Beds & Bed Frames

Best Beds & Bed Frames in the UK: Stylish Picks from Nordic Nest, Menkind and More

Why choosing the right bed matters

Picking a bed is like choosing the stage for your life’s daily performance: it affects comfort, posture, and the overall vibe of your bedroom. Whether you want a sleek Scandinavian daybed, a sturdy junior frame for a growing child, or a high-tech gaming bed, the right choice makes mornings easier and nights more restorative. In this guide I’ll walk you through standout options from stores like Nordic Nest and Menkind, and compare them with other popular UK retailers so you can shop smarter.

Nordic Nest: Scandinavian style and craftsmanship

Nordic Nest is known for bringing minimalist, high-quality Scandinavian design to UK homes. If you’re drawn to clean lines, muted palettes, and furniture that feels both modern and timeless, this is a store to explore. Their selection tends to favour natural materials, textured fabrics, and thoughtful proportions—great for anyone who wants a calming bedroom aesthetic.

Signature daybeds and junior beds

Standout pieces include elegant daybeds and compact junior frames. For example, a popular junior bed listed at about 65 in long by 31 in wide by 34 in high offers a compact footprint that’s perfect for smaller rooms or a guest corner. Daybeds in their range often sit roughly 79 in long by 30 in deep by 20 in high, which is roomy enough for lounging or accommodating an overnight guest. These pieces pair well with slim mattresses or fold-out options that don’t overwhelm the clean silhouettes.

Textiles, tones, and finishing touches

Nordic Nest highlights fabrics like boucle, cashmere-like weaves, and melange upholstery in neutral tones—think off-white, sand, and muted blue. If you love that hygge feel, these textiles create a cozy, lived-in look without appearing cluttered. Pair a boucle daybed with textured throws and a low-profile rug to anchor the space.

Menkind: Fun, tech-forward and gamer-focused beds

Menkind goes in the opposite direction: bold, playful, and sometimes a little outrageous. If you or someone in your home loves gaming, movie nights, or themed furniture, Menkind’s gaming and novelty beds bring personality into the bedroom. These aren’t just beds; they’re immersive setups with lights, speakers, and integrated desks in some models.

Gaming beds and integrated tech

Menkind range includes beds like single gaming frames with built-in LED lighting, sound docks, and even TV mounts—perfect for the gamer who wants a cockpit-like sleep space. Typical single gaming beds are sized to fit a standard single mattress (around 36 in by 75 in), but the frames themselves will often include headboard attachments or side desks, so check clearance measurements before you buy.

Bunks and multifunctional designs

For families or communal spaces, Menkind high sleeper and bunk configurations—some with integrated desks or storage—are clever space-savers. A gaming bunk with a desk underneath turns a bedroom into a multi-purpose zone for sleep, study, and play. Just remember: with taller frames you’ll need ceiling height clearance, and guard rails are essential for child safety.

Other UK stores to consider

While Nordic Nest and Menkind cover two very different ends of the style spectrum, several other UK retailers offer strong options depending on your needs and budget. Stores like John Lewis, IKEA UK, Dreams, Wayfair UK, Argos, and Furniture Village each bring something unique—ranging from budget-friendly basics to premium designer pieces.

John Lewis and Dreams: reliable mid-range and premium choices

John Lewis often blends classic styles with modern finishes and tends to carry name brands and designer collaborations. Dreams is focused on mattresses and sleep systems, so it’s a go-to for mattress matching—especially if you want expert advice on memory foam, pocket-sprung models, or adjustable bases. If you like to try before you buy, these retailers typically offer showrooms where you can test firmness levels and frame stability.

IKEA and Wayfair: budget-savvy and broad selections

IKEA is unbeatable for modular solutions and simple, sturdy frames—think slatted bases, divans with storage, and loft beds for kids. Wayfair UK aggregates a huge range of styles and price points, so it’s a great place to comparison-shop. Argos and Furniture Village also provide quick delivery and a balanced mix of practicality and style, with Furniture Village leaning toward polished living-room-to-bedroom coordination.

Choosing the right size and understanding compatibility

Size matters. A bed that’s even a few inches too small can ruin sleep quality, and one that’s too large will swamp a modest room. In the UK context you’ll commonly consider single, small double, double, king, and super king equivalents—translated into inches for clarity: a single mattress is roughly 36 in by 75 in, a small double is about 48 in by 75 in, a double is 54 in by 75 in, king is 60 in by 78 in, and super king is 72 in by 78 in.

Measure twice, buy once

Always measure your room first: consider the door swing, wardrobe doors, and the path a bed will take from the hallway into the room. If a piece is listed as 66 in long by 30 in wide, make sure it fits not only in the room but also through hallways and staircases. Also think about mattress depth—platform beds can usually handle thicker mattresses, while some frames or divans may pair better with a 6–10 in mattress for aesthetic balance.

Materials, durability and maintenance

Materials determine longevity and look. Solid wood frames offer warmth and can be refinished, while metal frames are durable and often lighter for moving. Upholstered beds—common in Nordic Nest range—use fabric wraps over a supportive frame and can create a softened, luxurious feel. For gaming beds, durable PU leather or coated fabrics are popular because they’re easier to wipe clean after long sessions.

Care tips to keep your bed looking new

For wood: dust regularly and avoid direct sun to prevent fading. For upholstery: vacuum and spot-clean according to the manufacturer’s instructions; use a fabric protector if you expect spills. For metal: check bolts occasionally and tighten if anything loosens. These small rituals keep a bed performing well for years.

Storage beds and space-saving solutions

If you’re short on space, look for divan drawers, hydraulic ottoman beds, or loft-style frames. A bed with two deep drawers can replace a chest of drawers, saving floor space and reducing clutter. Ottomans that lift up to reveal storage are excellent for seasonal bedding, and daybeds can double as seating during the day—a versatile trick for studio flats.

Practical measurements for small rooms

In tight rooms you might favour a single bed (36 in by 75 in) or a compact junior bed of roughly 65 in by 31 in footprint. Bunk beds are another vertical solution—just ensure adequate headroom. When choosing integrated storage, account for drawer clearances; a drawer extending 24 in will need that extra clearance in front of the bed when open.

Kids’ beds and safety considerations

When choosing beds for kids, safety and durability come first. Look for rounded corners, sturdy guard rails, and non-toxic finishes. Junior beds in the market often use lower heights so children can climb in and out safely; typical junior frame lengths hover around 65 in which accommodates children for many years without overwhelming their room. For bunk beds, follow age recommendations and ensure the top bunk sleeps older children who won’t roll over the guard rail.

Choosing a bed that grows with your child

Convertible beds and junior-to-single designs extend the use of a single purchase. A junior bed that later accepts a standard single mattress is a smart investment. Also, consider mattresses with washable covers or moisture-resistant coatings for easy maintenance in busy households.

Sustainability, warranties and ethical sourcing

Eco-conscious shoppers should look for FSC-certified wood, sustainably sourced textiles, and brands that disclose supply-chain details. Many retailers now offer warranty information on frames and slatted bases—check what’s covered and for how long. A 5–10 year frame warranty is common for mid-range to premium beds, which can be reassuring if you’re investing in a high-quality piece.

How to weigh price against longevity

Think of a bed as an investment in future sleep. Cheaper frames may save money upfront but often need replacing sooner. If you can stretch your budget for solid joinery, better materials, and a reputable warranty, you’ll likely save in the long run. That said, budget lines from big retailers can still offer excellent value if you’re clear on expectations and care routines.

Final tips for a confident purchase

Before you click “buy,” do a quick checklist: measure the room and entryways, verify mattress compatibility, check the frame’s weight limit and warranty, and read recent reviews about assembly and durability. If you’re choosing a themed or tech-heavy bed, inspect the wiring and parts list for replaceable components. For classic or Scandinavian pieces, request fabric swatches or samples if possible—colors and textures can change the whole mood of a room.

Whether you lean toward Nordic Nest understated elegance, Menkind playful and tech-savvy frames, or a practical solution from stores like John Lewis, IKEA, Dreams, Wayfair, Argos, or Furniture Village, there’s a bed that fits your style, space, and budget. Take your time, measure carefully, and think about how the bed will serve you day in and night out.

Conclusion

Choosing the right bed is part practicality, part personality. From the minimalist lines of Scandinavian daybeds to the immersive setups favored by gamers, the UK market is rich with options. Focus on size, materials, storage needs, and long-term comfort. Measure well, compare features across stores, and pick a piece that supports both your sleep and the room’s character. Your perfect bed should feel like a retreat—a place where style and comfort meet to help you recharge.