What “Mobile Bar Hire” Usually Includes

Mobile bar hire can mean different things depending on the supplier. In most cases, you’re choosing from:

• Dry hire: you hire the bar structure only (no staff, no stock).
• Staffed cash bar: the bar team serves guests, guests pay for drinks.
• Pre-paid tab: you put money behind the bar, then guests pay once the tab runs out (if you want).
• All-inclusive / package bar: drinks are supplied as part of an agreed package.
• Self-serve option: a premium “Bar in a Box” style setup for venues that want a professional look without full staffing.

At Viva Bar Hire & Events, we offer both staffed bars and our Bar in a Box option—so you can choose what fits your event and budget.

Typical UK Price Ranges (What Most People Pay)

Here are realistic ranges you’ll see across the UK, depending on what you need:

1) Dry Hire (Bar Only)

• From ~£450–£700+ depending on style/size, delivery distance, and event duration
• Best for venues that already have staff and stock sorted

2) Staffed Cash Bar (Guests Pay)

• Often £0 upfront for the bar hire (supplier earns from drink sales), but minimum spends can apply
• Great for weddings and parties where you don’t want to cover everyone’s drinks

3) Tab / Pre-Paid Bar

• Common tabs: £300–£1,500+
• You control the spend and can decide what happens once the tab runs out

4) All-In Drink Packages

• Usually priced per guest depending on the menu and hours
• Ideal for corporate events, weddings, and venues that want “everything handled”

5) “Bar in a Box” (Self-Serve Premium Bar Setup)

• From £349 for a professional self-serve bar setup
• Perfect for DIY weddings, venues with strict staffing rules, or budgets that still want a premium look

Want an exact quote quickly? Message us via the website: vivabarhire.co.uk

What Impacts the Price the Most?

These are the biggest factors that move the quote up or down:

• Guest numbers: more guests usually means more staffing, stock planning, and glassware.
• Service style: cash bar vs tab vs packages change the whole structure.
• Bar type: premium bars vs standard stainless options.
• Location & access: distance, stairs, tricky venue access, loading restrictions.
• Event hours: longer service = more staffing and setup time.
• Glassware: polycarbonate is common and practical; real glass can add cost and venue requirements.
• Drink menu: basic spirits vs premium brands, cocktails, prosecco taps, etc.

Dry Hire vs Staffed Bar vs Bar in a Box: Which Should You Choose?

Choose Dry Hire if…

• You already have staff or a venue bar team
• You’ve got stock sorted and just want a great-looking bar
• You want maximum control over costs

Choose a Staffed Bar if…

• You want a smooth, professional guest experience
• You don’t want to manage stock, staffing, or serving
• You want a proper bar setup that looks great in photos

Choose Bar in a Box if…

• You want a premium-looking bar without full staffing costs
• Your venue has restrictions or you’re running a more DIY-style event
• You want a clean, simple option that still feels “proper”

Quick Budget Examples

Here are a few common scenarios to help you estimate:

• Small party (30–60 guests): Bar in a Box or dry-hire bar + simple drinks plan often works best.
• Wedding (80–150 guests): Staffed bar with optional tab is a popular balance—guests get the full bar feel.
• Corporate event: Packages or tab-based service keeps things predictable and easy for organisers.

What You Should Ask Any Bar Hire Company Before Booking

• Is setup and breakdown included?
• Do you provide staff and how many?
• Do you provide glassware (polycarbonate vs real glass)?
• Is there a minimum spend for cash bars?
• What power do you need on-site?
• Do you need access to water / washing facilities if real glass is requested?
• What happens if the event runs late?

Get a Quote from Viva Bar Hire & Events

If you want a bar that looks premium, runs smoothly, and fits your budget (without the waffle), we’ll quote you based on your date, location, guest count, and the style you want.

Visit: https://vivabarhire.co.uk/

Tell us your event date, postcode, guest numbers, and whether you want: staffed bar, dry hire, or Bar in a Box.