Best 5 Sided Bay Window Curtain Poles for UK Homes – Expert Guide

Introduction: Why Your Bay Window Deserves Better

Let me tell you something about bay windows – they’re both a blessing and a bit of a headache, aren’t they? You’ve got this gorgeous architectural feature flooding your living room with light, creating that perfect reading nook you’ve always dreamed of. But then comes the curtain situation. And if you’re living in one of those stunning Victorian or Edwardian homes dotting the streets of London, Manchester, Birmingham, or Leeds, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

I remember the first time I tried to hang curtains on a five-sided bay window. There I was, standing in my living room with a standard curtain pole, thinking, “How hard can this be?” Turns out, quite hard. That’s when I discovered that not all bay windows are created equal, and a five-sided bay needs a special kind of curtain pole – one that bends, flexes, and actually follows the window’s unique shape.

Here’s the thing: a proper 5 sided bay window curtain pole transforms your window from awkward to absolutely stunning. You’re not just hanging fabric; you’re creating an elegant frame that follows every angle of your bay window perfectly. And trust me, once you get it right, you’ll wonder why you ever struggled with those makeshift solutions.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing, installing, and styling the perfect curtain pole for your five-sided bay window. Whether you’re renovating your period property or simply replacing that tired old pole from the previous owners, we’ve got you covered.

Understanding Your 5 Sided Bay Window: The Basics

Before we dive into poles and installation, let’s talk about what makes a five-sided bay window special. Unlike the simpler three-sided or square bays, a five-sided bay has – you guessed it – five distinct angles. Typically, you’ll find a central panel flanked by two angled sides on each side, creating that beautiful, rounded appearance that’s so characteristic of Victorian and Edwardian architecture.

Why does this matter for curtain poles?

Well, each of those five sides needs to be addressed. You can’t just slap up a straight pole and call it a day (believe me, I tried). You need either:

A flexible curtain pole that bends around all five sections
A bay window curtain pole kit with angled connectors for each junction
A custom-made pole tailored to your exact measurements

The goal? Creating a seamless curtain track that follows your window’s shape perfectly, allowing your curtains to glide smoothly and sit beautifully when drawn.

Top 5 Sided Bay Window Curtain Poles: Product Comparison

I’ve tested quite a few options over the years (some successful, some… less so). Here’s what actually works, with honest pros and cons from someone who’s been there.

Product	Type	Price Range	Best For	Where to Buy
Swish Deluxe Bay Pole	Flexible metal with brackets	£80-£120	Modern aesthetics, easy DIY	Amazon UK, John Lewis
Speedy County Bay Pole	28mm metal with angled connectors	£60-£95	Traditional homes, budget-friendly	Dunelm, Wayfair UK
Silent Gliss Metropole	Premium flexible system	£150-£250	Luxury finish, heavy curtains	John Lewis
Rolls Neo Bay Kit	35mm premium metal	£120-£180	Designer finials, quality seekers	Amazon UK, Wayfair UK
Dunelm Essentials Bay	Budget-friendly basic	£40-£65	Rental properties, temporary solutions	Dunelm

Which Should You Choose?

For most Victorian/Edwardian homeowners: The Swish Deluxe or Speedy County poles offer the sweet spot between quality and price. They’re sturdy enough for heavy curtains, look good with period features, and won’t break the bank.

If budget isn’t an issue: Silent Gliss is the Rolls Royce of curtain poles. Whisper-quiet glide, impeccable finish, and it’ll outlast your curtains by decades.

On a tight budget: The Dunelm Essentials range gets the job done. It won’t win design awards, but it’ll hold your curtains up reliably.

The Complete Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Curtain Pole for 5 Sided Bay Window

1. Measure Twice, Buy Once (Seriously)

This isn’t just a cliché – it’s gospel when dealing with bay windows. You need:

Width of each section (all five of them)
Angles between sections (grab a protractor if you need to)
Projection needed (how far from the wall should the pole sit?)

Total width when the pole follows the bay’s curve

Pro tip: Add a photo of your window to your phone and keep it handy when shopping. Trust me, it helps when you’re standing in Dunelm trying to remember if your bay is 2.5 or 3 meters wide.

2. Material Matters

You’ve got three main options:

Metal poles (steel, aluminum, brass):

Heavy-duty and sturdy
Perfect for thick, lined curtains
More expensive but longer-lasting
Can support poles up to 35mm diameter

Plastic/composite poles:

Lighter weight
Budget-friendly
Fine for lighter curtains
Sometimes look a bit… cheap (sorry, but it’s true)

Wood effect:

Classic look for period homes
Actually usually metal with wood finish
Can be pricey but gorgeous with the right décor

For a five-sided bay in a Victorian terrace, I’d lean toward metal every time. The angles put stress on the connectors, and you want something that’ll hold up.

3. Flexible vs. Jointed: The Great Debate

Flexible poles bend smoothly around your bay. They’re:

Easier to install (fewer parts)
Create a continuous look
Best for gentle curves
Limited in how much weight they can hold

Jointed poles use angled connectors at each junction. They’re:

Stronger for heavy curtains
More traditional appearance
Trickier to install (more brackets needed)
Better for sharp angles

My take? If your five-sided bay has gentle curves, go flexible. Sharp angles? Jointed is your friend.

4. Diameter: Size Does Matter

Standard sizes are 19mm, 28mm, and 35mm.

19mm: Light curtains only (think voiles, sheers)
28mm: The Goldilocks size – works for most curtains
35mm: Heavy, lined, or interlined curtains

For a proper Victorian bay with thick curtains, don’t go below 28mm. Your curtains will thank you.

5. Finials: The Finishing Touch

Those decorative ends aren’t just for show. They:

Stop your curtains sliding off
Add character to your room
Come in dozens of styles (balls, cones, acorns, scrolls)

Match them to your room’s style. Victorian home? Go ornate. Modern space? Keep them simple.

How to Fit a 5 Sided Bay Window Curtain Pole: Step-by-Step Guide

Right, let’s get down to brass tacks. You’ve bought your pole, you’ve got your tools ready, and you’re feeling brave. Here’s how to actually install the thing without losing your mind (or making holes in all the wrong places).

What You’ll Need:

Your 5 sided bay window curtain pole kit
Electric drill
Masonry drill bits (if you’re drilling into brick)
Spirit level (this is NON-NEGOTIABLE)
Pencil
Tape measure
Screwdriver
Wall plugs and screws (usually included)
A helper (seriously, get someone to hold things)
Cup of tea (optional but recommended)

Step 1: Plan Your Bracket Positions

Before you drill a single hole, you need to figure out where every bracket goes. Here’s the deal:

You need at least one bracket per section (that’s five minimum)
Add extra brackets every 60-80cm for support
Position the pole 10-15cm above the window frame
Make sure it projects far enough that curtains clear the window sill

Top Tip: Use masking tape to mark bracket positions on the wall. Step back, check they look right, adjust before drilling. I learned this the hard way after drilling holes that were wonky as anything.

Step 2: Install the First Bracket

Start with the center section (the flat bit in the middle). Why? Because it’s your reference point for everything else.

Hold the bracket where you want it
Check it’s level (use that spirit level!)
Mark screw holes with a pencil
Drill pilot holes
Insert wall plugs
Screw bracket firmly into place

Don’t rush this bit. If your center bracket is off, everything else will be off too.

Step 3: Work Outwards Systematically

Once your center is solid, work your way out to one side, then the other:

Install the angled brackets one at a time
Keep checking levels as you go
Make sure each bracket sits at the right angle
Test-fit the pole sections as you install brackets

The angled sections are where people usually cock things up (myself included, first time around). The trick is getting the angle right so the pole sections connect smoothly without gaps or stress on the joints.

Step 4: Assemble the Pole (If Jointed)

For jointed poles with connectors:

Connect each section with the angled joints
Ensure connections are tight (but don’t over-tighten!)
Slide rings onto each section before fitting
Add finials to the end sections

For flexible poles, this step is much simpler – just thread your rings on and you’re sorted.

Step 5: Mount the Pole

This is where that helper comes in handy:

Lift the entire pole assembly
Slot it into the brackets
Secure with the fixing screws or clips
Check the pole is level across all sections
Test the glide – rings should move smoothly

Common mistake: Forgetting to put the curtain rings on before mounting the pole. Don’t be that person. Been there, done that, had to take the whole thing down again.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

Make sure all screws are tight
Check the pole doesn’t sag anywhere
Test the curtains glide smoothly
Adjust bracket positions if needed (better now than later!)

How to Make a 5 Sided Bay Window Curtain Pole: The DIY Approach

Look, I get it. Sometimes you want to make something yourself, whether it’s for that perfect custom fit, the satisfaction of DIY, or because you’ve got an awkward size that off-the-shelf poles just won’t handle.

Can You Actually Make One?

Short answer: Yes, but it’s not for the faint-hearted.

Longer answer: Making a proper five-sided bay pole requires some serious DIY chops. You’re essentially creating a custom curved track with multiple angles, and everything needs to be precise.

If You’re Going the DIY Route:

Option 1: Flexible Conduit Method

This is the budget hack I’ve seen work:

Buy metal conduit (electrical piping) from a builders’ merchant
Get bendable connectors
Cut to size for each section
Create smooth bends at each angle
Add brackets and finials

Pros: Cheap, customizable Cons: Can look a bit DIY (because it is), not ideal for heavy curtains

Option 2: Wood and Brackets

For the woodworking enthusiast:

Use wooden doweling (28mm or 35mm)
Cut precisely measured sections
Create angled joints with dowel connectors
Sand smooth
Stain or paint to match your décor

Pros: Can look gorgeous, totally bespoke Cons: Time-consuming, needs proper tools, can be tricky at the angles

My Honest Opinion on DIY Bay Poles

Unless you’re a proper DIY wizard with serious woodworking skills, I’d invest in a ready-made kit. The price difference isn’t huge, and the hassle you’ll save is worth every penny.

That said, if you’ve got an unusual window size or you’re after a very specific look, DIY might be your only option. Just budget extra time (and patience).

5 Sided Bay Window Curtain Pole B&Q and Other Retailers

Let’s talk shops, because where you buy matters almost as much as what you buy.

B&Q

I’ll be honest – B&Q’s bay pole selection is… limited. They stock some basics, mostly flexible types, but don’t expect a huge range. Good for picking up brackets and fixing though.

What they’re good for: Hardware, extra brackets, measuring tools What they lack: Premium options, specialist fittings

Amazon UK Shop Amazon UK

Amazon is brilliant for:

Massive selection (like, truly massive)
Customer reviews (always read these!)
Quick delivery (often next day)
Competitive prices

Watch out for: Import listings (stick to UK sellers), quality can vary

John Lewis Shop John Lewis

The posh option, but genuinely worth it:

Quality guaranteed
Excellent customer service
Good returns policy
Knowledgeable staff (in-store)Expect to pay: 20-30% more than budget retailers, but you’re buying peace of mind

Dunelm Shop Dunelm

The sweet spot for most people:

Decent quality at fair prices
Good range of styles
Helpful staff in stores
Regular sales and offers

Best for: Mid-range budgets, want to see products in person

Wayfair UK Shop Wayfair UK

The online specialist:

Huge choice
Detailed specifications
Regular discounts
Free delivery on orders over £40

nce).

Downside: Can’t see products before buying, returns can be faffy

Common Problems and Solutions

Problem 1: Pole Sagging in the Middle

Why it happens: Not enough brackets, pole too thin for curtain weight

Fix: Add an extra bracket or two in the center section. If that doesn’t work, upgrade to a thicker pole.

Problem 2: Curtains Won’t Glide Smoothly

Why it happens: Brackets too tight, pole not level, cheap rings

Fix: Check all brackets are level. Slightly loosen bracket grips. Invest in better quality curtain rings (metal glides better than plastic).

Problem 3: Gaps at the Angled Joints

Why it happens: Incorrect angle on connectors, pole sections cut wrong

Fix: Adjust connector angles. You might need angled washers to fill gaps. In bad cases, you may need to remount brackets.

Problem 4: Pole Pulls Away from Wall

Why it happens: Heavy curtains, poor wall fixings, not enough brackets

Fix: Use longer screws and proper wall plugs. For plasterboard walls, use cavity fixings. Add more brackets for support.

Styling Tips: Making Your Bay Window Look Amazing

Curtain Choice Matters

Heavy lined curtains: Need 28mm or 35mm poles with plenty of brackets
Lighter fabrics: Can get away with 19mm flexible poles
Layered look: Install two poles – one for sheers, one for curtains

The Perfect Length

Floor-length curtains should just kiss the floor or have a 1-2cm break. Too short looks odd, too long gets dirty.

Tie-Backs and Accessories

Position tie-backs at about two-thirds of the window height. This creates pleasing proportions and lets in maximum light.

Color Coordination

Your pole finish should complement (not necessarily match) your curtains:

Brass/gold: Warm, traditional, Victorian homes
Chrome/silver: Cool, contemporary, modern spaces
Black: Dramatic, works everywhere
White: Fresh, coastal, Scandi vibes

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does a 5 sided bay window curtain pole cost?

A: Expect to pay £40-£250 depending on quality. Budget options start around £40-£65 (Dunelm Essentials range). Mid-range runs £80-£120 (Swish, Speedy brands). Premium poles (Silent Gliss, custom made) can cost £150-£250+. Don’t forget installation costs if you’re hiring someone – typically £80-£150 for a professional fitter.

Q: Can I install a bay window curtain pole 5 sided myself?

A: Absolutely, if you’re handy with a drill and have basic DIY skills. Most people successfully install their own poles using the steps I’ve outlined above. The trickiest bit is getting all five sections aligned properly and ensuring brackets are level. Give yourself a good afternoon, get a helper, and take your time. If you’re uncomfortable drilling into walls or working at height, hiring a handyperson for £80-£100 is money well spent.

Q: What’s the difference between flexible and jointed poles for 5 sided bays?

A: Flexible poles bend smoothly around all five sections in one continuous piece – easier to install, sleek look, but limited weight capacity. Jointed poles use angled connectors at each junction – stronger for heavy curtains, more traditional appearance, but more complex installation. For Victorian homes with thick curtains, jointed is usually better. For lighter curtains and gentler curves, flexible works brilliantly.

Q: How many brackets do I need for a 5 sided bay window?

A: Minimum five (one per section), but realistically you’ll want 7-9 brackets for proper support. The wider your bay, the more brackets you need. Add an extra bracket every 60-80cm. For a typical 3-meter bay, plan for 7-8 brackets. Skimping on brackets leads to sagging – not worth it!

Q: Will a standard curtain pole work on a 5 sided bay?

A: No, standard straight poles won’t work. You specifically need either a flexible bay pole or a jointed bay pole system designed to handle the angles. Trying to force a straight pole around a bay window ends in tears (and potentially broken poles). Invest in the right product from the start.

Final Thoughts: Getting It Right

Here’s what I’ve learned after wrestling with more bay window curtain poles than I care to count: the right pole transforms your entire room.

A proper 5 sided bay window curtain pole isn’t just functional – it’s the frame that shows off your gorgeous window, your carefully chosen curtains, and the character of your period home. Get it right, and every time you draw those curtains, you’ll feel a little spark of satisfaction.

Yes, it costs more than a straight pole. Yes, installation is a bit fussier. But you live with this feature every single day. It’s worth doing properly.

My top recommendations:

Best overall: Swish Deluxe Bay Pole from Amazon UK or John Lewis
Best budget: Dunelm Essentials Bay from Dunelm
Best luxury: Silent Gliss Metropole from John Lewis

Measure carefully, don’t rush the installation, and when in doubt, add an extra bracket. Your curtains (and your sanity) will thank you.

Now go make that bay window sing!