Weddings will be banned during the second coronavirus lockdown – but funerals can go ahead as restrictions on the number of mourners.
People will have to stay at home from Thursday, with non-essential retail and hospitality all closed for four weeks until December 2.
And couples will not be able to get married during the second national lockdown, according to new guidance published on Saturday night.
Places of worship will be closed, but will be allowed to hold funerals.
But the Government says these should be attended by a maximum of 30 people – with fewer in attendance for ceremonies including the scattering of ashes.
The national restrictions for England, which were published on the Government website on Saturday night, say: “Weddings, civil partnership ceremonies will not be permitted to take place except in exceptional circumstances.”
“Funerals can be attended by a maximum of 30 people, and it is advised that only close friends and family attend.
“Linked ceremonial events such as stone settings and ash scatterings can also continue with up to 15 people in attendance.
“Anyone working is not included. Social distancing should be maintained between people who do not live together or share a support bubble.”
It has not been confirmed what “exceptional circumstances” would allow a wedding to go ahead.
Further guidelines said places of worship will be closed unless they are being used for funerals, broadcasting acts of worship and individual prayer.
They can also open as a setting for formal childcare or where part of a school, essential public services like blood donation and food banks and for support groups.
