How to Become a Bartender in the UK (Even If You’re Starting from Scratch)

Becoming a bartender in the UK might seem intimidating at first — especially if you have no experience and no idea where to start. But the good news is: it’s a career path that rewards passion, personality, and hands-on learning more than formal qualifications.

Whether you're switching careers or just curious to explore the world behind the bar, here’s how to get started.

1. What Skills Do You Actually Need?

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to know how to juggle bottles or remember 200 cocktails by heart. Here are the essential skills:

• Basic drink knowledge (spirits, mixers, classic cocktails)
• Cleanliness and speed
• Communication and customer service
• Multitasking and organisation
• A real love for hospitality

Don’t worry — most of these can be learned through structured training and real-world practice.

2. Do You Need a Licence or Certificate to Work?

In the UK, you don’t need a specific license to work as a bartender. However, your employer must have a premises license to serve alcohol, and supervisors must hold a personal licence. You may be required to take a short alcohol awareness course, especially if you’re aiming for a supervisory role later.

If you're not a UK national, make sure you have the right to work in the UK (visa or settled status).

3. Should You Take a Bartending Course?

If you're serious about breaking into the industry (and not just mixing gin tonics at home), a professional course will:

• Fast-track your learning
• Boost your confidence
• Help you build a strong foundation
• Connect you with other aspiring bartenders and venues

At Dirextra Wine & Cocktails School, we offer:

👉 The Beginners’ Bartender Course – ideal if you’re just starting out and want structured sessions over a week.
👉 The Private Bartender Course – perfect if you prefer one-on-one guidance or want to tailor the course to your pace, goals and schedule.

Both options take place at our dedicated space inside Sicilian NQ, in the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter.

4. Get Real-World Experience (Even Unpaid at First)

Nothing teaches you bartending better than real service. Look for:

• Trial shifts at local bars
• Events or pop-ups
• Private parties
• Cocktail masterclasses (as a guest or assistant)

Many of our students get their first shift opportunity shortly after completing the Beginner Course or Private Course — often through the school itself or our industry partners.

We also recommend reading What Makes a Great Cocktail Masterclass? for a closer look at the experiential side of bartending.

5. Build Your Profile

As you train and gain experience, start building a simple bartender profile:

• A short CV with your name, contact details, any courses, and work experience
• An Instagram page or portfolio (optional but powerful)
• References from instructors or former managers

You don’t need a decade of experience — just show commitment, reliability, and the ability to learn.

6. Start Applying with Confidence

Once you’ve done your course and had some hands-on practice, start applying:

• Walk-in to bars with your CV (Manchester’s Northern Quarter is a great place to start)
• Use platforms like Indeed, Caterer.com, and Facebook groups
• Reach out to venues where you’ve taken part in events or masterclasses

Many venues are open to hiring juniors — as long as you show initiative.

Final Tip: Don’t Wait for the “Perfect Moment”

The bar industry values action. If you’ve been thinking about it for a while, this is your sign to book that course, attend that masterclass, or talk to a bartender near you. The sooner you start, the faster you’ll gain experience and confidence.

👉 Explore the Beginners’ Bartender Course
👉 Book a Private Bartender Class

You might be mixing mojitos sooner than you think 🍸