How Do I Choose a King Size Bed Frame with a Headboard That Fits My Bedroom?
How Do I Choose a King Size Bed Frame with a Headboard That Fits My Bedroom?
Buying a King Size Bed Frame with a Headboard is an excellent way to create a more spacious, comfortable and stylish bedroom. But before you place your order, there is one important question to answer: will it actually fit in your London home?
From Victorian terraces and converted flats to modern apartments and period properties, London bedrooms come in all shapes and sizes. A king size bed can fit beautifully in many of them, provided you measure the room, account for the headboard and bed frame dimensions, and consider how you will move the furniture into the property.
This guide explains how to choose the right king size bed frame, measure your bedroom accurately and avoid common fitting problems, so you can buy with confidence.
What Is the Standard UK King Size Bed Frame Size?
A standard UK king size mattress measures 150 cm wide x 200 cm long (approximately 5 ft x 6 ft 6 in).
However, a king size bed frame with a headboard will usually take up more space than the mattress itself. The exact dimensions depend on the frame design, headboard thickness, side rails and footboard.
Here is a useful starting point:
| Measurement | Standard UK king size |
| Mattress width | 150 cm |
| Mattress length | 200 cm |
| Approximate frame width | 155–170 cm |
| Approximate frame length with headboard | 205–225 cm |
Frame dimensions are illustrative estimates, not universal measurements. Always check the manufacturer’s exact product dimensions before purchasing.
Why the Headboard Makes a Difference
A headboard can add depth to the overall bed footprint, particularly if it is upholstered, winged, panelled or designed with a thick padded finish.
For example, a slim, wall-mounted headboard may take up less space than a substantial upholstered headboard attached to a floor-standing bed frame.
If your London bedroom is relatively compact, compare the total external width and length of the complete bed rather than relying solely on the mattress size.
How Much Bedroom Space Do You Need for a King Size Bed Frame?
A king size bed does not necessarily require a huge bedroom. What matters is whether you have enough space to walk around it, open wardrobes and drawers, and move comfortably between the bed and other furniture.
As a practical guide, aim for approximately 60–75 cm of clearance on each accessible side of the bed where possible. Around 60 cm at the foot can also provide useful everyday access, although more space is preferable.
These are planning recommendations rather than strict building requirements.
Example: A Bedroom Measuring 3 m x 3.5 m
Imagine a London bedroom measuring 300 cm wide and 350 cm long, with a king size bed frame measuring 165 cm wide and 220 cm long.
- Width: 300 cm − 165 cm = 135 cm of remaining space, or approximately 67.5 cm per side when centred.
- Length: 350 cm − 220 cm = 130 cm remaining between the bed’s overall footprint and the opposite wall, before accounting for additional furniture.
In this example, a king size bed frame with a headboard could fit comfortably, assuming the door swing, wardrobe access and other furniture do not obstruct the remaining space.
What If Your Bedroom Is Smaller?
If your bedroom is narrower or shorter, you do not necessarily have to abandon the idea of a king size bed.
Consider these options:
- Choose a bed frame with a slim profile and minimal external dimensions.
- Select a low-profile or wall-mounted headboard where suitable.
- Position bedside tables strategically or use wall-mounted alternatives.
- Avoid bulky footboards that increase the bed’s overall length.
- Measure wardrobe doors, drawers and bedroom doors to ensure they can open fully.
If the bed leaves very little room to move, compare a king size frame with a standard UK double before making a final decision. Our Solid Metal Bed Frame – Simplybedsonline takes up minimal space, making it a perfect choice for smaller rooms.
Will a King Size Bed Frame Fit in a Typical London Property?
London housing presents some unique challenges. Older homes may have narrow staircases, tight landings, angled ceilings and compact bedrooms. Newer flats may have more efficient layouts but restricted lift dimensions or shared access corridors.
The best approach is to consider both the room where the bed will go and the route it must take to get there.
1. Victorian and Edwardian Terraced Houses
Period terraced homes often have attractive bedrooms with high ceilings, but the layout can be less straightforward than it appears.
Potential obstacles include narrow staircases, tight turns, chimney breasts and alcoves.
A king size bed frame may fit the bedroom itself, yet the headboard or side rails could be difficult to carry upstairs.
What to do: Measure the narrowest point of the staircase, landing and doorway. If the headboard is oversized, check whether it can be detached or delivered in separate sections.
2. London Flats and Converted Apartments
Flats in areas such as Islington, Camden, Hackney and Clapham can vary considerably in bedroom size and building access.
A king size bed frame with a headboard may work well in a larger principal bedroom, but a compact second bedroom may leave limited room for wardrobes or a desk.
What to do: Check the external dimensions of the bed, the position of the windows and radiators, and the space needed to open doors and storage units.
For apartment buildings, check lift dimensions and any restrictions on moving large furniture through communal areas.
3. Modern Apartments and New-Build Homes
Modern London apartments may offer rectangular bedrooms that make furniture planning easier. However, built-in wardrobes, window positions and fixed storage can limit where a bed can go.
What to do: Measure the usable floor area, not just the room’s overall dimensions. Account for fitted furniture, projecting skirting boards where relevant, and any obstructions near the intended headboard position.
4. Loft Bedrooms and Converted Attics
Loft rooms can be particularly challenging because sloping ceilings reduce usable headroom.
Even if the mattress and frame fit on the floor, a tall headboard may not fit beneath the roof slope.
What to do: Measure the available height at the exact point where the headboard will sit. Consider a lower headboard or a frame designed for rooms with restricted ceiling space.
How to Measure Your Bedroom Before Buying a King Size Bed Frame
Accurate measurements can prevent costly mistakes and make choosing the right bed much easier.
Follow these steps before ordering.
Step 1: Measure the Bedroom
Measure the room’s width and length at floor level. Check for alcoves, chimney breasts, fitted wardrobes and other features that reduce the usable space.
If your walls are uneven, take more than one measurement.
Step 2: Check the Complete Bed Dimensions
Look for the manufacturer’s external measurements, including the headboard, side rails and footboard.
Do not assume a king size bed frame measures exactly 150 cm x 200 cm. Those are the standard mattress dimensions, not necessarily the dimensions of the frame.
Step 3: Allow Space for Movement
Plan how you will get in and out of bed, open wardrobe doors, access drawers and move around the room.
A bed that technically fits may still make a bedroom feel cramped if the surrounding clearance is insufficient.
Step 4: Measure the Delivery Route
Check every part of the journey from the entrance to the bedroom, including:
- Front doors and internal doorways.
- Staircases and landings.
- Tight corners and narrow corridors.
- Lift doors and internal lift dimensions.
- Low ceilings or restricted headroom.
For large upholstered headboards, measure the item’s height and width and check the manufacturer’s recommended handling or delivery requirements. At Simply Beds we offer a measurement service, this is where a member of the team will come out to check the property to determine whether the bed will fit through doorways, staircases and landings. Call 020 8907 9708, for more information.
Step 5: Mark Out the Bed on the Floor
Use masking tape to mark the intended bed footprint on the floor. Include the headboard’s full depth and any protruding frame components.
This simple step helps you visualise the layout before committing to a purchase.
Which King Size Bed Frame with a Headboard Is Best for a London Bedroom?
The right design depends on your available space, storage needs and preferred interior style.
Upholstered King Size Bed Frames
Upholstered frames offer a softer, more luxurious appearance and can create a striking focal point.
They are worth considering if you want a comfortable padded headboard for sitting up in bed. However, thick upholstery and winged designs may increase the overall dimensions.
Our upholstered bedframe provides a contemporary look to the bedroom: https://simplybedsonline.co.uk/product/brown-fabric-ottoman/
Wooden King Size Bed Frames
Wooden frames can suit both traditional London properties and contemporary interiors. Their visual weight and external dimensions vary by design, so compare the complete footprint rather than the material alone. Our Sena wooden bed frame takes up minimal space in the room, making it a perfect choice for rooms with minimal space: https://simplybedsonline.co.uk/product/sena-wooden-bed-frame/
Sena Wooden Bed Frame
Premium Wooden Frame with Classic Craftsman Finish
- Solid Wood Construction
- Elegant Natural Grain Finish
- Sturdy Slat Support Base
- Easy Home Assembly
Klarna 3 payments of £99.66 at 0% interest
Storage King Size Bed Frames
Ottoman and other storage beds can be useful in London homes where wardrobe space is limited.
An ottoman bed needs sufficient clearance to raise its base, while drawer storage requires room for the drawers to extend. Check how the storage mechanism operates before choosing where to position the bed. Our Darling Ottoman offers storage space for all your items.
Darling Ottoman Bed Frame
- Hydraulic Gas Lift Ottoman Storage
- High Ridged Headboard Design
- Premium Grey Linen Fabric Upholstery
Klarna 3 payments of £183.00 at 0% interest
Low-Profile King Size Bed Frames
A low-profile frame can help a smaller bedroom feel more open, particularly when paired with a simple headboard and streamlined bedside furniture. Our Paris ottoman bed frame is a great choice with both a lower profile headboard and storage space to store all your items: https://simplybedsonline.co.uk/product/simply-paris-ottoman/
However, a low frame does not automatically have a smaller footprint. Always check its actual dimensions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a King Size Bed Frame
Even a carefully chosen bed can create problems if you overlook the details.
- Measuring only the mattress: The frame and headboard may be wider, longer or deeper.
- Ignoring the delivery route: A bed that fits upstairs may still be difficult to manoeuvre through a tight doorway.
- Forgetting wardrobe access: Allow enough room for doors and drawers to open.
- Choosing an oversized headboard: A tall or wide design may overwhelm a compact bedroom.
- Overlooking storage clearance: Ottoman mechanisms and under-bed drawers need adequate operating space.
- Assuming every king size frame is the same: Dimensions vary by manufacturer and model.
Taking a few extra minutes to check these details can help you avoid an unsuitable purchase and make better use of your bedroom space.
Final Checklist Before Ordering Your King Size Bed Frame
Before confirming your purchase, make sure you have:
- Measured the bedroom’s width and length.
- Checked the full external dimensions of the bed frame and headboard.
- Allowed suitable walking space around the bed.
- Checked wardrobes, doors, windows and radiators.
- Measured the staircase, landings, corridors and lifts.
- Confirmed whether the headboard and frame can be dismantled.
- Checked storage clearance, if applicable.
- Reviewed the product’s delivery requirements.
With these measurements in hand, you can choose a king size bed frame that suits your home without compromising comfort or practicality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a king size bed frame fit in a small London bedroom?
It can, depending on the room’s dimensions and layout. A standard UK king size mattress measures 150 cm x 200 cm, but the complete frame may be larger. Measure the external bed dimensions and allow space for walking, storage and door access before deciding.
What size is a UK king size bed frame with a headboard?
The standard UK king size mattress is 150 cm wide and 200 cm long. The complete bed frame may measure approximately 155–170 cm wide and 205–225 cm long, although some designs fall outside these ranges. Check the exact dimensions of your chosen model.
Is a king size bed too big for a Victorian terraced house?
Not necessarily. Many Victorian bedrooms can accommodate a king size bed, but alcoves, chimney breasts and narrow access routes can affect the layout. Measure both the bedroom and the route used to deliver the bed.
Can I fit a king size bed frame upstairs in a London flat?
Possibly, but it depends on the dimensions of the staircase, landings, corridors, lift and bed components. A frame with detachable rails and a separate headboard may be easier to transport than a single large assembled unit.
How much space should I leave around a king size bed?
As a practical starting point, aim for approximately 60–75 cm on each accessible side and around 60 cm at the foot where possible. Your ideal clearance will depend on the room, furniture arrangement and how you use the space.
Is a king size bed better than a double for a London home?
A king size bed offers more sleeping width than a standard UK double, making it attractive for couples or anyone who values extra room. A double may be more practical in a smaller bedroom where space for wardrobes, desks or other furniture is a priority.
Should I choose an upholstered or wooden king size bed frame?
Choose according to your preferred style, comfort and available space. Upholstered frames often have padded headboards and may be bulkier, while wooden designs vary from slim, minimalist frames to substantial traditional styles. Compare external dimensions before buying.
How can I tell whether my headboard will fit through the doorway?
Measure the headboard’s width, height and depth, then compare these with the usable doorway and the space available to turn it through the entrance. Include corridor width, staircase angles and ceiling height. Ask the retailer about sectional or detachable headboards if access is restricted.
Find the Right King Size Bed Frame for Your London Home
A king size bed frame with a headboard can transform your bedroom into a more comfortable and inviting space. The key is to choose a design that fits your room, suits your interior and can be delivered safely into your property.
Before you buy, compare the bed’s full dimensions, consider the practicalities of your London home’s layout and check the delivery requirements.
Ready to upgrade your bedroom? Explore our range of king size bed frames with headboards, compare dimensions and find a design that works for your space. If you are unsure which frame will fit, measure your room first and contact our team for guidance before ordering.
A well-chosen bed should do more than look good. It should fit your home, support your everyday routine and help you make the most of your bedroom.
