Chimes

Chimes are the electronic tunes played through a speaker on the van. On the street they are the van's advertisement, and for many people the sound is tied up with childhood summers. Greensleeves is the most familiar, but vans play many others, and some operators have a signature tune that local children learn to recognise.

In England, the use of chimes in public places is covered by a code of practice on noise, which deals with things such as how long and when chimes can be played. The details can change, so check the current guidance or ask the local council rather than relying on memory. At private events the rules are different and the choice is yours. Some organisers like a burst of chimes for arrival, others prefer quiet. Tell us what suits your event when you book.

Guide to ice cream van chimes