Handfasting

We are delighted to offer six special handfasting ceremonies on Sunday 21 June 2026 (the summer solstice) as part of the Museum’s midsummer celebrations.

If you are interested in a handfasting ceremony, please ensure that you read the information below carefully before making your booking online. We have also put together a list of FAQs to help you (below).

If you have any questions that are not answered here, then please email us – [email protected]

What is a handfasting ceremony?

A handfasting is an ancient ritual where a couple’s hands are bound together with ribbons or cords to symbolise unity, commitment and partnership.

Is this handfasting ceremony legally binding?

No. This ceremony is neither a legally recognised civil partnership nor marriage.

Who can take part in a handfasting?

Anyone. Our handfasting ceremonies are inclusive and open to all couples. Ryedale Folk Museum welcomes everyone.

Do we need to be engaged or married already?

No. Handfastings can mark engagements, vow renewals, anniversaries, or simply a declaration of commitment.

Where will the handfasting take place?

The handfasting will take place in the Museum’s atmospheric roundhouse, which is located within the Museum’s grounds and around 300m from the Museum’s main entrance.

Will the roundhouse be decorated?

The Museum will supply atmospheric, subtle lighting during the ceremony. We will also ‘dress’ the entrance to the roundhouse, to add that extra-special touch for you, and for photo opportunities. It is not possible for couples to personalise the venue with their own decorations on this occasion.

How long does the ceremony last?

The ceremony will last approximately 20-25 minutes.

What should we, and our guests, wear?

There is no dress code, although clothes are required! To fully explore the Museum’s grounds (see ‘Accessibility’ section below) and due the earthen floor of the Roundhouse, we recommend suitable outdoor footwear.

Can I have more than 12 guests?

Unfortunately, we cannot permit more than 12 guests at the handfasting ceremonies. Children up to 2 years old do not need to be  counted within the number of guests and may sit on knees/be held in arms or remain in a pram or pushchair.

If you wish to have more than 12 guests, we can offer bespoke handfasting ceremonies on a date of your choice. Please visit our Wedding Page or contact our wedding coordinator – [email protected] for more information.

Can we have stay to explore the Museum before/after our handfasting ceremony?

You and your guests will be given a day pass on arrival at the Museum, so that they can explore the Museum on Sunday 21 June (only). We will ask you for the names of your guests in advance.

Will there be seating in the roundhouse?

Yes, there will be wooden chairs for your guests. Most couples will choose to stand for the ceremony, but seating will also be available for the couple.

Who is the celebrant?

The Museum has organised a celebrant to undertake all the ceremonies on 21 June. Our celebrant is a trusted partner of the Museum.

Can the celebrant personalise our ceremony?

In order that we can offer these ceremonies at reasonable cost, it is not possible to tailor or personalise the ceremony (including the use of music). Your names will be used as the handfasting takes place.

If you wish to have a personalised ceremony, we can offer bespoke handfasting ceremonies on a date of your choice. Please visit our Wedding Page for more information or contact our wedding coordinator – [email protected].

Can we bring our own ribbons or cord for the handfasting?

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own ribbons or cords for use on the day.

Are dogs allowed?

All required assistance dogs are welcome, along with up to four other dogs. Dogs must be always be kept on a lead and under control.

Can we have confetti?

We do not allow the use of confetti on site.

Can we bring along a drink to toast at/after our handfasting ceremony?

No alcoholic drinks may be brought into or consumed within the Museum’s premises by you or your guests. The Crown Inn next door and/or other eateries within the village could be booked if you wish to enjoy a celebratory drink or meal – please contact them directly.

Can we pay a deposit and confirm our booking later?

No, unfortunately not. The ceremonies are offered on a first-come, first-served basis with full payment required at the time of booking.

Will the Museum contact us after we have made our booking?

Firstly, our system will send you a simple confirmation/receipt. We will be in touch with you via email after you have made your booking and hope to do this within 5 working days.

What happens if the ceremony is cancelled?

If the Museum has to cancel the ceremony for any reason, a full refund will be provided. We are unable to offer refunds in the event of a customer cancellation.

What happens if we or our guests arrive late?

If you are more than 15 minutes late for your booking, we will not be able to proceed with your handfasting. If your guests are late, we will do our best to direct them to your ceremony as quickly as possible, but we won’t be able to wait more than 15 minutes before starting your handfasting.

Can I organise my own photographer?

Your guests are welcome to take photographs. Please note we do not allow drone photography.

The Museum has partnered with Angela Waites photography – please see the details in the Photographs section. No other professional photographers are allowed.

Where can we and our guests park?

You can make use of The Crown Inn car park (no designated accessible parking), which is immediately next door to the Museum. Alternatively, the North York Moors National Park car park (includes designated accessible parking) on Moor Lane is a 300m walk from the Museum. Both options are pay-and-display car parks.

Accessibility and Facilities

Ryedale Folk Museum is an open-air Museum with historic buildings. There are a variety of floor and ground surfaces, some of which are uneven by nature. There is a gentle slope through the middle part of the site (around the main green area) and some manual wheelchair users may require assistance from a companion at that point. The Museum has manual wheelchairs and electric scooters available to borrow free of charge – we recommend reserving these in advance if required. The roundhouse has level access. The floor is compacted earth/soil and it is possible to access the venue in a wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding accessibility and please see our Access Information for further details.

Telephone Reception and Internet Availability

The beautiful village of Hutton-le-Hole can provide escapism for those that wish to turn off their mobile phones and ignore their email and app notifications – there is extremely limited (unreliable) mobile telephone signal and no Wi-Fi available.

Smoking and use of e-cigarettes

There is a strict no smoking policy across the whole of the six-acre Museum site – including all outdoor area. Anyone in your party wishing to smoke must leave the Museum site to do so. This policy also applies to e-cigarettes and vaping devices.