This data article presents experimental and numerical datasets for eight fixed-base, single storey, unbraced high strength steel welded I-section frames subjected to in-plane horizontal and vertical loading. A detailed description of the full-scale frame testing programme is provided in the related research article ‘Benchmark tests on high strength steel frames’. The experimental dataset can be used to steer future research in full-scale structural testing and provide benchmark results that are suitable for the validation of finite element models and the development of system-level design approaches. In addition to the benchmark experimental frame data, all necessary details and data for shell finite element (FE) model validation using geometrically and materially nonlinear analysis (GMNIA) is presented. The general purpose FE software Abaqus was used. The dataset can be used as an illustrative example of GMNIA validation in accordance with EN 1993–1–14 with all relevant data for reproducibility provided.