What Size Bed Do I Need? Mattress and Frame Size Guide for UK Homes

Choosing the right bed size isn’t just about how much space you have — it’s also about comfort, sleep quality, and how your bedroom functions day to day. Whether you’re upgrading to a larger bed, shopping for a guest room, or buying your child’s first proper mattress, understanding UK bed and mattress sizes will help you make the best decision.

At Yorkshire Handmade Beds, we handcraft every bed to order — which means we can guide you on what size suits your lifestyle, room dimensions, and sleep preferences. Below is a complete UK bed and mattress size guide to help you find your perfect fit.

UK Bed Sizes at a Glance

Here’s a breakdown of the most common standard UK mattress and bed frame sizes:

Bed Size	Mattress Dimensions (cm)	Mattress Dimensions (ft)
Single	90x190	3'0" x 6'3"
Small Double	120x190	4'0" x 6'3"
Double	135x190	4'6" x 6'3"
King	150x200	5'0" x 6'6"
Super King	180x200	6'0" x 6'6"

 

Keep in mind that the overall bed frame size will be slightly larger than the mattress dimensions due to the structure and any additional features like headboards or footboards.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Bed Size

1. Room Dimensions

Before anything else, measure your room. Make sure to leave at least 60–70cm of clearance on each side of the bed (where possible) so that walking around the bed doesn’t feel cramped. This is especially important if you're placing bedside tables or drawers nearby.

2. Sleeping Alone or With a Partner?

Single and small double beds are best for solo sleepers. For couples, a double may work, but a king or super king offers significantly more room and is the most popular upgrade for comfort.

A king size bed is 15cm wider and 10cm longer than a double — which makes a big difference if one or both of you move around in the night.

3. Children’s and Teenagers’ Beds

Start with a small single or single for younger children. Teenagers may prefer a small double, especially if they’re tall or like more space to spread out.

4. Storage and Layout

Don’t forget to consider underbed storage options. Our platform top bases can be customised with drawer configurations, which may influence the size you choose. Make sure there's enough clearance around the bed to open drawers comfortably.

5. Height and Sleeping Style

If you’re over 6ft tall, a king or super king will provide the length you need. Side sleepers tend to sprawl more, while back or stomach sleepers may be fine with less space. Think about how you naturally sleep and whether a wider bed might improve your comfort.

Popular Choices for UK Homes

Small Double beds are ideal for guest rooms or smaller master bedrooms where space is limited.

Double beds are a traditional UK standard for solo adults or cosy couples.

King Size is fast becoming the new standard for couples — offering ample space without overwhelming most bedrooms.

Super King beds are luxury options for large rooms, often chosen for their impressive presence and unmatched space.

Custom Sizes Available

At Yorkshire Handmade Beds, we don’t just stick to standard sizes. Because all of our beds are made to order, we can tailor the size to suit your specific needs — whether that’s extra width, length, or fitting a particular space.

Final Thoughts: Size Really Does Matter

Your bed should suit your space, support your sleep, and work with your lifestyle. Whether you're furnishing a compact city flat or a spacious countryside bedroom, choosing the right size bed will make a world of difference in how well you sleep and how comfortable your room feels.

Need help choosing the perfect size bed for your home?

Speak to our team at Yorkshire Handmade Beds — or browse our handcrafted collection today to find a bed made to measure, made to last.