Quick answer: Choose rectangular trestle tables to fit the most guests into a space and create long, shared tables. Choose round banquet tables for easier conversation and a more formal feel. Our 2.4m trestle seats 10 and our 180cm round seats 8 to 10. Many hosts mix both.
Tables shape how a party feels. They decide how guests talk, how easily people move around and how many you can seat in the space you have. Here is how round and rectangular tables compare so you can choose the right layout for your event.
Our table sizes and seating
Rectangular trestle tables
- 1.8m trestle table: seats 8
- 2.4m trestle table: seats 10
Round tables
- 90cm round folding meeting table: seats 2 to 4
- 120cm round banquet table: seats 4 to 6
- 150cm round banquet table: seats 6 to 8
- 180cm round banquet table: seats 8 to 10
Round seating figures vary with usage, such as whether guests have a full place setting or plates on their lap.
Round vs rectangular at a glance
| Rectangular trestles | Round banquet tables | |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | 8 (1.8m) or 10 (2.4m) | 2 to 4 (90cm) up to 8 to 10 (180cm) |
| Best for | Long shared dining, buffets, big numbers | Formal dinners, weddings, smaller groups |
| Conversation | Easy with neighbours across and beside | Everyone can see and talk to the whole table |
| Space use | Fits more guests into the same area | Needs more floor space per guest |
| Look | Relaxed, family-style feasting | Classic and formal |
| Extra uses | Buffet, gift, cake or drinks tables | Cocktail corners with the 90cm size |
When rectangular tables work best
You need to seat more guests
Trestles make the most of your space. In a marquee they fit more guests than round tables. As an approx. guide, a 6m x 9m structure marquee seats approx. 72 guests at rectangular trestle tables compared with approx. 60 at round banquet tables.
You want a long feasting table
Joining trestles end to end creates one long table that brings everyone together. It suits family celebrations, Christmas lunches and relaxed backyard dinners.
You need serving tables too
Trestles double as buffet, drinks, cake and gift tables. If you need both, hiring one style keeps the look consistent.
When round tables work best
Conversation matters
At a round table everyone can see and hear each other. That makes them ideal for weddings, engagement dinners and corporate functions.
You want a formal look
Round tables dressed in linen look polished and classic. Tablecloths are available to suit each round size.
You have smaller groups
The 120cm and 150cm rounds suit smaller groups or tighter spaces where a 180cm table feels like too much.
Mixing round and rectangular tables
You do not have to choose just one. Many hosts use:
- round tables for guests with a long trestle as a head table
- trestles for dining with 90cm rounds for a cocktail corner
- rounds for dinner with trestles along the side for the buffet and drinks
Mixing styles also helps when your space is an awkward shape.
Think about your guests
Who is coming matters as much as how many. Older guests often prefer a round table where they can hear everyone without leaning in. Families with young children may like long trestles so everyone sits together. A networking crowd at a work function tends to mix better at rounds or cocktail tables. Picture your guests at the table and choose the shape that suits them.
Planning your layout
- Measure your space. Leave room for chairs to push back and for guests to walk between tables.
- Plan walkways. Keep clear paths to the bar, the food and the exits.
- Think about the focus. Face tables towards speeches, the cake or the dance floor.
- Count chairs too. Pair your tables with our chair hire range.
- Choose the marquee to suit. Our guide to what size marquee you need shows how table style changes capacity. You can also compare layouts in our Marquee Finder.
Set-up options
Every table can be hired supply only or with set-up and pack-down. Choose the option in the Add-Ons section when you book. Browse the full table hire range for bar tables, cocktail tables and more.
Plan the details
- Delivery: our standard fee shows in your cart as Delivery & Collection (incl. tolls). If equipment needs to go into a backyard, Extended Carry & Access may apply. See our delivery information.
- Ideas by occasion: see wedding hire, backyard party hire or corporate and Christmas party hire.
- Booking: check live availability on any product page. You can book online 24/7.
Frequently asked questions
How many people fit at a round table?
Our 90cm round seats 2 to 4. The 120cm seats 4 to 6. The 150cm seats 6 to 8. The 180cm seats 8 to 10, depending on usage.
How many people fit at a trestle table?
Our 1.8m trestle seats 8 and our 2.4m trestle seats 10.
Do round or rectangular tables fit more guests?
Rectangular trestles usually fit more guests into the same space. In a 6m x 9m structure marquee that is approx. 72 at trestles compared with approx. 60 at rounds.
Can you set up the tables for us?
Yes. Choose set-up and pack-down in the Add-Ons section when you book or choose supply only to set up yourself.
Ready to plan your layout? Check live availability on any product page or send us an enquiry.
