What is the cheapest way to get legally married in the UK?

To get legally married as cheaply as possible, start by giving notice at your local register office, which you must do in person. Then book a basic ceremony at the same register office on a weekday, as weekend slots often cost more. You will need two witnesses, who can be anyone aged 16 or over. Keep the ceremony simple: no extra readings, no music, no photographer. You can wear ordinary clothes if you like. After the ceremony, you could celebrate with a meal at home or a picnic, which keeps costs down. In Scotland, the process is slightly different, as you submit a marriage notice to the registrar for the district where the wedding takes place, at least 29 days before. In Northern Ireland, you give notice to the registrar in the district of the wedding, at least 28 days before. Remember that a religious ceremony on its own may not be legally binding unless it happens in a registered building with an authorised person, so check the rules. The exact fees vary by council, so ask your local register office for a price list.