Pub Furniture
The Art of Pub Furniture
The UK pubs and bars industry is reported to generate nearly £19 billion, and according to a recent Mintel report, the market is expected to grow by 5% year-on-year. With nearly 30,000 pubs and bars in the United Kingdom, there's plenty of opportunity out there, but you have to make sure that your business is offering what today's customers actually want. An article in the Morning Advertiser discusses the fact that 'competition for customer's hard-earned cash is fierce in the pub and bar market'. But apparently people are getting bored of gimmicks and overly quirky designs. They're looking for a more relaxing or uplifting place.
Pubs have changed over the years, and pub furniture has adapted to the needs of this hospitality cornerstone. At Eclipse Furniture we offer all styles of pub furniture from sturdy bar stools that hold up countless conversations, beautifully crafted wooden tables that are the foundation for shared meals, or a cosy corner armchair that invites guests to relax and stay a bit longer. Whether you’re revamping an established pub or designing a new space from scratch, the furniture you choose is key to creating a stylish environment that resonates with your customers.
Explore high quality commercial pub furniture for inside and outdoors. Or let us offer you recommendations on the perfect furniture for your pub.
What is Pub Furniture?
Pub furniture refers to the tables, chairs, bar stools and other fixtures designed specifically for use in pubs, as well as bars, nightclubs and inns, it’s furniture built to endure heavy traffic and spilt pints. The perfect pub furniture blends style and resilience. Functionality is key, but the furniture you choose defines the character of your pub, whether that’s a cosy, traditional aesthetic or a contemporary craft ale vibe. The essentials include:
• Bar stools • Dining tables • Dining chairs • Fixed seating • Outdoor furniture
Bar Seating
Nothing says 'pub' more than a traditional bar stool. They define a zone where guests can take a seat, order their favourite drink, and indulge in conversation with fellow pub-goers. A standard bar is around 106cm high. Our bar stools typically range from 71cm to 76cm in height, and are available in a range of materials, from traditional wood or upholstered leather to modern metal or rattan.
Dining Tables and Chairs
Offering food is a must for any modern pub, so the choice of dining furniture is an important one. Wooden dining chairs and tables will create a more traditional look, while lightweight chairs with metal or marble tables suggest more casual dining. Food and drink can make a mess, so opt for furniture with finishes that are easy to clean, like our Extrema table tops. And resilience is needed - we’ve all broken a pub chair, right?!
Booths & Fixed Seating
Fixed seating, in the form of booths and banquettes, is hugely popular with pub guests, offering a cozy, inviting space that offers an element of privacy for a relaxed drinking and dining experience. Often upholstered, they provide a comfortable place to sit and are great at maximising seating capacity as they can be designed to fit into awkward spaces, window recesses and unused corners.
Outdoor Pub Furniture
There's no denying that the British public have a love affair with the pub garden, so even if your outside space consists of a small terrace or area of pavement, you should ramp up your kerb appeal with stylish outdoor furniture. Picnic tables and benches are a staple of the traditional pub garden, while bistro sets or modern polypropylene furniture are a more contemporary choice. Either way, make sure your outdoor furniture is strong, durable and weather-proof.
How do I Select the Perfect Pub Furniture?
Strong materials and protective finishes
Pub furniture must balance durability and design. Hardwearing materials such as hardwood with reinforced joints, powder-coated metals, and tables with veneers or coatings that guard against scratches, stains, and heat will all make your furniture last longer.
Reflect your pub’s personality
Furniture plays a huge role in telling your pub’s story. Dark woods and leather upholstery can evoke the nostalgia of a classic British pub, while clean lines and metallic accents might better suit a modern gastropub. At Eclipse Furniture we can offer recommendations on which style of furniture will best suit your business.
Don’t compromise on comfort
A beautiful chair or stool is meaningless if it’s uncomfortable. Ensure that your seating offers the right level of support, whether through padded upholstery, comfortable armrests or wide, ergonomic seats. A comfortable and relaxing environment will keep customers in your pub for longer.
Don’t neglect your outside space
Everyone loves a pub beer garden, and during the warmer months it’s a real draw for customers wishing to enjoy a sun-drenched pint or lunch alfresco. Your choice of outdoor furniture is as important as the interior of your pub. Choose durable, weatherproof materials such as treated woods, rust-resistant aluminium or modern polypropylene.
Eclipse - the Pub Furniture Specialist
Over four decades of experience - Established in 1980, Eclipse Furniture has been supplying top-quality, design-led contract furniture to pubs throughout the UK for over 40 years.
A diverse range - We have a wide range of pub and bar furniture, including bar stools, dining tables and chairs, coffee tables, upholstery, fixed seating and outdoor furniture.
Sustainability at our core - At Eclipse Furniture we’re serious about looking after our planet. Our operations focus on minimising environmental impact through energy-efficient lighting, water-saving systems, and waste reduction practices.
Customer-centric service - Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way. From initial design consultations to product selection and delivery, we aim to make purchasing pub furniture smooth and stress-free. We also offer bespoke solutions that can bring your vision to life with unique furniture that enhances your space.
FAQs about Pub Furniture
What height should pub stools be?
Bar Stools typically range between 71cm and 76cm in height, designed to complement the standard bar height of 106cm in UK pubs.
What height should pub tables and chairs be?
Pub tables are usually around 75cm high. Chairs should be chosen that can fit comfortably underneath the table and leave enough room, approximately 30cm for the customer to sit comfortably. That means the seat height of a chair should be around 45cm high.
What are the most durable materials for high-traffic pub environments?
Durable materials like solid oak, powder-coated steel, laminate, and high-quality faux leather are ideal for pub environments. These materials offer a balance of strength, style and practicality.
How much should I budget for pub furniture?
There are no set rules on how much pub furniture should cost. You should always purchase furniture that's been designed for use in commercial environments, as domestic furniture is not up to the job. If you are on a tight budget, then it's worth checking for special offers or clearance furniture.
How long does pub furniture typically last?
If you invest in high quality commercial pub furniture and keep it maintained regularly, it should last you for decades. Choose pieces with protective finishes for easy cleaning. Regular maintenance of joints, upholstery and surfaces will keep your furniture looking its best.
What's the best layout for maximising capacity while maintaining comfort?
In a pub, you obviously want to make best use of the space you have. That means getting in tables and chairs without sacrificing room for people to move. Make sure there's space for customers and staff to get to the bar, around tables and to the pub. Consider guests with mobility issues and make sure they're being catered for. Creating zones in the pub is a good idea, giving customers a choice of seating and atmosphere.
Looking for more inspiration?
• Explore our Guide to traditional pub furniture • Find out How to select the best outdoor pub furniture
• Read 5 tips to choose the right bar furniture for your pub to increase footfall • Discover how to get your pub ready for a Summer of sport
Glossary: • Contract Furniture: Commercial-grade furniture designed to endure high usage in venues such as pubs and restaurants • Bespoke Furniture: Custom-designed furniture tailored to specific needs and preferences • Laminate: A versatile and durable material made from bonding thin layers together with resin • Ergonomic Design: Furniture designed around the human body, providing optimal comfort and support • Beer Garden Furniture: Weather-resistant tables, chairs and dining sets designed for outdoor areas in pubs