Mobile Bar Hire: Everything You Need to Know

A mobile bar can transform any event — adding sophistication to weddings, energy to parties, and professionalism to corporate functions. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right service for your needs?

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about mobile bar hire in the UK.

What is Mobile Bar Hire?

Mobile bar hire provides a complete, professional bar service that comes to your venue. Unlike venue bars or DIY setups, mobile bars bring:

• Professional bartenders and mixologists
• All bar equipment and setup
• Glassware, ice, and garnishes
• A curated drinks menu
• Proper licensing and insurance

Types of Mobile Bar Services

Cocktail Bars

Skilled mixologists crafting classic and bespoke cocktails. Perfect for:

• Wedding receptions
• Milestone birthdays
• Corporate entertainment
• Product launches

Popular options include Espresso Martinis, Mojitos, Margaritas, and signature cocktails created for your event.

Prosecco & Fizz Bars

Elegant sparkling wine service, ideal for:

• Wedding arrivals drinks
• Celebration toasts
• Hen parties
• Garden parties

Traditional Full Bars

Complete bar service with beers, wines, spirits, and soft drinks. Suitable for:

• All-day events
• Evening receptions
• Festivals and large gatherings
• Corporate events

Beer & Craft Ale Bars

Focused selection of quality beers, perfect for:

• Casual celebrations
• BBQ events
• Sporting occasions
• Festival-style weddings

How Much Does Mobile Bar Hire Cost?

Mobile bar pricing varies based on several factors:

Pricing Models

• Per-drink pricing: You pay for what's consumed. Good for unpredictable guest counts.
• Package pricing: Fixed price per person for unlimited drinks within a time window.
• Tab/budget: You set a spending limit; bar closes when it's reached.
• Cash bar: Guests pay for their own drinks; you cover setup/staffing.

Typical Costs

• Cocktail bars: £8-15 per cocktail, or £25-40 per person for packages
• Full bars: £15-30 per person for 4-5 hour packages
• Prosecco bars: £5-8 per glass, or £15-25 per person packages
• Cash bar setup: £200-500 for equipment and staffing

What Should Be Included?

A professional mobile bar service should include:

Equipment

• Bar counter/structure
• Refrigeration
• Ice and ice storage
• Glassware (or quality disposables)
• Bar tools and equipment
• Lighting (if needed)

Service

• Experienced bartenders
• Setup and breakdown
• Waste removal
• Stock management

Compliance

• Temporary Event Notice (TEN) or premises licence
• Public liability insurance
• Personal licence holders
• Challenge 25 policy

Licensing: What You Need to Know

Selling alcohol requires proper licensing. Professional mobile bar companies handle this, but here's what's involved:

Temporary Event Notice (TEN)

For one-off events at unlicensed venues. Your bar provider should:

• Apply for the TEN (minimum 10 working days before event)
• Have a personal licence holder present
• Comply with all conditions

Premises Licence

If your venue already has a premises licence, the bar operates under that. Check with your venue about:

• Whether outside caterers can serve alcohol
• Any restrictions on service times
• Corkage fees if applicable

Questions to Ask Mobile Bar Providers

1. What's included in your quote?
2. Do you handle all licensing requirements?
3. What insurance do you carry?
4. How many staff will be provided?
5. What's your drinks menu?
6. Can you create signature cocktails?
7. What's your cancellation policy?
8. Do you have experience at our venue?
9. What happens if you run out of stock?
10. How do you handle responsible service?

Combining Bar Services with Catering

Many events benefit from combining bar hire with food catering. Benefits include:

• Single supplier: One point of contact, simplified logistics
• Coordinated service: Food and drinks timed perfectly
• Package discounts: Often cheaper than booking separately
• Cohesive experience: Matching quality and service standards

Popular combinations include pizza + prosecco bar, hog roast + craft beer bar, or BBQ + full bar service.

Tips for a Successful Bar Service

1. Know your guests: Consider preferences when planning the drinks menu
2. Plan for non-drinkers: Quality soft drinks and mocktails matter
3. Consider timing: Longer events need more variety and stock
4. Communicate dietary needs: Some cocktails contain allergens
5. Set expectations: If running a tab, decide on limits in advance