The Japanese Garden at Cowden was established in the early 1900s by explorer Ella Christie of Cowden, who named it Sha Raku En, "a place of pleasure and delight." This seven-acre garden incorporates elements of three Japanese Garden forms—a pond and island garden, a stroll garden, and a tea garden—and is set in rural Clackmannanshire. It is the first and only one of its size and scale to be designed by a woman—the gifted Taki Handa.

The Japanese Garden at Cowden remains an important link between Scottish and Japanese culture and is a fabulous backdrop for your big day!

Facilities & Capacity

We are a small wedding venue, hosting parties of up to 30 people.

With availability daily from 4 p.m., we can offer small, intimate weddings. After 5 p.m., you will have sole use of the grounds, allowing you and your guests to really take in the tranquillity of the garden. Say "I do" overlooking the pond, witnessed by your friends and family, and continue your celebration in the Garden Pavilion with canapés and bubbly or a finger buffet and bar.

We are predominantly venue-only and welcome you to bring caterers and suppliers to reflect your style and tastes, allowing you to really make your day your own. Your evening is fully customisable to suit your needs, whether it be a sit-down meal with close family or creating a relaxed atmosphere with mobile bars and food trucks. The Japanese Garden at Cowden can also supply staff and a small bar on request or can supply corkage and glassware if you would rather provide your own refreshments.

The Japanese Garden at Cowden is a dreamy garden wedding venue nestled in By Dollar, Perthshire.