Frequently Asked Questions - Coleraine Castles
Planning a party or community event with Coleraine Castles? We’ve pulled together some of the most common questions customers ask when booking our bouncy castles, inflatable obstacle courses, disco domes, and party extras. Whether you’re hiring for a birthday bash in Coleraine, a school fun day in Portrush, or a corporate event in Ballymoney, you’ll find helpful information right here.
We want your hire experience to be smooth, safe, and stress-free. From bad weather to setup access, from last-minute bookings to safety rules – it’s all covered below. If you can’t find the answer you need, just navigate to your chosen product and book online, or contact us and we’ll be happy to help.
When can your bouncy castles be booked?
Our inflatables are available for hire 365 days a year. During peak season, which runs from March to September, we get quite busy, so it’s best to book early to secure your preferred date.
What happens if there is rain or adverse weather?
If the weather is too severe on the day of your booking, you may cancel by calling us before 10 am or at least 2 hours before the scheduled setup time, whichever is earlier. Safety is our priority, and we understand that the weather can be unpredictable.
How much space do I need for an inflatable?
The space required will depend on the size of the inflatable you choose. In addition to the dimensions of the inflatable, you will need to allow about 4 feet of additional space on each side and front and back for safety and ease of access.
What if I need to cancel my booking?
You can cancel at any time up to 6 pm the day before the inflatable is due to be delivered. If you cancel after this time, you may be liable for a £25 fee to cover costs such as staff, fuel, and other expenses.
Can I make a last-minute booking for today?
Yes, you can make a same-day booking as long as we have availability. However, our online booking system does not support same-day bookings, so please call us on 07454170033 to arrange it.
Are you insured? Who is liable if an injury occurs?
We have £10 million of public liability insurance to cover setup faults or equipment issues. However, as per our terms and conditions, once the inflatable is in your care, you are responsible for its safe use. We cannot be held liable for any injuries that occur due to misuse. It’s important to follow the provided safety instructions to keep everyone safe.
What if there is no electricity on-site or within 30 metres?
No worries! We offer a 6KVA Silent Diesel Generator for hire at £25 per day. It can power up to three inflatables and even a music system, making it ideal for outdoor locations with limited electricity access.
What kind of access is required for delivery?
We generally require access through a standard door opening to deliver our inflatables. Please ensure there is enough space, and if you have any concerns, feel free to contact us for clarification.
Can I hire a bouncy castle for an indoor event?
Absolutely! Our inflatables can be set up indoors, but it’s important to check the ceiling height of your venue to make sure it can accommodate the inflatable. If you’re unsure, please contact us, and we’ll help you determine if it’s suitable.
Are your inflatables safe?
Yes, safety is our top priority. We use RCD devices, conduct pre-event safety checks, and ensure our equipment is regularly inspected to guarantee a safe and enjoyable experience for all. We comply with all safety standards to ensure that your event is not only fun but also secure.
Can I collect the inflatable myself?
No, Coleraine Castles only provides inflatables to venues that our team can deliver and set up. Our insurance does not allow customers to transport or set up equipment themselves. All of our staff members have completed a comprehensive four-weekend training course to ensure safe delivery, setup, and takedown.
What payment options do you offer?
We accept cash on delivery, bank transfer, and online card payments via our secure booking system. You’ll receive full payment instructions during the booking process. In some cases, a deposit may be required to secure your date, particularly for premium inflatables or packages.
Do you offer any weekend deals or special offers?
Yes! Our weekend special allows you to keep your inflatable from Friday through to Monday for the price of a single-day hire. This offer is subject to availability and applies to most areas we cover. It’s a great option if you’re planning a full weekend of celebrations.
Do I need to supervise the inflatable during use?
Yes. A responsible adult must supervise the inflatable at all times while it is in use. This helps ensure children are using it safely, and that no overcrowding or misuse occurs. We provide clear safety instructions on delivery and are happy to explain how to monitor activity.
Are your inflatables suitable for all age groups?
Most of our inflatables are designed for children, but we also offer options suitable for teenagers and adults, including our Obstacle Courses, Sumo Suits, and Inflatable Pubs and Nightclubs. Always check the age suitability in the product description or ask if you’re unsure.
Can inflatables be used in the rain?
Many of our inflatables come with built-in shower covers, so they can still be used during light rain. However, for safety reasons, inflatables should not be used during heavy rain, strong winds, or thunderstorms. If the weather is too severe, you may cancel your booking by 10am on the day or at least 2 hours before setup.
Can I hire more than one inflatable for the same event?
Yes! You’re welcome to book multiple inflatables for the same event. Many customers choose to combine a Bouncy Castle with a Disco Dome, Demolition Zone, or Water Slide. We also offer bundle deals and party packages – ask us about available discounts when booking.
What time will my inflatable be delivered and collected?
We typically deliver inflatables between 7:00 am and 12:00 pm, depending on the route and your location. Collection usually happens in the early evening, though exact times can vary. We will confirm your estimated delivery and collection times the night before your booking.
Are the inflatables cleaned between hires?
Yes. Every inflatable is fully cleaned and sanitised before each hire. We take cleanliness seriously and make sure that all equipment is in top condition, both for safety and hygiene. You can book with confidence knowing your inflatable will arrive fresh and ready to go.
What kind of delivery access is required?
We need clear, unobstructed access to your setup area. Most inflatables can be delivered through a standard doorway, but please let us know if there are stairs, tight corners, gravel paths, or narrow gates. This helps us ensure smooth delivery and setup.
Do inflatables need to be supervised?
Yes – every inflatable and all other equipment (including soft play) must be supervised by a responsible adult over the age of 18 at all times. Supervision helps keep children safe and ensures the equipment is used properly.
Can we move the inflatable after it's been set up?
No, once installed, inflatables must stay exactly where our team positioned and secured them. This ensures they remain safe and stable throughout your hire period.
Can children eat or drink while using the inflatable?
For safety and hygiene reasons, food and drinks are not allowed on any inflatable. This helps to prevent choking and avoids mess or damage to the equipment.
What should children remove before using the inflatable?
Children should take off shoes, badges, and jewellery (like large earrings or necklaces) before entering. We also recommend removing glasses, plastic hairbands, and anything else that could hurt them or others. Adults must remove high heels if stepping on safety mats.
How many children can use the inflatable at once?
This depends on the inflatable’s size and the age of the children. Follow the guidance printed on the front of the inflatable – usually near the step – to avoid overcrowding.
Can we bring toys or balloons onto the inflatable?
No hard, sharp, or large items should be taken onto inflatables, as they pose safety risks. Balloons should also be kept off inflatables, as burst balloons and strings can be dangerous for smaller children.
Can we use face paint, silly string, or other party decorations?
Please keep items like face paint, coloured streamers, henna, party poppers, and silly string away from all equipment. These products can cause permanent staining, and you may be liable for cleaning or damage costs.
Can we spray water on the inflatable?
No – spraying or pouring water onto the inflatable is strictly not allowed. It can make the surface dangerously slippery, damage the materials, and make the unit unusable for future bookings. If an inflatable is deliberately soaked, you may be charged double your hire fee.
Can we use the inflatable in bad weather?
Inflatables must not be used in wind speeds or gusts over 24mph, during thunderstorms, or in heavy rain. For safety, remove children from the inflatable if conditions change.
Are smoking or pets allowed near the inflatable?
Smoking, barbecues, glass, and pets are not permitted on or near the inflatable for health and safety reasons.
Can large and small children use the inflatable together?
We advise against mixing children of different sizes, as it increases the risk of injury. Try to group children by age and size for safer bouncing.
Can children climb on the sides or walls?
No – climbing, hanging, or sitting on inflatable walls or slide sides is unsafe and not allowed. Children must use slides one at a time, feet first, in a seated position.
Where should safety mats go?
Safety mats should stay exactly where our team positioned them, especially at slide exits. They must not be moved during your hire period.
Can children bounce on the front step of the inflatable?
No – the step is only for getting on and off. It’s not designed for bouncing and must be kept clear.
Are inflatables safe for people with back or neck problems?
Anyone with a history of back or neck injuries should not use the inflatable for health and safety reasons.
What should we do if it rains during the party?
Take all children off the inflatable and cover the blower with a table or similar object to keep it dry. Do not turn the blower off. Once the rain has stopped, towel-dry the entrance and exit before allowing children back on.
Can we switch off the blower?
If the inflatable is not being used for a while, you can turn the blower off at the mains. But if multiple blowers are connected to a single extension lead, only plug in one at a time during re-inflation.
What if the blower stops working?
Immediately remove all children and turn the blower off. Wait a minute or two, then try turning it back on. If it doesn’t restart, please call us straight away for assistance.
What should I do if the equipment fails?
Contact us immediately if you experience any issues with the equipment. Don’t try to fix it yourself.
What if someone is injured?
If an accident happens that needs medical treatment, you must inform us straight away. Treatment must be sought within two hours, and a full report of what happened will be required.
What products do you offer for hire?
Coleraine Castles offers a wide range of inflatables and party extras for every type of event. Our products include Bouncy Castles, Obstacle Courses, Water Slides, Disco Domes, Sumo Suits, Inflatable Pubs and Nightclubs, Gazebos, Marquees, and Canopy Tents, Demolition Zones, and much more. Whether you are planning a birthday party, community fun day, or corporate event, we have the perfect solution to keep your guests entertained.
What areas do you deliver to?
We serve a wide range of locations across Northern Ireland, including Coleraine, Portrush, Portstewart, Ballymoney, Limavady, Ballycastle, Ballymena, Garvagh, and beyond. If you’re unsure whether we deliver to your area, please contact us!