Folding garden tables are ideal if your home's only outdoor space is a narrow balcony or petite patio. They provide a comfy spot to enjoy your morning coffee or alfresco lunch, and can be stored away when not in use.
But it’s not only small gardens that can benefit from this compact furniture — collapsible tables are a breeze to move around, making them handy additional surfaces whenever you're in need.
One significant benefit of folding garden tables, especially during winter, is that they can be stashed away in a shed and protected from rain damage. They also tend to be more affordable than their traditional fixed counterparts.
Best materials for folding garden tables
Collapsible garden tables are usually made of wood or metal, and each has pros and cons. Wood is a classic choice that suits most outdoor schemes, and it can last for years with proper care — applying a wood treatment every six to nine months should keep it looking its best. Wood is prone to rot and water damage though, so you should store or protect it with a waterproof cover during the colder months. Metal, such as steel and aluminium, is a great fuss-free option that requires little maintenance. It’s usually powder-coated to prevent scratches and rust, meaning it can withstand bad weather, and it’s also easy to clean with a damp cloth. If the colour on your furniture starts to fade, a thin layer of paint will get it back to looking its best.
13 folding garden tables to add to your alfresco area
Keep scrolling for our favourite folding garden tables for spring gatherings.
We’re pleased to see this ornate table back in stock for 2024 — it sold out multiple times last summer, and we wouldn’t be surprised if it happens again this year. With its intricate detailing and clean white finish, it’s got a fresh look for spring and feels straight out of a Parisian café.
For anyone who loves to host, this six-seater table is ideal for garden parties — it would work well as a dining table or you could set it up as a drinks station. With a rattan-effect finish, it also makes for an effortlessly chic option that will complement most outdoor schemes.
However you style this table, rattan is a timeless pick that never goes out of fashion. It’s small but will provide an extra surface for guests' drinks and nibbles during a barbecue or decorative bits like a plant pot and outdoor candle.
This table is expensive (even with the discount), but all Nkuku furniture is handcrafted in Asia, making each piece unique. The repurposed wood has a slightly distressed finish reminiscent of antique shops and vintage interiors, making it an excellent pick for shabby chic fans. For a full alfresco setup, matching bistro chairs are available.
Aussie brand Business & Pleasure Co. do seaside accessories so well, from scalloped beach towels to retro-inspired parasols. This teak wood table will work well in the garden, but it’s also great for popping into the car for lazy afternoons by the coast. It features four wine glass holders and a parasol slot and even comes with a removable carry strap for faff-free transportation.
Simple yet smart, this teak wood table is versatile enough to be dressed up however you like. It seats four, making it a good choice for families, and there's a slot for a parasol in case you'd rather dine in the shade.
This traditional wooden table is ideal if you're looking for something simple. The range includes plenty more pieces to complete your scheme, including dining chairs and an extendable table for larger dinner parties. Plus the entire collection is made from ethically sourced teak wood, which earns it some eco-credibility.
In a punchy hot pink colourway, this vibrant side table will liven up any patio or balcony. It’s made from durable and weather-resistant polypropylene plastic and it's easily cleaned with a cloth and warm water, making it a low-maintenance option that can be enjoyed for years.
Create a Mediterranean-inspired spot in your outdoor area with this beautiful table — its striking mosaic details and vivid colours are reminiscent of iconic Santorini and Mykonos exteriors. It can be easily secured over railings and folded away when Sunday brunch is over, making it a chic, space-saving option for balconies.
Dunelm’s folding table has the added bonus of raised sides so there’s no risk of drinks toppling over mid-party. As for looks, it's simple yet smart, with a neutral teakwood finish and a soothing green hue that will add a subtle splash of colour to your scheme.
This bijou table feels relaxed and modern with a stylish monochrome top. The legs have been designed to prevent floor damage, so there's no need to worry about unsightly scratching on your patio. Suitable for indoor use, it would also work well as a side table for snacks and drinks.
This table will be a good pick for anyone with a luscious, leafy garden — blue and green is such an eye-catching combination. Pairing it with yellow and orange accessories, such as these dinner plates, will bring the colour palette together well. If you need somewhere to sit, there are matching garden chairs available.
This folding bistro table is a worthy example of Habitat’s chic and affordable outdoor collection. Its removable table top can be used as a serving tray during parties, and it’s suitable for indoor use, so you can use it in your living room once you’ve headed inside. We’d style it with a muted outdoor rug and scatter cushions to create a relaxed, modern setup.