Fence Panel Sizes UK: Heights, Widths & Which to Choose

Standard fence panel widths

Almost all UK fence panels are 6ft wide, which is about 1.83m. That standard width is what makes slotted concrete posts, gravel boards and panels from different suppliers broadly compatible. Always check exact product dimensions, as there can be small differences of a few millimetres.

If a gap is narrower than a full panel, timber panels can be cut down to fit — featheredge panels are the easiest to trim.

Standard fence panel heights

Heights usually come in one-foot steps. Here's what each is typically used for:

Which height should you choose?

Back garden boundaries: 6ft or 5ft

For privacy in a back garden, 6ft × 6ft is by far the most popular choice. A 6ft panel on top of a gravel board gives a total height of roughly 6ft 6in, which sits close to the usual 2m limit. If you'd like to add trellis on top, a 6ft × 5ft panel plus gravel board leaves room for it.

Front gardens: 3ft or 4ft

Front gardens next to a road or footpath usually have a lower height limit — often 1m — so 3ft panels are a common choice. A 4ft panel can work further back from the road. Check with your local council if you're unsure.

Dividing the garden: 4ft

A 4ft panel is useful for separating a patio from a lawn, screening bins or creating a dog run, without blocking light the way a full-height fence does.

Panel height and post length

Posts need roughly a quarter of their length in the ground. Add the panel height and gravel board height together, then allow for the buried section:

On exposed sites or soft ground, choosing a longer post to set deeper adds stability. Browse our concrete posts and timber posts.

Gravel boards

Gravel boards are the same width as the panel and sit underneath it, keeping the timber off the soil. They're usually around 6in (150mm) high. Remember to include them when you work out the overall height of your fence. See our gravel boards.

Gate sizes

Garden gates are sized separately from panels. A 3ft wide gate is typical for a side passage, and gates are usually made to match the fence height — for example a 3ft × 6ft gate beside 6ft panels. Have a look at our garden gates.

Quick checklist

• Measure the full length of the fence line and divide by 1.83m for the panel count.
• Decide on height based on privacy and any planning limits.
• Add the gravel board to your overall height.
• Pick a post length with about a quarter of it in the ground.
• Choose panel style — see our featheredge vs lap guide.

Ready to order? Our featheredge panels come in 6ft wide sizes from 2ft to 6ft high, and you can see every option on the fence panels page.