It’s no longer just Gretna Green that couples are making a dash for, with Covid 19 restrictions making big weddings impossible, couples have taken to eloping all over the UK to say their vows instead, according to the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners,

Since March last year, there have been long stretches where weddings have either been banned or numbers severely restricted. Even with lockdown easing and life getting back to almost normal, there is reluctance to spend on a big wedding that may have to be cancelled, and with job security low and unemployment high, big budget weddings are taking a break too.

At Blackhouse Forest Estate we know that finding that ‘something special’ on your big day is still important no matter if you have 5 or 500 guests.  We have a flexible space that can suit an intimate gathering or be scaled up to provide more space if needed.  With restrictions coming and going at an alarming rate that flexibility is a priority for many couples.

We’ve explored some of the best destinations to help couples looking for that special yet smaller destination wedding:

Cornwall

The rugged beauty of wild Cornwall has been attracting brides and grooms for decades, and with picturesque coves, dramatic cliffs and quaint towns all on offer, it is a no-brainer for couples looking for low-key romance.

PERFECT FOR: beach weddings, clifftop ceremonies, picturesque harbours and foodies.

Snowdonia

One of the last true wildernesses in the UK, the mountains of Snowdonia National Park offer an adventure for couples seeking to explore the great outdoors. Hidden glacial lakes and deserted rocky crags are just some of the hidden gems tucked away from tourist hotspots.

PERFECT FOR: Outdoor rugged weddings, waterfalls and mountain ceremonies, striking scenery, and privacy.

London

Whilst some couples elope to escape the hustle and bustle, London undoubtedly offers some of the best skylines in the UK. Whether you take a romantic stroll along the river at sunset, or have an intimate dinner at a cosy, boho bistro, London offers a plethora of choices to suit all couples.

PERFECT FOR: Culture and cult/iconic backdrops, show off weddings, rooftops, river cruise weddings

Lake District

A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is steeped in artistic history – from William Wordsworth to Beatrix Potter – the Lake District has the pull of the mystical for many. And with rugged fells, large natural water lakes and quaint English villages that brim with Cumbrian charm, couples are spoilt for choice when choosing a location for their special day.

PERFECT FOR: childhood fantasy, quintessential English wedding, outdoor exploration and intimacy

Scottish Borders

A destination for elopers since the 18th century – made famous by the iconic Gretna Green –  the Scottish Borders continue to offer jaw-dropping landscapes, charming architecture and friendly local communities. Ranging from lochs, forests, craggy coastlines, valley’s and stunning hill moors, this area offers a taste of what Scotland has to offer. Blackhouse Forest Estate is a short drive from Peebles and is easily accessible from Edinburgh and Glasgow, but the breathtaking landscape means you could be a million miles away from a town.

PERFECT FOR: Imagination and history, forest weddings, lochan weddings, striking scenery, and privacy.

If an intimate wedding is what you are looking for, Blackhouse Forest Estates has Saturdays available for Summer 2021. The ultimate off grid wedding venue, set in over 1,000 acres of breath-taking natural woodland and hills in the Scottish Borders.

The Blackhouse Forest Estate lies an hour south of Edinburgh in the Yarrow Valley – a landscape steeped in history where Scotland’s kings hunted and legends were made.

The beauty of Blackhouse Forest Estate is the closest thing to the fairy-tale setting any bride could wish for, where the only limit is imagination.

Visit www.blackhouseforestestate.com for more information or email to arrange a time to visit.