Marquee size, explained
UK marquees are hired in standard modular widths — usually 6m, 9m, 12m, 15m or 18m — extended in 3m sections along their length. That's why marquee quotes come back as dimensions like "9m × 18m" rather than a single square metre figure: the hire company is fitting your area to their frame modules.
The area you actually need depends heavily on layout. A standing reception needs about 0.65m² per guest, while a seated banquet with round tables needs closer to 1.5m² per guest once you account for chair space and walking room between tables. That's more than double — which is why "how many people fit in a marquee" doesn't have one answer without knowing the layout first.
Extras change the total meaningfully: a dance floor typically adds 15-25m², a bar area 10-15m², and a stage or band area 20-30m² depending on the act. These aren't guest space, so they get added on top of, not folded into, your per-guest calculation.
Use the marquee size calculator to get a specific recommendation, including the nearest standard hire size for your guest count and extras.
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