What should I ask a wedding venue about the wedding date availability?

Start by asking for a list of available dates, not just the one you have in mind. Ask if they hold dates provisionally while you visit other venues, and for how long. Ask what deposit is required to secure the date, and whether it is refundable. Ask if there is a minimum number of guests for certain dates, and whether weekday or winter dates are cheaper. Ask if they have multiple weddings on the same day, and if so, how they manage the spaces and timings. Ask about the latest time you can confirm numbers, and whether you can change the date after booking, and at what cost. Ask about the notice period for legal ceremonies: in England and Wales you need at least 28 days, in Scotland 29 days, and in Northern Ireland 28 days, but registrars often advise booking earlier. Ask if the venue has a registrar on site, or if you need to book one separately. Ask about the ceremony time slots, and whether you can have a morning or afternoon slot. Finally, ask if there are any dates that are already blocked for maintenance or events, so you do not plan around them.