Couples are free to marry on the beach or in a pub with new plans.

Couples in England and Wales can marry at home, in a pub or on a yacht, under what the government calls the biggest wedding law in almost 200 years.

Currently, the ceremony of marriage or civil partnership must be legally binding where it is permitted.

The UK government has said it wants to reform “outdated” marriage laws to make weddings more affordable and give couples more choice than where to say “I do”.

Under the proposal, couples can legally marry anywhere – from a castle, hot air balloon, beach or cruise ship in international waters – as long as the location of the ceremony is approved by a registered authority.

However, rituals that are considered “ridiculous” that risk undermining the legality of marriage are not allowed under what the government calls the “framework of dignity.”

“Activities such as skydiving, white-water rafting, rollercoasters or other amusement rides” “fall below the standard,” says the Consultation in drawing up plans, External.

But he added: “This does not preclude the inclusion of light-hearted elements such as readings of Shakespeare, singing with Sweet Caroline or other similar contributions, provided these are within the bounds of dignity and are not excessive or inappropriate displays.”

The proposals also state that food and drink, including alcohol, should not be consumed “indiscriminately/recreationally during the ceremony”.

Restrictions on religious content in civil ceremonies may also be relaxed, allowing couples to include elements such as Bible readings.

The proposals would allow non-religious faith organizations, including humanists, to conduct legally binding weddings.

Deputy First Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy said marriage laws in England and Wales “have not kept up with the social and cultural changes that have shaped modern Britain.”

“They say you can’t put a price on love — but often the price of a wedding puts that commitment out of reach,” says Lamy.

“That’s why I’m amending antiquated laws, so couples have more freedom to say ‘I do’ on their own accord while strengthening protections to protect the meaning and permanence of marriage.”

In the plans, signing the papers during the civil ceremony and authorizing the marriage will be the main legal requirements.

The exact list of government reforms will be announced after the consultation ends on September 24 this year.

Any changes to marriage laws would require the government to enact new legislation, meaning the reforms may not take effect until next year.