How Big Is a King Size Bed? | UK Guide

Curious about finding the perfect king size bed for your home and wondering how big is a king size bed in the UK? This guide offers expert advice on standard dimensions, comparing styles—from traditional king divan beds to king ottoman beds and king bed frames. Whether you’re outfitting a spacious master suite or upgrading your bedroom for extra luxury, you’ll learn how to balance style, comfort, and space.

King size bed with storage drawers and upholstered headboard – UK size guide

King Size Bed Dimensions

A king size bed offers spacious comfort and modern storage solutions with a sturdy bed base. In the UK, a standard king bed typically measures around 150cm x 200cm (5ft x 6ft6). This size provides more space for couples, ensuring extra legroom and a luxurious sleep experience without the need for a super king.

Measuring Your Room for a King Size Bed

Blue and yellow tape measure extended, essential for measuring bed dimensions

Before choosing your king size bed, measure your room carefully to ensure a perfect fit. Consider:

  • Overall Dimensions: The bed base might be slightly larger than the rest of the mattress due to the frame and storage features.

  • Clearance: Aim for at least 60cm of free space around the bed to allow for movement and to give enough space for additional furniture.

Tip:

Sketch your room layout to visualise the bed’s placement, ensuring a harmonious and functional design.

King Bed Size Categories

King Divan Beds

Modern grey divan bed with tufted headboard and storage drawers open

Dimensions: Typically 150cm x 200cm (5ft x 6ft6)

Ideal For: Couples or families who want extra space without upgrading to a super king.

King divan beds are popular for their integrated storage and low-profile design, making them both stylish, durable and practical.

King Ottoman Bed

White ottoman storage bed with gas-lift mechanism open, revealing spacious under-bed storage

Dimensions: Generally similar to a standard king divan bed at 150cm x 200cm

Ideal For: Those who need hidden storage along with spacious comfort.

King ottoman beds provide a lift-up base that reveals ample under-bed storage, perfect for keeping bedding or seasonal items neatly tucked away.

King Bed Frame

Elegant black wooden bed frame with intricate spindle design, white bedding, and gold accent pillows

Dimensions: Designed to support a king mattress, the king size bed frame size is typically 150cm x 200cm.

Ideal For: Buyers who prefer a traditional frame without integrated storage.

King bed frames come out in various styles, from sleek modern designs to classic, ornate constructions allowing you to match your bedroom décor perfectly.

Different King Size Bed Customisation and Storage Options

King divan beds offer more than just generous dimensions - they’re an opportunity to personalise your divan base. Consider these options:

Fabrics & Colours

Choose upholstery that complements your room’s décor. 

Three divan beds in grey, navy blue, and beige with storage drawers, upholstered headboards, and a modern bedroom setup

Headboard Styles

Options include button-tufted, minimalist, or statement designs.

Six divan beds in various colours with storage drawers and upholstered headboards, showcasing stylish and functional bedroom furniture

Storage Configurations

Decide between no drawers, integrated single drawers, two drawers, four drawers or an ottoman lift to maximise space.

Illustration of three divan bed storage options: standard no-drawer divan, single front drawer divan, and two-drawer footend divan bed

"Diagram showing three divan bed storage configurations: two-drawer left side divan, four-drawer continental divan, and standard four-drawer divan bed.

Diagram illustrating three ottoman bed storage options: left-lift, end-lift, and right-lift mechanisms for space-saving storage solutions

Additional Accessories

Pair your bed with a king size mattress, coordinating bedding, decorative pillows, and matching bedside furniture.

Tip: Use online design tools or consult with your retailer to customise your king divan bed to your unique needs and style preferences.

Which Bed Is Right for You?

Selecting the perfect king size bed depends on your lifestyle, room size, and storage requirements. Consider the following:

For Maximum Comfort

If you prioritise expansive sleeping space and extra legroom, a standard king size divan bed is an excellent choice.

For Enhanced Storage

Choose a king size ottoman bed if you need hidden storage for bedding and seasonal items without sacrificing comfort.

For a Traditional Look

A king bed frame paired with a separate box spring can offer a classic aesthetic if integrated storage isn’t a priority.

Room Layout Considerations

Assess your room’s size and clearance. If space is limited, consider how a king size bed will fit and whether you need additional multifunctional furniture to optimise your layout.

Evaluate your space, storage needs, and style preferences to determine whether a standard king divan bed, a king ottoman bed, or a traditional king bed frame is the best fit for you.

Find Your Perfect King Size Bed Today

Now you know that a UK king size bed measures 150cm x 200cm, offering the ideal balance of space and comfort for most bedrooms. Whether you choose a practical king divan bed with storage, a space-maximising ottoman design, or a traditional bed frame, the key is matching your selection to your room size and lifestyle needs. Remember to measure your space carefully and consider your storage requirements to ensure your new king size bed transforms your bedroom into the perfect sleep sanctuary.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A standard UK king measures 150 cm wide × 200 cm long (5 ft × 6 ft 6 in). These dimensions apply to king mattresses, divan bases, ottoman beds, and most king bed frames sold in the UK.

A king is 15 cm wider and 10 cm longer than a UK double (135 × 190 cm) and 30 cm narrower than a super king (180 × 200 cm). Upgrading gains noticeable shoulder room without the full footprint of a super king.

Yes—if both are sold as “UK king” (150 × 200 cm). Always double-check product specs for EU or US sizes, which differ slightly, and ensure slats or divan bases provide full edge-to-edge support.

Aim for a room at least 3 × 3.5 metres. This leaves roughly 60 cm clearance on each side for bedside tables and comfortable walking paths.

Internally, both share the 150 × 200 cm mattress footprint. However, ottoman lids and side-lift mechanisms can add 1–2 cm to external width or length, so check manufacturer dimensions if space is tight.

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