Easiest way to create a seating area

[Firsttimeforeverythingmaybe]

My budget won't stretch to getting someone in to do a full patio, so I am trying to think creatively and come up with something that I can do myself. I would be very grateful if anyone could offer any advice on -

a 1.5m paving circle surrounded by gravel or slate chippings. Would this be big enough for a couple of chairs and a small table, or would they go on the gravel area?

Also, if putting gravel down, what is the easiest way to keep it all contained in one area?

My garden is pretty much a blank canvas at the moment, approx 10m long by 4m wide (it is wider but the other 3m already has plants that just need tidying up).

Any advice for a complete beginner?

When you come to do the work, https://www.pavingexpert.com/ The guy who wrote this died a couple of years ago, but it’s the best resource I know on the web. He’s an old style craftsman paver who wanted his knowledge handed down to the next generation, hence the website

We're about to start on a patio but we've just had chairs and tables on the grass for several years and it's been fine, if not perfect. We're building a patio because we want a more level area in a shady (ergo wetter, more uneven grass) area close to the house.

Small gravel tends to go everywhere, but larger gravel stones, set slightly below the grass area, should be more stable.

Your circle sounds lovely, but maybe buy/set out the table and chairs you you'll use first to get an idea of how much space you need. It can be quite subjective as people sit and relax differently.

I agree about the site above for good patio laying advice.