Olympic champion Adam Peaty and model Holly Ramsay are set to exchange vows today, Friday 27th December 2025, in a ceremony at the historic Bath Abbey. The iconic venue, however, comes with a stringent set of regulations that all couples must follow, and the public are currently barred from the site for the famous pair's big day.
The Historic Setting and Its Stringent Criteria
The wedding will take place within the magnificent, Grade I listed Bath Abbey, formally known as the Abbey Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. The building's history stretches back to the 7th century, with its current breathtaking Gothic structure completed in 1611. While its fan-vaulted ceilings and stained glass make it a dream location, it is not a venue open to all.
Bath Abbey only offers weddings to parishioners, regular congregation members, or those who can demonstrate a "qualifying connection" to the church. As stated on its official website, interested parties are directed to the Church of England Weddings site to understand the requirements, which include compliance with both UK civil and church law.
What Are the Official Rules for a Bath Abbey Wedding?
For those eligible, the Church of England stipulates several key conditions. Couples must be over 18 years of age and of different genders. Wedding services must be scheduled to occur between 8am and 6pm on any day of the week.
The Abbey also notes that it is possible to marry in a church away from one's home if a specific legal connection to that building can be established. While the nature of Peaty and Ramsay's connection to Bath Abbey has not been publicly disclosed, it is clear the venue holds personal significance for the devout Christian couple.
The standard fee for a wedding service at the Abbey is £2,500. However, it is reported that Peaty, 30, and Ramsay, 25, are paying significantly more. This is because they have secured exclusive use of the entire Abbey for the full day, despite their ceremony reportedly lasting only 90 minutes. The increased cost also covers extensive security arrangements.
Public Ban and Local Reaction
The decision to book the Abbey for the entire day has resulted in a complete closure of the popular tourist site to the public on 27th December. The Abbey's website confirms it is "closed for visiting", with a notice on the door stating that visiting and services will resume on Sunday 28th December. Security personnel are believed to be in place to prevent public entry and photography.
This move has sparked some discontent among local residents. A source told The Sun that it seemed "rather selfish to be hiring the abbey for the whole day when your wedding service only lasts for an hour and a half or so." The action prevents other weddings from taking place and stops tourists from accessing the landmark.
Nevertheless, for Adam Peaty and Holly Ramsay, the majestic setting provides a deeply personal and spiritual start to their married life, following in the footsteps of countless couples throughout the Abbey's long and storied history.
