UK Bed Sizes – Double, King and Super King Bed Dimensions Explained

Two people, one bed and a whole night to sleep – sounds simple, until one of you keeps waking up because the other turns over and you feel it through the whole mattress. The right double bed size is not a matter of guesswork – it has a real impact on both partners' sleep, and so on how you feel the next day.

In this guide we explain the standard UK bed sizes, how they compare with European sizes, the difference between a 160 cm and 180 cm bed, what to look for in an upholstered bed and how to match the bed to the size of your bedroom.

UK Bed Sizes vs European Bed Sizes

UK and European beds are measured differently, which is worth knowing before you buy a bed, mattress or bedding. Here are the most common sizes:

• UK double – 135 × 190 cm (4ft 6in × 6ft 3in)
• UK king – 150 × 200 cm (5ft × 6ft 6in)
• UK super king – 180 × 200 cm (6ft × 6ft 6in)
• European double – 140 × 200 cm
• European king – 160 × 200 cm
• European super king – 180 × 200 cm (the same as a UK super king)

Pillovely beds are made in European sizes – 140×200, 160×200 and 180×200 cm. A 140×200 bed is slightly wider and longer than a UK double, a 160×200 bed sits between a UK king and super king, and 180×200 matches a UK super king. Always choose a mattress in exactly the same size as the bed frame, and check that your bedding fits – a UK king duvet usually works on a 160 cm bed.

Double Bed Sizes – Which Size Should You Choose?

140×200 cm is a compromise size – it fits smaller bedrooms while giving more space than a single bed. It suits couples who are short of room but do not want to give up sleeping together comfortably.

160×200 cm is one of the most popular sizes for couples – wide enough for each person to have their own zone and compact enough for a typical bedroom of about 10–14 m².

180×200 cm and larger is the choice for people for whom a good night's sleep is a priority and the bedroom allows it. It is also popular with families whose children sometimes join their parents in bed.

Consider length as well as width: 200 cm suits most adults, but if you are taller than about 185 cm it is worth looking for longer options so your feet do not hang over the edge of the mattress.

160 or 180 cm Bed – Which Is More Comfortable for Two?

This is one of the most common questions when choosing a bed for two – and the answer depends mainly on how you sleep.

A 160×200 cm bed gives each person about 80 cm – close to a single bed each, so comfort is similar to sleeping alone despite sharing. It works well for couples who sleep calmly and do not mind being close.

A 180×200 cm bed gives 90 cm per person. A difference of 20 cm sounds small, but in practice it means noticeably more freedom to move. It is a good choice if one or both of you toss and turn, go to bed at different times or simply value your own space even in a shared bed.

Also consider different firmness preferences. A wider bed makes it easier to use a zoned mattress or two separate mattresses of different firmness, tailored to each person – without the compromises a narrower bed sometimes requires.

If you are unsure, try both sizes in conditions close to home – for example in a showroom – before deciding.

Upholstered Double Beds – What to Look for in Fabric and Design

An upholstered bed is one of the most popular choices for couples' bedrooms – it combines the comfort of a soft headboard with a look that suits almost any style.

When choosing upholstery, think about practicality as well as looks. Velvet and textured weaves such as bouclé look elegant and feel lovely, but need regular care and vacuuming. Densely woven structured fabrics are more resistant to dirt and everyday use, making them a good choice for families with children or pets. Faux leather is the easiest to clean but should be kept away from sharp objects.

The shape and height of the headboard matter too. A tall, soft headboard is not just decorative – it is a practical backrest for reading or watching a film before sleep. Check that it is well supported so it keeps its shape for years.

The slatted base under the mattress also matters. Sprung slats ventilate the mattress and add a little extra give that improves comfort. If you need extra storage, an ottoman bed lets you hide spare bedding and throws without adding another piece of furniture. Read more in our guide ottoman vs divan bed.

How to Match a Double Bed to Your Bedroom and Other Furniture

Choosing the right bed size is not only about comfort, but also about planning the whole bedroom. The rule is simple: leave at least 60–70 cm of clear space around the bed so you can move freely, make the bed and open wardrobes and bedside drawers.

In bedrooms up to about 10 m², a 140×200 or 160×200 cm bed works well, leaving enough room for a wardrobe or chest of drawers without a cramped feel. In larger bedrooms of over about 14 m² you can easily consider a 180×200 cm bed or larger while keeping comfortable walkways.

Think about proportions too. A bed that is too big for a small room forces you to cut the rest of the furniture to a minimum, while a bed that is too small in a spacious room can look lost. A good rule of thumb is that the bed should take up no more than half of the bedroom floor – the rest is for circulation and other furniture.

For extra comfort and a hotel-style look, consider a divan (continental) bed – its layered construction works particularly well in double sizes, giving stable support for two people.

A Good Choice for Many Nights Together

A double bed stays with a couple for years – so it is worth taking time to choose the size, material and construction carefully rather than going with your first impression in a shop. The right bed has a real impact on the quality of your rest every night.

Browse our upholstered and ottoman beds, divan beds and mattresses in sizes to suit every couple.

Read next and shop the look

• Bed guides: ottoman bed guide, upholstered bed guide and memory foam vs pocket sprung mattress.
• Shop by size: 140×200 beds, 160×200 beds and 180×200 beds.