UK Bed Sizes Explained: Single, Double, King & Super King (in cm and ft)
Choosing the right bed size is one of the most important decisions when buying a new bed. Go too small and you'll sleep badly; go too big and the room feels cramped. This guide explains every standard UK bed size in centimetres and feet, and helps you work out which one is right for you.
UK mattress sizes at a glance
| Size | Feet | Centimetres (W x L) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Single | 2ft 6in | 75 x 190 cm | Children, small box rooms |
| Single | 3ft | 90 x 190 cm | Children, teenagers, guest rooms |
| Small Double | 4ft | 120 x 190 cm | One adult who wants extra space, smaller rooms |
| Double | 4ft 6in | 135 x 190 cm | Couples in standard bedrooms |
| King | 5ft | 150 x 200 cm | Couples who want more room |
| Super King | 6ft | 180 x 200 cm | Couples, families with children who climb in, larger rooms |
These are mattress sizes. A bed frame is always a little larger than the mattress, especially upholstered frames with padded sides, wings or a footboard. Always check the full frame dimensions on the product page before you buy.
UK vs European and US sizes
UK sizes are different from European and American sizes. A UK king (150 x 200 cm) is not the same as a US king, and European sizes are usually measured in round centimetres such as 140 x 200 cm. If you're buying a UK bed frame, always pair it with a UK-size mattress so it fits snugly.
How to choose the right bed size
1. Measure your room first
As a rule of thumb, try to leave around 60–70 cm of walking space on each side of the bed and at the foot end. Remember to allow for wardrobe doors, drawers and radiators. If you're short on floor space, a storage bed such as an ottoman bed lets you choose a bigger bed without needing extra furniture.
2. Think about who sleeps in it
A standard double gives each person 67.5 cm of width – about the same as a cot. Many couples find a king size noticeably more comfortable, and a super king gives each sleeper the same width as a single bed.
3. Consider your height
Singles, small doubles and doubles are 190 cm long. If you or your partner are over about 6ft, a king or super king (200 cm long) gives you extra legroom.
4. Think about the headboard height
Tall headboards look stunning but need suitable ceiling height. Our guide to tall headboard beds covers this in detail.
Which size is most popular in the UK?
Doubles remain the most common size in UK homes, but king size beds have become increasingly popular as people prioritise better sleep. If your room can fit a king, it's usually worth the upgrade.
Shop beds in every UK size
Every bed at Macba Beds is available in standard UK sizes, with 25+ fabric choices, free UK delivery, a 100-night trial and a 5-year warranty. Browse our ranges:
Frequently asked questions
What size is a UK double bed in cm?
A UK double mattress is 135 x 190 cm (4ft 6in x 6ft 3in).
What size is a UK king size bed in cm?
A UK king size mattress is 150 x 200 cm (5ft x 6ft 6in).
What size is a UK super king bed?
A UK super king mattress is 180 x 200 cm (6ft x 6ft 6in).
Is a small double big enough for two people?
A small double (120 cm wide) can fit two people, but it's snug. It's better suited to one adult who wants more space than a single.
