Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Marquee Hire Service in Dorset
Established in 1944, Ernest G Hart is a family-run business rooted in Dorset with over seven decades of expertise in marquee hire and event solutions. Our heritage in crafting traditional 'Pole & Canvas' marquees and modern frame structures ensures we meet diverse event needs, from intimate weddings to large-scale festivals. We specialise in bespoke services, combining time-honoured craftsmanship with contemporary design to deliver high-quality tents, linings, flooring, and lighting tailored to client specifications. Our event equipment hire extends to heating solutions, furniture, and tableware, complemented by partnerships with local specialists for additional services like generators and sanitation units.With a commitment to reliability and customer care, we operate across southern England and the Home Counties, offering free consultations to optimise event budgets. Our in-house tent manufacturing and repair service preserves traditional techniques while ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal. A 24/7 emergency contact line supports clients during events, underscoring our dedication to seamless service delivery. Recognised for professionalism and traditional values, we pride ourselves on creating memorable event spaces that blend functionality with elegance.
Services
Marquees
Event Equipment Hire
Tent Manufacturing
Tent Repair
Event Planning
Details
- Year established: 1944
Highlights and features
- We have over 75 years of experience in event logistics.
- Our team provides bespoke marquee solutions tailored to client needs.
- We operate 24/7 emergency support for event clients.
- We collaborate with trusted local suppliers for comprehensive services.
- Our tent manufacturing preserves traditional craftsmanship techniques.
What people say
Wonderful service
Made the day magical
Thoroughly recommend
High standards
Bespoke service
Services
Marquees
We supply traditional 'Pole & Canvas' and modern aluminium frame marquees for events of all sizes. Our structures range from small gazebos to 200ft+ festival tents, with optional linings, lighting, and flooring. Each marquee combines durability with aesthetic appeal, ensuring weatherproof comfort and elegant presentation for weddings, corporate events, and festivals.
Event Equipment Hire
Our hire inventory includes rustic furniture, table linen, crockery, and heating units. We also partner with specialists to provide generators, refrigeration, and sanitation trailers. This comprehensive approach ensures clients access all necessary elements for seamless event execution, from practical necessities to decorative touches that enhance ambiance.
Tent Manufacturing
Handcrafted canvas tents and marquees are made using traditional techniques passed down through generations. We create custom designs for private, event, and film industry use, including period-accurate reproductions. Our manufacturing process prioritises quality materials and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring longevity and authenticity in every structure.
Tent Repair
We offer repair services for canvas tents, including patching, rope splicing, and pole restoration. Our expertise extends to refurbishing older structures while maintaining their original integrity. Clients receive no-obligation quotes for repairs, ensuring cost-effective solutions to extend the lifespan of their event equipment.
Event Planning
With decades of experience, we provide free advisory services to optimise event budgets and logistics. Our team guides clients on space planning, equipment selection, and weather contingency strategies. This support simplifies the planning process, particularly for large-scale or complex events requiring coordinated solutions.
Questions
What types of marquees do you offer?
We provide traditional 'Pole & Canvas' marquees with wooden frames and guy ropes, plus modern aluminium 'Clearspan' structures with uninterrupted space. Options include linings, lighting, and flooring.
Do you hire event equipment beyond marquees?
Yes, we offer rustic furniture, table linen, crockery, and heating units. We also collaborate with specialists for generators, sanitation trailers, and refrigeration equipment.
Can you repair existing tents?
We repair canvas tents, including patching, rope splicing, and pole painting. No-obligation quotes are available for all repair work.
Do you operate outside Dorset?
We're based in Dorset but serve clients across southern England and the Home Counties regularly, with nationwide support available for major events.
Is emergency support available?
Yes, our phone line operates 24/7 for clients who have hired marquees, ensuring immediate assistance during events.
How can I get event planning advice?
Contact us for free consultations on budget optimisation, space planning, and equipment selection. Our 75 years of experience helps streamline your event logistics.
