When can you legally marry in the UK?

There is no legal restriction on which day of the week you marry in the UK. Monday to Sunday are all possible, provided your chosen venue and officiant can accommodate you. Many couples choose Saturdays for convenience, but weekdays are perfectly legal and often more flexible.

The main legal steps vary by nation. In England and Wales, both partners must give notice in person at their local register office, usually where they have lived for at least seven days. Notice must be given at least 28 full days before the ceremony, and the wedding must take place within 12 months. In Scotland, each partner submits a marriage notice at least 29 days before, and registrars often advise 10 to 12 weeks. In Northern Ireland, notice is given to the registrar in the district of the wedding, at least 28 days before.

You must be 18 or over to marry. You need two witnesses in England, Wales and Scotland, and two witnesses aged 16 or over in Northern Ireland. The ceremony itself must take place at a register office, an approved venue, or a religious building registered for marriages in England and Wales. In Scotland, almost any location agreed with the registrar or celebrant works. For religious ceremonies, check with your place of worship about banns or a licence, as rules can vary.