A bride and groom show their dedication to each other by taking part in the Maldon mud race

Couples will be allowed to marry outdoors or at home after a review of wedding laws expected to be announced in next week’s budget.

Philip Hammond will clear the way for legally binding ceremonies to take place in pubs and restaurants in a move that he will present as reducing wedding costs.

Most of the 250,000 marriages in England and Wales each year take place in civil ceremonies in venues other than register offices. The supply of venues is limited by strict conditions, driving up the cost.

These include the stipulation that the venue must be a “permanent immovable structure” or “permanently moored boat”.

Approved premises must not serve or sell food or alcoholic drinks an hour before the service — a condition that rules