Frequently asked questions

Can I marry in Merton if I live in another borough?

Yes, you are able to marry in any licensed premise in England and Wales. However you must complete legal preliminaries (give notice of marriage) in your local borough at least 29 days before you are due to marry, or 71 days if you or your partner are subject to immigration control. For more information please visit the notice of marriage or notice of civil partnership page.

Do I just have to say the legal words in a civil ceremony or can I include personal enhancements?

The legal words do need to be said but it is your special day and we always encourage couples to personalise their ceremony with readings, personal vows and music. We have included unity sand ceremonies, festive singalongs and exchanging of cultural flower garlands in the past and aim to accommodate couples unusual requests. Religious content of any kind (songs, readings etc) is not allowed by law as we are a civil venue.

How long will my civil ceremony last?

Your ceremony will last between 15-20 minutes depending on how you have personalised your ceremony. You will have time within the room/space you have booked for photos and then you will be invited to make your exit through our stunning atrium and large front door beautifully framed with climbing wisteria.

Who is included in the room capacity?

The capacity for each room is fixed due to the fire and safety regulations, and therefore cannot be changed. All wedding guests must be seated. The couple, the registrars, one photographer and children under 2 are not included inthe maximum room capacity. Please do not invite any more guests than the room allows as they will have to wait outside the register office during the ceremony.

When should we arrive and do we have to see each other before the ceremony?

We advise couples to arrive 15 minutes before their ceremony is due to start to complete their pre ceremony interview, if you do not wish to see each before your ceremony we can make sure that you are interviewed separately and kept apart until the very last moment before the ceremony starts.

If I book a room in the house, can I use the Gazebo and Courtyard for pictures?

No, the Courtyard and Gazebo are reserved for those couples who have booked and paid for that pleasure. You will have plenty of photo opportunities in your chosen room, on the striking staircase and outside the front of the building for your photos. Similarly, couples who choose the gazebo are not able to take any photos in the house, unless weather is inclement.

What happens if there is inclement weather and I have booked the Gazebo and/or an exclusive wedding reception package?

Your ceremony can be relocated to one of our rooms within Morden Park House and you will have an opportunity to have your photos taken inside. Your wedding reception must take place outside in the marquee.

The registrar will make the final decision on the day as to where your ceremony will take place.

Are dogs allowed at Morden Park House?

If your ceremony is taking place in either the Sheridan room or outside in the Gazebo, you can bring one well trained dog that belongs to yourself and your partner. Dogs are not permitted in either the Lord Nelson or Ewart Room, this means if your gazebo ceremony has to move inside due to inclement weather then your dog will have to stay outside with an assigned guest. Those who need special assistance/ medical alert animals are exempt. You must inform the registrars in advance that you would like to bring your dog. Please visit the dogs page for more information.

Is there parking available?

Yes, the couple who are getting married can drive the ceremonial cars through the barrier to park near the building. Your guests will need to park in the main pay and display car park located just a minute walk from the building. Please refer to the council website for charges and times of Morden Park car park.

Are we able to celebrate with a glass of fizz after our ceremony?

Yes, we offer a toast in the garden after your ceremony, subject to availability, this would allow you time after your wedding to toast your union in our beautiful gardens (or marquee in inclement weather). If you have booked another room within Morden Park House, it could be possible to hold a drinks reception depending on availability.

Please note only beverages purchased from Morden Park House may be consumed onsite.

Can I bring my dog to my ceremony at Morden Park House?

If your ceremony is taking place in either the Sheridan room or outside in the Gazebo, you can bring one well trained dog that belongs to yourself and your partner. Dogs are not permitted in either the Lord Nelson or Ewart Room, this means if your gazebo ceremony has to move inside due to inclement weather then your dog will have to stay outside with an assigned guest.

Those who need special assistance/ medical alert animals are exempt. For more information please visit the dogs page.