John Muir Tipis

A unique event space nestled in the beautiful East Lothian countryside

A unique event space nestled in the beautiful East Lothian countryside

John Muir Tipis is a very special, unique venue. Nestled by the woods on a coastal farm in East Lothian, fringed by John Muir Country Park, it offers a relaxed and tranquil space close to Edinburgh, with potential for amazing photography.

The tipis are stunning and they work well for weddings of 50 – 150 people

They come complete with furniture, power and water, toilet facilities, indoor and outdoor fire-pits, and your choice of amazing local suppliers to complete your special day.

Learn more

Choose suppliers for your event

Optional add-on's you could consider are:

  • Wedding celebrant
  • Caterer
  • Florist
  • Photographer
  • Band or DJ (but everything is optional)

Scroll down for ideas & suggestions for suppliers...
Fancy Bringing Your Favourite Caterers To Your Wedding?  At John Muir Tipis, we love that every wedding is different, and that includes the food!  You can bring in your own caterers, giving you the freedom to choose exactly what you want to serve your guests.  From food trucks and street food to something a little more traditional, it's your wedding, your menu and your choice!  And as you can see, even our alpacas like to check out the catering options! 😂🦙  Looking for a relaxed, unique wedding venue in beautiful East Lothian?  📍 John Muir Tipis, Dunbar
🌐 https://www.johnmuiralpacas.co.uk/weddings/  #JohnMuirTipis #EastLothianWeddings #ScottishWeddingVenue #TipiWedding #WeddingCatering
Fancy some very fluffy wedding guests? 💍🦙  At John Muir Tipis, you’re not just getting a beautiful tipi wedding in the East Lothian countryside – you can also add a very special alpaca guest experience to your day! ❤️  Imagine your guests’ faces when our alpacas make an appearance… not to mention the brilliant wedding photos! 📸  It’s a fun, memorable little extra that makes your day even more you.  Could you see alpacas on your wedding guest list? 🦙🥂  Find out more about weddings at John Muir Tipis - link in bio.  #JohnMuirTipis #TipiWedding #AlpacaWedding #EastLothianWeddings #ScottishWeddingVenue
Weddings at John Muir Tipis  Looking for a relaxed, outdoor wedding venue in East Lothian? John Muir Tipis offers a unique countryside setting in Dunbar, surrounded by woodland and close to John Muir Country Park, with easy access from Edinburgh.  Our tipis are ideal for weddings of 50–150 guests, creating a flexible space for rustic weddings, boho weddings, and outdoor celebrations in Scotland. The venue includes rustic furniture, power and water supply, toilet facilities, and indoor and outdoor fire pits, giving you everything you need to build your perfect day.  We work with a range of trusted local wedding suppliers across, from catering and styling to photography and entertainment, helping you create a wedding that reflects your style.  If you’re planning a wedding and want something a little different, John Muir Tipis offers a peaceful, scenic location with plenty of space to celebrate.  Get in touch to check availability or arrange a viewing. Start planning your wedding planning today.  #EastLothianWeddingVenue #OutdoorWeddingScotland #TipiWedding #ScottishWedding #JohnMuirTipis
Weddings Nights to Remember at John Muir Tipis! 
When it comes to unforgettable wedding entertainment, our couples know how to pick the best! 
When Mr & Mrs Snaith celebrated at John Muir Tipis and had The Scoundrels band, their guests are still talking about the incredible music that filled the air - even now! 
From first dances to party anthems, this band had everyone on their feet and made their special day even more memorable. 
If you're looking for a wedding venue that's anything but ordinary, John Muir Tipis offers a unique and stunning backdrop for your celebration—and with the right live music, your night will be one for the history books! 
Ready to create your own unforgettable wedding? Get in touch today to learn more about hosting your day with us!  Download our brochure - link in bio
Why Choose John Muir Tipis?  Looking for a unique, magical venue for your big day? John Muir Tipis, nestled on a coastal farm in East Lothian and bordered by John Muir Country Park, offers a stunning, flexible setting just minutes from Edinburgh.  Our tipis seat up to 150 guests, blending rustic charm with modern elegance. Fairy lights, fire pits, and optional alpaca guests add unforgettable touches.  Bring your own caterers and suppliers, or use our trusted local vendor list to create your dream wedding.  📅 Ready to plan your next big event? Get in touch to check availability and start your journey to an unforgettable celebration.  Visit our website for further information - link in bio
Would you invite an alpaca to your wedding?  When you get married at John Muir Tipis, you’ve got some rather special neighbours who might just steal the show!  Our alpacas make a brilliant addition to your wedding photos and give your guests something they definitely won’t forget.  Beautiful tipis, an amazing East Lothian setting and alpacas too — what more could you want?  Fancy having a wedding day that’s a little different?  Find out more about weddings via our link in comments  #JohnMuirTipis #AlpacaWedding #TipiWedding #EastLothianWedding #ScottishWedding
Could this be where you say “I do”? 💍🌿  Tucked away on our beautiful coastal farm near John Muir Country Park, John Muir Tipis is a wedding venue made for couples who want something a little different.  Think stunning countryside, big skies, beautiful tipis and plenty of space to make the day completely your own. ✨  Whether you’re planning a relaxed celebration or a big party with all your favourite people, our tipis provide the perfect blank canvas for an unforgettable wedding.  Ready to start dreaming? 🤍  Download our wedding brochure and discover everything John Muir Tipis has to offer:  https://www.johnmuiralpacas.co.uk/weddings/  #JohnMuirTipis #EastLothianWedding #TipiWedding #ScottishWeddingVenue #WeddingInspiration

Booking & Payments

What deposit do I pay to book? +
There is a 20% reservation fee, with the balance payable 1 month before your event.
What is included? +
  • Hire of the giant tipi tents & grounds
  • Car parking
  • Toilets (ladies, gents and disabled loos)
  • Indoor and outdoor firepits to toast marshmallows
  • Rustic tables and bench style seating
  • Barrel bar (not stocked)
  • Bunting, lighting and power
  • Space for camping / glamping (if choosing the full weekend option)
  • Gypsy caravan and extras such as whiskey barrels (photo props)
  • Alpacas or donkeys to entertain your guests and get photos with (if desired)
What is not included? (not an exhaustive list, as it depends on your requirements) +
  • Wedding celebrant
  • Catering
  • Florist
  • Photographer
  • Band
  • Glamping
  • Transport

Decor, Staffing & Suppliers

Can we get married on-site? +
Yes! You would just need to arrange for a celebrant. Some good options are Humanist Society Scotland, or Aniko Bradwell, a local minister.
Do you have recommended suppliers? +
Yes, please see our suppliers list for suggestions.
Do you provide staff for serving? +
No. Catering teams manage service. Our staff assist with site operations only.
Can we use hay bales for seating? +
No, due to fire risk and mess.
Are other chair types available? +
We provide bench seating. Additional chairs can be hired from catering hire suppliers.

Facilities & Services

Do the Tipis have drinking water? +
Yes. There is a water supply behind the Tipis.
Do you offer waste disposal? +
No. Waste removal is typically managed by your suppliers.
Is there a sound system? +
No. Bands and DJs bring their own equipment.
Is there secure storage overnight? +
Yes. A lockable container is available behind the Tipis.

Capacity & Layout

How many people can the Tipis hold? +
They can seat up to 150 people, while still maintaining an intimate atmosphere for smaller events.
How much seating is there inside? +
There is seating for 150 guests. We have 10 x 8ft tables and 15 x 6ft tables with bench seating. Layout is flexible.
How many people can be seated at the aisle? +
The benches at the aisle seat approximately 40 guests. Additional benches can be moved if required.
Is there an indoor aisle in case it rains? +
The main aisle is outdoors. However, we have an indoor hoop arch available, and ceremonies can be held inside the Tipis if required.
How high is the arch for flowers? +
The arch is approximately 2.5 metres high.
Do you have a layout drawing? +
Yes, please see below (click to enlarge)

Catering & Bar

Can we choose our own caterers? +
Yes. As a private hire site, you are free to choose your preferred suppliers.
Is there a kitchen onsite? +
No. Caterers bring pop-up kitchens or tents and set up beside the Tipis. Power and water are provided.
Is there power available for caterers and bands? +
Yes. There is a dedicated power supply for catering and additional supplies for bands in each tent.
What type of power supply is available? +
Industrial, RCD protected, 30 amp circuit with 13 amp plugs. Catering supply includes 16 amp and 13 amp plugs.
Can we have a paid bar? +
Selling of alcohol is only permitted if you use a supplier with the relevant alcohol sales license from the council. So if you intend for your guests to pay for anything, your bar or drinks supplier should apply for an occasional alcohol license from East Lothian council for the date. All the suppliers in our accompanying suggested suppliers list can manage this for you
Can we supply our own alcohol? +
As long as guests do not pay for anything, you are able to supply your own alcohol to your private event. We always recommend you get a supplier in as they can help you tidy up and manage any licensing.
Is there a fridge onsite? +
There is a small fridge freezer and wine cooler. Most suppliers bring their own.
Is there a dishwasher? +
No. Most caterers manage washing within their setup or offsite.
What is your policy on glassware outside? +
Glass is fine on tables, but bars should use reusable alternatives.

Rules & Policies

How long do I have to clean up after my event? +
For a part-weekend booking, you would have the Tipis until 12 noon the following morning. For a full weekend booking this would usually be on the Sunday, or Monday morning.
What time does the event finish? +
Music winds down after midnight, with taxis and transport arranged by 1am.
Can coaches access the venue? +
Yes. There is ample turning space for coaches.
Are dogs allowed? +
Apologies, dogs are not permitted in the Tipi field. We are dog lovers too, but as an alpaca farm, the alpacas get very freightened around unfamiliar dogs, and there are often expecting mum's and baby alpacas in the next field. You would however be able to do your couples photos with them on a walk to the beach.
Can we have fireworks? +
No. Fireworks are not permitted for health & safety around lots of people, animals and trees.

Accommodation & Transport

What are the glamping options? +
Guests often use suppliers such as Bell Tent Scotland or Present Tents to make a lovely glamping zone a short walk from the tipis.
Which taxi companies do you recommend? +
Torrance Taxis and WB Taxis are excellent local options.
Can we add additional tents or marquees? +
Yes. Additional tents, stretch tents, yurts or bell tents can be added if required.

Reservations

To proceed with booking we would request:

  • The couples names
  • Your preferred date
  • A contact address and telephone number

We would then invoice a 20% reservation fee within the following month, and the remaining balance would be billed 1 month before your date.

To make a reservation, or to request further info, please get in touch below

Make a reservation


Have another question?

Photography by David Louden and Floristry by Lottie Longman

Tipi Weddings

Planning your wedding? Why not have your reception or get married right here!

The Tipis can accommodate up to 150 seated guests for weddings. Couples can exchange vows outdoors, where the picturesque countryside views offer a stunning backdrop for ceremonies and photos, or inside the Tipis themselves as they are very flexible.

After the ceremony, newlyweds can enjoy a bespoke wedding breakfast in the magical setting of the giant tipis. Couples can indulge their creative spirits in decorating the tipis and create the wedding celebration of their dreams.

You could even have a couple of well-dressed alpacas in attendance as furry ring bearers with bow ties on! They’d be more than willing to entertain your guests during your drinks reception if you give them a couple of carrots as treats! Or, if alpacas aren’t your scene, not to worry, alpaca-their-bags and move them on to the next field 😀

There is an amazingly picturesque coastline and walk down to the sand, perfect for timeless wedding photography.

Why not book a viewing to discuss your big day?

With more than 15 years experience in the bridal and events industry and one of most unique spaces in East Lothian, we can help!

Book a viewing