Rise and Recliner Chairs

What are rise and recliner chairs?

A rise and recliner chair is a powered single armchair with two main functions. The rise function gently tilts the whole chair forward to bring you to a near-standing position, so getting in and out of the chair is easier and takes less effort. The recline function eases the backrest back and raises a footrest, so you can settle into a comfortable position for reading, watching television or relaxing. It's all controlled at the touch of a button, making it a comfortable, independent choice for the home. To see the wider choice of reclining seating, our recliner chairs collection is a good place to start.

How does a rise and recline chair work?

These chairs are powered, so both the rise and the recline are operated by a simple handset — no levers to pull. Press one way and the chair reclines and raises the footrest; press the other and it tilts forward to help bring you to your feet. Because it runs on a motor, the chair needs to sit within reach of a mains socket and simply plugs in on delivery. You can stop at any point to find the position that suits you. For other powered chairs, our electric recliner chairs collection shows the wider choice.

Which models are available — Kingsbury, Bilbury and Hunson?

The range currently includes three models — the Kingsbury, the Bilbury and the Hunson — each a single-seat rise and recliner chair with its own look and finish. They share the same powered rise-and-recline functions, and differ in their styling, material and detailing. The full specification for each, including size and features, is shown on its own product page, so it's worth comparing them there. To browse single seats more widely, see our armchairs range.

What material are they — fabric or genuine leather?

Both, and we keep them clearly distinct so you always know exactly what you're buying. Some models are upholstered in a warm, hard-wearing fabric, which we keep distinct from velvet, suede and leather; others are in natural genuine leather, a breathable hide that's hard-wearing and ages into a soft patina. The material of each chair is stated on its product page. If you'd like to see the wider genuine-leather choice, our genuine leather sofas collection is a good reference.

What is the difference between fabric and genuine leather?

Fabric is warm and soft to sit on, cosy in a living room, and cleaned by vacuuming and spot-cleaning — a comfortable, everyday choice. Genuine leather is a natural, breathable hide that's hard-wearing, wipes clean easily and develops a lovely patina over the years, at a higher price. Neither is “better” in the abstract — it comes down to the look you prefer, your budget and how you like to clean. To compare warm fabric options, our fabric sofas collection shows the wider choice.

How do I choose the right chair and fit?

With a single-seat chair, a good fit matters, so it's worth checking the dimensions on each product page against the person who'll use it most — particularly the seat height, seat width and seat depth, so the chair feels comfortable and easy to get in and out of. Think about where it will sit in the room too, within reach of a socket. If you're not sure which model or size to choose, our showroom team are happy to help, and you're very welcome to come and try the chairs in person. Our buying guide also covers measuring up.

How much space does the chair need?

A rise and recliner chair needs a little clearance to work. Leave room in front for the footrest when reclined and a little space behind for the backrest, and because it tilts forward on the rise function, keep the area in front of the chair clear so you can step away easily. As it's powered, position it within reach of a mains socket. Each product page lists the chair's dimensions, including the space it needs when fully reclined, so you can plan the spot before it arrives.

How do I care for the chair?

Care depends on the material, which is why we label it clearly. For a fabric chair, vacuum regularly on a low setting or with an upholstery brush, and blot spills promptly with a clean, dry cloth. For a genuine leather chair, dust and wipe with a slightly damp cloth and condition occasionally to keep the hide supple. For both, avoid harsh chemical cleaners and abrasive sponges, keep the chair out of prolonged direct sunlight, and keep the mechanism and handset clear of crumbs and spills. For the leather option, our guide to cleaning leather sets out a simple routine.

Are the chairs fire-safe?

Yes. Every chair in the range meets UK Fire Resistant (UKFR) standards, so the materials and construction comply with the fire-safety regulations required for upholstered furniture sold in the UK. This is a baseline legal requirement rather than an optional extra, and it applies across both materials and every model.

How long does delivery take?

Most in-stock rise and recliner chairs are delivered within 7–10 working days, with free delivery. Delivery is carried out by a two-person team who bring the chair into your chosen ground-floor room, access permitting, and set it in place; old furniture removal can be arranged if you'd like your existing chair taken away at the same time. The chair simply plugs into a mains socket on arrival. It's worth measuring doorways and hallways in advance. Full timescales and coverage are on our delivery information page.

Can you spread the cost with finance?

Yes. You can spread the cost of any rise and recliner chair using one of our named finance providers, all subject to credit check. Simply select your preferred option at checkout; the exact terms for your order are shown before you confirm. Full details are on our finance options page.

Finance is provided by third parties and is subject to status and affordability checks. Missing payments may affect your credit rating.

Why choose Furniture Instore?

We specialise in upholstered furniture, and a rise and recliner chair is a comfortable, easy-to-use single armchair for the home. We describe our chairs plainly and honestly — you'll always know whether a model is fabric or genuine leather, and the exact features are on each product page — and you're welcome to visit our Coventry showroom to try the rise and recline and check the fit before you decide. Every order comes with free delivery by our own two-person team and our 14-day change-of-mind returns, we hold a 4.8★ Excellent rating from over 4,800 genuine Trustpilot reviews, and you can spread the cost interest-free with Klarna, Clearpay or PayPal Pay in 3, or over a longer term with DivideBuy, all subject to credit check. To see the wider choice of reclining seating, browse our recliner sofas, and call us on 02476 705 600 if you'd like a hand choosing.

Frequently Asked Questions