Planning a birthday party your child will remember forever
There’s nothing quite like the excitement of a bouncy castle turning up at your doorstep. For parents across South and West Wales, it’s become the go-to way to keep the kids entertained, burn off energy, and add instant fun to the day. But to make sure everything goes smoothly, a bit of planning goes a long way.
Here’s our local guide to planning the perfect children’s birthday party with a bouncy castle — whether you’re in Swansea, Bridgend, Carmarthen, or Pembrokeshire.
1. Choose the right bouncy castle for your child’s age
The first thing to think about is age and theme.
For toddlers and under-5s, smaller castles with soft play or ball pits work best. They’re lower to the ground and provide extra padding for safety.
For ages 5–10, go for a medium-sized castle (around 12x15ft) with a theme your child loves — think unicorns, dinosaurs, pirates, or superheroes.
Older children and mixed-age groups love combo castles or obstacle courses. They add variety and keep everyone moving.
💡 Tip: When booking, always check the castle’s size, recommended age group, and any height limits. A good local hire company will guide you based on your garden space and guest list.
2. Check your space and surface
Before you book, grab a quick tape measure and check where the castle will go.
You’ll need:
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Around 15ft x 15ft of flat, clear space for a medium castle.
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At least 3ft of clearance around the edges.
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6ft at the front for safe entry and exit.
Bouncy castles can go on grass, artificial turf, or indoors (community halls are ideal if you’re worried about Welsh weather). For hard surfaces like patios or tarmac, the hire team can use weighted sandbags or mats.
3. Time your booking right
In South and West Wales, weekends from May to September get booked up quickly — especially for outdoor setups. Try to reserve your date 3–4 weeks in advance for peace of mind.
If you’re hiring for a morning party, ask if setup can be done early so you can decorate before guests arrive. Most companies will deliver, set up, and collect on the same day.
🕓 Pro tip: Afternoon parties (12–4pm) are ideal — the grass is usually drier, and kids won’t be too tired for a jump!
4. Keep safety simple
Safety is key — and easy to manage with a few simple steps:
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Always have an adult supervising while children are bouncing.
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Make sure only similar age groups play at the same time.
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No shoes, food, or drinks on the inflatable.
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Keep an eye on weather conditions — if it’s too windy (over 24mph), it’s best to pause use.
A reputable local hire company will have PIPA-tested equipment and public liability insurance. Don’t be afraid to ask to see the safety certificate — it’s a normal request and shows you’re booking with care.
5. Add some extra fun
If you really want to make your garden party stand out, consider adding:
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Soft play or a ball pit for younger siblings.
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Garden games like giant Jenga or Connect 4.
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Bubble machines or foam blasters for summer fun.
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A themed snack table — matching your castle’s colours or characters.
Parents often say it’s these little touches that turn a great party into a magical one.
6. Have a rainy-day backup plan
Let’s be honest — Welsh weather can change in five minutes!
If your garden looks like it might get too wet, it’s worth having a backup venue in mind. Many community halls in South and West Wales (like those in Llanelli, Neath, or Haverfordwest) allow indoor inflatables.
Alternatively, opt for a rain cover or mini marquee if you’re sticking with an outdoor setup.
7. Choose a trusted local hire company
Finally, make sure you hire from a fully insured, safety-tested local company that knows the area and conditions. Local teams understand the terrain, access routes, and even how the coastal winds can affect setup near the beaches!
Hiring locally also means faster delivery, friendlier service, and support if you need help on the day. Contact Fun Times for your next party!
Final thoughts
A bouncy castle isn’t just an inflatable — it’s the centrepiece of your child’s special day. With the right planning and a trusted local supplier, you’ll have a stress-free, joy-filled celebration that everyone remembers.
So whether you’re in Carmarthenshire, Swansea, or Pembrokeshire, start your party planning early, measure your space, and get ready to see those huge smiles when the castle inflates!
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