Top Headboards & Footboards in the UK: A Shopper’s Guide to Style, Size and Value

Why a headboard or footboard changes everything

Ever wondered why a room feels instantly more put together when a bed has a proper headboard? It’s like putting a frame around a painting — suddenly the whole picture makes sense. A headboard anchors the bed, protects your wall, and can add personality whether you go plush and upholstered or clean and wooden. Footboards seal the look and can add a cosy, finished feel, especially in traditional schemes. If you’re in the market for a new headboard or footboard in the UK, this guide will help you pick the right style, size, and retailer for your budget and taste.

Types of headboards and footboards

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to bed ends; styles vary by material, profile and purpose. Choosing between upholstered, wooden, metal or multifunctional pieces depends on your bedroom vibe, comfort needs and practical concerns like storage or pet-friendly finishes.

Upholstered headboards

Upholstered headboards are the sofa of the bedroom world: soft, tactile and inviting. They work brilliantly if you read in bed or want a cushioned backrest for late-night scrolling. Fabrics range from velvet and linen-look weaves to faux leather, and you can pick tufted, buttoned or plain panels to match your decor. Keep an eye out for stain-resistant fabrics if you have pets or small children.

Wooden headboards

Wood offers warmth and durability. From smooth oak slats to painted pine panels, wooden headboards suit both modern Scandi rooms and rustic, country styles. They’re straightforward to clean and often pair well with matching footboards or bedside furniture for a cohesive look.

Metal and iron headboards

Metal headboards give a light, airy feel and can be ornate or minimalist. They’re ideal if you want something durable but not heavy, and they often work well in smaller rooms because they don’t block sightlines the way bulky furniture can. Powder-coated finishes resist chipping and can last for years.

Storage and bespoke footboards

Footboards aren’t only decorative. Some come with drawers or lift-up storage perfect for extra linens, or they can be custom-made to match a mattress height and frame. If you’re short on space, a footboard that doubles as storage is a clever, practical solution.

Size guide: pick the right headboard for your bed

Measuring first saves headaches later. Here are common UK bed sizes, translated into imperial units so you can visualise easily: a Single is 3 feet (36 inches) wide, a Small Double is 4 feet (48 inches), a Double is 4 feet 6 inches (54 inches), a King is 5 feet (60 inches), and a Super King is 6 feet (72 inches). Your headboard can be the exact width of the mattress or up to 6–8 inches wider on each side for a dramatic effect — think of a headboard like a picture frame that can be slim or bold depending on the look you want.

Top UK stores to buy headboards and footboards

There’s a healthy mix of high-street names, specialist bed retailers and online marketplaces offering headboards and footboards. Below are well-known UK options where you’ll find a broad selection, price ranges and different styles to suit any bedroom.

John Lewis & Partners

John Lewis is a go-to if you want trusted quality and a range that spans modern upholstered panels to classic wooden bed ends. Prices tend to sit in the mid to higher range, reflecting durable materials and good build quality. They also stock matching bedframes, so if you want a coordinated set, this is a convenient choice.

Dreams

Dreams specialises in beds and mattresses, so their headboards are designed with sleep comfort in mind. They offer upholstered and wooden options that pair with their mattresses and divans. Dreams is a solid pick if you’re buying a new bed and headboard together and want a brand that prioritises sleep ergonomics.

IKEA UK

IKEA is ideal for budget-friendly, minimalist headboards. You’ll find simple slatted wood designs, padded panels and frame-mounted options that are easy to install. Style-wise, IKEA leans modern and functional; if you enjoy DIY and want to customise finishes, their pieces are very adaptable.

Wayfair UK

Wayfair is an online marketplace with an enormous variety: upholstered, solid wood, metal and even vintage-inspired pieces. The range is extensive and prices vary from very cheap to designer-level. Wayfair is useful for hunting down a specific style or obscure size and often runs sales that can reduce costs markedly.

Dunelm

Dunelm blends affordability with contemporary styles. Their headboards often aim for a balance between value and visual appeal, with options like padded, button-tufted looks and panelled woods. They’re a practical choice for shoppers who want style without a premium price tag.

Bensons for Beds

Bensons focuses on beds and sleep accessories, much like Dreams. They offer a wide range of headboards designed specifically to suit their bedframes and mattresses. Expect lots of upholstered choices and specials that combine headboards with sleep packages.

MADE.com

MADE is great if you’re after contemporary design with a boutique feel. Their headboards tend to be trend-forward — think bold shapes, interesting fabrics and unusual colours. Prices can be mid to high, but the designs often feel special and more unique than mass-market options.

Oak Furniture Land

If you favour solid wood and traditional craftsmanship, Oak Furniture Land provides sturdy, lasting headboards in oak, pine and other timbers. These pieces suit classic interiors and tend to age well, often finishing up as statement pieces in a room.

Loaf

Loaf specialises in relaxed, comfortable homeware, and their headboards mirror that ethos: soft, inviting designs with lots of fabric choices. Their range works well for a cosy, lived-in bedroom where comfort is king.

The Range

The Range offers extremely budget-friendly choices and fast-changing stock. It’s a good place to look for basic headboards and footboards if you’re decorating on a tight budget or want something temporary while you decide on a longer-term piece.

Pricing: what to expect at different budgets

How much should you spend? Expect entry-level headboards from online marketplaces or high-street chains to start at around £40–£80 for simple designs. Mid-range upholstered or wooden headboards typically fall between £150 and £500, offering better fabrics and construction. Designer or bespoke headboards, made-to-measure solid wood, or luxury upholstery can reach £1,000 and above. Consider the cost per year: a well-made headboard that lasts 10 years can be better value than a cheap one that has to be replaced after a season.

Installation and care tips

Mounting a headboard can be a weekend DIY job if you have the right tools: a spirit level, drill, screws and wall anchors. Most headboards attach either to the bed frame or directly to the wall. If you’re mounting to plasterboard, use suitable anchors to avoid sagging. For upholstered pieces, vacuum with an upholstery attachment and spot-clean spills promptly with a damp cloth and gentle cleaner. For wood, dust regularly and use a quality wood cleaner or oil occasionally to keep grain looking fresh.

Sustainable and budget-friendly hacks

Want to be eco-savvy or save money? Look for reclaimed wood headboards or secondhand pieces that can be repainted or reupholstered. Upcycling an old door into a headboard gives character and a fraction of the cost of a new designer piece. Alternatively, a simple pegboard or mounted pallets can create a stylish, budget-friendly backdrop that looks intentionally modern.

Style trends to watch

Current headboard trends include curved and scalloped tops, deep button tufting, soft bouclé fabrics, and sculptural wooden panels. Neutral tones remain popular for longevity, but accent colours like deep teal or smoked green are being used to make a headboard the room’s focal point. Don’t forget texture: a tactile headboard can bring warmth to a minimalist space in the same way a rug can finish a living room.

Buying checklist: don't leave home without this

Before you click purchase, check these essentials: first, confirm the width of your mattress in feet and inches; second, decide whether you need wall-mounting holes or bedframe brackets; third, inspect fabric samples or finish swatches where possible; fourth, measure the clearance from floor to slatted base or divan top so the headboard lines up; and finally, read reviews focusing on durability and how closely the product matches photos.

Putting it all together: matching a headboard to your bedroom

Think of your headboard as the punctuation mark of the room. Tall, upholstered headboards read as glamorous and add height, making a room feel taller. Low, wooden headboards offer a grounded, minimalist look. Match finishes with bedside tables and wall tones for cohesion, or make a headboard the bold accent against a neutral palette — like a striking hat on a simple outfit.

Conclusion

Choosing the right headboard or footboard comes down to style, size and practicality. Whether you prefer the tactile comfort of an upholstered panel, the timeless appeal of solid wood, or the flexibility of an online marketplace, the UK offers plenty of retailers to explore. Measure carefully in feet and inches, consider longevity over the cheapest option, and don’t be afraid to upcycle if you want a unique look on a budget. With the right choice, a headboard or footboard can transform a bedroom from “just a bed” into a considered, restful retreat.