DATA-BACKED GUIDE · UPDATED JULY 2026
How much does wedding catering cost per head in the UK?
Catering is priced per head, which sounds simple until you multiply it by a full guest list and watch it catch up with the venue hire. The style of food, the number of courses and how it is served all pull the per-person figure up or down. Here is what couples actually pay and how to keep the total sensible.
The quick version
- Catering is quoted per guest, so every extra name on the list adds up fast
- Service style matters, since a plated three-course meal usually costs more than a buffet, sharing boards or a food van
- Drinks, canapes and evening food are often separate lines, not part of the main per-head price
- Some venues insist you use their in-house caterer, others let you bring your own
- Children and supplier meals are usually charged at a lower rate, so ask
What people actually paid
The gap: advertised vs actually paid (medians)
People reported paying 103% more than the advertised list price for catering (per head).
List prices are advertised prices; paid figures are what people reported, often for different cases and from a small sample so far. Treat the gap as a signal, not a quote.
Real prices, in people's own words
- £26“pub so paid more or less their menu prices (£18 a head) plus £8 a head for evening food”
- £65“£55 per head for a sit down 3 course meal then £10 per head for the evening food”
- £100“post-ceremony canapes, a three course meal served family style, plus help-yourself food in the evening for £100 a head”
- £113“Average external catering (with free choices) cost per head - GBP 112.50”
- £114“Average in-house catering cost per head - GBP 114.45”
- £117“Average overall cost per head - GBP 117.10”
Genuine amounts posted publicly. We publish the price and the quote, never the person.
Why the price varies so much
The per-head figure depends on the food itself, the service, and who is doing the work. Canapes, a three-course sit-down meal and a full waiting team cost far more than a hog roast or a buffet you help yourself to. Guest numbers matter both ways, since some caterers offer better rates for larger groups while premium venues set a minimum spend. Location plays its part too, with London and the South East charging more, and drinks packages can quietly double the bill if you are not watching.
How to pay less
- Choose a relaxed service style like a buffet, sharing plates or a food van over a formal plated meal
- Trim the courses, since a starter or dessert dropped across a big guest list saves a surprising amount
- Ask about seasonal menus, because in-season British produce is cheaper and often tastes better
- Serve a lighter evening option like a bacon roll or pizza rather than a second full spread
- Check corkage if you want to supply your own wine, and compare that against the venue's drinks package
- Get quotes from a few caterers and make sure they are pricing the same courses, staff and hire
Common questions
Is a buffet cheaper than a sit-down meal?
Usually, yes. Buffets and sharing plates need fewer staff and less precise portioning than a formal plated service, so the per-head rate tends to be lower. Food vans and hog roasts can be cheaper still.
Are drinks included in the catering price?
Often not. Welcome drinks, wine with the meal and a toast are frequently separate lines or a drinks package. Always check whether your per-head quote covers any alcohol at all.
Can I bring my own caterer?
It depends on the venue. Dry-hire venues usually welcome outside caterers, while package and exclusive venues often require their own in-house team or an approved list.
Do children cost the same per head?
Normally no. Most caterers offer a reduced children's rate and a smaller portion, and many do a lower-cost supplier meal for your photographer, band and other vendors too.