A trestle table is a table consisting of two or three trestle supports, often linked by a stretcher, over which a board or tabletop is placed. In the Middle Ages, the trestle table was often little more than loose boards over trestle legs for ease of assembly and storage.
What is a trestle table used for?
Many trestle tables have legs that fold to create a flat surface, which means that they are easy to store and easy to manoeuvre. These types of trestle tables are most commonly used for events where table surfaces are required to place food or gifts on, such as weddings, parties or outdoor events.
Why is it called a trestle table?
The trestle table was the medieval dining table form — simply a loose board placed over trestle legs. Your average medieval castle didn't have a room dedicated to dining; eating happened in the great hall or in a formal bedchamber, so it was imperative that the tables be easily and quickly set up and taken down.