Standing Capacities

For standing events such as drinks receptions, music festivals, and beer tents, capacity depends on how tightly you want to pack guests:

• Busy bar/concert style (0.5 m² per person): around 2 people per m²

• Comfortable reception (0.75 m² per person): around 1.3 people per m²

• Roomy with space to circulate (1.0 m² per person): around 1 person per m²

For example, our largest sailcloth (12m × 30m = 360 m²) could hold:

• Up to 720 standing (concert style)

• Around 480 standing (comfortable reception)

• Around 360 standing (roomy layout)

Seated Capacities at Trestle Tables

Trestle tables are efficient for space, often used for banquet-style dining:

• 12m × 18m marquee (216 m²): ~130–160 guests with dance floor/stage, or up to 200 for dining only.

• 12m × 30m marquee (360 m²): ~220–280 guests with extras, or up to 340 for dining only.

Seated Capacities at Round Tables (6ft)

Round tables create a more formal look but take up more space than trestles:

• 12m × 18m marquee: ~130–160 guests with dance floor/stage, or up to 200 for dining only.

• 12m × 30m marquee: ~220–280 guests with extras, or up to 300+ for dining only.

Flexible Layouts and Add-Ons

Every event is different, and we design layouts that work for your guest numbers and flow of the day. Our sailcloth marquees can also be extended with additional structures and paired with:

• Dance floors

• Mobile bar hire

• Furniture hire

• Heating & lighting

• Full event management

This flexibility means we can cater to anything from an intimate 80-guest wedding to a festival with over 1,000 people.

Plan Your Perfect Event

At 1958 Marquees & Events, our team can help you plan the perfect layout for your celebration. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed festival feel or a formal wedding reception, our sailcloth marquee hire in Scotland is designed to impress.

Get in touch today to discuss your event, and we’ll guide you through the best options for size, capacity, and style.