Metal Garden Tables Nottingham

0115 647 6611

Bespoke Outdoor Dining Tables Combining Steel or Aluminium Frames with Wood or Composite Tops

Metal Garden Tables

Nottingham Metalworks handcrafts bespoke metal garden tables for outdoor dining and entertaining across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. Our custom-built tables combine robust steel or aluminium frames with quality timber or composite tops, creating weather-resistant outdoor furniture that transforms gardens into true living spaces for decades of family meals and summer gatherings. 

Construction detail of bespoke metal garden table showing steel frame, timber top and quality stainless steel fixings in Nottingham workshop

Construction detail of bespoke metal garden table

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Range of bespoke metal garden tables showing different sizes from compact bistro tables to large outdoor dining tables made in Nottingham

Range of bespoke metal garden tables

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Family dining outdoors on bespoke metal and wood garden table in Nottingham garden creating memorable outdoor entertaining space

Family dining outdoors on bespoke metal and wood garden table

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Handcrafted Garden Tables Built to Last

Garden tables anchor outdoor living—they're where families gather for summer meals, where friends linger over evening drinks, and where children's birthday parties become cherished memories. Yet mass-produced garden tables disappoint: wobbly on uneven paving, deteriorating after seasons, and offering identical designs appearing in neighbours' gardens across Nottingham.

At Nottingham Metalworks, we fabricate bespoke metal garden tables combining engineering-grade construction with beautiful materials. Robust steel or aluminium frames provide permanent structural integrity—tables that remain stable and level year after year. Timber or composite tops offer comfortable dining surfaces suited to outdoor exposure. The result is furniture that improves with age rather than deteriorating, becoming cherished garden features rather than disposable seasonal items.

Our garden tables suit diverse outdoor spaces and uses. Compact bistro tables create intimate dining for two on small patios or balconies. Medium dining tables (1.6-2.0m) accommodate family meals for four to six people. Large gathering tables (2.2-2.8m) host extended family celebrations and summer parties. Every table is fabricated to your specifications—sized precisely for your garden, styled to complement your outdoor aesthetic, and built to withstand Nottingham's weather whilst maintaining its beauty.

The combination of metal frames with natural or composite materials offers practical advantages beyond aesthetics. Metal frames won't rot, twist, or collapse—common failures in all-timber tables. Timber or composite tops provide comfortable surfaces that don't become uncomfortably hot like solid metal tables in summer sun. And modular construction means components can be replaced individually if ever needed, extending the table's service life indefinitely.

We create garden tables for Nottingham homeowners who appreciate the value of quality furniture, enjoy outdoor entertaining and dining, want furniture complementing their gardens' character, and prefer investing in longevity over repeated replacement. Our tables become part of your garden's story—developing patina and character whilst remaining structurally sound season after season.

GARDEN TABLE SIZES & CONFIGURATIONS

Tables for Every Garden & Occasion


Compact Bistro Tables

Small gardens, courtyard patios, and balconies benefit from intimate bistro-style tables. We fabricate compact tables from 600mm diameter circular tops (seating two comfortably) through 800mm square tables. Bistro tables create charming breakfast spots, afternoon tea settings, or romantic dinner locations. The modest footprint doesn't overwhelm small spaces, yet the robust metal frame construction ensures stability despite the compact size. Particularly popular in Victorian terrace gardens where outdoor space is limited but outdoor dining is cherished.


Family Dining Tables

Rectangular dining tables from 1.6-2.0 metres length accommodate everyday family dining for four to six people. These dimensions suit typical patio areas adjacent to homes, providing substantial dining space without dominating modestly-sized gardens. We fabricate tables with widths from 800-1000mm depending on your patio dimensions and preferred proportions. Medium dining tables balance capacity with practicality—large enough for family meals and casual entertaining, compact enough to leave positioned permanently without impeding garden circulation.


Large Gathering Tables

Extended family celebrations, summer parties, and regular entertaining demand larger tables. We create substantial dining tables from 2.2 metres up to 2.8+ metres, seating eight to twelve people comfortably. Large tables transform gardens into proper outdoor entertaining spaces—the focal point for memorable gatherings. These tables require appropriate patio dimensions, but for gardens with generous outdoor areas, a large permanent dining table establishes your garden as a destination rather than merely an adjunct to your home.


Extending & Modular Tables

Some clients want flexibility—compact tables for everyday use, expandable for occasional larger gatherings. We can design extending tables with removable centre sections, allowing tables to expand from everyday 1.6m to entertaining 2.4m capacity. Modular approaches using separate table units that combine when needed offer similar flexibility. These solutions suit gardens where permanent large tables would overwhelm space, yet occasional capacity for larger groups is valued.


Custom Shapes & Configurations

Bespoke fabrication accommodates unusual requirements. Oval or circular tables suit specific garden layouts or architectural styles. L-shaped tables maximise corner locations. Bench-integrated tables create all-in-one dining solutions for constrained spaces. Unusual dimensions—extra-narrow tables for slim patios, unusually wide tables for specific locations—all become practical through custom design. Discuss your garden's geometry and we'll suggest configurations maximising your outdoor space's potential.

MATERIALS & CONSTRUCTION

Premium Materials for Outdoor Performance

Metal Frame Construction

Steel Frames

Robust steel box sections (typically 40x40mm, 50x50mm, or 60x40mm depending on table size) create permanent structural frames. We use substantial sections ensuring tables remain rigid and stable—even large dining tables spanning 2.5+ metres don't flex or wobble. Steel frames are blast-cleaned and powder-coated in extensive colour ranges. Popular colours include charcoal grey creating contemporary aesthetics, bronze tones complementing natural timber, and sage or olive greens integrating with garden planting. Powder coating provides 15-20 years of weather resistance, maintaining appearance throughout decades of outdoor exposure.


Aluminium Frames

For clients prioritising lightweight furniture or maximum corrosion resistance, aluminium offers excellent alternatives. Aluminium tables can be repositioned occasionally (moving for garden maintenance, shifting for sun) without the weight of steel equivalents. Coastal gardens particularly benefit from aluminium's inherent corrosion resistance—even if powder coating is scratched, aluminium won't rust. Structurally, aluminium frames provide similar rigidity to steel when appropriately sized, whilst reducing furniture weight by approximately 60%.


Tabletop Materials

Hardwood Tops

Premium hardwoods create beautiful, characterful tabletops developing attractive patina through outdoor exposure. European oak provides traditional beauty—rich grain patterns and durability measured in decades. Oak weathers naturally to silvery-grey or can be maintained in golden tones with annual oil treatments. Iroko (African teak) resists moisture and rot naturally, maintaining warm brown tones without treatment. Hardwood slats are attached to metal frames through stainless steel fixings allowing timber movement whilst maintaining secure connections. Slat spacing (typically 6-10mm gaps) permits water drainage and accommodates timber expansion.


Treated Softwood Tops

Pressure-treated pine or larch offers economical natural beauty. Modern treatment processes provide excellent rot resistance, whilst softwood's lighter colour and prominent grain create appealing aesthetics. Softwood accepts stains readily, enabling colour customisation matching garden schemes. Whilst less dense than hardwoods, quality treated softwood provides 10-15 years of service when maintained with annual treatment. Softwood suits budget-conscious projects or situations where regular refinishing provides flexibility for colour evolution.


Composite Tops

Modern wood-composite materials combine recycled wood fibres with polymer binders, creating maintenance-free tabletops. Composite boards won't rot, splinter, fade, or require treatment—they maintain appearance indefinitely with only occasional washing. Available in realistic wood-effect finishes from contemporary greys through traditional timber tones. Composite tops suit clients prioritising convenience over natural timber's authentic character. The dimensional stability of composites means no gaps appear between boards regardless of weather—creating consistently smooth tabletop surfaces.

DESIGN & FINISHING OPTIONS

Customising Your Garden Table

Every garden table we fabricate reflects your specific requirements and aesthetic preferences. Frame colours powder-coat to any RAL colour—thousands of options from subtle neutrals to vibrant accents. Timber species and finishes suit your maintenance preferences and desired aesthetics. Table proportions adjust to your patio dimensions and capacity needs.


Detailing Options

Contemporary clean-lined designs feature minimal detailing and simple geometric forms. Traditional styles incorporate decorative brackets, bevelled edges, or detailed corner elements. We can match table designs to existing wrought iron garden gates,  metal wall railings, or other outdoor furniture we've fabricated, creating cohesive garden schemes.


Sizing & Configuration

Custom fabrication means furniture fits your space perfectly. Narrow tables suit compact patios without overwhelming them. Benches fabricate to exact alcove dimensions. Unusual shapes—L-shaped benches, triangular tables—become practical when designed specifically for your garden's geometry. We'll discuss your requirements and suggest configurations maximising your outdoor space's potential.


Additional Features

Parasol holes accommodate shade umbrellas for summer dining. Levelling feet compensate for uneven paving. Timber treatments—from natural oils maintaining wood colour through to protective stains in various tones—customise appearance. We'll discuss options during design consultation, suggesting features enhancing your table's functionality and integration with your garden.

WHY CHOOSE BESPOKE GARDEN TABLES

Permanent Quality vs Disposable Furniture

Mass-produced garden tables fail predictably: lightweight construction wobbles, composite materials degrade in UV, and identical designs lack character. Our bespoke metal tables provide robust frames that last decades, tops that improve with age or maintain appearance permanently, and unique designs sized perfectly for your garden.

The investment in quality garden furniture proves economical long-term. Whilst our bespoke tables cost more initially than mass-market alternatives, decades of reliable service without replacement represent genuine value. And the pleasure of quality furniture - stability, beauty, pride in ownership compounds over years of family meals and cherished gatherings.

COMMISSIONING YOUR GARDEN TABLE

Creating Your Custom Dining Table

Commissioning a bespoke garden table begins with discussing your requirements—how many people you typically accommodate, your patio dimensions, preferred materials, and style preferences. We'll suggest table sizes and configurations suited to your space, explain material options and maintenance requirements, and provide detailed quotations itemising all elements.

We can visit you and bring material samples, and discuss design details. For complex spaces or large tables, site visits allow accurate measurement ensuring perfect fitting. Once design and materials are confirmed, fabrication typically takes 2-3 weeks depending on material specifications.

Many clients commission garden tables alongside benches or chairs, creating complete dining sets with consistent design and finish, ensuring all metalwork coordinates beautifully.


Metal Garden Tables in Nottingham

Ready to create your bespoke garden dining table?

Request Your Free Quote

Call: 0115 647 6611

Serving Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, and the East Midlands. Handcrafted outdoor dining tables combining metal frames with timber or composite tops. Explore our garden benches and outdoor furniture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Garden Tables

  • What size garden table do I need for my patio?

    Table sizing depends on your patio dimensions and typical guest numbers. As guidance: bistro tables (600-800mm) suit 2 people intimately; 1.6m tables accommodate 4-6 people comfortably; 2.0m tables seat 6-8 people; 2.4m+ tables host 8-12 people for gatherings. Allow approximately 600mm circulation space around the table—a 2.0m x 1.0m table needs roughly 3.2m x 2.2m patio space including seating and circulation. For awkwardly-shaped patios or unusual requirements, we can suggest configurations maximising your space. Bring patio measurements when visiting our workshop and we'll recommend appropriate table dimensions. Remember that tables can be positioned at angles or against walls where one side doesn't need access, potentially allowing larger tables than initial calculations suggest.

  • How heavy are metal garden tables?

    Weight depends on size and materials. A 2.0m steel-framed table with hardwood top weighs approximately 40-60kg—substantial enough to remain stable in wind, yet manageable for two people to reposition if needed. Aluminium-framed tables weigh approximately 40% less than steel equivalents—the same 2.0m table might weigh 25-35kg. Composite tops are typically lighter than equivalent timber. Very large tables (2.5m+) with steel frames can exceed 80kg, essentially becoming permanent garden features positioned once and rarely moved. This weight ensures stability—tables won't shift in wind or from leaning—but consider access to your patio during delivery. Most can navigate standard garden access, but inform us of any tight gates or restricted access during planning.

  • Can the table be left outside year-round?

    Yes, our metal and timber tables are designed for permanent outdoor installation. Powder-coated frames withstand rain, frost, snow, and sun exposure without deteriorating. Hardwood tops handle British weather readily—oak and iroko have been used in outdoor applications for centuries. Treated softwood resists rot and moisture when properly maintained. Composite materials are completely unaffected by weather. However, many owners use waterproof covers during extended winter periods, primarily keeping tables clean rather than protecting them structurally. Covers extend intervals between timber refinishing by reducing UV and moisture exposure, but aren't necessary for table longevity. Unlike mass-produced furniture requiring winter storage to prevent collapse, ours remains outdoors permanently without damage.

  • How do I maintain the timber tabletop?

    Maintenance depends on timber choice and desired appearance. Hardwood (oak, iroko) can be left completely untreated—it will weather naturally to attractive silver-grey patina whilst maintaining structural integrity. This is the lowest-maintenance option requiring only occasional washing. Alternatively, annual treatment with hardwood oils (teak oil, Danish oil) maintains original timber colour and enriches grain. Treated softwood benefits from annual application of protective wood stain or treatment, maintaining rot resistance and colour. Application is straightforward—clean the surface, apply product with brush or cloth, allow to dry. One afternoon annually maintains timber beautifully. Composite tops require only washing with soapy water—no treatment, no refinishing, no ongoing maintenance. We provide care instructions with every table explaining appropriate maintenance for your specified materials.

  • Can you make tables matching existing garden furniture or gates?

    Absolutely. We regularly fabricate tables coordinating with existing gates, railings or benches we've installed. Powder coating to identical RAL colours ensures perfect colour matching. Design elements can echo existing metalwork—similar proportions, repeated detailing, or complementary styling creating cohesive garden schemes. Many clients commission complete furniture sets simultaneously—table with matching benches or chairs—ensuring perfect consistency. Even if we didn't fabricate your existing metalwork, bring photographs or colour references and we'll match finish and develop table designs integrating beautifully with your established garden features. This coordination creates unified outdoor environments where all elements relate harmoniously.

  • What's the difference between slat tops and solid board tops?

    Slat-top tables use multiple narrow timber or composite boards (typically 70-100mm wide) with small gaps (6-10mm) between them. Gaps allow rainwater drainage and accommodate timber expansion/contraction, preventing cupping or warping. Slat construction creates traditional aesthetics with visible rhythm of parallel lines. Solid board tops use wider planks (150-200mm) with minimal or no gaps, creating smoother continuous surfaces. Solid tops provide more contemporary clean-lined aesthetics but must accommodate timber movement through appropriate fixings. For timber tables, slat construction is generally recommended for outdoor exposure—superior drainage and movement accommodation. For composite materials, either approach works equally well as composites don't expand significantly. We'll recommend appropriate construction during design discussion based on your material choices and aesthetic preferences.

  • Can you incorporate features like built-in ice buckets or serving trays?

    Yes, bespoke fabrication accommodates special features. Built-in planters create attractive centrepieces with seasonal flowers or herbs. Recessed ice bucket sections keep drinks chilled during summer entertaining. Removable centre sections allow planter boxes or serving trays to be swapped seasonally. Integrated benches create all-in-one dining solutions. Discuss desired features during design consultation—many creative ideas prove entirely practical through custom fabrication. These personalised touches transform functional furniture into unique conversation pieces perfectly suited to your entertaining style and garden use. Additional features typically involve modest cost increases but deliver significant personalisation and functionality benefits.

  • How long does a bespoke garden table take to make?

    Fabrication timeframes depend on design complexity, material specifications, and current workshop schedule. Standard tables with readily-available materials typically complete within 4-6 weeks from design approval. Tables requiring special timber sourcing (specific hardwoods, unusual dimensions) or custom powder coating colours may take 6-8 weeks. Very large or complex tables with integrated features might require 8-10 weeks. We provide realistic timeframes during quoting, ensuring you understand delivery expectations. Many clients commission tables during winter or early spring for summer enjoyment—ideal timing allowing unhurried fabrication and installation before outdoor entertaining season. Rush projects can sometimes be accommodated depending on workshop capacity.

  • Do you deliver and install garden tables?

    Yes, we provide delivery across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. Garden tables typically arrive fully assembled—we position them exactly where you want on your patio, ensuring they're level and stable. For very large tables or complex access situations, we may deliver frames and tops separately for easier manoeuvring, assembling on-site. Installation is straightforward for most gardens—tables simply rest on paving or decking. For sloping patios or uneven surfaces, we can fit adjustable levelling feet ensuring stable positioning. If you're simultaneously having paving work completed, we can coordinate delivery timing with your landscaper ensuring the patio is ready when your table arrives. Delivery and positioning are included in quotations, ensuring transparency about total project costs.