A pub style picnic table is a great woodworking project for builders who want something different from a traditional picnic table. The elevated seating position creates a comfortable place for meals, conversations, outdoor entertaining, and backyard gatherings while taking up less space than many full dining sets.
Often called a bar height picnic table, this design combines the practicality of a picnic table with the comfort and appearance of pub-style outdoor furniture.
Why This Table Works So Well
Unlike a standard picnic table, this design places both the seats and tabletop higher off the ground, making it easier to get in and out while creating a more relaxed gathering space.
Key features include:
- Comfortable bar-height seating
- Built-in centre footrest for added comfort
- Compact footprint for decks and patios
- Seats four adults comfortably
- Strong cross-braced construction
- Ideal for outdoor entertaining
- Great conversation and serving height
- Easy access compared to traditional picnic tables
The finished table stands approximately 38½ inches high with a seat height of 26 inches, creating a comfortable pub-style seating experience.
One of the biggest advantages of this design is that it makes an excellent weekend woodworking project. The straightforward construction, detailed cut schedules, templates, and step-by-step instructions allow many builders to complete the table in a single day. By the end of the weekend, you can be sitting around your finished pub style picnic table enjoying the results of your work.
Recommended Materials
The original plans are designed around common dimensional lumber and require:
- 11 pieces of 2x4x8 lumber
- 4 pieces of 2x6x8 lumber
- Exterior deck screws in multiple sizes
Builders can use cedar, pressure-treated lumber, or other exterior-rated wood species depending on climate and personal preference.
Basic Build Overview
The plans include cut schedules, templates, illustrations, photos, and step-by-step instructions to simplify construction.
Typical steps include:
- Cut all parts according to the cut schedule
- Assemble the angled leg assemblies
- Build the upper support frame
- Install the tabletop frame and legs
- Add the centre support structure
- Install the footrests
- Build and install the seats
- Sand and finish for outdoor use
The design uses strong intersecting supports and a centre footrest system to create a rigid structure capable of handling years of outdoor use.
Good Uses for a Pub Style Picnic Table
Builders commonly use this style of table for:
- Backyard entertaining areas
- Deck seating
- Outdoor kitchens
- Cottage properties
- Campgrounds
- Patio dining
- Fire pit gathering spaces
The elevated seating position creates a more social atmosphere than a traditional picnic table and works especially well in smaller outdoor spaces.
Where to Get the Plans
If you want the complete step-by-step woodworking plans including templates, cut lists, measurements, diagrams, photos, and material lists, you can get them here:
You can also view this and other woodworking plans, along with customer reviews, on our Etsy shop:
Final Thoughts
A pub style picnic table is one of those projects that combines practicality, comfort, and outdoor entertaining into a single build. If you're looking for a unique seating project that stands out from standard picnic tables, this bar-height design is an excellent addition to any deck, patio, backyard, or cottage property.