Closed petition Recognise handfasting marriage in law in England and Wales

Closed on 30 May 2024

Let's get handfasting recognised in law. Tying a Knot with ribbon or cords over the couple's hands (this is where the term tying the knot is from) is a traditional form of marriage that dates back hundreds of years. The Government does not currently recognise handfasting in law.

England and Wales has a history of heathens and pagans. We believe handfasting is beautiful way to marry. Each couple can chose the colours for their cords, then the cords are used to bound the couples hands together and the celebrant can ask gods and goddess to grant what the coloured cord represents. This could be good health, love, prosperity, fertility, protection and lots more. This tradition was carried out for many years before the Romans came to England.