Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our ice cream van hire services below.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially for summer weekends and weddings, which can be booked up to a year in advance. However, we do our best to accommodate short-notice requests if we have availability.
What areas do you cover?
We are based in Tameside and cover all of Greater Manchester and Cheshire, including Manchester City Centre, Salford, Trafford, Stockport, Bury, Bolton, Oldham, Rochdale, Wigan, Altrincham, Alderley Edge, Hale Barns, and Bramhall.
Do you offer vegan or allergen-free options?
Yes! We always stock a selection of fruit ice lollies which are suitable for vegans and dairy-free diets. Please let us know in advance if you have specific allergen requirements, and we will do our best to accommodate them.
What happens if it rains on the day of the event?
We serve rain or shine! Our vans provide shelter for our serving staff, and we can pull up as close to your venue entrance as possible so your guests don't get wet while collecting their ice cream.
How much space do you need for the ice cream van?
Our vans require a standard parking space length (about 6 meters) and solid ground to park on (tarmac or solid gravel is preferred over soft grass). We also need sufficient height clearance and turning space.
Is there a minimum spend or minimum number of guests?
No. We don't have a minimum spend or a minimum group size, and we try to accommodate bookings wherever we can — from small private parties to large-scale events.
Can you take last-minute bookings?
If we have availability, we're always happy to consider last-minute bookings. Get in touch and we'll let you know straight away whether we can help.
How do I get an accurate quote for my event?
The best way is to complete the Contact & Booking Form on our website. This gives us all the information we need about your event — the location, date, timings, and number of guests — so we can provide an accurate quotation.
How quickly will I hear back after making an enquiry?
We always try our best to respond with a quote the same day you get in touch.
Are you a genuinely family-run business?
Yes. Austins Ices was founded by Austin in 1986, after he spent years working alongside his own dad in the ice cream trade from the mid-1970s. 2026 marks our 40th year in business, and we're still a small, family-run operation today.
Where can I read reviews from previous customers?
You can read genuine customer reviews on our Google Business Profile and on Yell.com.