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A picnic table made of durable, weather-resistant materials such as timber or metal will last the longest. These materials are less susceptible to decay and insect damage, making them ideal for outdoor use. Additionally, tables with steel hardware and a protective finish, such as our PROTEX™ finish, will have increased longevity.

A picnic bench should typically be around 60 to 80 cm wide to provide enough space for seating while still allowing for comfortable dining. This width allows for people to sit comfortably without feeling cramped while also leaving enough room for food and drinks to be placed on the table. A wider bench may be required for more accessible seating.

The lifespan of a wooden picnic table can vary depending on factors such as the type of wood, the climate it's exposed to, and how well it's maintained. Generally, a properly maintained wooden picnic table can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. Regular cleaning, sealing, and protecting the wood from the elements can help extend its lifespan.

Picnic Tables and Benches

Most commercial picnic benches on the market are made from a single material. Broxap manufactures them in seven: steel, steel-framed timber, timber, recycled plastic, cast iron, concrete, and granite. Each serves a different setting, budget, and maintenance requirement. The range includes 45+ picnic bench and table designs, wheelchair-accessible options, published pricing from £342 to £2,870, and a full design, manufacture, and installation service across the UK.

Broxap has supplied picnic benches to parks, pubs, schools, councils, and commercial developments since 1946.

What is a commercial picnic bench?

A commercial picnic bench is an outdoor table-and-seat unit designed for sustained public use in parks, pub gardens, school grounds, hospitality venues, and commercial developments. Sometimes called a picnic table, pub bench, or outdoor dining bench, it differs from a domestic garden picnic set in material grade, fixing method, weight, and expected lifespan. Commercial picnic benches are built heavier to resist movement and theft, finished to withstand year-round weather exposure, and fixed permanently to the ground. They are typically specified by councils, facilities managers, landscape architects, and hospitality operators.

What materials are commercial picnic benches made from?

Broxap manufactures picnic benches in seven material categories. The right choice depends on the setting, the maintenance budget, and the expected level of use.

Timber. Pressure-treated softwood. Traditional appearance. Suit parks, rural settings, heritage sites, and schools. Needs re-treating every 2 to 3 years. Lifespan of 15 to 25 years.

Steel-framed timber. Galvanised steel frame with timber slats. Best for pubs, hospitality, and mixed-use public spaces. Lower maintenance than full timber. SmartBeam versions add integrated USB and power charging.

Steel. Fully galvanised and powder-coated. Highest vandal resistance. Lowest maintenance. Best for high-footfall urban sites. The most cost-effective option in the range.

Recycled plastic. Zero maintenance. Does not rot, splinter, or absorb water. Best for coastal, waterside, and low-maintenance environments. Lowest whole-life cost. Supports sustainability procurement requirements.

Cast iron. Ornate cast iron ends with timber or steel slats. Best for heritage sites, conservation areas, and town centres where visual character matters.

Concrete and granite. Heaviest and most permanent. Resists theft, vandalism, and fire. Best for urban public realm and high-security settings.

Wheelchair accessible. An extended table top with an open-ended design for wheelchair users. Available across multiple materials. Required on public sites under the Equality Act.

Broxap’s range of picnic benches and seats can also be supplied as free standing units, submerged fixed or base plate fixed.