In July 2021, temporary measures were brought in across the UK in response to the Covid-19 pandemic to allow couples to marry in a wider range of outdoor locations. These rules were set to end in April 2022, but were made permanent in consultation with the public, faith groups and the wedding industry, all of whom gave their overwhelming approval. (The government’s own figures said more than 90% backed permanent legalisation of al fresco marriages.)

In a nutshell, provided the wedding venue has a civil ceremony licence, your legally binding open-air ceremony can take place anywhere within its boundaries. Clearly, the law change does not apply to venues which don’t have a licence, such as fields, woodland, beaches and private gardens without a permanent structure in place.

The rules extend to faith-based ceremonies – which can take place anywhere as long as you have the approval of the minister, celebrant or other religious official.

Things to bear in mind when having an outdoor wedding

If you’re considering having a castle wedding outside, there are, of course, a few things to think about as you plan your big day.

  1. Clearly, a key factor, given what the great British summer can be like, is the weather. If you hit lucky with a glorious summer’s day, there’s no better place to be than outside. But you should be prepared for anything from a Biblical downpour to an extreme heatwave. Have an indoor Plan B for rain, while making shade and water available in case of excessive temperatures. When planning your castle wedding, bear in mind that June on average has a reduced rainfall compared to July.
  2. Accessibility is another consideration for guests who may be elderly or have reduced mobility. Will it be physically possible to get a wheelchair or a pushchair or buggy across any uneven terrain? Equally, if anyone gets bad hay fever, that could be another factor to bear in mind.
  3. Finally, you’ll also need to choose your outfit wisely, so that you don’t ruin high heels or your gorgeous wedding gown. Either go for a shorter hemline or flat heels or somewhere with a clearly defined pathway.

Why have a wedding outdoors?

You do need to think about the points mentioned above – but there are many benefits to al fresco ceremonies, including:

Things tend to be more relaxed

With open-air weddings, guests have the freedom to dress less formally, to suit the environment. Therefore they’re more likely to relax and enjoy the occasion even more. (Do clarify dress code and the outdoor setting on the invitations.)

In tune with the natural world

Your ceremony under the sky can literally be a breath of fresh air! You and your guests will enjoy a natural soundtrack of rustling breezes and birdsong plus a backdrop of trees and greenery. Throw in the scent of flowers and you create a sensual experience in a picturesque setting.

It’s more child-friendly

Kids will love running around outside in the castle grounds, while wriggly toddlers or wailing babies can be removed from the spot more easily, yet their parents will still be able to follow the event.

Outdoor games, bubble-blowing stations and other activities can all help to keep little ones happy on your wedding day. And there’s no reason why you can’t throw in a few fun games for the grown-ups to enjoy too!

Natural lighting

Natural lighting makes for stunning wedding photos, especially if you marry during the final hour of sunlight. (Admittedly that’ll be very late during midsummer.) Throughout the day, natural light ebbs and flows, giving a variety of options for the images of your special occasion.

You could also get some amazing night-time shots with someone with the right skills behind the camera. Talk to your wedding photographer about the best way of capturing the perfect backdrop to your pictures at Berkeley Castle.

Outdoor wedding ceremonies at Berkeley Castle

At Berkeley Castle, we’re an exclusive-use, luxury weekend wedding venue on the edge of the Cotswolds. We’re fully licensed for civil ceremonies and partnerships, and so offer indoor and outdoor marriages of all sizes and styles in a spectacular setting. Or why not hold some of your wedding day outside, perhaps with drinks on our terrace or a little gentle croquet on the lawn?

Take a look at our castle wedding prices today with a member of the friendly, professional team today.