Couples will soon have the freedom to marry in a wider range of venues – from sandy beaches to historic castles – under new government reforms. (announced October 2)

The shake-up, described as the biggest overhaul of marriage law since the 19th century, will move the focus from the building itself to the officiant conducting the ceremony. That means couples could exchange vows in open air locations or heritage sites, provided the setting is considered appropriate and dignified.

Ministers say the changes will make weddings simpler, fairer and less costly, while better reflecting modern Britain.

The reforms are also intended to support couples from a variety of faiths. Sikh, Muslim, Buddhist and Hindu communities will, for the first time, be able to conduct legally recognised ceremonies in line with their own traditions. Humanist groups will also be able to hold legally binding non-religious weddings.

Baroness Levitt KC, the Minister for Family Law, said the new rules would give couples the chance to have “the wedding day of their dreams” while maintaining the solemnity of the occasion.

The government estimates that more flexible wedding laws could lead to a 3% rise in ceremonies in England and Wales over the next decade. That could mean 12,000 new jobs, support for an extra 1,800 businesses and a £535 million boost to the economy.