Top 15 Fun Things to Hire for a Wedding (2025 Guide)

Introduction: Making Your Wedding Unforgettable

Weddings in the UK are evolving — and fast. No longer are couples sticking rigidly to traditional formats. Today’s modern weddings are brimming with personality, interactive experiences, and fun-filled features that delight guests of all ages. From rustic barn celebrations in the Cotswolds to sleek city centre venues in Preston Uk, couples are looking for ways to surprise, entertain, and engage their guests from start to finish.

Whether you're planning a rustic countryside wedding or a modern venue bash, adding a few fun hire elements can bring your day to life — for both kids and adults. This guide lists 15 of the most exciting, memorable, and entertaining hire ideas for UK weddings in 2025, perfect for making your special day one to remember.

Top 15 Fun Things to Hire for a Wedding (UK Edition)

1. Photo Booths with Props

A timeless favourite, photo booths are a sure-fire way to keep guests entertained. With silly hats, feather boas, oversized glasses, and themed backdrops, they allow friends and family to let loose and capture hilarious snapshots. Many companies now offer custom photo strips with your names and wedding date — making for a quirky keepsake. It's an easy win that never gets old.

2. Silent Disco Equipment

Ideal for venues with noise restrictions, a silent disco lets guests party into the night without disturbing the neighbours. Each person receives wireless headphones, and multiple music channels can cater to different tastes — from pop classics to dance anthems. It’s fun, interactive, and completely unique. Plus, it makes for brilliant videos when guests are all dancing to different rhythms!

3. Bouncy Castle for Adults

Yes, really — bouncy castles aren’t just for the kids anymore. Hiring an adult-sized inflatable is a nostalgic way to get everyone jumping for joy. Whether it’s a boho wedding in a garden or a summer do in a field, this unexpected addition always gets a cheer.
Wacky World Hire offers wedding-appropriate adult inflatables that are both safe and stylish, blending in beautifully with your big day while still offering bags of fun.

4. Inflatable Gladiator Duel or Meltdown Game

These energetic inflatable games are perfect for keeping guests active and laughing. Whether it’s the gladiator duel — where two players balance and battle with foam batons — or the spinning arms of the Meltdown game, these interactive activities encourage friendly competition.

Wacky World Hire offers wedding-safe versions of these crowd favourites, designed with safety and fun in mind, making them a hit at any outdoor celebration.

5. Giant Garden Games (Jenga, Connect 4, Chess)

Add a touch of oversized charm to your wedding reception with giant garden games. Perfect during the drinks reception or cocktail hour, these classic games break the ice, get guests mingling, and keep everyone entertained while you’re off having your photos taken. Plus, they’re easy to set up and suitable for all ages.

6. Retro Arcade Machines or Gaming Zones

Bring a touch of nostalgia to your wedding with vintage arcade games. From Pac-Man and Space Invaders to modern racing simulators, gaming zones cater to both adults and kids. Whether you go full-on 80s with neon lights or mix consoles into your chill-out area, gaming always draws a crowd — especially during the quieter moments of the day.

7. Magic Mirror Selfie Station

A stylish upgrade to the traditional photo booth, the Magic Mirror adds a classy, interactive touch. The full-length mirror talks to guests, offers fun animations, and lets them snap high-quality selfies. Custom overlays, instant printing, and glamorous lighting make this a hit at more formal or themed weddings.

8. Outdoor Cinema Hire

As dusk settles, treat your guests to an alfresco movie experience. Outdoor cinemas are perfect for summer weddings and work brilliantly as a winding-down activity after dancing. Think beanbags, popcorn, fairy lights, and a film that means something special to you. It's romantic, unique, and a total vibe.

9. Food & Drink Carts

Interactive food stations are a delicious way to elevate your catering. From traditional ice cream tricycles and popcorn carts to Prosecco vans and sweet stalls, these mini set-ups keep the snacks flowing and the queues short. They're a hit with guests and make for great photos too — who doesn’t love cotton candy in a tux?

10. Climbing Wall or Base Jumper

Inject some adrenaline into your day with a climbing wall or inflatable base jumper — ideal for festival-style or outdoor weddings. It’s an unexpected thrill for your guests and perfect for active families or adventurous couples.
Wacky World Hire provides professional, wedding-safe climbing installations that wow crowds and create unforgettable moments.

11. Live Sketch Artist or Caricature Hire

Swap traditional wedding favours for personal artwork. A live sketch artist or caricaturist offers guests one-of-a-kind keepsakes they’ll treasure forever. It’s a brilliant way to fill downtime during dinner or cocktail hour, and the results often have everyone in stitches.

12. Petting Zoo or Mini Animal Experience

Especially fun for countryside weddings or family-oriented guest lists, a mini petting zoo brings smiles to every age. From bunnies and lambs to alpacas and mini ponies, these gentle creatures add a wholesome, Instagram-worthy feature to your big day.

13. Mobile Axe Throwing or Archery

Perfect for outdoorsy or festival-themed weddings, axe throwing or archery adds a quirky, rustic edge to your entertainment. Safe, supervised, and thrilling — this trend is growing fast in UK weddings. With trained staff and appropriate gear, it’s suitable for brave beginners and seasoned pros alike.

14. Velcro Wall or Unclimbable Ladder Challenge

Two laugh-out-loud options for energetic wedding guests. The Velcro wall has guests donning a sticky suit before launching themselves onto the inflatable — often with hilarious poses. The Unclimbable Ladder Challenge, meanwhile, is as tricky as it sounds and creates plenty of memorable moments.
Wacky World Hire is a go-to provider for interactive inflatable games like these, ensuring a safe, high-quality setup tailored for weddings.

15. Bubble or Foam Machines for the Dance Floor

Want to elevate your first dance or surprise the little ones? Bubble machines create magical scenes under fairy lights, while foam machines bring a festival edge to any dance floor. They’re especially effective at beachside or summer garden weddings, making the atmosphere even more unforgettable.

Wedding Entertainment for All Ages

When planning your wedding entertainment, think about the full guest list — from toddlers to grandparents. The best weddings cater to everyone, with varied activities and spaces to explore. Create multiple zones:

• A kids’ play area with supervised games or inflatables

• A chill-out lounge for older guests or those who want a breather

• An active games section with interactive inflatables, dance areas or competitions
  
  

By thinking broadly, you ensure everyone feels included and engaged throughout the day and night.

Where to Hire Wedding Entertainment in the UK

Where you source your entertainment can make a big difference. Look for local suppliers with strong reviews, proper insurance, and experience with weddings specifically. A well-established vendor will coordinate timings with your venue and offer setup/pack-down options that don’t interfere with your schedule.

If you're planning a wedding in or around Preston, Wacky World Hire supplies premium inflatable games and bouncy castles suitable for weddings and large events. Their range includes adult inflatables, interactive challenges, and show-stopping features that truly wow guests.

Final Tips for Choosing the Right Wedding Entertainment

Before booking, here are a few practical things to keep in mind:

• Space and Venue Permissions
   Ensure your venue can accommodate outdoor installations, inflatables, or mobile setups. Double-check dimensions and access points.
  

• Setup and Delivery Timings
   Coordinate arrival and collection times with your planner or venue. Early setup is often preferable, especially if it avoids guest disruption.
  

• Insurance and Supervision
   Always use vendors who are fully insured and can provide staff or attendants if needed — especially for more physical activities.
  

• Wet Weather Backups
  The great British weather is unpredictable. Opt for entertainment options with indoor adaptability or hire backup cover such as marquees or gazebos.
  
  

Bonus: DIY Entertainment Ideas (if you’re on a budget)

If you're working to a tighter budget, don’t worry — you can still add a personal and playful touch with a few DIY options:

• Lawn Games: Think DIY ring toss, croquet or bean bag toss
  

• Guest Bingo: Custom cards featuring people to find, like "someone who travelled over 100 miles"
  

• Playlist Party: Ask guests to submit one song for the evening playlist in advance
  
  

Simple touches like these still encourage laughter, conversation, and memorable moments — without breaking the bank.

Also Read: - Top cool things to hire for parties 

Conclusion

No matter your wedding size or style, adding a dose of fun to your big day ensures it’s unforgettable for both you and your guests. From interactive inflatables to nostalgic games and surprise activities, today’s weddings are all about creating moments that reflect your personality as a couple.

For those in the North West — especially Preston and surrounding areas — Wacky World Hire offers a top-tier selection of inflatable games and unique wedding entertainment options designed to dazzle your guests and bring energy to your celebration.