Most mobile bar hire bookings start from £495, which usually covers the bar unit, trained bar staff, glassware and setup for a set number of hours. Exact pricing depends on availability, your exact requirements, time on site and location, and we quote every booking individually. The type of service and the drinks package you choose make the biggest difference.
Key takeaways
- The bar format, staff numbers and drinks package are the main cost drivers.
- Check who holds the licence and what your venue allows before booking.
- Mocktail and soft drink bars suit dry weddings and mixed family events.
What is included in mobile bar hire?
A standard package includes a bar unit, trained staff, glassware, ice, basic equipment and setup and pack-down. Many also include a set menu of cocktails or mocktails, with the stock provided by the bar or by you.
The bar itself can be anything from a sleek modern unit to a converted horsebox or rustic wooden bar. The style you choose affects space and access needs more than it affects the service.
- Bar unit and styling
- Trained bar staff for the agreed hours
- Glassware, ice and equipment
- Setup, service and pack-down
- Public liability insurance
What affects the price of a mobile bar?
Guest numbers decide how many staff you need. A bar serving a large Asian wedding needs more bartenders than a small birthday party, or the queue will stretch across the room.
The drinks package matters too. An open bar with premium spirits is a very different quote from a mocktail bar or a cash bar where guests pay. Hours of service and travel also play a part.
- Guest numbers and staff needed
- Open bar, cash bar or mocktail bar
- Hours of service
- Premium spirits or signature cocktails
- Distance and access to the venue
Want a quote for mobile bar hire?
Free, no obligation. Tell us your date and venue.
Do you need a licence for a mobile bar?
If alcohol is being sold, a licence is needed. Some venues hold their own premises licence, while mobile bars can apply for a Temporary Event Notice through the local council. This needs to be submitted in advance.
If you are giving drinks away as part of a free bar, the rules can be different, but always check with the venue and the bar provider. A good bar company will guide you through it.
Tip from our team: Ask your venue early whether they allow outside bars at all. Many hotels and banqueting halls only allow their own bar service.
What about dry weddings and mocktail bars?
Many Asian weddings are dry, or have a mix of guests who drink and do not. A mocktail bar gives everyone something special to enjoy, with fresh juices, mango lassi cocktails and fruit-based drinks.
In our experience, a good mocktail bar is often busier than an alcohol bar at family events. Kids and elders enjoy it just as much as younger guests.
A mocktail bar also avoids most of the licensing questions, which makes it easier to get approved at venues that are strict about outside bars.
How do you get the best value from a mobile bar?
Choose a signature drinks menu rather than a full cocktail list. Four or five drinks served well is faster and cheaper than a long list that slows the queue.
Pair the bar with other entertainment to make it a social hub. A photo booth nearby or a sax player during the drinks reception brings people together.
Want a quote for mobile bar hire?
Free, no obligation. Tell us your date and venue.
When is a mobile bar not the right choice?
If your venue has its own bar and does not allow outside bars, a mobile bar will not be possible. Some venues also charge corkage or a fee for outside suppliers.
In those cases, a custom ice cream cart or a dessert station might give you a similar social feel without the licensing questions.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a mobile bar cost for a wedding?
Most mobile bar bookings start from £495. The exact price depends on availability, your requirements, time on site and location. We quote each booking individually based on your guest numbers and drinks package.
Can a mobile bar serve only mocktails?
Yes, many couples choose a mocktail only bar for dry weddings or mixed family events. The bar team can create a menu with fresh fruit and traditional flavours. It is a great option for all ages.
Does a mobile bar need a licence?
If alcohol is sold, yes. The venue may hold a licence, or the bar can apply for a Temporary Event Notice. Always check with your venue and bar provider early.
How many bartenders do we need for a big wedding?
It depends on guest numbers and the drinks package. Large Asian weddings need more staff to keep queues short. Your bar provider will suggest the right number.
Get your mobile bar quote
Tell us about your venue, guest numbers and drinks idea and we will send a free quote.
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Written by the Party Central events team. Prices mentioned are starting points only. Exact pricing depends on availability, your exact requirements, time on site and location. Party Central is a trading name of Booking Central Ltd.
