How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Ice Cream Van in the UK?

Hiring an ice cream van in the UK can be a fantastic addition to weddings, corporate events, birthdays, festivals, or even school fairs. But how much does it actually cost? Prices can vary depending on factors like location, event duration, number of guests, and the type of service you choose.

In this guide, we’ll break down the typical costs of hiring an ice cream van, what factors affect the price, and what to consider when booking one.

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1. Average Cost to Hire an Ice Cream Van in the UK

The cost of hiring an ice cream van in the UK typically ranges between:

• £150 – £300 for a small private event (1-2 hours, up to 50 guests).
• £300 – £600 for larger events (weddings, corporate functions, festivals).
• £600+ for full-day hires or large public events.

Different Pricing Models

Ice cream van hire pricing can be structured in different ways:

✅ Fixed Fee Hire: You pay a set amount, and your guests enjoy unlimited ice cream for a set period.
✅ Pay-As-You-Go: The van attends for free, but guests pay for their own ice creams.
✅ Minimum Spend Agreement: The van operates as a business, but the organiser guarantees a minimum spend (e.g., £500+).

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2. Factors That Affect the Cost

🗺️ Location

• Ice cream van hire prices vary across the UK. London and major cities tend to be more expensive than rural areas.
• Travel costs may apply if the van is coming from outside your local area.

⏳ Event Duration

• Most providers offer 1-2 hour slots as standard.
• Longer events (e.g., full-day festivals) will increase costs.

🍦 Number of Guests

• The more guests you have, the higher the price—especially if you opt for unlimited ice cream.
• Many companies charge based on guest count, with a set price per head.

🍨 Type of Ice Cream & Menu Options

• Traditional Mr Whippy-style soft serve is usually the most affordable.
• Premium gelato, artisan ice creams, or vegan options can add to the cost.
• Some vendors offer customised options, such as personalised cones or branded wrappers.

📅 Peak vs Off-Peak Seasons

• Summer months (May – September) tend to be more expensive due to high demand.
• Off-peak bookings (autumn/winter) might be cheaper, but availability is limited.

3. What’s Included in the Price?

A standard ice cream van hire typically includes:

✔️ The van and an experienced vendor to serve ice creams.
✔️ A selection of classic ice creams (99 Flakes, sundaes, lollies).
✔️ Toppings & sauces (chocolate sprinkles, syrups, wafers).
✔️ Napkins, cones, and spoons.
✔️ Travel within a certain distance (extra charges may apply outside this).

Some premium packages may also include:

🎉 Personalised branding (great for corporate events and weddings).
🎤 Music & entertainment (traditional ice cream jingle or themed decorations).
📸 Photo opportunities (some vans are vintage-themed and add to the aesthetic).

4. How to Book an Ice Cream Van in the UK

🔍 Step 1: Research Local Providers

Search for ice cream van hire near you or check event hire websites like:

• Add to Event
• Poptop UK
• Bark.com
• Facebook Marketplace or Local Business Listings

📞 Step 2: Request a Quote

When contacting vendors, provide:

• Event date & location
• Number of guests
• Type of ice cream service you want
• Any special requests (e.g., vegan options, branding, themes)

📅 Step 3: Confirm Booking & Payment

• Some companies require a deposit to secure the date.
• Check cancellation policies and any additional charges.

5. Common Questions About Ice Cream Van Hire

Q1: How much does it cost to hire an ice cream van for a wedding?

For weddings, expect to pay £300 – £600 depending on the number of guests and service type.

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Q2: Can I hire an ice cream van for free?

Some vendors offer a pay-as-you-go option, where guests pay for their own ice cream, meaning no upfront cost for the organiser.

Q3: Do ice cream vans cater to dietary requirements?

Many vans now offer vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free options—just ask when booking.

Q4: How far in advance should I book?

For summer events, book at least 3-6 months in advance. For off-peak events, 1-2 months may be enough.

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Final Thoughts: Is Ice Cream Van Hire Worth It?

Hiring an ice cream van is a fun, nostalgic, and crowd-pleasing addition to any event. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate party, or community festival, an ice cream van provides a unique and delicious treat for guests of all ages.

With prices starting at £150-£300 for small events and flexible pricing options available, it can be a surprisingly affordable way to add something special to your gathering.

If you’re thinking about booking one, start getting quotes early—especially for summer events. And most importantly… enjoy the ice cream! 🍦🚐