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Planning and timeline · Choosing a date

Which date is not suitable for marriage?

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

Short answer

There is no single date that is universally unsuitable for marriage in the UK. Legally, you can marry on almost any date, but check your venue, registrar or place of worship for availability, and avoid dates that clash with major holidays, religious festivals or personal anniversaries that matter to you.

No date is banned by law for a wedding, but some dates are less practical or less meaningful for you. For example, Christmas Day, New Year's Day or Easter Sunday may be difficult because registrars and venue staff may not be available, or your place of worship may not hold weddings on those days. Similarly, some religious traditions avoid certain dates, such as Lent or particular holy days. Always ask your venue and officiant directly.

Also think about practical issues. A date in the middle of school holidays may mean higher travel costs for guests. A date in winter may mean you need indoor space for photos and a backup plan for bad weather. A date that clashes with a major sporting event, like a World Cup final, might mean some guests are distracted. And a date that falls on a close relative's birthday or anniversary could cause mixed feelings.

Your own availability matters too. If you or your partner have work commitments, exams or medical treatments, choose a date that works for you both. Give yourselves enough time to plan, especially if you want a popular venue or a particular season. For legal notice, remember you need at least 28 full days in England and Wales and Northern Ireland, and at least 29 days in Scotland, so book your date with that in mind. If you are unsure about any religious or legal restrictions, ask your registrar or place of worship, and check GOV.UK for the latest guidance.

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