Divan beds have been a staple of British bedrooms for decades — practical, supportive and available with a range of storage options. Whether you’re kitting out a guest room or upgrading your own bedroom, here’s everything you need to know.
What is a Divan Bed?
A divan bed consists of a fabric-covered base with a mattress on top. The base itself provides the support and most come in two halves for easy delivery — a practical choice for rooms with narrow doorways or awkward staircases.
Storage Options
- 2 drawers — positioned on one side, ideal for smaller items
- 4 drawers — two on each side, double the storage
- Ottoman lift — the entire base lifts on a gas mechanism, great for bulkier items
- No storage — the most affordable option
Our Top Picks
We’ve handpicked the best divan beds available right now:
Base Types Explained
- Sprung edge base — springs around the edge and across the top, works well with most mattress types
- Firm edge base — solid non-sprung top, better for memory foam mattresses
- Platform top — flat firm surface, the most supportive for memory foam and latex
Do You Need a Headboard?
Divan beds don’t come with a built-in headboard — they attach separately. Browse our headboard guide for top picks, or take a look at our bed frames guide for alternatives. Pair your divan with the right mattress for the complete setup.