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The first decision is where to host your marquee. Wiltshire offers a wide range of suitable event locations, from private gardens to village fields.

Private Gardens and Homes

A marquee party at home gives complete privacy and control. It suits smaller gatherings and offers the convenience of familiar surroundings. Before committing, check the space, access points and distance from neighbours if you expect loud music.

Farms and Rural Land

Farms across Wiltshire often welcome events and provide the space needed for medium to large gatherings. These settings also work well with traditional canvas marquees, which naturally match rural scenery.

Country Homes and Estates

Many event organisers choose open lawns, estate grounds or private land rentals. These settings give a sense of occasion without using indoor rooms.

For more ideas, you can explore where you can host a marquee wedding in Wiltshire, as the same locations often work perfectly for parties too.

Ground Suitability Checklist

Use this quick list when assessing a potential site:

• Is the ground fairly level?
  • Can vehicles access the site without difficulty?
  • Is there space for catering tents and lavatories?
  • Is there parking for guests?
  • Are there any underground cables or overhead lines?
  • Is the area prone to flooding or poor drainage?

A professional site visit can answer these questions early and reduce surprises later.

Step 2: Choose the Style of Marquee

Different occasions call for different structures. Wiltshire’s varied landscapes work with a wide range of marquee styles, each offering its own atmosphere.

Traditional Canvas Marquees

These handcrafted structures are ideal for garden parties, rustic celebrations and summer evenings. Their warm character works beautifully in the countryside. Explore options through the traditional marquees collection.

Pavilions and Frame Tents

If your event requires zoned areas, a dance floor, catering space or weather flexibility, a pavilion or frame tent is an excellent option. These structures handle uneven ground well and offer clean lines for more modern styling. More information is available through pavilions and frame tents.

What Size Marquee Do You Need?

The right size depends on guest numbers, seating style and whether you want separate areas for dining, dancing or entertainment. A useful starting point is the guidance at what size marquee you need for a Wiltshire event, which applies equally to parties.

Step 3: Understand Your Budget and Key Costs

Marquee parties are flexible because you only pay for what you choose. Costs will depend on the size of the marquee, style of structure, flooring, lighting and any extras you add.

To help you plan, these are the most common cost factors:

• Size and style of marquee
  • Flooring, matting and walkways
  • Lighting and décor
  • Heating for cooler months
  • Furniture, bars and lounge areas
  • Power and generator hire
  • Catering tents
  • Luxury lavatories

A detailed breakdown of local pricing is available at how much it costs to hire a marquee in Wiltshire.

Sample Budget Tiers

These are rough brackets to help early decision making:

Low budget:
Basic flooring, minimal décor, simple lighting, smaller marquee.

Medium budget:
Full flooring, dining furniture, bar area, good lighting and heating.

Higher budget:
Larger structure, bespoke lighting, luxury furniture, lounge areas, premium décor.

Step 4: Check Permissions, Licences and Insurance

Most marquee parties in Wiltshire require only simple permissions, but it is important to understand what applies to your event.

Do You Need a Licence?

Wiltshire Council manages the rules for events involving alcohol, late-night music or large crowds. If you plan to serve or sell alcohol or play amplified music, you may need a Temporary Event Notice (TEN).

More information can be found on the Wiltshire Council TENs page:
https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/1929/Temporary-Event-Notice-TEN

Is Planning Permission Required?

If your marquee is in place for fewer than twenty eight days, planning permission is rarely needed.

Insurance Considerations

Any reputable marquee company should hold public liability insurance and provide safety documentation. You can learn more about the company’s background and reliability through about us.

Step 5: Build Your Marquee Party Planning Timeline

A strong timeline makes the process more manageable. Wiltshire’s event season typically peaks between April and September, so booking early is essential.

6–12 Months Before

• Choose your date
  • Shortlist marquee structures
  • Book your marquee supplier
  • Secure your location or land hire
  • Begin researching catering and entertainment

3 Months Before

• Confirm party layout and furniture
  • Finalise menu with caterers
  • Arrange lighting, décor and flooring
  • Book lavatories and generators
  • Check permits if alcohol or late music is planned

6 Weeks Before

• Confirm guest numbers
  • Finalise any additional tents
  • Create a wet-weather plan
  • Arrange parking and signage

1 Week Before

• Walk through the site
  • Confirm delivery timings
  • Double-check power requirements
  • Reconfirm contractor arrival times

Step 6: Plan the Layout, Décor and Atmosphere

Marquees allow you to design an atmosphere that suits your event theme, from chic cocktail evenings to relaxed family gatherings.

Flooring and Heating

Proper flooring and heating are essential for comfort. Matting or hard flooring protects against damp ground, while heaters help if your event runs into the evening.

Lighting Ideas

Combine functional lighting with accent lighting to create depth. Options include festoon lights, uplighting, chandeliers or simple warm lighting for relaxed settings.

Catering Layout

Catering tents are typically placed behind the main marquee with easy access for servers. Discuss your equipment needs early, especially if your caterer requires power, refrigeration or preparation space.

For general event support, browse the full range of services.

Step 7: Consider Sustainability and Accessibility

Many Wiltshire hosts want to minimise their environmental impact and ensure all guests can participate comfortably.

Sustainable Ideas

• Use local caterers to reduce travel emissions
  • Choose reusable or compostable tableware
  • Opt for LED lighting
  • Hire décor rather than buying single-use pieces

Accessibility Considerations

• Firm flooring for wheelchair access
  • Clear pathways from parking
  • Accessible lavatory options
  • Seating areas for elderly guests

These small adjustments make the event welcoming and practical.

Step 8: Prepare for Wiltshire Weather

Weather is a common concern, but marquees cope well with seasonal changes when planned correctly.

Wet-Weather Planning

• Raised flooring or matting
  • Covered walkways
  • Extra heating for cold evenings
  • Secure sidewalls for wind protection

Hot-Weather Planning

• Ventilated sidewalls
  • Shaded chill-out areas
  • Fans for air movement
  • Hydration stations

Although weather is unpredictable, preparing both options ensures the event feels comfortable regardless of conditions.

Step 9: Coordinate Supplier Timings and Logistics

A smooth event relies on well-coordinated suppliers. Most marquee companies, caterers and entertainment teams in Wiltshire are familiar with rural access, but it is important to confirm timings.

Key Questions to Ask Suppliers

• When will you arrive and depart?
  • What are your power requirements?
  • Do you need lighting or shelter when setting up?
  • Do you have PAT-tested equipment?
  • Do you carry insurance?

A simple written schedule helps everyone stay aligned, particularly on sites with limited parking or narrow lanes.

Step 10: Final Checks Before the Event

Use this quick marquee planning checklist to keep everything on track:

• Confirm ground conditions
  • Double-check generator capacity
  • Walk through the lighting plan
  • Review emergency exits
  • Ensure accessibility arrangements
  • Test power for entertainment
  • Reconfirm caterer timings
  • Prepare your décor in labelled boxes

These final steps help prevent last-minute stress and ensure the party runs smoothly.

Ready to Plan Your Marquee Party in Wiltshire?