How far in advance should I book? +
Book 8–12 weeks ahead for weekday events. Weekend dates during peak season (May–September) book out 3–6 months in advance. Saturday evenings in June and July fill quickest. Call 020 8087 4269 to check availability for your date — last-minute bookings are sometimes possible.
How much does bar hire cost? +
Dry hire starts from £350 (bar unit, staff, glassware — you supply the drinks). Cash bar packages start from £500 plus a £1,500 minimum spend. All-inclusive packages are priced at £6.50–£7.50 per person per hour and cover everything. Bespoke packages for large or complex events start from £1,200. See our full breakdown on the packages and pricing page.
What is included in bar hire? +
Every booking includes a portable bar unit, professional licensed bartenders, quality glassware, ice, full setup on arrival, and a clean strike after the event. Public liability insurance (£5 million) and personal alcohol licences are standard on all bookings. All-inclusive packages also cover premium spirits, cocktail ingredients, beer, wine, soft drinks, garnishes, and a bespoke cocktail menu.
Do you provide the alcohol or do we supply it? +
Both options are available. Dry hire means you supply the drinks — we bring the bar, bartenders, and glassware. All-inclusive packages cover everything: premium spirits, cocktail ingredients, beer, wine, and soft drinks. Cash bar packages allow guests to purchase their own drinks at event prices, with a £1,500 minimum spend.
Are your bartenders licensed? +
Yes. Every bartender holds a personal alcohol licence and has a minimum of two years' professional event experience. For venues that require it, we work under the venue's premises licence. For unlicensed venues, we advise on Temporary Event Notice requirements (see below).
What is a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) and do I need one? +
A Temporary Event Notice (TEN) is a legal requirement when selling or supplying alcohol at a venue that does not hold a premises licence. TENs cost £21 and must be submitted to your local council at least 10 working days before the event. We identify whether your venue requires a TEN and guide you through the application process. Many private properties, gardens, and warehouses require one. Hotels, licensed restaurants, and dedicated event venues typically already hold a licence.
What types of venues do you work in? +
Our bar setup works in any venue with a flat surface of at least 3m × 1.5m. We operate in private gardens, warehouse spaces, marquees, rooftops, country houses, office atriums, loft apartments, function rooms, and festival fields. We bring our own bar unit, power leads, and all equipment — nothing needs to be provided by the venue.
How many bartenders do I need? +
One bartender per 50–75 guests for cocktail-focused events. One per 75–100 guests for beer and wine service. For large events (150+ guests), a second bar unit and additional staff are recommended. We calculate the right team size based on your guest count, event format, and drinks menu — and include our recommendation in every quote.
Can you create a bespoke cocktail menu? +
Yes. Every all-inclusive and bespoke booking includes a cocktail menu consultation. We design a list matched to your theme, dietary requirements, and preferences — including a named signature cocktail for the event if you want one. Zero-proof cocktails are included for non-drinkers at no extra charge. See our services page for more on what a consultation covers.
Do you offer zero-proof or mocktail options? +
Yes. A zero-proof cocktail menu is included as standard on all-inclusive packages at no extra charge. Our non-alcoholic options use the same flavour profiles as the main menu — citrus and elderflower, herbal, fruity — so non-drinking guests receive something worth raising a glass to. Dedicated mocktail bar hire is also available as a standalone service for events that are fully alcohol-free.
What is your cancellation policy? +
Cancellations made 14 or more days before the event date receive a full refund of any deposit paid. Cancellations between 7 and 14 days receive a 50% refund. Cancellations within 7 days of the event are non-refundable. All cancellations must be submitted in writing by email to info@theseshbars.com. Full terms are on our terms and conditions page.
What areas do you cover? +
We cover all 32 London boroughs with travel included inside the M25. Berkshire coverage includes Reading, Windsor, Ascot, Maidenhead, and Newbury. UK-wide bookings are available on request with a travel supplement quoted separately. Our location page has a full breakdown of areas served.
How long does setup take? +
Our crew arrives 90 minutes before the event start time. The bar is fully set up and ready for guests within that window. Strike (pack-down) typically takes 45–60 minutes after the bar closes. Venue access requirements are confirmed at the booking stage — we coordinate directly with your venue.
What happens if my guest count changes? +
Guest count changes are accepted up to three weeks before the event at no extra charge. Changes affect drink quantities and bartender staffing — we adjust both. Updates inside three weeks may carry a small restocking fee if quantities have already been ordered. Always over-estimate slightly rather than under — running short mid-event is avoidable.