getting married in uk vs. usa

Hello. I am American and my boyfriend is British, living in the UK. I had to come back to the US because my work visa ran out. We are now thinking of getting married so that I can return and we can be together.
 It seems from things I've read that it is easier (not to mention cheaper) for him to come to the US, get married quickly and then return to the UK together. Is this true? Would we be able to go back together or would I have to apply for a spousal visa before entering the UK? Also, if we decide to get married in the UK after I come in on a fiancee visa, would I need to leave the UK to get a spousal visa or can I do it within the US. Any info greatly appreciated!

It seems from things I've read that it is easier (not to mention cheaper) for him to come to the US, get married quickly and then return to the UK together. Is this true?

Yes.

Would we be able to go back together or would I have to apply for a spousal visa before entering the UK?

You would need to get a spousal visa, if you intend to reside in the UK, prior to entering.

Also, if we decide to get married in the UK after I come in on a fiancee visa, would I need to leave the UK to get a spousal visa or can I do it within the US.

No, you wouldn't need to leave - you can apply for the spousal visa from within the UK after marriage.

Hello I got married in the Church of England(Which meant I didn't need permission) but i did have to leave the Uk and apply for a spousal visa from America. It is costly to travel back to america to come back again to the uk. Not to mention the cost of the visa. We did it this way because I was in the Uk anyway.

comnav - that is because you were on a visit visa.  It is different if on a fiancee visa, as Tam has said.

Vicky

You dont need a fiance visa if you get married in a church of england church? We had planned a wedding at one, and the vicar told us we did need one.

Hmm, ah well. In the end we went with marrying in the US, and applying for a spouse visa(which I have yet to do, I'm waiting for my new passport with my name change first) because I don't want to bother with a 6 month visa hassle. I'd much rather wait for a bit and get a 2 year long one which allows me to work. Back to back visas is too much stress for a girl like me to handle!

It really depends.  According to immigration law it is not necessary, but some diocese demand it.  If you are a regular churchgoer and the vicar knows you, he has the discretion (with the permission of his Bishop) to marry you without.

Vicky

thank you all for your help.