Deck Chair Hire: When to Use Them and How Many to Order

Deck chairs work at outdoor events where guests sit for extended periods — outdoor cinema screenings, garden parties, festival chill-out areas. Each one takes up around 1.5m² in use and folds flat for transport. They stack ten high when folded.

When They Work

• Outdoor cinema screenings — guests face a screen for 90 minutes or more
• Garden parties and corporate picnics — relaxed informal seating zones
• Festival chill-out areas — low-energy rest zones between stages
• Village fetes and sports days — casual perimeter seating

When They Don't

Avoid deck chairs at formal dinners or any setup where guests eat at a table. The chair sits low — standard dining height is too tall for comfortable eating from a deck chair. They also need reasonably flat, firm ground. On soft or uneven surfaces the legs sink and the chair rocks. Rattan outdoor furniture or folding chairs handle those conditions better.

How Many to Order

For outdoor cinema or performances where all guests are seated throughout: one per person, plus a 10% buffer.

For garden parties and social events where guests move around: order 50 to 60% of your guest count. Most guests won't sit at the same time.

Each chair measures 1.2m long by 0.6m wide. Allow 1.5m² per chair in use to give guests room to recline and stand up. For 50 chairs, plan 75m² of clear lawn.

What to Pair Them With

Deck chairs sit low, so standard dining tables are too tall. Pair them with:

• Low side tables or coffee tables for drinks
• Rattan sets mixed in for a lounge area feel
• A 3m parasol per four chairs in direct sun, or a gazebo for a covered zone

Specifications

Solid wood frame with a bright fabric sling. Dimensions: 1.2m long, 0.6m wide, 0.88m tall. Folds flat, stacks ten high. Hire from £8.00 per 3-day period. No security deposit required. Delivery from £40 across England and Wales.