Garden furniture sets: dining, lounge or bistro?
A garden furniture set is the easiest way to furnish an outdoor space, but sets vary hugely in size and purpose. Start with how you'll use the space and how much room you have.
Three main types
Dining sets
A table with matching chairs, for outdoor meals and barbecues. Sizes range from four seats to eight or more. Folding designs save storage space over winter. Our garden furniture sets include dining sets from makers such as Rowlinson Garden Products, Maze Rattan and SOLACE+CO.
Lounge and corner sets
Sofa-style seating, often a corner sofa with a coffee table, for relaxing and entertaining. Usually rattan-effect with cushions. They take more space than a dining set but are the most comfortable for long evenings.
Bistro sets
A small table and two chairs, perfect for a balcony, a front step or a sunny corner for morning coffee. Many fold flat.
How much space do you need?
- Measure your patio, deck or lawn area.
- Find the set's dimensions on the product page.
- For dining sets, allow extra space behind each chair to pull it out and sit down.
- For lounge sets, leave a walkway around the seating and space for the coffee table.
- Mark the area with string or chalk before you buy.
As a quick guide, allow roughly 60cm of table edge per diner, as you would indoors. Our dining table size guide explains why.
How many seats?
| Household | Set to consider |
|---|---|
| One or two people, small space | Bistro set |
| Couple who entertain sometimes | Four-seat dining set or a compact lounge set |
| Family of four or five | Six-seat dining set or a corner lounge set |
| Big family or regular parties | Eight-seat dining set, or lounge plus dining |
Choosing a material
Rattan-effect, wood and metal all behave differently outdoors. Our guide to rattan vs wooden garden furniture compares looks, comfort and care. See also garden table and chair sets, garden sofas and edits like natural wood garden furniture sets.
Extras to think about
- Parasol hole: some dining tables have a hole for a parasol. Check the size against your parasol and base. Browse parasols and bases.
- Cushions: check whether they're included and plan where to store them.
- Covers: a breathable cover protects the set when not in use.
- Outdoor rugs and lighting make the space feel like an outdoor room. See outdoor rugs.
Where to put it
- Dining sets near the kitchen door make carrying food easy.
- Lounge sets suit the spot that gets evening sun.
- Choose a level surface, and protect lawns with pads under the legs or move furniture occasionally.
At the end of the season, follow our winter care guide.
Shop garden table and chair sets
Frequently asked questions
What size garden furniture set do I need?
Measure your space and allow extra room behind each dining chair to pull it out, plus a walkway around lounge seating. About 60cm of table edge per diner is a good guide.
What is a bistro set?
A small table with two chairs, ideal for balconies, small patios and sunny corners. Many fold flat for storage.
Should I choose a lounge set or a dining set?
Choose a dining set if you mostly eat outdoors, and a lounge or corner set if you mostly relax and entertain. If you have the space, a compact version of each covers both.