Weddings in England and Wales could soon take place on cruise ships, beaches, or even in the local pub, under what the government is calling the biggest shake-up to marriage law in almost 200 years.
The proposals, announced by the Ministry of Justice, would sweep away the current requirement for a legally binding ceremony to be held at a pre-approved venue. Instead, couples could marry almost anywhere – from a castle to a hot-air balloon – as long as the location is approved by a registered officiant.
“Government proposes biggest wedding law shake-up in 200 years, allowing marriages at pubs, beaches, and cruise ships.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy said the existing rules had "not kept pace with the social and cultural changes that have shaped modern Britain." He added: "They say you can't put a price on love – but too often, the cost of weddings puts this commitment out of reach. That's why I'm reforming archaic rules, so couples have more freedom to say 'I do' on their own terms, while strengthening safeguards to protect the meaning and permanence of marriage."
But the government's "dignity framework" would ban ceremonies deemed to be "gimmicks" that risk trivialising the legal act of marriage. Activities such as skydiving, white-water rafting, rollercoasters or other amusement rides "would fall short of the standard," according to a consultation document outlining the plans. However, it adds that "light-hearted elements such as a reading from Shakespeare, a sing-along to Sweet Caroline or other similar contributions" would be permitted, provided they remain within the bounds of dignity.
The reforms would also relax restrictions on religious content in civil ceremonies, allowing couples to include Bible readings, and permit non-religious belief organisations, including Humanists, to conduct legally binding weddings. During the ceremony, food and drink – including alcohol – would not be allowed to be "casually/recreationally consumed."
The core legal requirement would remain the signing of the paperwork and consenting to the marriage in the presence of an officiant. The government plans to consult on the proposals until 24 September this year, after which it will announce the exact details of the reforms. Any changes would require new legislation, meaning the new rules are unlikely to come into effect until next year.
Lammy said the changes would make weddings more affordable and give couples more choice over where they marry – a move designed to update what the government describes as "outdated" marriage laws in England and Wales.
