Can you have an outdoor civil wedding ceremony in the UK?

Short answer

Yes, you can have an outdoor civil ceremony in England, Wales and Scotland, but only on approved venues and within their grounds. Northern Ireland has different rules, so check with the registrar.

In England and Wales, outdoor civil ceremonies are allowed since 2022, but only on venues approved for marriages and only within the venue's grounds. The registrar must be present, and the vows must be spoken in English or Welsh (or with approved translation). Religious content is not permitted in civil ceremonies, so hymns, prayers or religious readings would need to move to a separate service.

In Scotland, the rules are more flexible. Weddings can take place almost anywhere you agree with the registrar or celebrant, indoors or outdoors, and humanist or religious celebrants can lead legal ceremonies. This often makes it easier for mixed-faith couples to combine traditions in one legal event.

Northern Ireland allows humanist weddings and has its own process, so check locally. Across the UK, you still need to give notice at the register office, bring two witnesses and follow the venue's booking rules.

If your venue is not approved or you want a religious building, you may need a separate legal ceremony. Always confirm the current rules with your register office or place of worship before booking.