Petition · past parliament · Ministry of Justice

Recognise handfasting marriage in law in England and Wales

Closed 191 signatures

What the petition asks

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.

Timeline

5 Feb 2024 Petition opened for signatures
29 May 2024 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 191
Status Closed
Department Ministry of Justice
Opened 5 Feb 2024
Closed 29 May 2024

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.