Set-up and access guide – what you need to know before hiring

To make sure your bouncy castle or inflatable can be delivered and set up safely, it is important to check that we can access your garden or venue without any difficulties. This guide explains what we need on the day, what counts as good access, and what to do if you think your space may be a tight fit. Our aim is to make your hire as simple and stress-free as possible, so a few quick checks beforehand can help everything run smoothly.

Access width required

Most of our inflatables need at least 3 ft (about 1 metre) of clear access to get from the van to your set-up area. This includes alleyways, side paths, gates and passageways. Some of our larger inflatables will need more space, and we will advise you during booking if this applies to your chosen item. If you are unsure whether your access is wide enough, please contact us before booking so we can confirm.

Steps, slopes and tight corners

We can take an inflatable up one or two steps without any trouble, but we cannot carry them up a full staircase. Inflatable units are heavy and need to remain on safe, level ground during transport. If your garden has several steps, a steep incline or a narrow turn, let us know before the hire date so we can check whether the route is suitable.

Clear pathways for delivery

Please make sure the access route is clear before we arrive. This includes removing bins, garden toys, bikes, plant pots and anything else that may obstruct the path. We also recommend checking for overgrown bushes or low branches that may catch on the inflatable as it is being transported. Clear access makes delivery faster and safer for both your event and our team.

Space required in your garden or venue

In addition to access width, it is important to check that your set-up area is large enough for the inflatable, the blower and the safety mats. Each inflatable needs a safe border around it. You will find the recommended space on each product page in our Bouncy Castles, Bounce & Slide Bouncy Castle Combos and Assault Courses categories. If you are unsure whether your garden or hall is big enough, we are happy to advise.

Ground conditions

Most inflatables need to be installed on grass so that we can safely anchor them. Grass should be level and free from sharp objects. Some inflatables can be used on hard surfaces such as concrete or tarmac, but they require additional securing equipment, which must be arranged in advance. Please check with us before booking if you are planning to use a hardstanding area.

Indoor access considerations

If you are hiring for an indoor venue such as a hall or community centre, please check the following:

• Doorways must be wide enough for equipment to pass through
• There should be no large steps at the entrance
• You must confirm the ceiling height if hiring from our Indoor Low Height Inflatables range
• Power points should be accessible and close to the set-up area

If the hall has multiple rooms or corridors, let us know the route so we can confirm it is suitable.

Power access

Your inflatable will need one standard plug socket within a reasonable distance of the set-up area. We bring an extension lead, and all electrical equipment is PAT tested for safety. If the socket is far away, or if the inflatable is set up in a field or remote location, you may need a generator. Extension leads cannot be taken across roads or unsafe walkways. You can read more about this in our Power Requirements Guide.

What to do if access may be a problem

If you think access could be an issue due to narrow gates, steps, steep slopes or tight gaps, please Contact Us before booking. We are always happy to look at photos or talk through the layout with you. It is much better to check in advance so we can ensure a smooth delivery on the day.

With a little preparation, most gardens and venues are perfectly suitable for our inflatables. By checking access, ground conditions and power in advance, you can enjoy a simple and trouble-free hire experience with Marshall’s Castles.