The Ultimate Guide to Bar Footrails Guide

Why do bars have footrails?

Bar foot rails hark back to a time before pubs offered seating, prompting patrons to lean against the bar for support. The introduction of footrails aimed to enhance comfort by encouraging patrons to shift their weight, providing relief and back support. This ergonomic addition facilitated longer stays and increased consumption by promoting a more comfortable standing posture. Since the introduction of furniture, footrails are more often seen as a decorative item, though they still function to support standup drinking, making it more comfortable waiting for service during busy periods, and helping shorter people to see into the back fridges.

We have nearly 50 years of experience in manufacture and installation therefore we understand the importance of ergonomics in bar footrail design. A well-designed bar footrail contributes to a positive customer experience, encouraging patrons to stay longer and enjoy their time at a bar.

Our footrails are expertly designed, to suit all applications which will be supplied in modular units for ease of installation. Also, as we have the luxury of a 90m^2 workshop, no project is too big or too small. We have the facilities to roll/mitre and weld the footrails to suit any bespoke requirements.

Overbar gantry and footrail in antique brass finish in The Ullswater Inn pictured.

Materials matter, explore the diverse materials used in crafting bar footrails, including brass, stainless steel, and mild steel. We have a full understanding of each unique material's quality and how they contribute to the aesthetic and durability of a foot rail.

Design versatility, with the vast materials above we can explore design options from classic to modern aesthetics to match with any bar. We also have a large series of brackets that are available off our shelves, therefore the turnround time is rapid.

Finishes available:

Material, Brass
Satin finish.
Polished finish.
Antique finish.
Material, Mild Steel
Wax finish.
Polyester Powder Coated finish, to any standard RAL code.

There are also a number of bracket options available. Some more decorative than others. Full list at bottom of the page.

Pegasus bracket used at The Delaval Arms, Old Hartley, Simon Bartlett, Formacity Design

View more freestanding canopy projects.

Bar Footrail FAQs

How high should a bar footrail be?

Generally, the footrails should be between 150mm to 215mm from your finish floor. However, we can fabricate a custom bar rail bracket for installations that require a lower or greater height.

What projection should a footrail be from the bar?

The brass footrail should not project any further than 215mm to prevent a tripping hazard.

What parts do I need to build a bar footrail?

There are three main components in a footrail system that will fit together to provide a comfortable place to rest your feet: tubing, brackets and endcaps.

My bar is a bespoke size, what should I do?

Fabricating a custom length is easy, if you require a joint, we can use splicing sleeves to connect two pieces of footrail. You can cover the splicing joint by placing a bracket over it.

My bar is curved, is there bar rail that will work?

Absolutely! We have the facility to roll our bar rails to suit any radius (curve), if you can supply us some images and some rough dimensions, we can quote this with the limited information while also allowing for a survey to guarantee our rail will match the bar curve.

Can we alter the bar rail diameter?

As we have a full fabrication facility we can fabricate and bracket to suit the diameter you are after, please pass your information on and we will see how we can help.

How long are your brackets?

Please refer to our bracket options above, each one has it's own dimension page.

Do your bar rail brackets come with mounting screws?

Yes, we supply our brackets with the fixings required to secure to the footrail, if you require assistance with mounting back to your bar, just inform us of the media and we will help.

Can I have my order expedited?

If you can supply us information on what you are after and the turn around time. This can be reviewed and arranged at a premium.

Bar Footrail Finishing Questions

Can I have my bar in a finish that isn’t listed?

Yes, you can order any finish that matches your requirements. We also offer a polyester powder coat finish which we can find the equivalent of any colour.

Is brushed brass the same as a satin finish?

Yes, these are both the same finishes therefore if you reference one of the other, we will accommodate accordingly.

My bar footrail is going outdoors, which finishes can withstand the elements?

If you require a external footrail, please let us know on the initial enquiry and we will estimate a powder coated or stainless steel option.

Will polished or brushed brass tarnish?

Yes, all brass will naturally tarnish over time, consistent cleaning of your tubing will maintain its finish alternatively you can apply a clear coat finish to protect your brass footrail.

What is the base material for powder coated?

Generally, if our base rails are powder-coated, they would be stainless steel.

Bar Footrail Installation Questions

How do I prevent the footrail from being scratched during installation?

Preparation and patience are key when you are installation, to protect the tube from scratches during installation. Try to handle the product as little as possible and if it arrives with any protections wrapped around keep this in place as long as possible to help protect it.

How do I install an internal splicing sleeve?

Our internal splicing sleeves will come preassembled onto one of the supplied lengths, therefore all you must do is simply push this sleeve in.

Where do I place my footrail brackets?

All our brackets will come mounted; however, in the circumstance that they haven’t been, we can supply a drawing indicating the intended locations.

Can this be installed by myself?

We recommend that everyone install this themselves. If you run into any problems. Please call, and we are happy to help you; however, we can still carry out the installation if you required.