You don’t have to have long, blonde curly locks and a penchant for breaking and entering to know what makes for the best dining chair. But before you click to buy the dining chair that catches your eye, it’s important to consider the practicalities and your setup. Dining chairs are usually sold in pairs of two, which allows you to spread the cost if needed, or mix and match styles. In my edit of the best dining chairs, I’ve included designs to suit both modern and traditional tables. Read more: Best ergonomic office chairs, testedI tested the dining chairs for comfort, style and practicality ( Emily Peck/The Independent )The best dining chairs for 2026 are:Best overall – Next Valencia upholstered dining chair, pair: £310, Next.co.uk– Next Valencia upholstered dining chair, pair: £310, Next.co.uk Best budget buy – Lakeland Furniture Marco dining chair in burnt orange: £89.99, Lakeland-furniture.co.uk– Lakeland Furniture Marco dining chair in burnt orange: £89.99, Lakeland-furniture.co.uk Best velvet option – Dunelm Ariana dining chair, pair: £119, Dunelm.com– Dunelm Ariana dining chair, pair: £119, Dunelm.com Best for mid-century style – Swyft dining chair 01, pair: £439, Swyfthome.com– Swyft dining chair 01, pair: £439, Swyfthome.com Best for Scandi style – Grain & Frame dark solid oak Scandinavian dining chair: £189, Grainandframe.comRead more: The best armchairs, reviewed