As an alternative to the register office, the law allows for civil marriages to take place in other venues which have been approved by the local authority, eg. hotels, stately homes and country clubs. Marriages cannot, however, take place outdoors or in temporary or mobile structures such as marquees or boats (but a ceremony may take place on a boat which is permanently moored).
To arrange a ceremony at approved premises:
- contact the venue to view the premises
- discuss possible dates
- make a provisional booking with the register office for the district (see below) in which the venue is situated.
Since the date of your ceremony is dependent on the availability of register office staff, it is vital that you contact the relevant register office as soon as possible after agreeing a date with your chosen venue. There is a fee for the attendance of two registration staff at approved premises, which is totally separate to any charges levied by the venue.
To find your nearest approved premises or to find out which district register office is responsible for conducting ceremonies at your chosen venue, see the following links:
