Persian Rugs UK: What to Look for Before You Buy

Searching for Persian rugs in the UK can bring up everything from genuine Persian carpets to products described only as “Persian style”. If you want an authentic Persian rug, begin with the most important fact: Persian rugs are made in Iran, the country historically known as Persia.

Look for genuine Persian origin

Pattern alone does not make a rug Persian. Floral medallions, garden designs and geometric motifs are reproduced around the world. A genuine Persian rug should identify Iran as its country of manufacture. “Persian-style” describes a look; it does not establish Persian origin.

Choose the right size before the pattern

Measure your room before falling in love with a design. Popular sizes include 300 × 200 cm (approximately 9 ft 10 in × 6 ft 7 in), 225 × 150 cm (approximately 7 ft 5 in × 4 ft 11 in) and 150 × 100 cm (approximately 4 ft 11 in × 3 ft 3 in). Hallways and narrower spaces may suit a Persian runner instead.

Check construction and feel

Persian describes origin, not a single method of manufacture. Iran produces both handmade and machine-made rugs. Look for clear information about construction, texture and density rather than assuming these qualities from the word Persian alone.

Think about the room

A large Persian carpet can anchor a living room or dining area, while a smaller rug can add colour beside a bed, under a compact table or in a reading area. Navy, cream, beige, red, silver and multicolour designs each create a different effect, so consider existing furniture and natural light as well as the rug itself.

Why UK stock matters

For UK buyers, choosing a rug already held in the UK makes the buying process simpler. You can consider the actual product, price and delivery information without depending on an overseas order being fulfilled after purchase.

Shop authentic Persian rugs in the UK

Explore our authentic Persian rugs and carpets. They are made in Iran and held in UK stock, with traditional floral, geometric, Qashqai and other Persian designs available in a range of sizes.

Need help with dimensions first? Read our Persian rug size guide, or learn how to identify an authentic Persian rug.