A Buyer’s Guide to Garden Dining Sets – From Bistro Tables to Family Dining
Whether you’re furnishing a balcony for two or hosting Sunday roasts for eight, this guide helps you choose the perfect garden dining set by size, material and features – with quick links to shop.
Last updated: 7 August 2025 • Written for UK customers
1) Measure your dining area
- Outline your usable space – mark doors, planters and paths.
- Allow 75–90 cm clearance around the table for chair movement.
- For rectangular patios, position the table so traffic flows past the shorter end where possible.
- Check flooring strength on balconies before choosing heavier wood or stone-top tables.
Tip: Place cardboard cut-outs of the table footprint on the ground to see how much room remains before buying.
2) 2-Seater Bistro Sets
Bistro sets are ideal for balconies and intimate patios. Look for folding chairs or stackable designs and tables up to 70 cm wide.
Classic acacia folding set
Natural wood complements greenery and folds flat for winter storage.
Low-maintenance faux-rattan
PE rattan over steel offers a light boho look and quick wipe-clean care.
3) 4-Seater Dining Sets
Perfect for families or small gatherings. Square tables (80–100 cm) save space, while round tables encourage conversation.
Minimalist stackable aluminium
Lightweight, rust-resistant frames and padded chairs.
Scandi-grey square set
Stackable chairs and neutral palette suit modern patios.
4) 6–8 Seater & Extendable Sets
If you often entertain, choose a generous fixed table or an extendable design that adapts to guest numbers.
Folding acacia 6-seater
Warm wood and fold-flat chairs make seasonal storage easier.
Contemporary 8-seater aluminium
Stacking textile chairs and flamed-granite table top for statement style.
5) Materials & durability
- Hardwood (teak, acacia): Timeless look and long life. Requires seasonal oil to maintain colour.
- Aluminium: Rust-proof, lightweight and low maintenance. Pair with cushions for comfort.
- PE rattan: Weather-resistant weave over metal frame. Comfortable and easy-care.
- Glass or stone tops: Add sophistication; choose tempered glass or sealed granite for durability.
6) Smart features to look for
Folding & stacking
Great for small spaces and winter storage.
Extendable tables
Butterfly or leaf extensions let you add extra places on demand.
Parasol hole
Add shade with a garden parasol. Check hole diameter.
Chair cushions
Opt for quick-dry foam and store in a deck box when wet.
7) Quick comparison
| Size & type | Seats | Ideal for | Space needed* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bistro set | 2 | Balconies, morning coffee | 1.5 × 1.5 m |
| Square / round set | 4 | Family dinners, game nights | 2.5 × 2.5 m |
| Rectangular fixed table | 6 | Regular entertaining | 3.2 × 2.5 m |
| Extendable / 8-seat | 6–8+ | Large gatherings, BBQ parties | 3.6 × 3 m+ |
*Includes 80 cm chair clearance all round.
8) FAQs
How much space do I need around a garden dining set?
Aim for 75–90 cm clearance around the table so guests can slide chairs back and servers can walk behind.
Which material is best for an outdoor dining table?
Choose hardwood if you like a natural look and can oil it yearly; aluminium for a sleek, rust-free option; PE rattan for comfort and low maintenance.
Do I need a parasol hole?
If you dine in midday sun, a parasol hole lets you add shade quickly. Match the hole diameter to your parasol pole.
How do I protect my dining set in winter?
Clean frames, dry cushions, apply protective oil or wax to wood, then cover with breathable furniture covers. Store cushions in a deck box.
Are foldable or stackable chairs better?
Foldable chairs store completely flat; stackables are quicker to tidy away. Pick based on your storage space and set-up frequency.