Opening a bar is a great opportunity, but it’s not just about serving drinks. If you really want to learn how to open a bar, you need a clear plan, the right licenses, and complete control over your costs. This guide provides a practical bar checklist specifically for UK bar owners.
Whether you’re opening a pub, cocktail bar, or local bar, the basics are the same. You’ll need to understand the bar business, choose a suitable location, arrange funding, and meet the legal requirements for bar startup process in the UK.
This guide is based on tried and tested steps in the hospitality industry UK. It focuses on practical decisions that directly affect costs, licensing, and long-term profitability. If you want a clear, step by step checklist based on how bars actually operate in the UK, start here.
What Do You Need to Start a Bar Business? (Complete Checklist)
If you are thinking of starting a bar, this is a big but doable decision.
Opening a bar is not just about a hobby or making drinks. The real difference is in the preparation, especially in a competitive environment like the hospitality industry in the UK.
If you want to know what do you need to start a bar, then the opening a new bar checklist below will give you a clear direction.
The complete bar opening checklist:
- Define Your Bar Concept & Do Market Research
- Research the Local Market & Validate Demand
- Write a Solid Bar Business Plan
- Choose the Right Business Structure
- Trademark Your Bar Name & Logo
- Secure Funding & Understand Startup Costs
- Licenses & Permits Required to Open a Bar UK
- Choose the Right Bar Location & Zoning for Your Bar
- Design Your Bar Layout & Customer Experience
- Buy Essential Bar Equipment & Furniture
- Purchase & Manage Bar Inventory
- Choose a Bar Point of Sale (POS) System
- Hire & Train Bar Staff
- Market Your Bar & Build Buzz
- Prepare for Opening Night & Soft Launch
This checklist is not based on guesswork. This is the foundation on which successful bars are built. If any one step is overlooked, problems will arise later. But if it all goes right, your bar can get off to a strong start and last a long time.
Step 1: Define Your Bar Concept & Do Market Research
Before you open a bar, it’s important to be clear about what kind of bar you want to create. Your bar concept determines who your customers will be, what the prices will be, what the menu will be like, and what the atmosphere will feel like.
Think about the theme, music, drink style, and overall experience in advance. A strong concept sets you apart from the competition and makes later decisions easier.
At this stage, focus on identity, not numbers or competitors.
Step 2: Research the Local Market & Validate Demand
After defining your concept, the next step is confirming whether real demand exists. Visit nearby bars and pubs and see how they operate. Consider busy times, customer behavior, prices, and service style.
Look for gaps in the market, such as a lack of a particular theme, demand at certain times, or the absence of a particular customer segment. Reading online reviews can help you understand what customers like and what could be improved. This research reduces risk and confirms real demand before bar business setup.
Step 3: Write a Solid Bar Business Plan
Once you have a clear idea, the next step is to develop a solid bar business plan. This is where expenses, funding, pricing, and expected revenue are clearly written. The business plan shows how the bar will generate profit and when it can break even.
If you want to open a bar, this plan is also important for banks and investors. That’s why most people use a bar business plan template so that nothing important is left out. A clear business plan reduces financial mistakes and improves investor confidence.
Step 4: Choose the Right Business Structure
Once you have your plan in place, the next important step in opening a bar in the UK is choosing the legal structure for your business. This will affect your tax, personal liability and the day-to-day operations of your bar. This decision also affects licensing and funding.
People who start a bar usually choose from a few basic options. Becoming a sole trader is easier, but there is a risk of personal loss. A partnership divides the liability, but the risk remains. That is why many bar owners prefer a limited company because it separates personal and business liability and makes it easier to work with in the future. Choosing the right structure at the beginning can save you from big problems later.
In the UK, limited companies must register with Companies House and register for Corporation Tax with HMRC. You may also need VAT registration depending on turnover.
Step 5: Trademark Your Bar Name & Logo
A strong bar name and logo should always be legally protected to avoid issues later. Trademarking is essential in the process of bar start up so that no one else can use your brand identity, especially when you want to establish your own position in the market.
Before applying for a trademark, be sure to check that your name or logo is not already registered. In the UK, this is done through the official trademark database. Registration with the Intellectual Property Office gives your brand legal protection, and bar owners often find it best to seek advice from an expert at this stage.
Step 6: Secure Funding & Understand Startup Costs
The most important thing to do before starting a bar in the UK is to understand your costs. Typically, the bar startup process in the UK requires at least £20,000, but this amount depends on the size, location and concept of the bar. When starting a bar, it’s important to first understand the basic costs that apply to every new bar:
- Rent and Utilities
- Licenses and Permits
- Startup Stock and Inventory
- Staff Salaries
- Equipment and Bar Tools
- Marketing and Advertising
Costs depend on the location, size of the bar, and concept. A better location may cost more, but it will also attract more customers and provide better sales opportunities. These costs form the minimum financial baseline for opening a bar in the UK.
Once you have a clear idea of where the money will be spent, consider your funding options. Some people use their own savings, while others turn to bank loans or investors. List all your expenses, including post-opening expenses, and plan your cash flow for the first few months. This approach reduces cash flow pressure during the first few months of operation. Your previously prepared business plan will guide funding decisions and cash flow planning. Once funding and costs are clear, the next priority is meeting legal requirements.
Step 7: Licenses & Permits Required to Open a Bar UK
All legal permits must be in place before you can open a bar. Operating a bar without a valid license can be a legal issue in the UK, so this step is very important when you are planning to open a bar in the UK.
Each license is for a specific activity, so it is important to know which permits your bar needs and apply for them in time.
Premises Licence
A Premises Licence allows you to sell alcohol, serve late-night food and hold entertainment activities. It also includes opening hours, capacity and noise limits. This licence is obtained from the local council.
When applying for a Premises Licence, you must promote the four UK licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.
Personal Licence
At least one person must hold a Personal Licence. This is proof that you understand the laws surrounding alcohol and can provide a responsible service.
A Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) must be named on the Premises Licence.
Food Hygiene and Food Service Registration
If you serve food, food hygiene registration is mandatory. This includes cleanliness standards, food safety checks and staff training, even if you only serve light snacks.
Music Licences (PRS & PPL)
PRS and PPL licences are required to play music or perform live in a bar. These apply to background music, DJs and bands.
Health & Safety Certificates
A bar cannot be run without health and safety certificates. This includes fire safety, safe spaces and staff training to ensure that both customers and staff are safe.
Step 8: Choose the Right Bar Location & Zoning for Your Bar
The location of your bar can make or break your business. The location should fit your bar’s concept, clientele and budget. High traffic is beneficial, but only if the people who come there are your actual customers.
Just having a visible space is not enough. Rent, utilities, zoning laws and future capacity are all important. A bar in the wrong area, no matter how beautiful, will not thrive.
Understand Your Target Area & Foot Traffic
First, find out who comes to the area and when. Evening and weekend traffic is the most important for most bars.
Consider these things:
- Nearby offices, universities or nightlife areas
- Evening and weekend foot traffic
- Age, income and spending habits of the people
- Do people already go there for drinks?
Your bar shouldn’t be for everyone, but for the right people.
Check Zoning Rules Before You Commit
Not every commercial property is legally allowed to open a bar. That’s why it’s important to check with your local council before signing a lease.
Make sure to check that:
- Alcohol sales are allowed
- Late night stays are allowed
- A music licence is required
- Outdoor seating or a beer garden is allowed
Zoning issues can cause delays and additional costs later.
Compare Rent, Utilities & Running Costs
A good location only pays off when costs are under control. Rent and bills should be in line with your expected sales.
Be sure to look at these costs:
- Monthly rent and service charges
- Electricity, gas, water and waste bills
- Business rates and council fees
- Lease term and rent increase terms
Often, a less crowded but cheaper area will yield higher returns in the long run.
Step 9: Design Your Bar Layout & Customer Experience
Bar design has a direct impact on the customer experience. People don’t just come for the drinks, they come for the atmosphere. Your bar layout, music, lighting, and furniture should all be in the same style. As soon as someone walks in, they should immediately feel the bar’s style.
The flow of the space should be right for both staff and customers. It should be easy to work behind the bar and the seating should be comfortable. The decor, lighting, and music should be in harmony with each other. Get help from a designer if possible. Also, be sure to consider safety and accessibility rules, such as fire exits and space restrictions. Good design keeps customers coming back.
Key points:
- A layout that makes service quick and easy
- Decor, lighting, and music that match the theme
- Comfortable seating arrangements and the right furniture
- Adherence to safety and legal requirements
With the location and layout decided, it’s time to equip your bar for daily operations.
Step 10: Buy Essential Bar Equipment & Furniture
This is where the bar dream comes true. Fast service is impossible without the right bar equipment. Cheap equipment may seem like an easy option, but long-term costs add up quickly. So start with a solid foundation.
Essential Bar Equipment
This is the basic bar equipment that is used daily and sets the pace for service.
Essential equipment includes:
- Cocktail shakers
- Cocktail strainers and bar spoons
- Bottle openers
- Pourers and jiggers
- Ice bins and ice scoops
- Glass washers
- Blenders
- Dishwasher
Good quality equipment saves both time and effort.
Bar Appliances
The real strength of a bar is its bar appliances. If they are weak, service will suffer immediately. Every bar needs sturdy fridges, freezers and a commercial dishwasher.
A reliable blender is a must behind the counter, especially if you use frozen cocktails or crushed ice. If your offer includes coffee, a coffee machine can help you sell extra during the day. Some bars also use food dehydrators to keep garnishes fresher for longer, especially in concept-based bars. Always choose appliances that suit your menu and service style.
Glassware Selection
Glasses aren’t just for holding drinks, they’re part of the overall experience. If glasses run low, the wait increases and service suffers. Plan the amount of glassware based on your expected footfall. In general, having more than one glass per customer reduces the stress of washing.
The nature of your bar will determine whether you prioritize durability or appearance. In either case, clean, sparkling glasses instantly win customers’ trust. Most bars have highball glasses, Collins glasses, tumblers, shot glasses, wine glasses, champagne flutes, martini glasses, gin goblets, and hurricane glasses. Only keep what you’ll actually use.
Barware & Small Tools
Small tools determine the speed of the bar. If they are few, the service will be slow. Sturdy barware such as bottle openers, citrus presses, ice scoops, tongs and good cutting boards are essential for daily work. Along with this, bar mats, napkins, stirrers and straws should also be in adequate quantities.
Accurate measurement of alcohol is a legal requirement. Under the Weights & Measures Act, every bar is required to provide jiggers, pourers and measuring tools to ensure that each drink is served in the correct quantity. If your focus is on wine, corkscrews, ice buckets and stoppers will be more necessary. Speed is more important in nightclubs.
Cocktail Bar Essentials
If your menu includes cocktails, it’s impossible to maintain quality without the right tools. Every bartender should have quality cocktail shakers, strainers, mixing spoons, and muddlers. They maintain consistency and speed up service.
Good quality aprons and organized tool rolls not only make things easier for your staff, but also give customers a professional feel. Buy the equipment that really helps your team do their job better.
Bar Furniture
The right bar furniture increases the length of your guests’ stay.
Key points:
- Comfortable bar stools
- Balanced tables
- Good layout for easy movement
- Theme-friendly style
Plan Equipment Around Your Bar Concept
This list is a starting point. The final decision will depend on the following:
- Drink menu complexity
- Cocktail volume
- Food service
- Space and storage
The right equipment makes a bar successful every day
Step 11: Purchase & Manage Bar Inventory
Bar inventory is not just about keeping stock. It directly impacts your cost of sales, pricing, and profits. Before launch, you need a clear system to track what comes in, what gets sold, and what goes to waste.
Start by purchasing inventory based on your menu, expected footfall, and storage space. Overstocking ties up cash, while understocking leads to missed sales. Regular stock checks help you spot fast-moving items, control over-pouring, and reduce losses.
Stock Spirits and Mixers
Every successful bar needs to have basic spirits and mixers.
Essential Stock:
- Vodka, Rum, Gin, Whiskey
- Tequila, Bourbon
- Liqueurs, Vermouths
- Soda, Tonic, Juices
This core stock supports most standard drink menus without over-investing.
Garnishes and Condiments
A good drink is not only recognized by its taste, but also by its presentation.
Essential Garnishes:
- Lemons, Limes, Orange
- Mint or Basil
- Olives, Onions, Cherries
Keep them all fresh and organized to keep things running smoothly during rush hour.
Step 12: Choose a Bar Point of Sale (POS) System
It is essential to choose a robust Bar POS System before starting a bar. A modern system like SavorQ speeds up orders, brings transparency to cash handling and reduces staff errors. This helps keep service smooth during busy times.
A good POS system makes it easy to:
- Set Happy Hour Pricing automatically
- Split or transfer the bill
- Secure card and digital payments
- View sales and popular drink data
Similarly, QR Code Menu allows customers to view the menu themselves, while Online Ordering helps to further increase bar sales. The right POS system supports faster service and better control.
Step 13: Hire & Train Bar Staff
Behind a successful bar is a strong and trained team. Without the right staff, even the best idea will fail. Therefore, it is important to focus on both recruitment and training from the beginning.
Staff Recruitment
Select people for the bar who have skills as well as a good attitude, because these people are the face of your brand.
Key positions are usually:
- Bartenders who make drinks and interact with guests
- Barbacks who help with stock, cleaning and preparation
- Servers if there is table service
- Bar Manager who handles daily operations
When recruiting, give importance to experience, work ethic and personality. A reasonable salary attracts good talent.
Staff Training
Systematic training after recruitment is essential so that the service remains consistent and of high quality. Include these points in your training:
- Beverage preparation and consistent quality
- Customer service and upselling techniques
- POS system usage
- Alcohol laws, health and safety principles
Continuous training and refresher sessions keep the team confident, enhance service, and encourage customers to return.
Step 14: Market Your Bar & Build Buzz
Once you have the staff ready, it’s time to get your bar out to the public. Without strong bar marketing, even the best setup is overlooked. The goal of this stage is to generate interest and reach the right audience before the opening.
Develop a Marketing Plan
First, create a clear marketing plan so that each activity is tied to a goal.
- Showcase the bar’s atmosphere, drinks, and offers through social media marketing
- Plan happy hours, theme nights, or live events
- Hold promotions and loyalty offers for repeat customers
- Share behind-the-scenes content and customer feedback
Create a Bar Website
Create a simple but clear bar website where the menu, timings, and location are easily found. An online presence strengthens your brand and gives new customers confidence. The right marketing, consistent messaging, and connections to the local community make your bar stand out from the crowd.
Step 15: Prepare for Opening Night & Soft Launch
A soft launch is a smart move before the public opening. In this phase, you invite a limited number of guests to test your bar’s performance in a real environment. During this time, service flow, staff coordination, and order handling become clear.
Soft Launch Planning
- Invite a small group of guests
- Observe service speed and workflow
- Identify and fix operational issues
Daily Operations Checklist
A clear Daily Operations Checklist is essential before opening night so that nothing is overlooked.
Key points:
- A thorough cleaning and sanitation review
- A stock and equipment check
- Staff briefing and clarification of responsibilities
- Cash, card, and POS system testing
When you go for the grand opening, you have a tested system, a ready team, and already interested customers.
Opening a Bar Checklist (Quick Summary)
Proper planning is essential for the bar launch process. This summary highlights the operational flow from planning to launch.
- Define your bar vision and target audience
- Create a solid business plan and budget
- Get funding and register your business
- Choose a suitable and legal location
- Complete all licenses and permits
- Design your bar to fit your workflow
- Purchase the necessary equipment and stock
- Install a POS system and train your staff
- Start marketing before launching
- Transition to regular operations after the soft opening.
This checklist for bar business setup will give you a strong start, even without experience
Key Takeaways
- Bar business setup always starts with a clear concept and choosing the right name
- You can build a new bar or buy an existing one
- A successful bar can achieve high profit margins
- Starting a bar without a solid business plan is risky
- A proper business model clarifies taxes, liability, and risk
- Financial projections help with startup costs and funding
- Licenses and permits vary depending on the type of bar
- A good location is the foundation of a bar’s success
- Reliable suppliers maintain consistency and quality
- Bar design and necessary equipment ensure proper workflow
- Trained staff make your bar stand out
- Effective marketing, soft opening, bar website, online selling, and QR code menu help increase sales
Frequently Asked Questions (UK Focus)
To open a bar in the UK, first develop a clear concept and a strong business plan. Then, secure funding, choose a suitable location, and apply for a Premises Licence and Personal Licence. Then, complete the staff, equipment, and opening preparations.
The first step to opening a bar is to have a solid business plan, adequate capital, and the right location. A liquor license, other legal permits, and business registration are essential steps. Then, hire staff, select suppliers, purchase equipment, and start advertising the bar.
Events like happy hours, theme nights, and live games give people a great reason to come into a bar. They come to bars not just for drinks, but for experiences. When these activities resonate with your target audience, old customers come back and new ones automatically connect.
