Eloping in the UK has become increasingly popular for couples seeking a more intimate and unique wedding experience. With its charming countryside and historical venues, the UK offers a stunning setting for your special day. One venue that stands out is East Trenean Farm, perfect for a beautiful elopement, just like this one!

UK Elopement at East Treneam Farm

Dacoda and Matthew’s elopement was a small, intimate celebration surrounded by close family and friends. The couple’s journey began in college in Australia, where they shared mutual friends but never really crossed paths. Years later, with one in the US and the other in England, their love story truly began. Dacoda took a leap of faith and flew to London for their first date. A year later, she moved to England to marry Matthew in the very place their journey started.

We had the most incredible day celebrating these two with just the most important people in their lives and it was such a special thing to witness! We enjoyed exploring the area around the venue and capturing photos along the way, and the next morning, we even headed to Looe’s beach for some fun couples portraits along the water. It was the perfect celebration for this sweet, sweet couple!

East Trenean Farm Elopement

The venue is absolutely stunning, offering a perfect backdrop for Dacoda and Matthew’s special day. East Trenean Farm is set in 10 acres of breathtaking landscape overlooking the Ancient Woodland and County Wildlife Site of Seaton Valley, with views to the sea. The farm features stone-built barns and a farmhouse, offering luxurious accommodations in four beautifully converted cottages. Each cottage offers a private garden, BBQ, garden furniture, and a hot tub. The farm also has a central courtyard garden with a gazebo, perfect for relaxing with friends and family.

The interiors of the cottages maintain original features while providing modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious stay. The farm is eco-friendly, using environmentally friendly cleaning products and providing spring water from their own borehole. The peaceful rural setting is home to a variety of wildlife, including wild rabbits, bats, hedgehogs, woodpeckers, buzzards, owls, and even the occasional deer.

If you want a quintessential English venue to take in the green rolling hills and historical architecture, East Trenean Farm is a wonderful option!

When to Plan a UK Elopement

In the UK, the prime time for weddings is from May to October. The summer months of June, July, and August are especially popular due to the longer days and (usually) more reliable sunshine. However, with the increased demand during these peak months, prices can be significantly higher, and venues get booked quickly. If you dream of a summer wedding, it’s best to secure your date as early as possible.

That said, hotter weather isn’t always ideal for everyone. Some couples prefer the cooler, crisp days of early autumn. September and October can be perfect, providing beautiful foliage and a cozy atmosphere without the intensity of summer heat. Winter weddings are also magical, especially if you’re dreaming of a snowy backdrop for your photos.

What you Need for a UK Elopement

To elope in the UK, you’ll need to meet certain legal requirements. Ensure you have the necessary permits, valid passports, and any other required documents. Consulting with a local wedding planner or registrar can help you navigate the legalities smoothly.

Age Requirements: To tie the knot or form a civil partnership in the UK, you must be at least 16 years old. If you’re under 18 in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, you’ll need parental consent. On your special day, two witnesses must be present to make it official.

For Non-UK Nationals: Getting married in the UK if you’re not a resident can vary. You might need to apply for a Family of a Settled Person visa or a Marriage or Civil Partnership Visitor visa. Check out the government’s guide for more info on visa requirements.

If both of you are non-UK nationals, you’ll need a visa to give notice and get married, even if you usually don’t need a visa to visit the UK. The process can differ between England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, so make sure to check with the local authorities where you plan to get married.

What You Need to Get Married in the UK

Necessary Paperwork and Documentation: When you’re ready to register your marriage, gather these essentials and head to the local register office where you’ll be saying “I do”:

• Proof of name (e.g., valid passport)
• Proof of age (e.g., birth certificate)
• Proof of nationality (e.g., valid passport, national identity card)
• Proof of address (e.g., valid driving licence, recent utility bill)
• A decree absolute or final order (if applicable)
• The death certificate of your former partner (if applicable)
• Entry visa (if applicable)
• Details of where and when you plan to get married

The Process

You need to give at least 28 days’ notice at your local register office. This notice stays public at the office for that 28-day period before your wedding date. If either of you are from outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland, or are subject to immigration control, the same process applies. You can only give notice if you’ve lived in the registration district for at least seven days. For more details, the government’s guide to marriages and civil partnerships is a handy resource.

Fees Involved

Visas to enter the UK for marriage come with fees, which vary by country and visa type. For instance, the Marriage and Civil Partnership Visitor visa costs $120 for Americans and A$156 for Australians. This visa fees guide can help you determine the costs specific to your situation.

UK Elopement Photographer

Hi, I’m Katie! I’m passionate about capturing your most cherished memories, freezing those magical moments in time so they can be relived again and again. As both your friend and photographer, my mission is to ensure you never forget the enchantment that filled your special day.

Though I’ve had the pleasure of traveling to some incredible places, I have a special love for the stunning landscapes of the UK. If you’re planning a UK elopement, I’d be honored to help you capture every beautiful detail. Reach out to me here if you’re looking for a UK elopement photographer!