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Ceremony, legal and venues · Church weddings

Can you get married in a church if you are not religious?

Answered by the UK Wedding Websites editorial team · Updated 2026-10-12

Short answer

Yes, you can often get married in a church even if you are not religious, but it depends on the church and its minister. Church of England and Church in Wales churches usually marry anyone who lives in the parish or has a qualifying connection. Other churches may require you to be a member or regular attendee.

Many people who do not consider themselves religious still marry in a church, especially in the Church of England or Church in Wales. These churches generally welcome couples who live in the parish, or who have a qualifying connection such as being baptised there, having parents who lived there, or having attended services there. You do not need to be a regular churchgoer, but you will usually need to meet with the minister to discuss your plans. The minister may ask about your reasons for wanting a church wedding and whether you are comfortable with Christian content in the service, such as prayers and hymns. If you are not religious, you can still have a meaningful ceremony, but you should be open about your beliefs. Other denominations, such as Catholic or Orthodox churches, often have stricter rules and may require you to be baptised or a member. For any church, the best first step is to contact the minister or church office and ask about their policy. If the church cannot marry you, the register office or an approved venue can offer a civil ceremony instead.

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