Renewing vows

[Jock Scot]

If its not too late, have a look at Barcaldine Castle just outside Oban. I have no idea of prices but we have been , as guests to more than a few weddings there. It's not a Mega Castle and does seem to specialise in the smaller wedding. And if I may say so, a very good job they do. Google images are worth a look. These "smaller" castles are dotted all over Scotland and many do weddings, these days.

Psssst! A word to the wise, do your homework very well when it comes to Gretna Green, it might not be quite what you think it is. Just saying.

[Drac]

If its not too late, have a look at Barcaldine Castle just outside Oban. I have no idea of prices but we have been , as guests to more than a few weddings there. It's not a Mega Castle and does seem to specialize in the smaller wedding. And if I may say so, a very good job they do. Google images are worth a look.

Thanks. Checking it out.

These "smaller" castles are dotted all over Scotland and many do weddings, these days.

Checking out a bunch of castles from various sites. Second biggest issue is the distance from Edinburgh. Since neither of us have international licenses the limit is either mass transit or cab. Cuts a large number out.

Psssst! A word to the wise, do your homework very well when it comes to Gretna Green, it might not be quite what you think it is. Just saying.

Been checking it and not sure what you mean. Is it because of how modern it is or that it is a bit like Vegas? Trite or overdone?

Jim

[Jock Scot]

It's the "bit like Vegas"that concerns me. Now I have never been to Vegas, so I can only go on what I have seen on films, TV and what I have read in the National Geographic and such like and believe me Gretna Green, is NOTHING like Vegas! Yes Gretna has a history of "eloping couples", probably like Vegas, but that is where the similarities start and finish.

[sydnie7]

As for "international license," unless things have changed recently your U.S. state-issued DL is good for tourism rental/driving in UK. Just have to get used to that other-side-of-the-road business. . . Good luck with the planning and have fun, wherever you end up!

Not been to Gretna Green but had a potentially analogous experience on an early UK trip when we planned a stop at Cheddar Gorge. Drove straight through when we found it overrun by tat shops and tour buses. . .

[Drac]

It's the "bit like Vegas"that concerns me. Now I have never been to Vegas, so I can only go on what I have seen on films, TV and what I have read in the National Geographic and such like and believe me Gretna Green, is NOTHING like Vegas! Yes Gretna has a history of "eloping couples", probably like Vegas, but that is where the similarities start and finish.

Ah, just making sure. Wasn't trying to say it was glam, glitz, and lights, just that it maybe trite and over done. A bit of a tourist trap as it were. No disrespect intended. Amy is pretty familiar with the history of the place. It is in quite a bit of both the history and literature she studied. The site (granted they aren't going to show themselves in a bad light) shows it to be fairly modern with some new lodging coming.

Jim

[dutchy kilted]

Whatever you decide, congratulations on 20 years together, and best wishes for many more.

I have been lucky enough to be married to my lovely bride for almost 23 years now, so I know what kind of work it takes to make it to that milestone.

[Gryphon57]

Congratulations on 20 years. For our 30th, we did our renewal in the Chapel at Traquair House in Peebleshire. We also spent the night there. Excellent friendly staff. We actually spent 3 weeks in Scotland on that trip. the first two were based out of Aviemore and then the last week, except for the night at Traquair House, at a B&B in Edinburgh. We weren't sure about adapting to the opposite side of the road thing and managed to get around everywhere by bus, train, cab, and a hire car.

[Downunder Kilt]

Drac, you mention International licences, I have driven at lot of places all over the world on my International driving permit, including the USA.
The permits are available worldwide from your home country Auto Clubs and cost (well here anyways) A$35.00 for a 12 month permit. All you have to do is front up to the Auto Club office with your valid home driving licence, the money and a passport size photo of your self and presto, you get a International driving permit, valid for 12 months. You will be able to drive any vehicle that you are able to drive in your home country.

[sydnie7]

No need to pay for an int'l license. The UK gov website says (regarding visitor to UK with license issued anywhere else in the world): "If you’ve got a full and valid licence you can drive any small vehicle (eg car or motorcycle) listed on your licence for 12 months from when you last entered Great Britain (GB)."

LINK

If you want to test the questionnaire yourself, start here.