News

Ireland enters top five global wedding destinations for British couples

IRELAND has become one of the top five global destinations where British couples are choosing to tie the knot.

The Emerald Isle is a firm favourite, perhaps due to its close proximity to Britain, ranking fifth in the list behind Italy, France, Spain, and Greece.

According to the latest findings from John Lewis International Payments, Ireland pushed out the USA into seventh place.

Australia is also a new entrant to the list, placing 10th alongside Croatia.

Dino Marcangelo, spokesman for John Lewis International Payments, said: “Britain is having a love affair with Ireland. With its historic castles, hospitable culture and stunning countryside, Ireland has it all.

“It also has the advantage of being located just across the water from the British mainland.

“Unsurprisingly, Italy has retained the top spot. The country simply oozes romance and the clement weather and picturesque scenery makes it the top choice for many couples.

“Australia has been the surprise new entrant into the top 10. Its distance from the UK would not make it an obvious choice for most couples, but nobody can question the brilliance of its landscape and the love that so many people in the UK hold for the country.”

The figures show that an estimated 2,400 couples will get married abroad this year, approximately 28 per cent more than in 2014 at an average cost of around £6,500.