Eloping in the UK: The Complete Guide for 2025
For free spirits, rule breakers & hopeless romantics
If the thought of a big white wedding makes your stomach turn, you’re not alone. More and more couples are choosing eloping in the UK, swapping the stress, politics, and sky-high budgets for something simpler, more intimate, and honestly, more them.
Elopements are not about “running away” in secret anymore. It’s about creating a wedding that feels right for you, whether that’s saying vows on a windswept clifftop in Cornwall, under the ancient trees of the Lake District, or inside a tiny registry office with just two witnesses.
As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen the shift first-hand. Couples are craving connection, meaning, and a celebration that doesn’t need a guest list of 150 to feel valid. If that’s you, this guide is here to help.
(Not ready yet? Why don’t you download my wedding planning guide?)
What Is an Elopement?
The word elopement used to mean running away in secret, often without your family’s knowing. Back then, it carried a sense of secrecy and rebellion. But today, things look very different. These days, elopements have taken on a whole new, romantic life of their own.
In the modern sense, an elopement is all about choice and meaning. It’s:
- Small and intentional – usually just the two of you, or maybe up to 10 guests.
- Focused on the experience – less about centrepieces and seating plans, more about the vows, the views, and the photos you’ll look back on.
- Flexible – it can be in a registry office, on a mountain, by the sea, in your favourite city, or even your own back garden.
- Stripped-back but meaningful – there’s no “less than” about it. Eloping doesn’t mean you’re missing out; it means you’re choosing to focus on what matters most to you.
In other words, think of it as marriage meets adventure, tailored entirely to your relationship. It might be barefoot vows on the Isle of Skye, followed by a cosy pub lunch. Or perhaps a chic London registry office ceremony with a handful of your closest people, and then champagne in a Soho wine bar. Whatever it looks like, the heart of an elopement is about creating a wedding that feels right for you.
The key difference between an elopement and a micro-wedding?
- A micro-wedding is still a wedding, just scaled down (20–30 guests, venue, reception, dinner).
- An elopement is the simplest possible version: vows, paperwork, and a celebration that can be as adventurous (or as laid-back) as you want.
Why Elope?
Where it all gets personal. Every couple I’ve spoken to who chose to elope had a reason and often, several.
Here are some of the most common ones I hear (and maybe you’ll find yourself nodding along):
1. You want intimacy.
You’re not into the idea of saying your vows in front of a huge crowd. You’d rather have those raw, real emotions without 150 eyes on you. An elopement means you get to cry, laugh, trip over your words, and hold hands without the pressure of performing.
2. You want less stress.
Weddings can be wonderful, but they can also spiral into a spreadsheet of doom. Guest lists, catering minimums, chair covers (yes, still a thing). With an elopement, the “planning” part becomes: book a date, sign the paperwork, plan a meal, hire a photographer. Done.
3. You want to spend less money.
This one’s a biggie. Traditional UK weddings average £20,000–£30,000 (depending on location and guest list). Elopements? You can do it legally for under £500 if you go ultra-minimal, or splash out on a luxury weekend for under £5,000. Either way, it’s usually a fraction of the cost.
4. You want adventure.
Maybe you’ve always dreamed of saying “I do” with the sea behind you, or on a misty mountain. An elopement gives you that freedom. Scotland in particular is famous for allowing outdoor ceremonies, and couples love that sense of wild romance.
5. You want something that feels like you.
Eloping is stripping away the “shoulds.” Forget traditions that don’t matter to you. Want a big dress, hiking boots, a velvet suit, or even something from Etsy? Go for it. Say your vows at sunrise, eat cake for breakfast, or spend the afternoon splashing around in wellies.
6. You want to follow the trend (but make it your own).
These elopements aren’t just for the rebels anymore; they’re one of the biggest wedding trends. In 2025, more couples are scaling back, choosing meaningful experiences over big productions. But what makes it exciting is that no two elopements look the same.
From behind the camera, I can tell you: elopements are magic (and no, not the cheesy Pinterest version). They give me space to photograph the little in-between moments that often get lost in the chaos of a big wedding: the way you look at each other right after you’ve signed the register, the laughter as you pop champagne in the car park, the quiet walk through a forest when it’s just the two of you.
Those are the photos that will make you tear up years later. And honestly? That’s why I think elopements are one of the most powerful ways to get married.
The Legal Bit: How to Make Your Elopement Official in the UK
Okay, so you’ve decided an elopement is the way to go. Before you run off to the nearest mountain or beach, there’s something we need to talk about: the legal stuff.
Because while it’s fun to dream about vows at sunrise on a clifftop, you’ll still need to sign paperwork somewhere (unless you fancy a quick flight to Vegas). The UK has some specific rules depending on whether you’re marrying in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland. Don’t worry, I’ll break it down for you.
England & Wales
- Give Notice: You must both give notice at your local register office at least 28 days before your ceremony. You’ll need to provide ID, proof of address, and details of where you’ll be getting married.
- Ceremony Location: Civil ceremonies can take place at a register office or an approved venue. Since 2022, you can also legally marry outdoors if it’s within the grounds of an approved venue (think gardens, courtyards, licensed terraces).
- Witnesses: You require two witnesses who are over the age of 16. They don’t have to be family; they can literally be strangers. (I’ve been a witness for couples before, and many photographers or venue staff will happily step in.)
- Costs: Notice fees are usually around £35–£47 per person, plus ceremony fees, which vary by council and venue.
Pro tip: If you love the idea of an adventurous outdoor ceremony but don’t want the restriction of “approved premises,” you can sign the legal paperwork at a register office first, then have a symbolic/humanist ceremony anywhere you like.
Scotland
Here’s where it gets exciting: Scotland is the most flexible part of the UK for elopements.
- Marriage Notices: You must each submit a form to the local registrar at least 29 days before your ceremony (earlier if possible).
- Ceremony Location: You can legally marry almost anywhere in Scotland, as long as it’s conducted by an authorised celebrant (civil, religious, or humanist). That means beaches, mountaintops, forests, even your Airbnb.
- Witnesses: Again, you’ll need two witnesses aged 16 or over.
- Costs: Fees vary by council, but expect around £100–£200 total for paperwork and the registrar.
This is why so many couples dream of eloping in Scotland; it’s one of the few places in Europe where you can legally marry outdoors in the wild.
Northern Ireland
- Notice Period: You need to give at least 28 days’ notice (sometimes more).
- Ceremony Location: Similar to England & Wales, you’ll need to use a register office or an approved venue.
- Witnesses: Two people aged 16+.
- Costs: Fees vary but are broadly in line with the rest of the UK.
Humanist Celebrants
- Scotland: Humanist ceremonies are fully legal. You can marry on a mountain led by a humanist celebrant, and your marriage will be legally recognised.
- England, Wales & Northern Ireland: Humanist ceremonies are not legally binding (yet). If you want one, you’ll need to also do the legal paperwork at a register office.
Where to Elope in the UK
Here’s the fun bit :choosing the backdrop for your story. The UK is ridiculously photogenic, and whether you’re drawn to dramatic mountains, rugged coastline, or hidden city gems, there’s a spot for you.
Scotland
Scotland is basically an elopement dreamland. You can legally marry outdoors, the landscapes are cinematic, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a painting.
- Glencoe & Glen Etive: Wild mountains, misty valleys, and that moody, windswept vibe photographers (and couples) love.
- Isle of Skye: Think sea cliffs, fairy pools, and jaw-dropping backdrops that look like another planet.
- Cairngorms National Park: Pine forests, lochs, and mountain passes that change with the seasons.
- Edinburgh City Chambers: For something urban but still full of character, stone steps, historic architecture, and old-world romance.
- Gretna Green: Iconic for runaway lovers; cheesy? Maybe. Romantic? Absolutely.
The light in Scotland is incredibly soft, shifting, and dramatic. Bring good shoes, layers, and be ready for all four seasons in one day.
England
England might not let you legally marry anywhere, but it has no shortage of magical venues and landscapes for an elopement.
- Lake District: Lakeside lodges, intimate venues like Cote How, or hiking up a fell for golden-hour portraits.
- Peak District: Rolling moors, gritstone edges, and wild open skies.
- Cornwall & Devon: Rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and venues like Sandy Cove with panoramic sea views.
- Cotswolds: Chocolate-box villages, honey-stone cottages, and elegant manor houses.
- London: Iconic registry offices (Chelsea Old Town Hall, Islington Town Hall), followed by champagne in a city rooftop bar.
- Bristol & Somerset: Clifton Suspension Bridge, Ashton Court, or even Folly Farm if you want countryside-meets-city vibes.
Wales
If you’re after drama, Wales has it in spades.
- Snowdonia (Eryri): Epic mountains, lakes, and rugged beauty.
- Pembrokeshire Coast: Beaches, cliffs, and secret coves.
- Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog): Sweeping views, waterfalls, and stargazing at night.
Northern Ireland
Don’t overlook NI, it’s got some of the most cinematic scenery in the UK.
- Causeway Coast: Giant’s Causeway, dramatic cliffs, and Game of Thrones-worthy views.
- Mourne Mountains: Quiet, romantic, and full of natural beauty.
- Belfast City Hall: For an urban elopement with grandeur.
How to choose?
Ask yourselves: do we want wild adventure, or cosy intimacy? The Lake District might call to you if you love hikes, while London suits you if you’re a city soul. Scotland is perfect if you’re dreaming of barefoot vows outdoors, while Cornwall is unbeatable if the sea is your happy place.
(Not ready yet? Why don’t you download my wedding planning guide?)
How Much Does It Cost to Elope in the UK?
This is one of the biggest questions couples ask me.
The truth? It depends how simple or how extra you want to go. You can keep it as bare-bones as a legal registry office signing, or you can splash out on a weekend away with boutique accommodation, florals, outfits, and a photographer. Either way, you’re still looking at a fraction of the cost of a traditional wedding.
Here’s a breakdown to help you plan.
The Legal Costs
- Notice of marriage: £35–£47 per person (England & Wales), similar in Northern Ireland; around £70 in Scotland for both.
- Ceremony fees: These vary by council and venue anywhere from £50 at a register office to £500+ at a licensed venue.
- Marriage certificate: Around £11 each (and you’ll probably want a couple).
💡 Ballpark for the legal basics: £150–£250.
The Extras You’ll Likely Want
- Photographer: Prices typically range from £500–£3,000+, depending on both the number of hours and the style you choose. In fact, I strongly recommend investing here, because this is how you’ll relive your day and share it with loved ones for years to come.
- Outfits: When it comes to what you’ll wear, options can vary widely. For example, you might find an Etsy dress for under £200, or, alternatively, you could opt for designer labels such as Grace Loves Lace, which usually cost £1,000–£2,000+.
- Rings: Similarly, rings can differ greatly in price. On one hand, simple gold bands often start from around £200 each. On the other hand, if you prefer artisan or bespoke designs whether from Etsy creators or independent jewellers you should expect to pay more.
- Flowers: As for florals, a small bouquet and buttonhole will generally set you back £100–£200.
- Hair & Makeup: In addition, professional styling usually costs £150–£300.
- Travel & Accommodation: Beyond that, you’ll want to budget for where you’ll stay. Depending on your preference Airbnb, boutique hotel, or luxury retreat expect to spend £100–£500.
- Celebration Meal: Finally, your post-ceremony meal can also look very different depending on your style. For instance, it could be as simple as a pub lunch with champagne (£50–£100), or, alternatively, as indulgent as fine dining (£200+).
Example Budget
My honest advice: Decide what matters most to you. If it’s photos, prioritise that. If it’s travel or outfits, put more budget there. The beauty of elopements is that you can scale them to fit your life.
(Not ready yet? Why don’t you download my wedding planning guide?)
The Best UK Elopement Packages
If you’d rather skip the admin and book something ready-made, there are some fantastic elopement packages in the UK. These usually include your ceremony space, celebrant or registrar, a photographer, and sometimes extras like flowers, cake, or accommodation.
Here are a few worth looking into:
1. Cote How, Lake District
- A romantic country house surrounded by fells and lakes.
- Packages for just the two of you or up to 12 guests.
- Includes use of the house, ceremony, and often a photographer.
- Ballpark: £1,500–£3,000.
2. Sandy Cove Hotel, Devon
- Clifftop views over the sea are perfect if you’re dreaming of coastal vows.
- Elopement packages for 2–10 guests.
- Ceremony, meal, and accommodation included.
- Ballpark: £1,200–£2,500.
3. The Mill, Staffordshire
- Known for affordable elopements and small weddings.
- Options for 2–20 guests.
- Focus on simple, budget-friendly ceremonies.
- Ballpark: from £595.
4. Gretna Green, Scotland
- Historic spot for runaway weddings since the 1700s.
- Packages range from registry-style to full celebrations.
- Ideal if you want heritage with a dash of cheeky romance.
- Ballpark: £400–£2,000+.
Packages can be great value, but they don’t always include a photographer whose style you connect with. Check if you can bring your own; it makes a huge difference to how your story is told.
Have you got any more questions?
I know this is where you’ve probably been furiously Googling at 2 am. So let’s get straight to it, the most common questions couples ask me about elopements in the UK.
Why eloping might be perfect for you?
Here’s the thing: eloping doesn’t mean you’re missing out. It means you’re choosing to focus on the heart of the day, the promises, the emotions, the story you’ll tell.
Whether it’s signing the register in a tiny Bristol town hall, saying vows barefoot on the Isle of Skye, or sipping champagne after a cliffside ceremony in Devon, your elopement can be exactly what you want it to be. No rules, no “shoulds,” just you two and the life you’re about to start together.
And from behind the camera? I can tell you: these small, unscripted celebrations often give you the most powerful photos. The look you share right after it’s official, the wind in your hair on a mountaintop, the laughter when your bouquet gets caught in the rain those are the moments you’ll want to hold on to.
So if you’re sitting here thinking yes, this feels like us, I’d love to hear your story.
Let’s chat about your elopement plans, where you’re dreaming of, what matters most to you, and how we can create photos that feel as real as your day.
(Not ready yet? Why don’t you download my wedding planning guide?)
Ready to Say “I Do”?
Let’s chat!
Pop in your details below, hit send, and I’ll be in your inbox within 12 hours. Can’t wait to hear what you’re dreaming of: whether it’s big or a small intimate wedding.
