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When it comes to banners, size really does matter. The right dimensions make all the difference in how your message is seen, read and remembered. Whether you’re designing a banner for an indoor event, outdoor sale, or trade show stand, this guide breaks down the most common UK banner sizes and helps you choose the one that suits your space and goal.
From pull-up and roller banners to large-scale outdoor displays, we’ll cover:
- Standard dimensions
- Common banner use cases
- Practical tips for getting it right the first time.
What are standard banner sizes in the UK?
Standard banner sizes are widely used because they’re cost-efficient, easy to design for, and often match existing display hardware.
Here’s an overview of the most popular options:
Banner Type | Dimensions (mm) | Ideal For | Orientation |
Pull-Up Banner | 850 x 2000 | Indoor promotions | Portrait |
Roller Banner | 800 x 2000 | Trade shows | Portrait |
Outdoor Banner | 1800 x 600 | Events, fences, shops | Landscape |
Pop-Up Banner | 1500 x 2200 | Exhibitions, backdrops | Portrait |
These sizes provide a strong balance of visibility and practicality. Many VistaPrint templates are designed to match these specs exactly, making it easy to upload artwork or customise your own.
Banners come in all shapes and sizes, but here are some of the most common UK dimensions based on location and use:
- 850 x 2000 mm (pull-up or roller banner): Ideal for in-store promotions, exhibitions or portable signage. A popular size that balances visibility with portability.
- 1800 x 600 mm (outdoor vinyl banner): Great for fences, shopfronts or temporary outdoor advertising. Offers a wide landscape format that works well for bold headlines.
- Custom sizes: Sometimes your space requires something more specific – like a narrow vertical banner for a stall, or a large backdrop for a presentation. Custom sizing helps ensure a perfect fit.
Indoor banners tend to be lighter and more compact, often prioritising portability and easy set-up. Outdoor banners, on the other hand, must be weather-resistant and large enough to be read from a distance.
Pull-up and roller banners are staples for events, shops and shows. Their tall, narrow format makes them perfect for highlighting key messages.
Standard pull-up/roller sizes:
- 800 x 2000 mm
- 850 x 2000 mm
Tips for designing:
- Leave space at the bottom for the retractable hardware.
- Include 3 mm bleed around the edges.
- Keep key content (logos, text) within a safe zone to avoid cutting.
These banners are portable, compact and reusable, making them an excellent long-term investment.
Pop-up banners and outdoor banners tend to be larger, designed for visibility at a distance. They’re great for:
- Large events or exhibitions
- Outdoor sales and promotions
- Branded stage or backdrop setups
Common sizes include:
- 1500 x 2200 mm (pop-up)
- 1800 x 600 mm (landscape vinyl)
- 2400 x 1200 mm (larger backdrops or fences)
When designing for outdoor use, consider:
- Readability from a distance: use large fonts and high contrast.
- Wind resistance: include eyelets and strong material like PVC.
- Weather durability: waterproof finishes are a must.
Banner size tips: how to choose the right dimensions
Choosing the right size comes down to a few key questions:
- Where will it be placed? Indoor banners can be smaller; outdoor ones need more impact.
- How far will viewers be? The further away, the bigger the banner and text need to be.
- Will it be reused or moved often? Pull-up and roller banners are ideal for frequent transport.
- What needs to go on it? More content = more space needed.
- Standard or custom? If you have unique space or fixtures, custom sizes give you more control.
Ready to start designing?
Now that you know what size you need, it’s time to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re using a standard size or going custom, VistaPrint makes it easy to create high-quality banners that make you memorable.
Start designing your custom banner today.
