12 of the best garden swings for adults

Our gardens are a sanctuary, a happy place. Surrounded by plants, the sound of the birds, perhaps a vegetable patch. You can enjoy your hard work by adding a unique seating area to the mix, with a selection of the best garden swings for adults. They make a great garden chair, adding a picturesque spot to reflect and recuperate.

Garden swings are among the most popular garden furniture. A hanging structure, a garden swing can seat one, two or three people. So, they’re perfect for a bit of alone time – or ideal for a day of shared relaxation with a loved one. No matter the weather, a garden swing can provide the ultimate comfy and shady spot in your garden, and there are plenty of different types and options to suit any taste or style.

Best garden swing chairs for adults at a glance

• Best overall: Outsunny 3 Seater Swing Seat - View now on Robert Dyas
• Best swing set for style: Aaminah Swing Seat - View now on Wayfair
• Best hanging chair swing: DETEX Hanging Chair With 2 Pillow - View offer on Mano Mano

There are quite a few different types of garden swings for adults, from canopy seats to more traditional wooden swings. We've rounded up the best on the market and have answered frequently asked questions about garden swings.

Best garden swing chairs for adults UK

FAQs

What types of garden swings are there?

Wooden – is a great and solid choice. This will be sturdy and reliable. Perfect for some cushions and will give your garden a cottage feel. Though wood – generally - needs some maintenance, you can always get the paintbrush out and give it a splash of colour, too.

Canopy – is a better option if you’re sensitive to the sun. With the extreme heat we’ve been having of late, it’s very important to keep in the shade – and keep you safe from UV rays. Plus, it will protect you from rain – which could be perfect for those of you who don’t mind petrichor or a pitter-patter.

Metal – Despite being prone to rust, metal is another good choice, just, simply, cover it with a furniture cover when not in use. They’re generally long-lasting, chip-resistant and sometimes come with waterproof fabric – which is a bonus.

Cushions – are the comfiest option of the lot. Who can resist dozing off in the garden? We’ve all done it. Some will come with detachable covers. It’s best to keep them away from the elements. Most metal structures will have cushions built in – so, invest in a cover.

What do I need to think about when shopping for a garden swing for adults?

Size – Think about the size of your garden. How much space do you have? Just enough for a simple egg chair – or massive three-seater wooden structure? Think about your household, too. If you’re a lover of alone time, it’s worth looking at smaller, chicer garden swings to fit your independent lifestyle. We’ve made sure to include a variety in our listicle.

Assembly – If you’ve got the chops for assembling a garden swing, by all means, go for it. However, some of these garden swings may arrive flat-packed. Advice from Modern Gardens: make sure you check first before you order. Next, don’t panic. Hopefully, the instructions will be clear enough and you’ll have a functioning swing in no time.

Maintenance – Different swings will require different amounts of maintenance.

If possible, cushions from your garden swing will need to be removed during colder months. You want to preserve the comfiness for summer. If not, you can always find a cover.

Next, wood can get damaged by harsh weather conditions. So, your wooden garden swing may need to be topped up with varnish for extra protection – or covered up during those months.

Similarly, metal is also vulnerable to harsher weather, namely corrosion. Get a cover.

Where is best to place my garden swing?

Finding the perfect spot for your new garden swing is going to be paramount to your peace.

Luckily, Modern Gardens writer Jules Barton-Beck has helped us think about placement.

Firstly, think of your surroundings. What’s around you? Do you like to escape from the outside world? Is your main priority your safety? On this, Jules says: “Feeling safe is a prerequisite for feeling happy, so sitting your seating area in a spot that subconsciously helps you to feel secure is a must.” If you feel similarly, she suggests putting your seating area in front of a wall or fence.

Secondly, you should consider which part of your garden gets sun during the day. Getting some well-needed sun is great for your well-being as it can boost your happy hormone levels. Jules says: “Positioning your happy haven in a spot that catches the sun first thing means that you can benefit from this feel-good surge at the start of your day, as you enjoy a cup of tea or coffee.” Sounds like bliss. Even better, it will be shaded later on the day when the sun is at its hottest.

Lastly, think about what you can see, your view. If you’re partial to a peaceful morning cuppa in the garden, make sure your new seating area can see your blooming flowers or a scintillating water feature. Jules says: “Some people feel calmer when they have the entrance to a space within view, so they’re always aware of who and what else is also there. Others feel more content when their view is restricted, and they’re not distracted by everything else that’s happening around them.”

Ultimately, it’s up to you.

Can I make my own garden swing?

This swing is wide enough for one to stretch out – or for two to share:

Reclaimed Pallet Swing

If you’re lucky enough to have a sturdy branch in your garden, an hour is all it takes to turn it into a rustic plaything. It’s simple, and will only take around an hour to make. Result.

You Will Need

A Wooden Pallet

Two Lengths of Strong Rope

Duct Tape

Two Rope Pulleys

What to Do

Drill a hole big enough for the rope in all four corners of the bottom boards.

Pull the ropes through and tie knots, wrapping the ends in duct tape.

Finally, hang your swing from some strong branches.

Tip: You can find wooden pallets for free on Gumtree or Freecycle.

What to read next:

Best recliner garden chairs for sunbathing

Best garden deckchairs to lounge out in the sun

Comfy and affordable sun loungers for you to recline in peace

Best hanging cocoon and egg chairs buyer’s guide

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.