A naming ceremony is a special way to celebrate the arrival of a child and welcome them into your family and community. It can also mark an adoption or the joining of step-children into a new family unit.
What does the ceremony include?
Each ceremony is personalised to suit your family. It may include:
- announcing your child’s name
- making promises of love and support
- music, readings or symbolic gifts
- involvement of family and friends
You’ll discuss your ceremony preferences with the registrar before the day. A souvenir certificate is presented at the end of the ceremony.
Please note: naming ceremonies are non-religious and have no legal status.
Venues
Middlegate Room, Borough Hall - room hire is included in the ceremony fee.
Licensed venues - please contact these venues directly for room hire charges.
You may be able to hold your ceremony at another venue, subject to a venue inspection by us and approval by the Senior Registrar. There would also be a £50 inspection fee.
Fees (1 April 2025 – 31 March 2026)
| Venue | Mon–Thu (office hours) | Fri (office hours) | Saturday | Sunday | Bank Holidays* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Middlegate Room, Borough Hall | £220 | £260 | £315 | N/A | N/A |
| Other venue | £335 | £385 | £450 | £450 | £575 |
*Bank Holiday fees apply to Easter Sunday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day if they fall on a weekend.
Booking and payment
- a £50 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking
- the remaining balance is due two months before the ceremony
Booking a registrar
- Middlegate Room: book up to 1 year in advance.
- other venues: book up to 2 years in advance.
Check venue availability first, but do not confirm your booking until you’ve confirmed registrar availability.
Who can arrange a naming ceremony?
Anyone with parental responsibility or legal guardianship of the child can arrange a ceremony.
Can I change my child’s name through a naming ceremony?
No. Naming ceremonies have no legal status and cannot be used to change a child’s registered name.
Please contact us for advice before making any changes.