What’s the difference between a Marquee and a Part Tent?
Party Tent vs. Marquee – What’s Best for Your Summer Garden Party?
Planning a summer garden party in Buckinghamshire? Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just want to enjoy the sunny weather with friends, choosing the right outdoor structure is key. At Bucks Marquees, we often get asked the same question: “What’s the difference between a party tent and a marquee?”
Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best option for your event — and why booking early is essential for summer.
✅ What Is a Party Tent?
A party tent is a lightweight, temporary shelter often used for casual gatherings. They’re typically made from PVC or polyethylene, supported by steel or aluminium poles.
- Wind Rating: Up to 20–25 mph. Not suitable for high-wind areas.
- Sizes: Usually smaller, perfect for 10–40 guests and come in sizes of 3m x 3m, 6m x 4m, 8m x 4m, 10m x 4m
- Best For: Informal BBQs, kids’ parties, or budget-friendly setups.
While party tents can be quick to assemble, they don’t offer the same durability, elegance, or weather protection as a marquee.
✅ What Is a Marquee?
A marquee is a professional-grade structure, designed for more formal or large-scale events. At Bucks Marquees, we supply frame marquees which don’t need internal poles, giving you more usable space inside.
- Wind Rating: Up to 50+ mph, depending on size and anchoring.
- Sizes: Fully customisable – from small garden parties to events with 200+ guests. Starting at 3m x 3m for a small event space and increasing to 9m in width by any length as we add bays in 3m increments, such as a 9m x 24m for a marquee wedding or large garden party.
- Best For: Weddings, birthdays, corporate events, funerals or garden parties with catering and decor.
Our marquees are waterproof, wind-resistant, and come with optional flooring, linings, lighting, and furniture – ideal for unpredictable UK weather.
🏡 Planning a Summer Garden Party?
Booking a marquee for your garden party ensures you’re ready for anything. Whether you’re expecting 10 or 100 guests, we’ll help you choose the right size and layout. Plus, we handle all the setup, so you can focus on enjoying your day.
🔒 Why Choose Bucks Marquees?
- Over 10 years’ experience in event hire
- Wind-rated, weather-resistant structures
- Friendly, reliable service across Milton Keynes, Northampton and surrounding areas
- Free site visit and quote
🎉 Ready to Book?
Summer dates are filling fast! Don’t leave it too late — get in touch with Bucks Marquees today and make your garden party stress-free, stylish, and weatherproof.
📞 Call us or 📧 message for a free quote.