Planning a party at a pub: what to sort out before you book the function room

Birthdays, anniversaries, engagements, works dos: a pub is a natural place for all of them. The bar is right there, nobody has to cook or wash up, and the drinks are a lot cheaper than at a hotel. Our New Mills bar is a party venue as much as a pub, so we get asked about parties a lot. Here’s what helps to know before you get in touch.

1. Your date, and a back-up

Fridays and Saturdays go first, especially around Christmas and in the summer. If you can be flexible, give us a second date as well. A Thursday or Sunday do can be just as good a night.

2. Roughly how many are coming

You don’t need an exact number at the start, but a rough idea matters. It tells us how best to set the room up. It’s easy to underestimate: once word gets round, plus-ones and late additions add up, so count generously.

3. What kind of do it is

A sixtieth with the family is different to a work leaving do, and both are different to a meeting with a projector. Tell us what you have in mind and who’s coming, and we can tell you what will work.

4. Music and entertainment

Are you bringing a playlist, a DJ or a band? Let us know when you first ask, so we can talk through what’s possible in the room.

5. Food

If you want food at your party, mention it when you get in touch, and we’ll talk you through the options.

6. Getting there and getting home

Our New Mills bar has free parking, which helps the drivers. For everyone else, it’s worth sorting taxis in advance on a busy night, or checking the last train from Furness Vale station if guests are coming by rail.

7. Who to ring on the day

Pick one person as the contact for us. It saves a lot of “I thought you were sorting that”.

Once you’ve got those in mind, you’re ready to ask. Every do is different, so we’ll come back to you with what we can do and the price. You can send your details on our party venue page.