UK Government Proposes Allowing Weddings at Homes and Beaches While Banning Skydiving and Amusement-Ride Ceremonies

The UK government published proposals on 16 July 2026 to reform marriage laws in England and Wales, allowing couples to marry at locations including their home, a pub, a beach, a castle, a hot-air balloon or a cruise ship in international waters. Any chosen site must be approved by a registered officiant.

Signing the paperwork and consenting to the marriage in the presence of an officiant would remain the main legal requirements for a civil ceremony.

Ceremonies deemed gimmicks that risk trivialising marriage would be prohibited under a dignity framework. Activities such as skydiving, white-water rafting, rollercoasters or other amusement rides would fall short of the required standard. Light-hearted elements such as a reading from Shakespeare or a sing-along to Sweet Caroline would be permitted if they stay within the bounds of dignity.

Food and drink, including alcohol, should not be casually or recreationally consumed during the ceremony. Current restrictions on religious content in civil ceremonies could be relaxed to allow elements such as Bible readings. Non-religious belief organisations, including Humanists, would be allowed to conduct legally binding weddings.

Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy said marriage laws in England and Wales had not kept pace with the social and cultural changes that have shaped modern Britain. He added that the cost of weddings too often puts the commitment out of reach and that the reforms would give couples more freedom to say 'I do' on their own terms while strengthening safeguards to protect the meaning and permanence of marriage.

The consultation on the proposals ends on 24 September 2026.