An approved venue is premises that have been approved for civil marriages and civil partnerships in England and Wales.
The Old Town Hall
Bedford Borough Council has its own approved venue, The Old Town Hall. This is located right in the heart of the town just a stone's throw from the River Ouse and its picturesque Embankment.
Following our risk assessment at the Old Town Hall the couple and up to 76 other persons (two of which must be witnesses) are able to attend ceremonies or formation. Photographers / videographers must be included in this number too. No other persons, including babies and children will be permitted in the building.
Ceremonies room
The Old Town Hall ceremonies room is on the first floor and is tastefully decorated in cream/blue. An induction loop is available for visitors with hearing aids and a lift to all levels provides easy access for people with mobility issues. The upholstered Mayor's Seat offers a unique backdrop for photos. No additional room decorations or flowers are permitted at the Old Town Hall.
Parking
There are no parking facilities at the Old Town Hall, but Bedford town centre has extensive accessible car parking just a short walk away, or you can be dropped off outside. The car parks nearby comprise of a mixture of multi-storey and open surface car parks with payment systems ranging from pay and display to pay on foot. Further information can be found on our parking page.
Find us
Old Town Hall
St Paul's Square
Bedford
MK40 1SJ
To book your ceremony email civil.registration@bedford.gov.uk
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions (PDF) regarding refunds in the event of a cancellation.
Other venues licensed for ceremonies
The following venues are licensed for ceremonies by the local authority
Barns Hotel
Barns Hotel
Cardington Road
Bedford
MK44 3SA
Bassmead Manor
Bassmead Manor
Staploe
St. Neots
PE19 5JB
Bedford School
Bedford School
De Parys Avenue
Bedford
MK40 2TU
Visit their website here:
Bedford Swan Hotel
Bedford Swan Hotel
The Embankment
Bedford
MK40 1RW
Danish Camp
Danish Camp
Chapel Lane
Wilington
MK44 3QG
The Bedford Mercure Hotel
Bedford Mercure Hotel
2, St Mary's Street
Bedford
MK42 0AR
The Grand Hall
The Grand Hall
Bromham Road
Bedford
MK40 2BS
Tofte Manor
Tofte ManorSouldrop Road
Sharnbrook
MK44 1HH
Woodland Manor Hotel
Woodland Manor Hotel
Green lane
Clapham
MK41 6EP
Venue approval for marriages and civil partnerships
You can apply for your venue to be approved as a venue for marriages and civil partnerships.