Transforming Your Pool Table Into A Dining Tables

In many UK homes, dining rooms are evolving. With space at a premium—especially in modern flats, apartments, and smaller houses—there’s an increasing demand for practical yet stylish furniture that maximises every inch. One clever and increasingly popular solution is to convert your pool table to a dining table DIY style. Not only does this dual purpose table serve as a functional dining room table, but it also provides endless entertainment as a full pool table. This multifunctional table enhances the enjoyment and functionality of a room in the house, making it a focal point in social gatherings.

Whether you’re furnishing a new home or upgrading your current space, a convertible pool table could be the answer to combining style, fun, and functionality in one beautiful piece of furniture.

Pool Dining Tables

Why Convert a Pool Table to a Dining Table?

1. Save Space Without Compromising Style

In many UK households, especially in cities like London or Manchester, homeowners are getting creative with space-saving ideas. A pool dining table lets you enjoy meals with your family and host fun billiards games with friends, all in the same room. Adequate space is needed around the table for players to comfortably walk and play, ensuring a seamless transition between dining and gaming.

2. Cost-Effective and Practical

Instead of buying both a billiards table and a dining table, investing in a dual-purpose pool dining table helps you save money while reducing the number of large furniture pieces in your home. However, some might suspect that these tables may not meet the high-quality standards expected for either dining or snooker play.

3. Entertainment at the Ready

After finishing your meal, simply remove the table top, store the chairs or benches, and get ready to play. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy quality time without needing to go to the pub or a pool hall.

FMF | Elixir Slate Bed Pool Dining Table | Rustic Oak

Step-by-Step: How to Convert Your Pool Table to a Dining Table DIY

Step 1: Choose the Right Pool Table

To begin your transformation, make sure you select a pool table that has a flat surface and is at the right height—similar to a standard dining table. The size of the table is crucial as it affects both its functionality as a dining surface and its usability for playing games. Popular choices in the UK include FMF’s Elixir Slate Bed Pool Dining Table and Xcalibur Pool Dining Table, both available in 6ft and 7ft sizes to suit different room sizes.

Tip: If you like to play snooker or table tennis, you might prefer a larger billiards or multi-game table with optional conversion tops.

Step 2: Select the Right Table Top

A high-quality table top transforms the pool surface into an elegant dining space. However, concerns about the table being too deep can impact legroom when used for dining purposes, as well as the overall playing experience in relation to cueing space when using the table for pool or snooker games. You can choose materials like wood, stone, or glass depending on your interior style. Make sure it sits flush and covers the pockets completely for a clean, polished finish.

Step 3: Add Protective Padding

Use protective mats or custom-fit pads to prevent spills, scratches, or damage to the playing surface. This simple step helps preserve the craftsmanship of your pool table and keeps it in top condition.

Step 4: Set Up Comfortable Seating

Use chairs or benches that match the height of a standard dining table. It is important to have a minimum amount of room around a table to ensure comfortable gameplay, specifically mentioning a minimum of 5 feet of cueing room to facilitate the use of cues effectively. If you want to save space, choose chairs with storage underneath to hide balls, cues, and other accessories when not in use.

Step 5: Accessorise Thoughtfully

Create a beautiful eating environment with stylish tableware, centrepieces, and perhaps a chandelier or pendant lighting overhead. Once the meal is over, store the dining accessories and bring out the cues—it’s time to play.

FMF | Elixir Slate Bed Pool Dining Table | Nebraska Oak

Tips for Ongoing Maintenance

Clean Regularly

Wipe the table down with a soft cloth and appropriate cleaners depending on whether your table top is made of wood, glass, or another material. Brush the billiards cloth regularly to prevent dust build-up.

Protect the Cloth

Always place protective padding or the table top before eating. This will stop crumbs, liquids, or heavy items from damaging the pool playing surface.

Schedule Professional Servicing

A routine check by a professional ensures that your convertible pool table stays level, and that the cushions and pockets remain in good shape.

A Deep Dive Into Maintaining And Caring For Your Pool table Cloth

DIY vs Professional Installation

Wondering if you should do it yourself or call in the pros? Here’s a breakdown of both approaches:

DIY Installation

Pros:

More cost-effective
Adds a personal touch
Fun project for people with basic DIY skills

Cons:

Can be time-consuming
Risk of making mistakes without prior experience
May void warranties if not done properly

Professional Installation

Pros:

Ensures precision and alignment
Saves time and effort
Often includes professional advice on care and maintenance

Cons:

More expensive
Less control over custom elements or finishes

Choosing Accessories That Suit Your Style

Enhance your dual-purpose pool dining table with these popular accessories:

Cue Racks – Keep your space neat with wall-mounted or free-standing storage for cues, chalk, and triangle.
Custom Table Pads – Protect your table top during daily use or family dinners.
Multi-Purpose Lighting – Use dimmable lights to set the mood for either meals or a competitive game.
Matching Furniture – Add a sideboard or shelf for storing accessories or displaying family photos and snooker trophies.

Cool Stuff

British Style Inspiration

Add that signature British touch to your dining room by blending traditional charm with modern function:

Dark Wood Finishes – Mahogany or walnut-stained table tops pair well with neutral walls and timeless interiors.
Upholstered Dining Chairs – Velvet or linen-covered chairs bring both comfort and luxury.
Heritage Décor – Add antique accessories, such as vintage vases or classic paintings, to make the space feel like a part of your family home.

Blending Traditional Charm with Modern Elegance in Interior Design

Find Your Perfect Fit

6ft Pool Tables

7ft Pool Tables

8ft Pool Tables

9ft Pool Tables

What About Table Tennis?

If you're looking for even more entertainment, some convertible pool tables come with optional table tennis tops. These lightweight boards can be placed directly on the table top, turning your pool table into a table tennis setup within seconds.

This triple-function furniture piece makes it a great investment for rooms where fun, eating, and style collide.

Table Tennis

Real-Life Example: A Smart Home Upgrade

Take the FMF Elixir Slate Bed Pool Dining Table in Nebraska Oak—a stunning choice that recently gained popularity among UK homeowners. Sold as a 6ft or 7ft model, it's ideal for both traditional and modern homes, offering a balance of style, function, and smart use of space. Whether you’ve recently upgraded your games room or need to make a compact flat more practical, this is one way to truly make the most out of your furniture.

Final Thoughts: Eat, Play, Enjoy

The decision to convert your pool table to a dining table DIY is not just about practicality—it’s about enhancing your lifestyle. With a dual-purpose table, your dining room becomes a place of laughter, fun, and memorable meals. From Sunday roasts to spontaneous games, this one piece of furniture brings it all together.

Whether you’re playing billiards, enjoying a quiet dinner, or simply needing more space, a convertible pool table might be the smartest piece you ever bring into your home.

Dining Room Table Conversion

Key Takeaways

Opt for a pool table with a flat surface and comfortable height.
Use a sturdy, stylish table top for dining use.
Add chairs, benches, and storage-friendly pieces for everyday functionality.
Choose materials and finishes that suit your style and enhance your space.
Keep your table clean and protected to prolong its life.
Don’t be afraid to add your own flair and make it truly yours.

Ready to Transform Your Space?

With just a few thoughtful choices and a touch of creativity, your home can offer the perfect blend of eating, playing, and stylish living. So why choose between a beautiful dining room table and a fun pool table when you can have both?

Traditional Slate Bed Pool Dining Table | Oak

Are you looking for a Dining Pool Table? check out our pool tables range Dining Pool Tables