Oakham Castle is a licensed civil ceremony venue in Rutland for civil marriages and civil partnerships. The Great Hall can host up to 80 guests, ceremony bookings are for 2 hours, and couples must also arrange the legal ceremony with the Superintendent Registrar for the County of Rutland.
Licensed Civil Ceremonies at Oakham Castle
Oakham Castle’s Great Hall is licensed for civil marriages and civil partnerships. This allows couples to hold their legal ceremony inside one of England’s most complete Norman Great Halls.
The setting is especially suitable for couples who want a civil ceremony with more character than a standard ceremony room. The Great Hall’s stone arches, whitewashed walls, historic timbering and horseshoe display create a memorable and atmospheric backdrop for exchanging vows.
Because the building dates from the 12th century, the ceremony feels connected to a much longer story of Rutland history.
Ceremony Timing and Guest Numbers
Wedding ceremony bookings at Oakham Castle are for 2 hours. This includes time for guests to arrive, the ceremony to take place, photographs to be captured and use of the grounds after the ceremony.
The Great Hall can accommodate up to 80 guests for ceremonies. This makes it a strong option for couples who want a ceremony with close family and friends while still keeping the atmosphere personal.
The venue is accessible for disabled guests, wheelchair users and buggies, and dogs are allowed if kept on a lead.
Registrar Arrangements
Booking Oakham Castle does not automatically book the registrar. Couples must make the necessary arrangements in advance with the Superintendent Registrar for the County of Rutland.
Registrar fees are separate from the hire of the venue. Couples should check registrar availability as early as possible, especially for popular wedding dates.
As a civil ceremony venue, Oakham Castle cannot include religious elements within the ceremony. The Superintendent Registrar can advise on wording, readings and ceremony content.
Decorating a Grade I Listed Building
Oakham Castle is a Grade I listed building, so decorations must protect the historic fabric and furniture of the Great Hall.
Naked flames, candles, balloons, pins, nails, sticky tape, white-tac and similar fixings are not permitted. Decorations may be tied with ribbon or string.
This still allows couples to personalise the space with flowers and simple styling while preserving the hall for future generations.
Book a Civil Ceremony With History and Character
Contact Oakham Castle to check Great Hall availability, then arrange the legal ceremony with the Rutland Registration Service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The Great Hall is licensed for civil marriages and civil partnerships.
Oakham Castle can host up to 80 guests for ceremonies in the Great Hall.
Yes. Couples must arrange the legal ceremony with the Superintendent Registrar for the County of Rutland, and registrar fees are separate from venue hire.
No. Civil ceremonies at Oakham Castle cannot include religious elements.
No. Naked flames and candles are not permitted because the Great Hall is a Grade I listed historic building.
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