view, it adds that perfect balance between natural beauty and historic detail. I love how it sits high above the landscape, contrasting dark stone and mossy walls against the roaring waterfall and the soft tones of the forest — it’s the perfect spot for a portrait, whether you’re wearing cosy knits or a flowing gown.
4. It’s Perfect for Couples, Families and Elopements
The Hermitage works beautifully for every kind of shoot. For couples, it’s romantic and peaceful — ideal for engagement sessions or small elopement portraits after a ceremony nearby.
On a personal note, my husband had plans to propose here but they were scuppered — I really wish he had succeeded, as it is so stunningly romantic!
For families, it’s relaxed and easy — there’s space for children to explore, leaves to throw, and no pressure to pose. It’s also a fun walk with a dog (although a lead is a must near the waterfall!).
The Hermitage is even available for small weddings through the National Trust for Scotland. Imagine saying your vows surrounded by ancient trees, with the sound of the waterfall in the background — a true Scottish woodland fairytale.
5. There’s So Much Beauty Nearby — From Pitlochry to Aberfeldy
If you want to make a day or weekend of it, The Hermitage is surrounded by other beautiful locations within half an hour’s drive — so ask about an extended shoot and we can explore some of these too:
🌲 Faskally Woods (Pitlochry): Famous for its autumn Enchanted Forest light display — vibrant and colourful.
🌊 Loch Faskally: Calmer water and reflections, ideal for couple or family portraits.
💦 The Birks of Aberfeldy: A scenic waterfall walk immortalised by poet Robert Burns.
🏞️ Loch Leven or Falkland Estate: Closer to Edinburgh but still full of charm — great if you love woodlands and open hills.
I visited The Hermitage recently to capture the autumn colours, and it reminded me why I love photographing Perthshire’s Big Tree Country. The air feels crisp, the sound of water is everywhere, and the trees seem to glow.
What Is The Hermitage in Perthshire?
The Hermitage is actually a designed landscape, created in the 18th century as an extension of the Duke of Atholl’s estate — essentially, an enormous landscaped garden for Dunkeld House (what a garden to have!).
It was designed around the River Braan, where the water tumbles through the gorge surrounded by mixed woodland. The magnificent Douglas firs are the real stars here, grown from seeds brought over by botanist David Douglas — some of the tallest trees in Scotland. The tallest once stood at 61 metres before it fell in 2017.
You’ll find a bench shaped like a Douglas fir cone near the bridge where it fell — you’re meant to lie back and admire the mosaic of foliage above. It’s a lovely little detail that captures the Hermitage’s charm: a place designed to make you stop, breathe, and just enjoy nature.
The stone bridge and Ossian’s Hall were built to make the most of the dramatic falls, and further along the walk you’ll find Ossian’s Cave, which was once thought to be the perfect home for a hermit.
Planning Your Visit to The Hermitage
📍 Location: Near Dunkeld, Perthshire (A9 north from Edinburgh)
🚗 Parking: £5 per day, National Trust for Scotland car park
🚶♀️ Walk: About 1 mile round trip to Ossian’s Hall and Black Linn Falls — short, scenic, and mostly flat
☕ Nearby Stops: Dunkeld village has lovely cafés and bakeries for a treat after your shoot
🍁 Best Season: Autumn is unbeatable for colour, but spring and winter have their own magic too.
· 🌅 Best Time: Golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) gives soft light through the trees.
· 🧣 What to Wear: Layers, boots, and cosy knits — neutral or earthy tones look beautiful against the greens and golds.
· ☔ Weather Tip: Light rain adds sparkle and atmosphere — bring a brolly and wellies just in case!
Plan Your Magical Scottish Woodland Photoshoot Adventure
If you love the idea of a relaxed woodland adventure filled with waterfalls, golden leaves, and laughter, I’d love to photograph it for you.
The Hermitage is one of those places that never fails to deliver something magical — and it’s even better when shared.
📸 Discover my Scotland Photoshoots here
💍 Planning a small wedding or elopement? Learn more here
Eloping With The Family | Sherbrooke Castle Wedding
Eloping from Canada to Scotland for a beautifully emotional micro wedding at Sherbrooke Castle
A Scottish baronial-style castle in Glasgow, Sherbrooke Castle offers a mix of history, grandeur, and cosy charm.
I recently photographed Rebecca & Zac’s beautiful elopement at Sherbrooke Castle, and if you’re considering it for your wedding, here’s some helpful tips for your planning.
Find out more about wedding photography
A Wedding Day at Sherbrooke Castle
Sherbrooke Castle has that classic Glasgow red sandstone, the kind that glows warm in the evening light or brightens up a driech day – which is more typical in Scotland!. Perched up on a hill above pretty gardens, it’s the kind of place that feels grand but not too grand, luxurious but not too stuffy.
And when Rebecca and Zac decided to elope to Scotland, bringing just their closest family, Sherbrooke Castle became the perfect spot for their intimate, love-filled day.
The ceremony was held in Sherbrooke’s conservatory, which, if you’re familiar with Scottish weather, is an absolute blessing. Loads of natural light, completely sheltered from the elements, and a really lovely, intimate space. The couple worked with the incredible Linda Keys from Agnostic Scotland, setting up their guests in a horseshoe arrangement, so that everyone felt included rather than just watching from the sidelines.It was one of those ceremonies where you could just feel the love in the room—the kind that made the guests well up before anyone had even said "I do”
Once we’d wrapped up photos, it was time for the real fun—steak, wine, and some seriously emotional speeches. I’ve been photographing weddings for over ten years, and I’ve heard a lot of speeches. But something about Rebecca’s sister’s emotional words hit me — so much so that I might have accidentally wiped a tear away behind my camera.
5 Best Things About Weddings at Sherbrooke Castle
It’s Convenient Yet Secluded
Tucked away in Pollokshields it’s close enough for guests to get to easily from Glasgow City Centre, but still has that "away from it all" feel.It Works for Both Big & Small Weddings
Whether you’re planning a 100-person celebration or something tiny and personal, the castle has spaces to suit both.The Conservatory is a Solid Backup Plan for Scottish Weather
If you’re worried about rain (which, let’s be honest, in Scotland, you always should be), Sherbrooke Castle’s conservatory is a stunning indoor option.It Has On-Site AccommodationIt Has Rooms for Guests to Stay Over
With 18 boutique bedrooms, your nearest and dearest won’t need to worry about taxis home at the end of the night.
Great Photo Spots
It doesn’t have vast grounds but it has some great little photo spots, mainly the wide steps in the garden and the grand stairwell in the castle.
Want to know more about Scottish Castle Wedding Venues?
FAQs – Everything You Need to Know About Sherbrooke Castle Weddings
How many people can stay at Sherbrooke Castle?
There are 18 rooms, sleeping 35 ppl, so perfect for keeping family and friends close.What are the wedding spaces like at Sherbrooke Castle?
You can choose from the conservatory for bright, airy vibes, or the main function room.What is the history of Sherbrooke Castle?
Built in the 19th century, it started as a before becoming a luxury hotel and wedding venue.Is there a bridal suite at Sherbrooke Castle?
Yes, the bridal suite is spacious and bright—ideal for getting-ready photos.
Final Thoughts – Planning a Sherbrooke Castle Wedding?
If you’re looking at Sherbrooke Castle for your wedding, I hope this has given you a bit more insight into what a real wedding here looks like—from the ceremony setup to the best photo spots.
And if you’re still on the hunt for a wedding photographer who knows this venue inside out (and won’t run away when the speeches get emotional)? Let’s chat!
I’d love to hear about your plans and capture all the beautiful, fun, and unexpected moments of your big day.
15 Of The Best Photo Spots Edinburgh
Where are the best photo spots in Edinburgh for your city centre wedding? This handy little photo location guide to the top 15 photo spots in Edinburgh is here to help with photographs from real weddings as inspiration for your city centre adventure.
Where are the best photo spots in Edinburgh for your city centre wedding?
This handy little photo location guide is here to help with photographs from real weddings and a handy little map of city centre highlights. They are all close to the city centre & perfect to easily explore on your wedding day
Please let me know if you have a favourite place that you think should be added.
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City Centre Map
1. St. Giles Cathedral
2. Edinburgh City Chambers
3. The Royal Mile
4. The Edinburgh Festival
5. Writer’s Museum
6. Riddles Court
7. John Knox’s House
8. Edinburgh Castle
9. Victoria Street
10. The Vennel
11. The Mound
12. Prince’s Street Gardens
13. Carlton Hill
14. Holyrood Park
15. St. Anthony’s Chapel
Useful Links
Let’s start at the heart…
St. Giles Cathedral
St. Giles is literally in the heart of Edinburgh, the Heart of Midlothian is a mosaic on the ground outside St. Giles. Although this sounds like a romantic place to stand, beware, it is thought to be good luck to spit on it (apologies for spoiling the romance with a rather yucky start to this guide).
Let’s skip past that part… St. Giles is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic buildings with it’s crown top a prominent part of Edinburgh’s skyline. I love exploring the pretty steps & doorways and I use it as a screen to take you away from the Royal Mile crowds into some of the quieter spaces behind.
2. Edinburgh City Chambers
Edinburgh’s City Chambers is a fantastically placed Registry Office, placed right outside St. Giles the chambers building is beautiful with its courtyard and sheltered arches (which have sheltered many weddings from Scotland’s weather over the years).
3. The Royal Mile
Talking about weather, around the city centre there are plenty more sheltered spots to explore around the royal mile, if the weather isn’t optimal. I have photographed in rain and fog around the city and it often just adds to the beauty.
When it rains the sandstone on the buildings darkens and the cobbled streets glisten and colours pop.
In the fog, everything looks old world-y and the diffuse light is beautifully flattering for portraits.
The Royal Mile links Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace and has the majority of the best photo spots in Edinburgh, especially as there are many popular wedding venues on the mile or within walking distance.
St. Giles and the Chambers are on the high street part of the mile which is the most photographed part but boogle down some of the Close’s and you’ll find hidden gem’s such as Advocate’s Close with it’s brilliant views of the Scott’s Monument or Riddles Court’s with is beautiful courtyard.
4. The Edinburgh Festival
In the festival Edinburgh fills up and the Royal Mile is packed with crowds, buskers & entertainers. The atmosphere is electric. Walking down the Royal Mile in a wedding dress will always get cheers of friendly congratulations but in the festival, you will be hidden amongst the many crazy outfits of the performers vying for your attention.
Jemma and Alasdair got married during the busiest week of the festival and loved getting amongst the crowds for their photos.
5. The Writer’s Museum
Continuing up the Royal Mile from the High Street you reach the Lawnmarket which leads up the final stretch to the castle.
Just off the Lawnmarket you find Lady Stair’s House. The 17th century Lady Stair’s House is home to the writer’s museum, I love exploring the peaceful courtyard and the cute lamposts.
6. Riddles Court
Riddles Court is one of my favourite Edinburgh buildings. I love the orange façade & pentice stair. I can imagine the king holding his banquet’s there in the 16th century. It’s tucked away off the lawn market. It’s so hidden, few tourist’s find it so it’s the perfect place for some quiet photos with some stunning unique architecture.
7. John Knox’s House
Further down the High Street, just before you enter the Cannongate part of the Royal Mile you get to John Knox’s House. Parts of the building date back to the 15th century building and it now houses the Scottish Storytelling Centre.
It’s a little off route and on a busy part of road on the Royal Mile but it is one the oldest buildings in Edinburgh and very picturesque.
8. Edinburgh Castle
The temptation is to go the castle for wedding photos but unfortunately if you have a wedding dress on, they won’t let you onto the castle esplanade (unless you are getting married there) but really the best spots are a wee walk away, venture to the Vennel or the Ross Fountain for the perfect castle pic.
9. Victoria Street
Victoria Street is famous as the inspiration for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter. This cute little street has some brilliant little shops and links the Royal Mile to the historic Grassmarket where you can get a brilliant view of Edinburgh Castle.
10. The Vennel
Just off the Grassmarket you can climb up the Vennel Steps and get one of the best views of Edinburgh Castle. If you’re really lucky you might get a congratulations from the author Ian Rankin who was passing by during Maria & Rhys’s wedding, we’re waiting to see if they appear as characters in a Rebus novel.
11. The Mound
If you walk down from the Lawnmarket you will get to the Mound and enter into Edinburgh’s New Town.
The architecture completely changes as you enter the straight streets and Georgian architecture of the New Town and see the statement pillars of the galleries.
You’ll be surrounded by the hustle and bustle of shoppers on Princes’ Street. From here you can also explore Prince’s Street gardens and get some great views of Edinburgh Castle.
12. Prince’s Street Gardens & Ross’s Fountain
Prince’s Street gardens run along the whole length of Prince’s Street and have some amazing views of the city & the castle. At the east end of the garden’s, you’ll find the Ross Fountain area which is a great place for a pic with Edinburgh Castle.
13. Calton Hill
Calton Hill is the best place in Edinburgh to get panoramic views across the city or to enjoy sunrise or sunset. It’s a bit further away from the Old Town so you will need transport to get to there. If you chose to walk, it’s about a 15 minute walk (with a some steep hills) from the High Street on the Royal Mile.
You can see from the River Forth to Arthur’s Seat to Edinburgh Castle. It’s an amazing place to go when the sun is low but it is a good hike to get up to it. Olivia and Tom got a car up the hill and enjoyed the golden evening light at the top of the hill.
14. Holyrood Park
At the bottom of the Royal Mile you’ll find Holyrood Palace which is the King’s home when he visits Edinburgh.
The palace is next to Holyrood Park, if you want a real adventure with an amazing view you can walk up Arthurs Seat and get some photographs at St. Anthony’s Chapel
15. St. Anthony’s Chapel
St. Anthony’s Chapel is a ruined chapel on the hillside with stunning views over the city.
It takes about 20mins to get up to it and it is rough ground so you need good footwear but it is stunning.
Shauna and Frazer went here to exchange their vows after their wedding in the City Chambers.
Taxi Adventure
Edinburgh is compact but if you have high heels on a vehicle to get your around is a plan.
You can hire an Edinburgh cab to take you around some of the sights. It’s also a cute vehicle to have in your photos.
Red Bus Tours
If you want your guest’s to enjoy the city while you have a more intimate adventure you can hire a Red Bus to take your guests around the city. Companies such as the Red Bus Bistro will do a tour with afternoon tea for your guests.
Are you planning an Edinburgh wedding?
If you’d like to chat about your plans, check availability or pricing, please get in touch :-)
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Weddings by The Sea - A Secret Wedding in South Queensferry
Nikki and Ian met at school when they were 5 years old and decades later they secretly eloped to South Queensferry for their wedding.
Nikki and Ian met at school when they were 5 years old and decades later they secretly eloped to South Queensferry for their wedding. From our initial conversation I could hear how passionate Nikki was to marry Ian and to have their wedding in South Queensferry, a place which she just loves.
South Queensferry Registrars Office
Nikki and Ian eloped from South Shields to have their secret ceremony at the Registry Office in the beautiful coastal town which is dwarfed by the magnificent Forth Bridge. Nikki’s only photo request was to make sure I got the bridge in the background of the pictures as she loves how it dominates the views.
The ceremony was so short and sweet and with no guests the second registrar and I stepped in to witness the marriage. Nikki says she’s loved Ian since she was 5 years old and they’ve been together for the last 14 years so they decided they just wanted to get married without much fuss. They kept their plans secret, even from their children and decided to just surprise them by sending a picture.
After the ceremony we explored some of their favourite areas of the town to capture some photographs. I’ve spent a lot of time in South Queensferry and I’d never been down Harbour Lane before, this cute little lane was introduced to me by Nikki and I can see why she loves it.
The Boathouse
After a lovely walk around South Queensferry we went to the Boathouse for a little mini wedding reception. I joined them for a wee celebratory drink before leaving them to enjoy the rest of their trip to Scotland and some fun in the Edinburgh Festival.
