What types of sliding door lock are there?

The main types are sliding hook locks with a slim lock case, compact tubular hook-bolt locks, complete sliding door lock kits that include handles and an edge pull, and lock bodies sold on their own.

What is the best lock for a sliding bathroom door?

A flush privacy lock set with a thumb turn inside and an emergency release outside is best for bathrooms and en-suites, as it can be opened from outside in an emergency.

What backset do I need for a sliding door lock?

Most sliding door locks come in 40mm or 50mm backset. A 50mm backset places the flush handle further from the door edge and frame, giving more finger room.

Are sliding door locks secure enough for external doors?

No. Internal sliding door locks provide privacy for bathrooms and bedrooms but are not security rated for external doors or patio doors.

Sliding Door Locks

Q: Can you put a lock on a sliding pocket door?

Yes. Pocket doors are locked with a flush sliding door lock, usually a hook bolt that engages a strike plate in the frame, operated by a privacy turn inside and an emergency release outside.

Internal Sliding Door Locks for Pocket, Barn and Bathroom Doors

Our sliding door locks are privacy locks made for internal doors that slide rather than swing - pocket doors that disappear into the wall, barn-style doors on a track, and sliding bathroom and en-suite doors. Every lock here fits flush into the door so nothing catches as it slides, with a thumb turn on the inside and an emergency release on the outside. We stock sliding door lock sets from Heritage Brass, M.Marcus, Carlisle Brass, Alexander and Wilks, Valli, Frelan, From The Anvil, AGB and Manital, in finishes from satin chrome and matt black to satin brass and antique brass.

Types of Sliding Door Lock

Sliding hook lock (mortice lock case): a slim lock case fitted into the door edge with a hook bolt that swings up into the strike plate. The most common sliding door bathroom lock, usually offered in 40mm or 50mm backset.
Tubular hook-bolt lock: a compact round-bodied lock that needs less timber cut from the door edge, useful on thinner or lightweight doors.
Complete sliding door lock sets: lock, flush privacy turn, emergency release, edge pull and fixings in one box - see our sliding door lock kits.
Lock bodies only: for trade fitters replacing a worn lock or matching an existing flush handle - see sliding door locks only.

How to Choose the Right Sliding Door Lock

Door thickness: most pocket door locks suit doors from about 35mm to 52mm, but ranges vary, so check the stated thickness before ordering.
Backset: 40mm and 50mm are the usual choices. A 50mm backset keeps the flush handle further from the frame and gives more finger room.
Round or square turn: match the shape to your door handles and flush pulls - round suits period and soft modern schemes, square suits crisp contemporary interiors.
Emergency release: essential on bathrooms and en-suites so the door can be opened from outside with a coin or screwdriver.
Finish: choose the same finish as your other door furniture for a consistent look room to room.

Bathroom and En-Suite Sliding Door Locks

A bathroom sliding door lock is the most common reason customers buy from this range. Privacy sets with a turn and release give the security of a normal bathroom lock without a projecting handle, so the door still slides fully into its pocket. For the best result, pair the lock with matching pocket door flush pulls on the other doors in the house.

For a side-by-side look at pocket door privacy sets, flush pulls and edge pulls, see our pocket door handles buying guide.

Shop Sliding Door Locks by Brand and Range

M.Marcus and Heritage Brass sliding door locks and privacy sets
Round pocket door privacy sets and square pocket door privacy sets
Carlisle Brass sliding door locks
Pocket door locks and sliding door lock accessories such as edge pulls and replacement turns
Everything else for the job in our pocket door hardware range

Expert Advice from Trade Door Handles

Trade Door Handles is the online store of T.H. Wiggans Ironmongery, supplying architectural ironmongery to trade and retail customers since 1976 from our showrooms in Kendal and Carlisle. Sliding door locks are for internal privacy, not external security, and we are happy to help you check door thickness, backset or finish before you order. Contact our team for advice, with delivery across the UK.

M.Marcus - SLD Lock CW SQ Privacy Turns 50mm Polished Brass

Space-Saving Locking Solutions for UK Homes

The Best Sliding Door Locks for Pocket, Barn & Bathroom Doors

Our range of internal sliding door locks is built for practicality, discretion, and modern style. Whether you're updating an en-suite with a compact pocket door, installing a rustic barn-style sliding door, or creating a space-saving partition, we offer a selection of flush-fitting and hook bolt locks to suit your needs.

Designed for UK-standard internal doors, these locks offer a seamless look and reliable functionality for bedrooms, bathrooms, and open-plan living spaces. With finishes like satin chrome, brushed brass, matt black, and more, they’re a perfect match for contemporary and traditional interiors alike.

Need to coordinate your finish across an entire room? Browse our matching Door Furniture collection for complementary handles, thumb turns, and accessories that pair perfectly with your sliding door locks.

These sliding door locks are a popular choice for home renovation projects, interior designers, and trade installers, offering smooth operation and a neat recessed fit. From compact cloakrooms to full-width room dividers, they provide a discreet and elegant locking solution that enhances the overall finish of your doors.

Need Help Finding the Right Sliding Lock?

Let Us Help You Choose

Our internal sliding door locks are compatible with a wide variety of setups found in modern UK homes and commercial interiors. Whether you're working on a new-build property, updating an en-suite, installing a pocket door system, or fitting sliding partitions for open-plan spaces, we understand that choosing the right lock can feel overwhelming.

From flush-fitting hook bolt locks to thumb turn privacy sets, we supply trade-quality solutions trusted by joiners, architects, and interior designers. If you’re unsure about sizing, compatibility, or finish options, our experienced team is here to guide you.

Visit our Contact Page to speak with a member of the team — we’ll help you find the best sliding door lock for your space, style, and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put a lock on a sliding pocket door?

Yes, sliding pocket doors can be fitted with flush locks, such as hook bolt or privacy turn locks. These are recessed into the door edge and often include an emergency coin release, making them ideal for bathrooms or en-suites.

What is the best lock for internal sliding doors?

The best option for internal sliding doors is a flush-fitting privacy lock with a thumb turn on the inside and a coin release on the outside. These locks offer reliable privacy and a discreet, minimalist look.

Are sliding door locks secure?

For internal use, yes. Sliding door locks provide excellent privacy for bedrooms, bathrooms, and other internal areas. However, they’re not designed for external use and are not insurance-rated for security.

How does a sliding door privacy lock work?

A sliding door privacy lock uses a hook or latch mechanism that slides into a strike plate within the frame. It's usually operated by a thumb turn from the inside and can be released from the outside using a coin turn for safety.

Trusted Across the UK by Trade & Homeowners

Supplying Internal Sliding Door Locks Nationwide

At Trade Door Handles, we supply high-quality sliding door locking mechanisms to homeowners, tradespeople, and project specifiers across the UK. Our products are available for delivery to towns and cities nationwide, including London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh.

We work closely with trusted hardware manufacturers to ensure long-lasting quality and consistency in finish. If you're looking for reliable options from leading brands, explore our range from Carlisle Brass, known for their robust and practical sliding locks, or Heritage Brass, perfect for period-style interiors and traditional ironmongery finishes.

Our sliding door locks are selected for their compatibility with UK-standard internal doors and are trusted by interior designers, builders, and homeowners alike. Whether you’re renovating a home or outfitting multiple properties, our team is here to help you find the right solution.