The Law Commission said the legislation, as it currently stands, is "confusing, out-of-date and restrictive", and prevents people from getting married in settings more meaningful to them.
Asked by government to review the law, the commission has recommended focusing any regulation on the officiant responsible for the wedding rather than the venue.
"This reform would open up a wide range of locations for couples to get married," said the commission. "Permitted venues would include gardens, beaches, forests, parks, village halls and cruise ships."
The commission said its recommendation reflected increased public demand for "simpler, more affordable and personal" options when it comes to getting married.
It also acknowledged the need for more variety owing to the impact of the pandemic and subsequent cost of living crisis on personal and household finances, and a backlog of weddings that had to be cancelled due to the pandemic.
Other changes would allow couples to further personalise their vows, rituals and choices of music, and ensure "fairer treatment" for all beliefs with different religions bound by different rules.
"This includes creating a path to legalising non-religious belief ceremonies, such as Humanist weddings, in England and Wales, if permitted by government," said the commission.
‘Unnecessary barriers’
Professor Nick Hopkins, family law commissioner at the Law Commission, said: “The current law on weddings is not working for many couples. Needless restrictions and outdated regulations mean that thousands each year are denied having a wedding that is meaningful to them.
“Our reforms for government are designed to protect the established practices and dignity of weddings, while offering couples more choice on where and how they marry.
“There is widespread precedent for our reforms around the world. By giving couples more control over their weddings and ensuring greater parity for all beliefs, the law can support those who want to get married, rather than putting unnecessary barriers in the way.”
