Backline Hire UK
What backline hire includes, how shared festival kits work, what to send for a fast quote, and the checklist that prevents show-day surprises.
What is backline hire?
Backline hire is the supply of the stage equipment performers play through: drum kits, guitar amps, bass rigs, keyboards, stands and the essential accessories that keep everything running smoothly. If you’re searching for backline hire in the UK, you usually need rider-ready kit, reliable delivery, and a plan that holds up when schedules get tight.
What’s included with backline hire (typical UK setups)
- Drums: shells + hardware (and sometimes cymbals depending on the event policy)
- Guitar: combo or head + cab
- Bass: head + cab or combo
- Keys: stage piano / synth as specified + correct stand + sustain pedal
- Essentials: stands, power, basic spares, sensible cabling
For “what we can supply”, point people to your equipment list: Backline Equipment.
Festival shared kits vs touring backline
Most UK festivals run faster with a shared kit policy. Commonly: festival provides shells + core hardware, while artists bring cymbals, snare and kick pedal. Touring or theatre runs may require dedicated kit per act, longer hires, and more spares.
If you need the day managed (changeovers, patching, keeping things on time), link to: Stage Management.
What to send for a fast, accurate quote
- Date(s) + schedule (get-in, soundcheck, doors, curfew)
- Venue + access notes (parking, stairs/lift, loading window)
- Acts + changeover plan (shared kit or per-act)
- Rider / stage plot / input list (even rough)
- What the artists bring (cymbals/snare/pedals etc.)
Need backline hire in the UK?
Send your date, venue and a rough spec — we’ll come back with options and a clear quote.
Request a Quote →Copy/paste checklist (email this)
FAQ
What is backline hire in the UK?
Backline hire is stage equipment supply (drums, amps, bass rigs, keys, stands and essentials) delivered to your venue or festival site.
What is usually included with backline hire?
Typically drums (shells + hardware), guitar amps, bass rig, keys (if required), stands, power and sensible spares. Cymbals/snare/kick pedal are often artist-supplied at festivals.
Do festivals provide cymbals, snare and kick pedal?
Often no. A common shared kit policy is festival provides shells and core hardware, while artists bring cymbals, snare and kick pedal. Always confirm in advance.