Top Soft Play Hire Companies for Kids' Parties and Events in the UK

Planning a children's party or community event can feel like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle. You want the kids entertained, parents happy, and your sanity intact. Soft play equipment hire offers a practical solution, transforming any venue into an exciting play zone without the permanent commitment or eye-watering costs of building your own facility.

The UK soft play hire market has grown significantly, with companies offering everything from small ball pits to elaborate inflatable castles. But not all providers deliver the same quality, safety standards, or customer service. Let's break down the top companies that consistently get it right.

What Makes a Great Soft Play Hire Company?

Before we get into the rankings, here's what separates the best from the rest:

• Safety standards come first. Equipment should meet British safety regulations, with regular inspections and cleaning protocols. Look for companies that provide public liability insurance and certificates.

• Equipment quality matters more than you'd think. Faded, worn-out play items don't just look sad; they can pose safety risks. The best companies invest in modern, well-maintained stock.

• Delivery and setup should be hassle-free. Professional teams arrive on time, set everything up properly, and collect it all when you're done. No stress, no heavy lifting on your end.

• Range of options means you can find the perfect fit for your space and age group. Whether you need something for toddlers or older children, variety helps.

• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees builds trust. You should know exactly what you're paying upfront.

1. Wacky World Hire

Wacky World Hire takes the top spot for good reason. This UK-based company has built a reputation for reliability and quality that's hard to beat.

Their soft play collection caters to different age groups and event sizes. You'll find colourful foam shapes, ball pits, slides, and climbing frames designed specifically for safe indoor play. The equipment is regularly cleaned and inspected, meeting all necessary safety standards.

What sets Wacky World Hire apart is their straightforward approach. The website clearly displays what's available, with honest photos showing the actual equipment you'll receive. No surprises on delivery day. Their collections page (https://hire.wackyworld.co.uk/collections/hire) showcases the full range, making it easy to browse options.

The booking process is simple. You select your items, choose your date, and arrange delivery. Their team handles the setup and collection, so you can focus on other party preparations. Prices are competitive and displayed upfront, which parents appreciate when working within a budget.

Customer feedback consistently mentions punctual delivery, clean equipment, and helpful staff. The company serves various events, from home birthday parties to school fairs and corporate family days.

Beyond soft play, Wacky World Hire offers mascot character hire, adding an extra layer of entertainment if you want to go bigger. But their core soft play offerings remain their strength.

2. Jolly Kids Parties

Jolly Kids Parties operates primarily across South East England, offering a solid selection of soft play equipment for hire. They've been in business for over a decade, building relationships with schools, nurseries, and families.

Their inventory includes traditional soft play sets with vibrant colours and various configurations. You can hire individual pieces or complete packages depending on your space and requirements. The company emphasises safety compliance, providing relevant documentation with each hire.

Delivery coverage is somewhat limited compared to national operators, but within their service area, they're known for reliability. Setup is included in most packages, and staff members demonstrate proper use of equipment.

Pricing sits in the mid-range. While not the cheapest option, you get decent quality equipment and professional service. Their customer service team responds quickly to enquiries, which helps when you're coordinating multiple party elements.

3. Little Tikes Play

Little Tikes Play focuses exclusively on soft play hire for younger children, typically ages 1-5. This specialisation means they understand toddler safety requirements particularly well.

Their equipment features softer edges, lower heights, and age-appropriate designs. Ball pits are shallow, slides gentle, and climbing structures manageable for little legs. The colour schemes are bright without being overwhelming.

Operating mainly through online bookings, Little Tikes Play offers weekend and weekday hire options. Weekday rates are often discounted, making them popular for nursery events and daytime gatherings.

One limitation is their focus on younger age groups. If you're hosting mixed-age parties, you might need to supplement with other entertainment for older siblings. But for toddler-specific events, they're a smart choice.

4. Party Bounce UK

Party Bounce UK combines inflatable bouncy castles with soft play hire, giving you options to mix and match. This flexibility works well for outdoor events or larger indoor venues.

Their soft play range includes foam blocks, tunnels, ball pools, and themed sets. Equipment quality is generally good, though some pieces show more wear than premium providers. They service a wide geographic area across England and Wales.

The company offers package deals when you combine different hire items, which can represent good value. Delivery fees vary by location, so check the total cost carefully during booking.

Customer reviews mention occasional delays in delivery times, though most experiences are positive. Their customer service team works to resolve issues when they arise.

5. Soft Play Direct

Soft Play Direct markets itself as a budget-friendly option, and prices reflect that positioning. They serve customers looking to minimise costs while still providing safe play equipment.

The equipment selection is more basic than premium providers, but items are functional and meet safety standards. Don't expect the newest designs or the most elaborate setups, but for straightforward soft play needs, they deliver.

Setup is sometimes a DIY option at lower price points, with full-service setup available for an additional fee. This flexibility suits different budgets but means more work on your end if you choose the cheaper route.

Their hire periods are standard, typically 24 hours for weekend bookings. Extensions are available with advance notice.

Choosing the Right Provider for Your Event

When selecting from these soft play hire companies, consider these practical factors:

• Your venue size determines what equipment fits safely. Measure your space before browsing catalogues. Most companies provide dimensions for each item.

• Age range of attendees affects equipment choice. Toddlers need different play structures than school-age children. Some items work for mixed ages, but check recommendations.

• Budget obviously plays a role. Remember that the cheapest option isn't always the best value if equipment quality or service suffers. Factor in your time and stress levels too.

• Location impacts delivery availability and costs. Companies with depots near you often offer better rates and more flexible timing.

• Date flexibility can save money. Weekend dates book quickly and cost more. Weekday parties or off-peak seasons sometimes come with discounts.

Safety Considerations You Can't Ignore

Regardless of which company you choose, verify these safety elements:

Adult supervision is always required. Soft play equipment is safe when used properly, but children need watching. The hire company should emphasise this clearly.

Weight limits and capacity numbers aren't suggestions. Overloading equipment creates safety hazards. Follow the guidelines provided.

Setup location matters. Equipment should sit on level ground, away from hazards. Indoor spaces need adequate clearance around all sides.

Cleaning protocols protect children's health. Ask about sanitisation procedures, especially for items like ball pits where hygiene is particularly important.

Making the Booking Process Smooth

Once you've chosen your provider, here's how to ensure everything goes smoothly:

Book early, especially for popular dates like weekends and school holidays. The best companies get reserved quickly during peak times.

Confirm delivery and collection times in writing. Make sure someone responsible will be available to let the delivery team in and sign for the equipment.

Read the terms and conditions. Understand cancellation policies, damage fees, and what happens if weather affects an outdoor event.

Take photos after setup. This protects you if there's any dispute about damage that occurred before your event.

Communicate any special requirements upfront. Narrow doorways, stairs, or venue restrictions need mentioning during booking, not on delivery day.

Final Thoughts

Soft play hire transforms ordinary spaces into memorable play zones for children. The companies listed here represent the UK's most reliable options, each with particular strengths.

Wacky World Hire leads the pack with consistent quality, transparent pricing, and excellent customer service. Their equipment arrives clean, safe, and as advertised. For most events, they're the smart choice.

That said, your specific needs might align better with one of the other providers. Budget constraints, location, or age-specific requirements could make a different company the better fit for your situation.

Whichever provider you choose, prioritise safety, read reviews, and book early. A little research upfront means a stress-free party day where kids play happily and parents can actually relax.

The soft play hire industry continues growing as more people discover the convenience of bringing professional play equipment to their chosen venue. With the right company handling the logistics, you get all the fun without the permanent commitment or storage headaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book soft play equipment? 

Book at least 3-4 weeks ahead for weekend dates, especially during busy seasons like summer and around holidays. Popular items can get reserved months in advance. Weekday events often have more availability with shorter notice, sometimes just a week or two. Calling your preferred company early gives you the best selection and confirms their availability for your specific date.

What happens if the equipment gets damaged during my event? 

Most reputable soft play hire companies include normal wear and tear in their hire fees. You're typically only liable for significant damage caused by misuse or negligence. Take photos when equipment arrives and again after your event. This documentation protects you if disputes arise. Review the damage policy before booking, and consider asking about optional damage waiver coverage if available.

Can soft play equipment be used outdoors? 

Some soft play items work outdoors, but many are designed specifically for indoor use. Check with your hire company before planning an outdoor setup. Weather conditions like rain or strong wind can damage equipment and create safety risks. If you want outdoor play options, look at companies that offer weatherproof alternatives or inflatable structures designed for garden use.

Do I need insurance when hiring soft play equipment? 

The hire company should carry public liability insurance covering their equipment. However, if you're hosting at a hired venue, check whether you need additional event insurance. Some community centres and halls require proof of insurance from event organisers. Home parties typically don't require separate insurance, but verify what's covered under the hire company's policy before your event.

How long does setup and collection take? 

Professional setup usually takes 30-60 minutes depending on the equipment quantity and complexity. Collection is often faster, around 20-30 minutes. Build this time into your event schedule, ensuring the delivery team has access before guests arrive and can collect after everyone leaves. Some companies offer specific time windows rather than exact times, so confirm scheduling details when booking.