Banns of Marriage

If you are planning to be married in church, your banns of marriage must be read out beforehand. It is a straightforward legal step, and we will guide you through it.

Step 1 — Complete the application form

→ Complete the Banns of Marriage Application Form

Step 2 — Meet the minister

Once we have your form, we will arrange a short meeting with you. This allows us to verify your details and check the documents we need to see, such as proof of identity and address.

Step 3 — Confirm the dates

We will confirm the Sundays on which your banns will be read. Banns are read aloud in church on three Sundays, normally within the three months before the wedding.

If either of you lives in a different parish, your banns must be read there as well as here. You will need to arrange that with the parish concerned, and we will tell you what to ask for.

Step 4 — Collect your banns certificate

Once your banns have been read, we will arrange a time for you to collect your banns certificate. You will need it if you are marrying in another parish.

Your wedding must take place within three months of the third reading of the banns. If it does not, the banns have to be read again.

Fees

The statutory fees for 2026 are £39 for the publication of banns and £20 for a certificate of banns. These are set nationally by the Church of England and reviewed each year.

If you have any questions at any stage, please don’t hesitate to get in touch — we are delighted to support you as you prepare for your wedding.