The best garden furniture for every occasion: 37 expert picks for summer

Whether you’re enjoying afternoons lounging in the garden, a lively barbecue on the patio or a sundowner on the balcony, the right outdoor furniture can transform an outdoor space completely.

No matter how beautifully your garden is designed, shabby seating will bring the whole vibe down, so it pays to get it right. Here are my picks of the best garden furniture.

Why you should trust me

I’ve written about design for newspapers and interiors magazines for more than two decades. In that time, I’ve researched every conceivable design-related subject, from kitchens to carpets, taps, tech, bathrooms, bedding and beyond. I’ve also written a lot about gardens, and I’ve scoured hundreds of my favourite suppliers to find the most stylish, versatile and budget-friendly options available.

The best garden furniture

The best garden benches

Tikamoon Ernest bench

_{£399 at Tikamoon}

The Ernest bench is a curvaceous take on a traditional design, providing a comfortable seat for two to three people. Made of solid teak – a moisture-resistant and durable timber – its glorious golden colour can be preserved with wood oil or left to take on a silvery grey patina.

Dunelm rattan bench

_{£49 at Dunelm}

This stylish budget-friendly bench has a seat woven in easy-to-clean faux rattan, sitting atop a durable, powder-coated steel frame. Lightweight, weatherproof and, above all, comfortable, it requires no assembly and is perfectly proportioned for a smaller garden, a patio or even a conservatory.

Gerrit Rietveld x Hay Crate dining bench

_{£539 at Holloways of Ludlow}

Originally designed in 1934 by Dutch architect Gerrit Rietveld to make use of wooden shipping crates, the Crate Collection has been relaunched as a collaboration with Danish design brand Hay. With a water-based lacquered finish, this solid pine bench is available in five colours. Optional cushions are available, too.

Green scrolled garden bench

_{£149 at Dibor}

This backless bench is made from high-quality iron, with elaborately scrolled arms and smart slats giving it a wonderfully romantic feel. With its pretty sage green finish, this neat seat is the perfect size for a patio or a hidden shady spot.

Artur Lindqvist for Grythyttan Stålmöbler Soffa 5

_{From £1,065 at Holloways of Ludlow
From £1,330 at Nordic Nest}

Soffa 5 is an evolution of Grythyttan Stålmöbler’s first-ever chair, the A2 armchair, which was first introduced in 1930. Intrinsically Nordic in its design, a simple but functional steel frame supports sustainably sourced lengths of solid oak or teak, all of which can withstand the most challenging of weather conditions.

Rockett St George station-style wooden garden bench

_{£1,495 at Rockett St George}

This handsome, station-style bench is manufactured from strong reclaimed teak, with a gently curved back, an adjustable central support, copper wire detailing and rubber stud feet to keep damp at bay.

Mater Ocean bench

_{£1,200 at Skandium
From £1,192.66 at Nordic Nest}

Part of Danish green-tech design brand Mater’s Ocean collection, this bench is available in four colours, all of which are formed using different types of recycled plastic. The burnt red version is made with post-consumer e-waste from end-of-life electronic appliances, including fridges, displays and keyboards.

Interiors by Premier Brighton kids picnic bench

_{£67.49 at Debenhams
£99.99 at H&M}

This picnic-style Brighton bench is designed with kids in mind. With smaller proportions to suit little people, the sturdy piece is available in pink, grey and this cheerful royal blue.

Zara Home woven outdoor bench

_{£419.99 at Zara Home}

The woven back and seat of this neat bench are made from Recycled Claim Standard-certified recycled polyethylene recovered from post-consumer waste, making it a more sustainable choice. With a lacquered iron frame and armrests, its pared-back design would suit any modern garden or patio. A matching chair is also available (£219.99).

Fermob Luxembourg garden bench

_{£575 at The Worm That Turned}

The Luxembourg range was originally created for the gardens of the same name in Paris, and has since acquired legendary status. Reinvigorated by French designer Frédéric Sofia in 2003, this aluminium bench combines visual lightness with the comfort of a curved seat and is available in 25 colours.

The best garden tables and chairs

GoodHome Elos rattan effect four-seater dining set

_{£425 at B&Q}

Made from low-maintenance synthetic rattan, the ingenious design of this dining set means the chairs fit under the table – handy if space is limited. Cushions make the seats extra comfy, and the covers are removable and washable for easy cleaning.

George green metal slat three-piece bench set

_{£299 at Asda}

For a designer look with a high-street price tag, this striking metal dining set includes two sleek benches and a table made from corrosion-resistant, galvanised steel. The green colourway works well in a host of alfresco scenarios.

Ikea Norrmansö table and six chairs

_{£979 at Ikea}

Every Norrmansö dining table is unique thanks to the natural grain patterns and colour shifts in the rich acacia wood. Designed to seat six people, the matching chairs can be stacked in threes for easy storage.

Next Abel six-to-eight-seater rattan garden dining table and chairs

_{£1,399 at Next}

With compact chairs that slide underneath the table when not in use, this contemporary set seats up to eight comfortably. Rattan-effect arms are complemented with sage green cushions that can easily be removed for storage.

Tom Dixon Groove dining table and four chairs

_{£1,605 at Holloways of Ludlow}

This Groove dining set, from British designer Tom Dixon’s first outdoor furniture collection, takes its cue from the curves seen in art deco design. It’s available in two glossy powder-coated finishes, moss and putty, and it’s made from weatherproof and corrosion-resistant aluminium.

Garden Trading Marcham oval six-seater dining set

_{£1,280 at Garden Trading}

Including an oval dining table, six carver chairs, a parasol and a base, this aluminium latticework dining set is finished in a clay colour that suits a multitude of schemes. Bar the cushions, it can be left outside over winter, too.

Despite being lightweight, the design is heavy enough to withstand the windiest of climates.

Barker and Stonehouse Ischia grey steel bar stools and table

_{£999 at Barker and Stonehouse}

This modern bar set cleverly integrates a state-of-the-art fire pit. Its four lightweight, high-level chairs have stainless-steel frames and fabric seats.

The best garden sofas

Made Avarna garden corner lounge set

_{£1,699 at Next}

This jolly striped sofa has a chunky plinth base and comfortable, thick cushions. It includes a corner unit, three single units, one footstool and a coffee table, and the modular design means you can configure it to suit your needs.

King Living Plateau outdoor sofa

_{From £1,150 at King Living}

This iF Design Award-winning two-seater sofa has weighted backrests that can be repositioned on the base for upright sitting or lounging, and you can expand the unit with extra modules if required. Choose from a range of stain- and UV-resistant outdoor fabrics.

John Lewis x Sanderson Cantaloupe Platform four-seater set

_{£1,499 at John Lewis}

Covered in an enchanting Cantaloupe heritage print from the Sanderson archive, this lounging set is modular, so it can be arranged to suit your space. The frame is weather-resistant, and the set includes a matching coffee table.

Neptune Longmeadow two-seater sofa

_{£1,795 at Neptune}

With a warm honey finish, the hand-woven, all-weather wicker lattice frame of this sofa is topped with removable weather-resistant cushions. A charming take on wicker garden furniture, this is a classic piece that will never go out of style.

Philippe Starck for Kartell Bubble Club sofa

_{£949 at Heal’s
£949 at Holloways of Ludlow}

Conceived by French designer Philippe Starck, the award-winning Bubble Club sofa is made from batch-dyed polyethylene and comes in various colours. It’s a weather-resistant, minimalist take on a traditional sofa shape, making it perfect for a patio or even poolside.

Rowen & Wren Emerson garden sofa

_{£1,998 at Rowen & Wren}

Reminiscent of traditional deckchairs, the stripy cushions on this outdoor sofa will make a playful addition to any outside space. The three-seater frame is made from solid teak that will age beautifully over time.

Cox & Cox Ravenna corner set

_{£1,995 at Cox & Cox
£2,050 at Next}

This slatted acacia wood set comprises a large corner sofa topped with plush grey cushions and a matching coffee table.

Birdie Fortescue Curato garden sofa

_{£995 at Birdie Fortescue}

Taking inspiration from an antique rattan piece, the painted frame of the Curato sofa is made from aluminium and features a comfy, weatherproof cushion.

Carl Hansen & Søn BK13 & BK17 swing sofa

_{From £1,515 at Chaplins
£1,515 at Holloways of Ludlow}

The Carl Hansen & Søn swing sofa was designed by Danish designer Bodil Kjær in 1959. Featuring knotted ropes and optional weather-resistant Sunbrella cushions, the gentle motion of the solid teak seat is wonderfully relaxing.

4 Seasons Outdoor Albano 2.5-seater sofa

_{£1,019 at Heals}

With a woven rope frame and deep, weather-resistant cushions, this compact sofa seats two people comfortably. Matching chairs are also available.

The best bistro sets

Atkin and Thyme Lauren two-seat bistro set

_{£519 at Atkin and Thyme}

The diagonal lattice weave of the Lauren bistro set is made from low-maintenance, UV-resistant and weatherproof Everope, making it suitable for all climates. The aluminium frames are hard wearing, and the cushions can be left outside all season.

Sarah Raven Seville bistro set

_{£459 at Sarah Raven}

This chic iron bistro set from English gardener, cook and writer Sarah Raven includes a table and two folding chairs. The vibrant green powder-coated finish will look great in any outdoor space.

Merchant & Found 1950s French outdoor table and two chairs

_{£195 at Merchant & Found}

Vintage pieces are a great way to add character to any garden or deck. These classic Toledo garden chairs and neat metal table have been cleaned, serviced and made fit for use.

La Redoute Dudena three-piece acacia garden set

_{£159.99 at La Redoute}

Made from weather-resistant acacia wood, the Dudena garden set is perfect for smaller spaces and folds away quickly for easy storage. Choose from four colours for the tabletop and seats.

Royalcraft Venice bistro table and chairs

_{£148.99 at Robert Dyas
£199 at Marks & Spencer}

Smart and practical, this classic metal bistro set includes two chairs and a compact table. It’s available in olive or cream, and the chairs can be folded away and stacked for easy storage.

Beliani Florentine/Limni rattan bistro set

_{£779.99 at B&Q
£779.99 at Amazon}

With decorative, peacock-tail backrests, these rattan chairs have a distinctly 70s feel, with cotton seat pads to make them more comfortable. The lightweight coffee table contains an iron frame for more stability.

Charles Bentley wrought iron feminine bistro set

_{£159.99 at Debenhams
£159.99 at Charles Bentley}

This charming wrought iron bistro set has an antique feel to it. Ideal for smaller patios or balconies, it can be folded for storage, too.

Bramblecrest RHS Wisley round bistro set

_{£599 at Charlies
£599 at Garden Furniture World}

Bring a touch of RHS Wisley to your garden with this elegant bistro set. It features crisscross seat-backs, a low-maintenance, wood-effect tabletop and cushions covered with season-proof, UV-resistant fabric made from recycled plastic bottles.

Tectake Molfetta two-seater natural bistro set

_{£141.99 at B&Q
£145 at Wilko}

This compact three-piece set is a modern take on traditional rattan. Ideal for smaller balconies or patios, its slender legs and water-repellent cushions also add a contemporary feel.

Graham and Green outdoor bistro table and chairs

_{£525 at Graham and Green}

Including two chairs and a round table topped with tempered glass, the woven herringbone pattern on this white and mint green bistro set gives it the feel of authentic Parisian cafe furniture.

What you need to know

Photograph: Victorburnside/Getty Images/iStockphoto

With countless materials, styles and configurations to choose from, the first thing to consider with garden furniture is how you’re going to use your space. Finding a balance between what you need for larger gatherings or parties and regular day-to-day use is essential. For example, you may occasionally host a crowd of people, but only three or four will be using it more often than not. Think too about how you like to sit: is upright dining more important, or do you love a good lounge?

L-shaped, sofa-style seating makes good use of the space in smaller gardens and urban environments, as does an extendable table with stacking or folding chairs. A chic bistro set also works well and is easy to fold away when it’s not in use. Comfort is important, so consider how long you’re likely to sit down; the ergonomics of a chair will make a difference, whether it’s something upright or more slanted and relaxed. And before you buy anything too bulky, be aware of the space around a table – is there room to pull chairs out properly so no one feels too cramped? To make sure, aim for a minimum of 90cm between the table and surrounding walls, furniture or the edge of decking. This allows for easy access and movement around the table. If you have larger chairs, 125cm will be ideal.

How to make garden furniture last

If furniture needs to stay outside, invest in designs that can withstand the changing climate. In the winter, most furniture will benefit from being stored in a garage or shed or under a cover to protect it from frost. Even so, it may get damp, which is where the material you choose can make all the difference. Natural woods such as teak, eucalyptus, acacia and oak are timeless options that will never go out of fashion – they’re beautiful and tactile with a warmth that human-made materials just can’t match. The same goes for rattan, but make sure it’s a decent weight so it doesn’t blow away. Metals, including wrought iron, cast aluminium and powder-coated steel, are long-lasting and low-maintenance, while coloured pieces can add personality to a space. Potentially the most durable of all, synthetic materials such as poly rattan and synthetic wicker (preferably recycled) are weather-resistant, easy to clean and quick to dry, and will be tough enough to withstand being outdoors all year round.

Buying vintage and antique garden furniture

Vintage garden furniture, if in good condition, is an environmentally sound alternative to buying brand new, and it can also add a certain charm to an outside space.

Wrought iron designs with scrollwork or floral designs can be an elegant choice. Look for sets by brands such as Arras and Coalbrookdale. For something sleeker, Tolix Model A chairs, originally designed in 1934 for French cafes, are great.

Teak and hardwood pieces are durable and weather beautifully. Look for mid-century teak loungers or beech German folding dining chairs and tables, which are strong, stable and will last for years. Cast aluminium sets, often painted white or green, are lighter than iron and Victorian- or Edwardian-style reproduction sets are widely available.

Always check for structural integrity and be realistic about restoration. Make sure there’s no rot or splits, and bear in mind that wobbling legs or rusted-through joints might need expensive repairs. Paint stripping and rust removal can be fun, but it’s also time-consuming.

To source vintage pieces, try antique fairs such as Ardingly International Antiques Fair, Newark Antiques Fair and Kempton Park, or architectural salvage yards such as Retrouvius or Lassco. Online, try eBay, Vinterior, Etsy, SalvoWeb and Hampshire-based vintage furniture specialist Merchant & Found.

How to clean your garden furniture

Cleaning garden furniture regularly is essential to prevent dirt from building up and causing damage. Most designs require little more than a once-over with a soft-bristled brush to remove dust and debris, followed by a wipe down with warm water and a mild soap such as washing-up liquid or a specially formulated garden furniture cleaner. Always avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners or high-pressure washers that can damage coatings and more delicate materials. For stubborn stains, try a paste of white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda, but make sure to test in an inconspicuous area first.

Wooden furniture will need treating regularly with a teak oil to protect and maintain its surface, while metal furniture can be given a boost with a fresh coat of paint. First, ensure the surface is clean, then lightly sand and remove any rust before applying a coat of all-surface primer and two coats of exterior gloss or exterior eggshell. Leave to cure for three to five days before using.

Claudia Baillie is a journalist specialising in design and interiors. Although her days are spent writing about high-end and contemporary furniture and spaces, she loves nothing more than a rummage at a charity shop or car-boot sale. She’s the proud recipient of several industry awards, including a Red Carpet Award, which is literally for writing about carpet. She owns too many souvenir ‘I Heart’ mugs. One day, she would like to live by the sea and become an artist