The Party Doctors – Frequently Asked Questions
Find practical answers about booking, setup, power and supervision when hiring bouncy castles, slides, soft play, and inflatable games.
We supply parties and events across our delivery area. Send us your postcode and date to confirm coverage and any delivery charge.
Booking & Setup
When should I book my inflatables?
Our bouncy castles, inflatable slides, and assault courses are popular, particularly during summer, school holidays, and bank holidays. To guarantee your preferred choice and date, we recommend booking as soon as possible. Once you’ve placed an order through our online system, and paid a booking fee, your booking is secure.
Do you accept last-minute bookings?
We do our best to accommodate urgent requests. You can book online until a few days before your event. If your party is very close, please call us directly to discuss availability.
Can your inflatables be used indoors?
Many of our items are suitable for indoor use, including halls and community centres. Ensure your venue has sufficient space and height clearance, especially for larger items such as inflatable slides and obstacle courses. Our Venues directory details which inflatables are suitable for each location so you can make an informed choice.
How do I know if a product fits my space?
Each product page lists the required setup area. Customers must check this before booking to ensure safe installation and access to the blower, ground anchors, and sides of the inflatable. It is the customers responsibility to ensure there is sufficient space for the item to be setup.
Can I hire more than one inflatable?
Yes! The Party Doctors offer multi-item hires. Mix and match bouncy castles, slides, soft play areas, or interactive games for school fun days, birthday parties, or village events. Packages are available, or you can build your own combination.
What if I need to change or cancel my booking?
We understand that plans can change. Contact us as soon as possible to reschedule or cancel. Standard terms apply, but if we cancel due to adverse weather, our Weather Guarantee gives you a full refund or credit toward a future booking.
Safety & Compliance
Are your inflatables safe for children?
We inspect and maintain the equipment, check it before use and explain the operating instructions at setup. Applicable inflatables receive annual PIPA/RPII inspections against BS EN 14960 requirements. Follow each item’s height and capacity limits and arrange responsible adult supervision throughout the hire.
What happens if the weather is bad?
For safety, we cannot set up inflatables in wind gusts of 24mph or more. We monitor forecasts closely and will contact you if conditions are unsafe. If we cancel due to weather, you’ll receive either a full refund or a credit toward a future booking. Read more about how wind can affect outdoor hires.
Do you provide insurance and risk assessments?
Yes. We carry £5m public liability insurance. See our safety documents for risk assessments and available inspection and PAT records. Ask us for the current PIPA/RPII certificate relevant to the inflatable you are hiring. Our health and safety information explains the inspection arrangements.
Do you provide staff supervision?
Most items are typically left with you for supervision by your own designated responsible adult. Staff supervision is included for Rodeo Bulls, Surf Simulators, and any activity that requires trained personnel.
Power & Equipment
What are the power requirements?
Most inflatables need a standard 13amp mains socket within 25m of the blower. Multi-blower items may require additional sockets.
Can I use a generator?
Smaller generators are not suitable for Rodeo Bulls or Surf Simulators. Large diesel generators, commonly used at marquee events, are acceptable. Generators or petrol blowers can be provided for an extra fee if mains power isn’t available.
Should I cut the grass before delivery?
We recommend leaving grass uncut for 72 hours before your hire. Freshly cut grass can block blowers and make the inflatable messy for children.
Event Planning
Do you supply schools, village fetes, and corporate events?
Yes! The Party Doctors regularly supply inflatables for schools, community events, and corporate fun days in Bedfordshire, including St Neots, Sandy, and Eaton Socon.
Can I hire multiple inflatables for larger events?
Yes. For larger parties, we’ll discuss layout, staffing, power, and safety to ensure a smooth, safe setup.
Pricing & Delivery
What’s included in the hire price?
Check the booking total for your chosen item, date and postcode. Our service includes setup and the safety equipment required for the agreed installation. Any delivery charge and selected extras, such as overnight hire, late collection or alternative power, must be included in your booking arrangements.
Do you charge for delivery?
Delivery charges depend on your location. Check your postcode via our online booking system or contact us if your area isn’t listed.
Where do you deliver?
We deliver to Bedford, St Neots, Sandy, Biggleswade, Kimbolton, Eaton Socon, Waresley, Potton, and surrounding villages. Unsure if we cover your area? Contact us and we’ll confirm.