The Harbour Chapel

Intimate coastal weddings for couples who care more about connection than performance

Your wedding day at The Harbour Chapel begins quietly, with sea air, a characterful setting, and the comforting sense that that you can simply be yourselves.

Set in the historic harbour town of Dunbar, just 25 minutes from Edinburgh, The Harbour Chapel is a place for couples who know who they are. Whether this is your first wedding or not, whether your guest list is small and meaningful or joyfully full, the day unfolds naturally, unforced, unrushed and deeply personal.

From your first private viewing to your final dance at midnight, everything happens in one relaxed, beautifully considered space. You might exchange vows beneath stained-glass windows rescued from St Giles’ Cathedral, or choose an outdoor ceremony overlooking the sea at Dunbar Battery, where the coast becomes part of the moment.

And on those bright, warm Dunbar days, our award-winning Dunbar Battery, an amphitheatre nestled into the sea wall of the harbour, becomes a beautiful place to marry, linger in conversation with friends, and quietly appreciate the coastal setting around you. Drinks are poured, shoulders drop, and the day unfolds naturally, with guests moving easily between spaces, never rushed, never staged.

A wedding venue that feels like a deep exhale

The Harbour Chapel is an intimate, historic East Lothian wedding venue for 2 to 120 guests, offering exclusive use of the entire space and garden. We proudly welcome same-sex couples, second marriages, elopements and celebrations that don’t fit neatly into tradition.

Many of our couples describe themselves as quietly quirky, thoughtful, creative, a little unconventional - and often relieved to find a venue that feels special without feeling showy. If you value warmth over spectacle and meaning over display, you’ll feel at home here.

One place, many moods

This former church and contemporary reception bar sit side by side, creating a rare all-in-one venue where the day flows without awkward transitions or grand entrances (unless you want one).

The Chapel
Atmospheric, historic and gently dramatic, with magnificent stained glass and soft light that brings a sense of occasion without overwhelming the room.

The Reception Bar & Social Spaces
Modern, relaxed and welcoming, perfect for fizz, whisky and conversation, with direct access to the garden and harbour beyond.

The chapel seats up to 80 guests for dining, with space for up to 120 in the evening, creating a celebration that feels intimate even when the dance floor fills.

Food & drink that brings people together

We’re known for food that feels generous, thoughtful and genuinely delicious. Our chefs work closely with trusted East Lothian suppliers to create seasonal menus that encourage lingering at the table and shared moments, rather than formality for formality’s sake.

Whether you’re planning a relaxed feast or something a little more indulgent, we’ll help you choose a menu that suits your people, your pace and your day.

Calm, inclusive planning — without the wedding ‘Factory’

Every wedding at The Harbour Chapel is different, and we create bespoke quotes based on what matters to you. Our all-inclusive pricing typically includes:

• Exclusive use of the entire venue and garden

• Ceremony, drinks, dining and evening set-up

• Thoughtful wedding planning and on-the-day coordination

• Supplier liaison (as agreed)

• Banqueting tables, chairs and full tableware

• Fully stocked bar with experienced, friendly staff

• Dance floor, PA system, playlists and party lighting

With the harbour just two minutes’ walk away, there’s always space to step outside, breathe, and take photographs that feel natural rather than staged. We have some stunning and picturesque photographic locations just a few steps away.

Easy to reach, easy to stay

Dunbar and the surrounding East Lothian coast offer excellent accommodation, from boutique hotels to coastal cottages and countryside retreats, ideal for guests travelling from near or far. We’re on the main London–Aberdeen train line, making arrivals and departures refreshingly straightforward.

Our promise

We’re a small, local team known for stellar service, calm organisation and genuine care. We work with like-minded suppliers who share our belief that weddings should feel human, inclusive and joyfully personal.

Your day will be thoughtfully planned, quietly supported and beautifully delivered, without fuss, pressure or performance.

If you’d like to arrange a private viewing, you’re welcome to get in touch anytime. Many couples tell us they knew The Harbour Chapel was the one the moment they walked in.