An ice bucket is more than just a party essential. It’s a practical must-have for homes, events, picnics, and professional settings. Whether you're hosting a garden party in London or enjoying a barbecue in Manchester, a durable and stylish ice bucket adds both function and flair. In the UK, demand for high-quality ice buckets continues to grow as people look for better ways to keep their drinks chilled.
Below, we break down everything you need to know before buying an ice bucket, plus top recommendations for every budget and occasion.
Why Do You Need an Ice Bucket?
An ice bucket serves a simple but vital purpose—keeping ice from melting too fast. This makes it ideal for:
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Parties and celebrations
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Outdoor events and barbecues
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Hotels and restaurants
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Wine and champagne service
According to a 2024 YouGov survey, 68% of UK households now own at least one ice bucket, showing its growing popularity as an entertaining essential.
Top Features to Look for in an Ice Bucket
Choosing the right ice bucket depends on several key features. Here are the most important ones:
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Material: Stainless steel, acrylic, and plastic are the most common. Stainless steel offers better insulation.
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Size: Common sizes range from 1.5 litres to 5 litres. For events, go for a larger size.
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Insulation: Double-walled options keep ice frozen longer.
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Handles & Lid: These make it easier to carry and prevent spills.
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Style: A modern or vintage design can complement your home or event aesthetic.
7 Best Ice Bucket Options Available in the UK
1. VonShef Stainless Steel Ice Bucket – Best Overall
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Capacity: 1.3 litres
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Double-walled insulation
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Includes lid and tongs
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Average price: £19.99
Why it stands out: Compact, stylish, and keeps ice solid for over 6 hours.
"Function meets elegance with VonShef's best-selling ice bucket," says Ellie Gordon, a UK-based event planner.
2. BarCraft Acrylic Ice Bucket – Best for Parties
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Capacity: 3.5 litres
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Lightweight and clear body
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Ideal for wine or beer
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Average price: £15.99
Best for outdoor gatherings where visibility and portability matter.
3. OXO Good Grips Ice Bucket – Best Premium Choice
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Capacity: 2.5 litres
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Includes tongs and removable tray
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Rubber grip for easy handling
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Average price: £34.99
A luxury pick for people who entertain regularly.
4. ProCook Insulated Ice Bucket – Best for Long Cooling
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Double-layered steel build
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Keeps ice solid for up to 8 hours
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Sleek design
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Price: £22.00
Great value for money with long-lasting performance.
5. Argos Home Metal Ice Bucket – Best Budget Buy
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Retro design
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2-litre capacity
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Budget-friendly at just £10.00
Perfect for casual get-togethers or as a backup.
6. Viners Barware Ice Bucket – Best Vintage Look
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70s-inspired style
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Made of polished stainless steel
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Great for themed parties
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Price: £18.00
This one adds character to any drinks station.
7. Joseph Joseph Double-Walled Ice Bucket – Best Innovative Design
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Capacity: 2 litres
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Comes with hidden tongs
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Internal drain and lid
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Price: £39.99
Highly rated for usability and aesthetics.
Where to Buy an Ice Bucket in the UK
Popular online stores:
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Amazon UK
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Argos
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John Lewis
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Lakeland
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Dunelm
In-store options:
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Tesco
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Sainsbury’s
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Asda
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B&Q
Check customer reviews and compare prices before purchasing.
How to Use an Ice Bucket Properly
To make the most of your ice bucket, follow these tips:
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Pre-chill the bucket with a handful of ice before use
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Fill it two-thirds with ice and add water for better cooling
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Keep the lid closed when not in use
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Don’t place it directly under the sun during outdoor events
Popular Types of Ice Buckets
1. Stainless Steel Ice Bucket
Durable and effective. Ideal for long-term use and classy setups.
2. Acrylic Ice Bucket
Lightweight and transparent. Great for social settings and visible presentation.
3. Plastic Ice Bucket
Affordable and available in many colours. Perfect for casual use.
4. Champagne Buckets
Taller and narrower to hold bottles. Often used in weddings or formal parties.
Ice Bucket vs. Ice Cooler – What’s the Difference?
An ice bucket is smaller and intended for short-term use, usually indoors or at events.
An ice cooler is larger, better for travel, camping, and extended chilling. Choose based on purpose.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Ice Bucket
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Empty all leftover ice after each use
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Rinse with warm water and mild soap
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Dry it completely to avoid rust (especially for steel buckets)
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Store with the lid off to prevent odours
A clean ice bucket always performs better and lasts longer.
What Size Ice Bucket Do You Need?
For home use or small gatherings:
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1.5 to 2.5 litres is usually enough
For large parties or outdoor use:
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Go for 3 litres or more
Pro tip: Always have extra ice on standby in the freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use an ice bucket to chill wine or champagne?
Yes. Make sure the bucket is large enough and fill it with ice and cold water.
Q: How long can an ice bucket keep ice frozen?
Most good-quality buckets will hold ice for 4 to 8 hours depending on insulation.
Q: Do I need a lid for my ice bucket?
A lid helps retain cold and prevents contamination.
Conclusion
Investing in a quality ice bucket adds convenience to any event. Whether it’s a quiet night with family or a large summer party, the right ice bucket keeps drinks cold and guests happy. With options ranging from sleek stainless steel to colourful acrylic, there’s a perfect match for every occasion and budget in the UK.