The best garden furniture brands to shop this year

Who makes the best garden furniture? We’ll be the judge of that. Just relax…

Bali Wood Platform Corner Sofa Set with Interchangeable Cushion Covers / Oatmeal

by Piper Huxley |
Updated on

When it’s time to buy a new set for the outdoors, knowing the best garden furniture brands to shop is always helpful. After all, there’s never been a better time to invest in a new design for that unique outdoor experience, whether dining al fresco or winding down at the bottom of the garden. We’ve hand-picked a variety of garden furniture for you to choose from, as well as details about the brand. Hopefully, Modern Gardens Magazine will perk up your patio – ready for the summer months.

Thankfully, there are a lot of places where you can hunt for your ideal garden furniture, from online sites to department stores. Make sure to bookmark our suggestions and visit them over the course of the year if you want to refresh your outdoor space – whether you want to deck your patio out with a dining set or add a comfy place to sit in a shady spot – like a hanging egg chair. Keep on top of prices, but we’d recommend getting in quickly. Things will sell out.

Best garden furniture brands at a glance:

Stylish, premium garden furniture: Maze Living
Best garden furniture brand: John Lewis
Upgrade with their stylish offerings: Habitat
Mid-range garden furniture: Dunelm

Each year brings the promise of exciting new garden trends that'll modernise your outdoor space and big predictions for how we're going to style, design, and use our gardens for the rest of the year. Indoor-worthy patioware is all the rage, according to Jules Barton-Breck. Here, you will lounge in luxury with weather-friendly outdoor living furniture indistinguishable from their indoor counterparts. Or, consider wicker garden furniture for a natural look.

With that, Modern Gardens Magazine has hand-picked the best garden furniture brands that deserve your attention this year.

Best garden furniture brands

Maze Living

Stylish, premium garden furniture

This British outdoor furniture brand has many products, including outdoor sofa sets and kitchens. You name it, they have it. Everything you need to create the perfect space. We love that their furniture is smart, stylish and made to last, with lengthy guarantees.

Suitable for year-round use, their fabrics are UV, rain, frost, and mould resistant. Plus, Maze products are designed with the environment in mind. The brand is committed to making the right choices for the planet and aims to become one of the UK's most eco-friendly garden furniture suppliers.

Lounge in style

Bali Rope Weave Double Sunlounger Set with Interchangeable Cushion CoversMaze Living

Description

From Maze, we recommend the Bali Double Sunlounger Set - which is elegant, versatile and sturdy. Its deep cushions are water and UV-repellent, not to mention comfy. As part of Maze's commitment to sustainability, it's made of FSC acacia wood - as well as a sturdy, woven polyester. Equally perfect for the lawn, patio or conservatory, this is a set primed for the ultimate summer relaxation. We couldn't write this list without including it. Breathtaking.

Pros

  • Complete with rain and cushion covers
  • 100 per cent water and UV repellent
  • Made from FSC-certified acacia wood

Cons

  • Some assembly required

Perfect for entertaining

Maze - Bali Wood Platform Corner Sofa Set with Interchangeable Cushion CoversMaze Living

Description

From their new collection of modern designs, this Bali Wood Platform Corner Sofa Set comes with contain comfortable cushions with two sets of fabric to choose from: grey or oatmeal. With a functional design, this collection is ideal for popping on the decking for guests to park themselves down on. Not only is this set elegant, but it's well-designed and constructed from high-quality and sustainable materials. Come rain or shine, it'll see you through the best summer.

Pros

  • Complete with rain and cushion covers
  • 100 per cent water and UV repellent
  • Made from FSC-certified acacia wood

Cons

  • Some assembly required

John Lewis

Best garden furniture brand

John Lewis is a reliable, trusted brand. Known for its high-end homeware, you’re in safe hands when looking for high-quality, long-lasting outdoor furniture. Relax and dine alfresco with their impressive range – stocking everything from garden benches to bistro sets for the patio.

Why else do we love John Lewis? They have a great number of furniture ranges and sets, with individual matching pieces available at different price points and to one’s liking. If you like the style of a particular dining set, chances are there will be a matching sun lounger for a cohesive look.

Best contemporary range at John Lewis

KETTLER LaMode Garden Lounge Chairs with CushionsJohn Lewis/KETTLER

Description

These lightweight and comfortable KETTLER LaMode Garden Lounge Chairs come with rain-proof cushions. The realistic rattan effect makes a stylish addition to your garden, whilst you benefit from a robust aluminium frame that has a three year guarantee. Match with complementary garden furniture in the KETTLER range, all available from John Lewis.

Customer review: "Delighted with these chairs as they look stylish and, most importantly, are very comfortable to sit in for long periods of time."

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Stylish
  • Comfortable deep seats

Cons

  • Customer comments that the cushions were slightly darker than expected

Best garden furniture set for entertaining

Bramblecrest Chedworth 8-Seater Garden Elliptical Dining TableJohn Lewis/Bramblecrest

Description

The Bramblecrest range is designed to offer incredibly comfortable outdoor seating and dining for up to eight people. It's outstanding for its durability and ergonomic high-back seating. Plus, this Bramblecrest Chedworth 8-Seater Garden Dining Set includes a high-quality parasol that shades the whole table. Whilst the table and chairs are sturdy and substantial, they are relatively lightweight, which makes it easier to reposition the pieces.

Pros

  • All-weather outdoor rattan
  • Includes a lazy Susan that's ideal for entertaining a group of dinner guests
  • Robust and weatherproof frame

Cons

  • No customer reviews

Wayfair

Widest range of garden furniture

Wayfair is another good option for kitting out your home with furniture, décor and soft furnishings. Need some outdoor cushions for your rattan rocking chair? Wayfair seems to be inundated with as many outdoor accessories as they do stylish seating. Their range is vast and immensely impressive.

Since 2002, this shopping destination has been showcasing a variety of brands on its site, from budget buys to high-end premium pieces. It’s perfect for those of us who are seeking a specific look for their outdoor space. You’re bound to find what you’re dreaming of… We guarantee it.

Best rattan furniture

Aaban Rattan 5 - Person Seating GroupWayfair
Price: £659.99 (was £999)

www.wayfair.co.uk

Description

Create a comfortable corner in any outdoor area to enjoy an alfresco meal or glass of wine with this Aaban Rattan 5-Person Seating Group set. It includes a bench, two chairs, and a table, making it ideal to enjoy with friends or family. It is built sturdily from solid FSC-certified acacia wood to last you through the seasons.

Customer Review: "Love our new garden furniture, very helpful, friendly person when ordering, prompt delivery and great quality and value."

Pros

  • Made from FSC acacia wood
  • Lightweight frame
  • Highly durable poly cement tabletop

Cons

  • Some assembly required

Our favourite bistro set

Aaleiyah Round 2-Person Long Bistro SetWayfair
Price: £159.99 (was £209.99)

www.wayfair.co.uk

Description

Why not choose the Aaleiyah Round 2-Person Long Bistro Set? It makes the perfect chair duo for a long summer's day - with a perfectly sized table for beverages too. We love the classic dark rattan material and it sits beautifully against the light cream cushions. Heaven! The wide seats are finished with a back cushion too for ultimate comfort and style.

Customer Review: "Love this wee set, quite easy to put together but easier if you have a drill as the Allen key provided isn't great. It's very comfy, looks good and the price is great."

Pros

  • Durable PE rattan
  • Stylish rocker duo
  • Timeless, cream seats

Cons

  • Assembly may require tools

The Range

Recommended

The Range is another great place to shop for your next garden furniture – believe it or not. Whether you shop in-store or online, The Range offers a wide range of homeware at competitive prices. When it comes to their garden pieces, we’re flawed by the low prices and high customer reviews.

From sofas to outdoor coffee tables, The Range offers an abundance of garden bits for your outdoor space, whether patio, balcony or lawn. Plus, they have options made for the kids. So, if you’re looking for a miniature garden swing for the little ones in your lives, perhaps The Range is for you.

Best swing-bed for ultimate relaxation

Monte Carlo 3 Seater Swingbed ComboThe Range
Price: £279.99 (was £299.99)

www.therange.co.uk

Description

Add a spot of pure relaxation in your garden with the Monte Carlo 3-Seater Swingbed Combo. If you're a lover of a classic garden swing, why not lie down and get comfy? Ready for the warmer days, there is an adjustable canopy for protection or if you'd prefer to sunbathe. Durable, sleek and simple, it's a winner in our eyes.

Customer Review: "Very happy with the purchase, nice design, sturdy and comfortable. The whole family love it. Would recommend and order again."

Pros

  • Soothing swinging motion
  • Both a chair and a bed
  • Attractive design with plush pillows

Cons

  • Some assembly is required

Budget egg chair

Brown Egg Chair with Soft CushionThe Range

Description

Every outdoor spot needs an egg chair. Why not grab this Brown Egg Chair with Soft Cushion from The Range? Ideal for relaxing with someone else (or on your own), this egg chair will fit perfectly on your patio - or in any shady spot. Here, you can be mindful and reflect on your week - with a botanical beverage to hand. And, breathe...

Customer Review: "Absolutely stunning egg chair. Was a bit fiddly to build to start with but within 45mins we had sussed it out. Extremely comfortable cushions. Looking forward to the warmer weather to start using it."

Pros

  • Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
  • Powder-coated steel frame for strength
  • A pocket provides storage space

Cons

  • Doesn't come with a cover

Habitat

Upgrade with their stylish offerings

Owned by Sainsbury’s, Habitat is a trusted homeware brand here in the UK. It’s pretty mid-range and you can find some stylish, expensive-looking pieces for a bargain. This summer, they have a fabulous range of recliner garden chairs. Not to mention, their patio sets are to die for.

Why else do we love Habitat? They’re perfect for us Brits, who jump at the chance for al fresco dining. Most of Habitat's offerings are created internally, yet there’s something worldly about their range. Wanting to upgrade your dreary-looking rattan garden furniture? Habitat is the place.

Best dining set for small garden spaces

Habitat Eve 2 Seater Metal Garden Bistro SetHabitat

Description

The perfect size for a balcony or small front garden, the Habitat Eve 2 Seater Metal Garden Bistro Set. Users comment that the set offers good value for money and great quality for the price. Additionally, both the table and chairs can be folded flat for storage when not in use.

Customer review: "Sturdy, stylish and easy to fold away when not in use. This is just what we needed for enjoying time outdoors."

Pros

  • Good value for money
  • Stylish and bright
  • Folds away for storage when not in use

Cons

  • Seat needs a cushion, being metal that gets hot by being out in the sun

Bar-style dining set

Habitat Nordic 4 Seater Rattan Patio Set - GreyHabitat

Description

With this Nordic 4-Seater Rattan Patio Set from Habitat, Alfresco dining will never be the same. It has four handwoven rattan and steel chairs and one oak-effect table. It's cleverly designed to comfortably host up to four guests, with the chairs simply sliding under the table. It's great to make the most of limited space. Or, to make your patio appear tidy.

Customer Review: "Recently moved to a park home where space is limited garden-wise. This set is ideal as it packs away very neatly. Easy to assemble which is always a plus for me!!!! Quite low-backed and the cushions lack a bit of body but I'm happy with the purchase. Bought a cover separately so all set for summer!"

Pros

  • Stylish, tropical-style design
  • Compact solution to smaller spaces
  • It would look great indoors

Cons

  • Smaller than expected

Dunelm

Mid-range garden furniture

With Dunelm, you can save big on sun-dappled breakfasts and long, loungey weekends in the garden. If you’re a fan of curling up with a good book, you can find a great piece, happily on your lonesome. Or, if you like to entertain guests, we favour their tropical corner and curved sofa sets.

No matter the season, weather or occasion, Dunelm’s quality is fantastic. Bridging the gap between indoor and outdoor living spaces, Dunelm is letting us lounge in outdoor garden furniture that is indistinguishable from their indoor counterparts, which is a hot garden trend this year.

Best five-seater garden furniture

Elements 5 Seater Rope Corner SofaDunelm

Description

Create an outdoor space that's both modern and inviting with this gorgeous Elements 5-Seater Rope Corner Sofa from Dunelm. Coming with rave reviews and a stylish look, we can't exclude this from our round-up. It features two sofas and a glass coffee table, creating plenty of seating for your friends. Hairpin-style is in and we love it.

Customer Review: "I wanted a corner sofa for my conservatory and decided on this after reading the reviews. It looks lovely, very stylish and modern. My only disappointment is that the seat cushions are much too firm for comfort! I’m hoping that in time they will soften."

Pros

  • Create plenty of seating for a gathering
  • Includes padded cushions for extra comfort
  • Soft, yet durable look for your garden

Cons

  • Cushions are too firm for some

Best Dunelm corner sofa set

San Luca Corner Sofa SetDunelm

Description

Jump on the hairpin furniture trend with this stylish San Luca Corner Sofa Set. Customers praise its space-saving design and boho elegant when paired with bright cushions and patterned throws. It has shower-resistant cushions and a weather-proof frame so it can stay outdoors. Just store the seat pads and cushions inside during rough weather.

Customer review: "Really great corner sofa, great quality cushions and they are definitely water resistant in light shows (droplets run straight off)."

Pros

  • Elegant designer look
  • Space-saving design that doesn't take up too much space
  • Minimal and simple assembly

Cons

  • Note that the two sofa pieces don't connect together, some customers suggested using a cable tie

B&Q

Perfect for all gardens

B&Q has a stunning range, perfect for decking out your patio – no matter the shape or size. It has innovative storage-smart and space-saving pieces – to keep your outdoor space neat, tidy and looking beautiful. With a range suiting all styles and preferences, you’re bound to find a gem.

What else do we love about B&Q? Their wide range incorporates high-quality products suitable for all budgets. If you’ve got the cash to splash out on a sofa dining set to dine in style, by all means. However, if you’re looking for a bargain bistro set, B&Q will perfectly set you up for the summer.

Another great rattan pick

GoodHome Maevea Grey Rattan effect 4 seater Coffee setB&Q

Description

From B&Q, we suggest this GoodHome Maevea Grey Rattan-Effect 4-Seater Coffee Set. Grab a furniture cover for an extra £10, and you're sorted - come rain or shine. With its modular and space-saving design, you can create your own space in the garden. It has four different orientations, so perfect for when you want to try something a little different.

Customer Review: "Bought a couple of months ago. Looks really good and is quite comfortable. Love the fact that the chairs can be stored underneath the sofa and the table sits on top of the sofa so it can easily be covered with just one cover and doesn't take up too much space when not in use. Cushions are a bit bulky so think about where you will store them. It's lightweight and easy to move around although slightly more difficult to move on gravel like we have."

Pros

  • No assembly required with this set
  • Made from weather-proof rattan-effect
  • Easily change the configuration

Cons

  • Chairs are a little bulky

Bargain sun lounger set for your garden

Outsunny 3 PCS Rattan Lounger Recliner Bed Garden Furniture Set with Side Table BrownB&Q
Price: £241.99

www.diy.com

Description

An ideal addition to garden, patio, park, poolside and more, this Outsunny, 3-Piece Rattan Lounger Set is weatherpoof as it's made from soilid PE rattan construction. Plus, the table comes with tempered glass - ideal for putting your drinks on - and the white cushions are filled with thick fabric for comfort. Not only are these recliners adjustable with five angles, but they're rust-resistant and easy to maintain.

Customer Review: "Very happy with this and good value. Highly recommend."

Pros

  • Premium, all-weather PE wicker material
  • Comfortable with padded cushions
  • Adjustable chaise lounge back at five angles

Cons

  • None that we can think of!

VERDICT: Who makes the best garden furniture?

Modern Gardens Magazine recommends all of the above for your garden furniture needs. But, overall, our top pick is John Lewis. Garden furniture is an investment and though John Lewis isn’t a budget brand, there are many products at different price points. Overall, their stock is good quality.

How we chose the best garden furniture brands

All of these garden furniture brands have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered quality, style and value in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching garden furniture brands to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about. And with help from Modern Gardens Magazine, Garden News and Garden Answers, we share expert gardening knowledge to help you get the most from your product.

FAQs

What type of garden furniture is best?

As you may have gathered, there are many different types of garden furniture out there to choose from – all made from different materials. Often manufactured to withstand the unpredictability of weather here in the UK, the garden furniture will last you a while. So, it’s important to be clued up on the material types – not only for style purposes but for longevity, also.

With the help of Dunelm, we’ve got some tips on how to pick this long-term investment. And – helping you consider your lifestyle, outdoor space and preferences before you take the plunge.

What is the best quality garden furniture?

PE rattan – is used to look like the real thing. But it’s made from a textured polyethene – so, it’s “more durable and weather resistant than natural rattan,” says Dunelm. It can be used indoors, outdoors and in conservatories. It’s comfy, weatherproof and east to maintain. Though it can be left outside, storing it inside or with a cover will help it last longer. Overall, it’s a long-lasting choice.

Wood – is a strong, durable pick “with a natural look” and often comes with a “anti-corrosive coating” says Dunelm. We’d recommend storing away or covering it during the harsher months. With good care, wood can be a great choice and last a long time. Not only does it provide an antiquated look for your outdoors, but it is easy to clean. Remember: treat the wood annually.

Metal – comes with a higher price and is heavier to carry. However, it is a more durable option. Though aluminium and steel are rust-resistant, “other metals may need an anti-corrosive coating,” says Dunelm. Further, aluminium furniture is typically lower-priced, lightweight and easy to move, but “requires greater care.” Most metals need cleaning with soap and water – and covering, too.

Plastic/Resin – is another affordable pick, says Dunelm. Garden furniture of this type is lightweight, weather-resistant and kid-friendly. Plus, it comes with minimal assembly required. Luckily, plastic or resin furniture can cater to most of us, as it can take many styles or forms. Often, it comes stackable and is easy to clean. However, Dunelm suggests storing “through winter to maximise the lifespan”.

Big Family and Friends Celebrating Outside at Home. Diverse Group of Children, Adults and Old People Gathered at a Table, Having Fun Conversations. Preparing Barbecue and Eating Vegetables.
©Photo: Getty / gorodenkoff

When is the best time to buy garden furniture in the UK?

Now - grab a garden furniture deal before everything sells out.

Can garden furniture be left outside?

Yes – but, we have a few tips before you fork out, thanks to Modern Gardens Magazine contributor, Jill Morgan. She says: “The best way to make your furniture set last is to observe the changing weather and seasons carefully.” Not all furniture will be 100 per cent weatherproof.

How do I look after my furniture?

So, for safety and longevity, an outdoor furniture cover should be on your list. After all, garden furniture sets will benefit from “being covered up overnight in winter and even spring and summer when humidity is high and rain is common in the UK,” says Jill. Make sure you have the dimensions correct before you buy, though. Often, you can buy directly from the brand for the perfect fit.

When it comes to cleaning, Jill says to keep things simple: “If you have wooden or plastic furniture, the easiest, most effective, and cheapest way to clean your furniture is by using soapy water using a mild detergent or washing up liquid, and then using a brush or sponge to scrub it down. Simply rinse with a garden hose if you have one and leave it to dry in direct sunlight.”

What to read next:

The best rustic garden décor inspiration

Best hairpin style furniture for a stylish patio set

Sail shades to extend your outdoor living space

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Piper Huxley is a Homes, Garden and Wellness Product Writer for Modern Gardens Magazine, an all-rounder. When she’s not writing about houseplants, she’s tending to her own growing collection…

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