Can You Get a 24-Hour Alcohol Licence in the UK? What YOU Need to Know

The idea of selling alcohol around the clock may sound appealing to some businesses – especially those in retail and convenience sectors.  But how realistic is it to obtain a 24-hour alcohol licence in the UK?  Here’s a practical guide to help you understand the prospects, challenges, and considerations.

1. Is It Legally Possible?

Of course it is, yes.  The Licensing Guys have obtained numerous 24hr Alcohol Licences for their clients over the years.  Under the Licensing Act 2003, it is legally possible to apply for and be granted a Premises Licence that permits the sale of alcohol 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in England and Wales.  Scotland and Northern Ireland have more restrictive laws and do not currently allow 24-hour Off-Licences.

2. How Common Are 24-Hour Licences?

While once relatively rare, they do exist and are becoming more common by the day:

According to our research, around 700 pubs, bars, and nightclubs in England and Wales hold 24-hour Premises Licences.  3,200 hotel bars also have 24-hour Licences, often to serve guests at any time of the day or night.  Over 4,000 retail shops (e.g. convenience stores, petrol stations) are licensed to sell alcohol 24 hours, though not all choose to operate continuously.

3. What Are the Challenges?

Obtaining a 24-hour licence is not straightforward.  Licensing Authorities will scrutinise your application against the Four Licensing Objectives, namely:

• Prevention of crime and disorder
• Public safety
• Prevention of public nuisance
• Protection of children from harm

Authorities may be reluctant to approve 24-hour alcohol sales unless you can demonstrate robust safeguards and community support. Additionally, councils can impose:

1. Early Morning Restriction Orders (EMROs): banning alcohol sales between 12am–6am in specific areas.
2. Late Night Levies (LNLs): charging businesses extra for operating late hours.
3. Cumulative Impact Assessments which can found restrictions on the granting or extending of any more Alcohol Licences in areas already stressed by alcohol-related issues.

4. What Improves Your Chances?

✅ Location matters — areas with a strong night-time economy (e.g. city centres, transport hubs) may be more receptive.

✅ Type of premises — hotels and service stations often have better prospects than pubs or clubs.

✅ Community engagement — consult with neighbours and responsible authorities early.

✅ Detailed operating schedule — show how you’ll manage risks during overnight hours.

✅ Legal advice — a Licensing Consultant can help you navigate objections and conditions.

5. What Should You Do Next?

If you’re considering applying for a 24-hour alcohol licence:

1. Take professional advice so that you understand local Council Licensing Policies.
2. Then consider and address you mind to any Cumulative Impact Policies or EMROs in place.
3. Prepare a comprehensive application with supporting documents.
4. Consider applying for extended hours first, then gradually build toward 24-hour trading.

Conclusion

A 24-hour alcohol licence is possible, but not guaranteed. Success depends on your location, business type, and ability to meet licensing objectives.  With the right strategy and expert guidance, you can improve your chances — but be prepared for scrutiny and negotiation.

To explore your chances of getting a 24hr Licence at your specific location, please call The Licensing Guys on 01432 700024 or email us at licensing@thelicensingguys.com and we will thoroughly research your options with you.