Square vs Round Picnic Tables – Which is Best for Your Garden?

The two most popular shapes for modern picnic tables and outdoor dining furniture in general are square and round tables. Choosing the right design for your outdoor space can be quite the decision to make, and in this article we’ll make it simpler. In this guide, we’ll explore the key differences between square and round picnic tables, examining factors such as seating capacity, accessibility, social interaction and other practical considerations so you can choose the perfect option for your needs.
 

The Basic Differences

Both square and round picnic tables offer unique characteristics that influence how they function in different settings.

• Square picnic tables are structured, space-efficient, and ideal for organised seating arrangements. They fit well in formal layouts and against walls or fences.
• Round picnic tables encourage interaction by positioning everyone in a communal circle. They’re well-suited for social environments such as pub gardens and family spaces.

 

Seating Capacity and Comfort

The number of people you expect to accommodate is a key factor in determining if a square or round picnic table is the most suitable for your needs. Square tables for example, are often designed to comfortably seat 4 to 8 people whilst allowing for clearly defined personal space. This makes them useful for settings such as school playgrounds, restaurants and other structured dining areas where seating is planned in advance.

In contrast to this, round picnic tables are more useful for promoting easy-going social interaction since everyone is faced towards the centre of the table, making it easy for multi-directional chatter. Plus, with the lack of sharp edges, these tables are more suitable for different age groups and accessibility-challenged persons. From communal spaces to residential gardens to pubs and bars, these sorts of picnic tables support informal gatherings and conversation.

 

Space Efficiency and Layout Considerations

The layout of your outdoor space plays a significant role in determining the best table shape.

• Square picnic tables fit neatly into corners, along walls or in row formations, making them a great choice for maximising space. This structured layout is particularly useful for organised outdoor dining areas in schools, workplaces and public venues.
• Round picnic tables require more open space around them for seating access. However, they allow for better movement around the table since there are no sharp corners, making them a good option for gardens, playgrounds and parks where children and adults frequently walk through the area.

 

Which Table Encourages Better Social Interaction?

The shape of a picnic table influences how people interact during a meal or gathering.

• Round tables naturally foster conversation by ensuring everyone faces the centre, creating an inclusive dining experience. This makes them ideal for social settings such as beer gardens, family gatherings and community areas where interaction is encouraged.
• Square tables provide more structured seating, which can be beneficial in places where people may not know each other well, such as schools, public seating areas or outdoor workspaces. They also allow for easier personal space management, making them a good option for professional or formal environments.

 

In short, for a relaxed and social atmosphere, round tables are ideal. For more structured seating arrangements, square tables are the better choice.

 

Accessibility and Ease of Use

Accessibility is an important consideration when selecting a picnic table, especially for public seating areas or commercial spaces where different user needs must be taken into account. If accessibility is a key concern, square tables will generally offer more flexibility in seating arrangements compared to round picnic tables. This is because round tables with a central support tend to restrict user legroom, whilst square tables provide better definition when it comes to each person’s space. However, for both square and round picnic tables, there are wheelchair accessible options available which will allow either choice to be suitable.

 

Stability and Durability

Both square and round picnic tables can be made from high-quality, durable materials, but their structure affects how they perform over time. Square picnic tables typically have four sturdy legs, making them highly stable on flat surfaces. They are less likely to wobble, even on slightly uneven ground, making them a good choice for placement on grass or natural terrain.

Round picnic tables on the other hand, often have a central support column, which distributes weight evenly but can be less stable if the ground underneath is not level. This can be problematic if these tables are used on grassy or rocky patches of ground. However, this design allows for more legroom and ease of movement around the table. So if you have a level surface on a patio or decking available, round tables will perform just as well.

 

Maintenance and Longevity

Like all outdoor furniture, wooden picnic tables require care to maintain their appearance and durability. Square tables, with their straight edges, are easier to fit with protective covers and can be more convenient to store in winter months. Their design also makes cleaning simpler, as there are no hard-to-reach areas.

Round tables, with fewer corners and edges may experience less wear over time, especially in high-traffic environments. However, because they often have a central support structure, it’s important to check for any potential weaknesses in the base over time. Regardless of shape, some key maintenance and aftercare tips to get the most out of your wooden outdoor furniture include:

• Apply a protective wood treatment regularly to prevent weather damage.
• Clean the table surface frequently to remove dirt, spills and debris.
• Store or cover the table during extreme weather conditions to extend its lifespan.

 

Which Table Suits Your Outdoor Space?

The choice between square and round picnic tables also comes down to visual preference and how well the table complements its surroundings.

Square tables provide a neat, symmetrical look that works well in modern or structured environments such as office courtyards, school seating areas, or restaurant terraces. Their straight lines contribute to an organised and polished aesthetic.

Round tables offer a softer, more inviting appearance, blending well into natural outdoor settings. They work particularly well in parks, gardens, and communal areas where a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere is desired.

If you prefer a structured and uniform look, square tables are the best choice. If you want to create a more informal and inviting space, round tables may be more suitable.

 

Conclusion

Both square and round picnic tables have their advantages, and the best choice depends on how you plan to use them. Whichever option you prefer, MG Timber offers a selection of high-quality, handcrafted wooden picnic tables and benches in both square and round designs – including our popular handmade 8-seater square and round picnic tables. Explore our collection today and find the perfect fit for your garden, pub and bar, hotel and restaurant or commercial space.