10 best garden benches to suit every outdoor space

Best: For minimalists

Dimensions: H45cm x W120cm x D35cm

Add useful extra seating unobtrusively, without taking up precious space, with the clean lines of this chunky two-seater (also available in a 180cm width), which can happily double up as a plant stand. With a 15-year guarantee against rot and fungal decay, this online exclusive is smooth-planed and solidly built of pressure-treated FSC-certified timber.

Best: For graceful good looks

Dimensions: H82.2cm x W135cm x D54.4cm

Its water-resistant weathered finish, with a tactile graininess, has a subtlety that suggests it’s been in the garden for ages. And that simple design, with circular cut-out detailing along the backrest, makes it equally at home in traditional and contemporary gardens. Made from FSC-certified eucalyptus, it’s naturally moisture- and insect-resistant, and comes with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Best: For laidback lazing

Dimensions: H98cm x W118cm x D74cm

Made in the UK, this sturdy slatted two-seater’s curvaceous shape encourages you to sit back and take it easy. Built from FSC Scandinavian redwood, it’s treated with an oil-based preservative and guaranteed against rot for 20 years. Self-assembly is straightforward with the supplied long-lasting galvanised zinc bolts. The range also includes a three-seater, a single-seater and several other seating combinations, some with attached tray tables.

Best: For smart use of space

Bench dimensions: H40cm x W170cm x D35cm.

Planter dimensions: H40cm x W35cm x D35cm each

Elegantly slatted, this pared-back Scandi style is made from extremely durable, pressure-treated acacia wood, and comes with a one-year warranty. Ideal for a contemporary courtyard, patio or balcony, with built-in planters at both ends offering handy extra growing space. The planters aren’t lined, so fill with ready-potted plants – choose scented specimens and you’ll create a fragrant oasis. This one is now available in store, and stock for buying online is arriving soon.

Best: For arts and crafts aficionados

Dimensions: H104cm x W165cm x D60cm

With its ornately shaped back and rolled armrests, this is a design classic that has graced gardens for over 100 years. The original, called the “Thakeham bench”, was designed by architect Edwin Lutyens at the turn of the 20th century. This three-seater version in teak is a natural focal point and best appreciated from afar, which makes it good for larger gardens.

Best: For contemporary exteriors

Dimensions: H82cm x W120cm x D62cm

We think there’s something endearing about the simplicity of this design: traditional with a twist. The striking black powder-coated steel frame curves down to form the legs as well as the armrests, and the slatted hardwood seat has room for two. Needing only a spanner and screwdriver, it’s easy to assemble.

Best: For back yards on a budget

Dimensions: H75cm x W119cm x D50cm

Sleek and sophisticated in a smart matt black finish, this steel two-seater’s trellis-effect textured backrest is made of PVC, so it flexes a little for a comfier seating position. That dark finish would really pop against a bright background. Supplied in just four pieces, it’s lightweight, meaning it’s easy to manoeuvre into position.

Best: For withdrawing from the world

Dimensions: H210cm x W136cm x D81cm

For a touch of rustic luxe, snuggle up inside where the roof and side panels shelter you from chilly breezes and passing showers, and the curved back supports your spine in comfort. It’s available in several colourways (annual repainting is recommended), but we reckon this soft green is super-soothing with an air of country charm. Our spendiest selection, this relaxing retreat suits bigger plots where it won’t dominate the scene. Go grand with matching square planters (£54.99, Duxburyshomeandgarden), available separately.

Best: For park-life nostalgia

Dimensions: W120cm

Resembling a quintessential park bench, this twin-seater won’t look out of place in any outdoor setting. Made of hardwearing eucalyptus, it boasts a gently curved backrest and broad armrests that invite you to settle back and watch the world go by. It shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes to assemble single-handedly.

Best: For the loved-up

Dimensions: H87cm x D55cm

Decidedly romantic with its twin hearts, we think this has a hint of a loveseat. But that’s not to say it’s impractical. It’s so light we could lift it with one hand for rapid repositioning and the seat features little holes to drain away raindrops. Its soothing shade will blend in with any planting plan and its open appearance allows you to see through to the glory of the garden beyond. Need more seats? Matching chairs are available (£29, Diy.com). Need more softness? How about a bench cushion, (£13, Diy.com).