How Much Does a Wedding Cost in the UK? (2026)
The average UK wedding costs between £20,000 and £45,000, with the national average around £30,000. London and the South East are significantly more expensive than other regions. Here is where the money goes.
Updated for 2026
Average total wedding cost in United Kingdom
Range: £20,000 – £45,000
Cost by category
Full breakdown
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
Venue hire Ceremony and reception venue, including exclusive use where applicable | £4,000 | £15,000 |
Catering & drinks Wedding breakfast, evening food, and drinks package | £4,000 | £14,000 |
Photography Full-day coverage with edited digital gallery | £1,500 | £4,500 |
Videography Highlight film and ceremony edit | £1,200 | £3,500 |
Flowers & decor Bouquets, buttonholes, centrepieces, and venue flowers | £1,000 | £4,000 |
Wedding dress & suit Including alterations, veil, shoes, and accessories | £1,500 | £5,000 |
Entertainment DJ, band, or both for ceremony and reception | £800 | £3,500 |
Hair & makeup Bridal trial and day-of for bride and bridesmaids | £300 | £1,200 |
Wedding cake Three-tier traditional or naked cake | £250 | £1,000 |
Stationery Save the dates, invitations, order of service, menus, and table plan | £200 | £800 |
Ways to save
Look outside London and the South East
Venues in the Midlands, North, and Wales can be 30-50% cheaper with equal charm.
Book a winter wedding
November through February rates are significantly lower. Add candles and fairy lights for atmosphere.
Consider a pub or restaurant wedding
Many gastropubs and restaurants offer wedding packages without the premium of a dedicated wedding venue.
Skip the evening buffet extras
Late-night pizza or fish and chips is cheaper and more memorable than a formal evening buffet.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average UK wedding cost in 2026?
Around £30,000 for the national average. London weddings typically cost 30-50% more, pushing the average well above £40,000.
How much should I budget per guest for a UK wedding?
Around £100-200 per day guest and £30-50 per evening guest, covering food, drink, and associated costs.
What is the cheapest month to get married in the UK?
January and February are the cheapest months. November and March are also significantly cheaper than the peak summer season (June-September).