If you own the average UK house, then it’s safe to say that you only have so much backyard space. In which case, you definitely can’t afford to squander it on any old decoration or structure. Do you really need that huge, expensive fountain that birds won’t even drink from? If you’re looking to create a functional space and maximize the use of your landscape, you might want to consider getting a gazebo.
Whether you just want to enjoy your relaxing evenings or host grand celebrations, gazebos offer the ultimate way to expand your outdoor space. Not only do they make beautiful yard ornaments, but a great gazebo will also provide coverage over your outdoor grills, dining zones, entertainment seating and even outdoor hot tubs and Jacuzzis.
Now that you’ve decided to get a gazebo, that’s just the easy part. The tough part is figuring which one suits your garden, budget, style, and even occasion.
My list of top gazebos on the UK market
Lucky for you, I’ve already gone and put in all the grunt work to find the best gazebo as well as demystify the entire buying process. Time is money; if yours is short, then let’s jump straight into the top 5 best gazebos in the UK.
1. All Seasons Gazebos 3x3m Heavy Duty Premium Pop Up Gazebo
No matter which top 5 list you look at, chances are that the All Seasons Premium Pop up will be at the very top of each and every one of them. Judging by the heavy duty construction, you can tell that this gazebo is built to last. The pop up gazebo measures 10 by 10 feet along with three different height settings; the highest being 7 feet.
Unlike cheap, budget gazebos that are only limited to a few surfaces, this one goes all out on surfaces such as grass, patios, sand among others. And since it’s a pop up, all you have to do is spread the legs out, place the roof and raise to the desired height. But what really makes this premium pop up gazebo king is its 260-gram/sqm, PVC coated polyester roof that is completely waterproof and 100 percent showerproof.
What I like about it:
- Can be used on almost any surface
- Fully waterproof frame and canopy
- Comes with a full year manufacturer’s warranty
- Easy to set up
- Wheeled carry bag for convenient transport
2. Airwave 2.5 x 2.5 m Pop-Up Garden Gazebo
For those of you looking for something cheaper and ideal for daily use, then the Airwave 2.5 x 2.5 m Pop-Up Garden Gazebo is more than a perfect candidate. At only half the price of the All Seasons premium gazebo, Airwave somehow managed to include all the essential features. For starters, installation is a breeze and requires zero tools. The entire setup comes with four side panels with two full-length zipper doorways and two church style windows.
The gazebo is also fully waterproof thanks to the seal taped seams and tough 190g PU coated polyester construction. The steel bars offer plenty of sturdiness and durability; with two additional wind bars that offer even more stability in areas with high wind speeds. One of the features that promote daily use has to be the Anti-Pudding Eyelets that prevent damage that may result in water build up. If you’re traveling, you can pack your gazebo in the included carry bag.
What I like about it:
- Affordable price range
- Extremely user-friendly
- Versatile design for different set ups
3. Airwave 3x3mtr Pop Up Waterproof Gazebo
It’s crystal clear that when it comes to great gazebos, Airwave understands what the people of UK want. The Airwave 3x3mtr Pop Up Waterproof Gazebo is yet another high-quality, budget-friendly unit. Due to its open design, the pop up is a perfect fit for party activities, celebrations and a day out in the sun. And what’s more, you’ll only need about one minute to get the canopy up and standing.
Much like its predecessor, the 3×3 canopy features a fully waterproof design with 190g PU polyester and tape sealed seams. People with a ton of friends and family will appreciate the large, 9 sq. meter space in the gazebo that is more than enough for a medium sized get-together. When carrying and packing away the canopy, the carry bag really comes in handy.
What I like about it:
- Erects within 60 seconds
- Purchase includes pegs and guy rope kits
- Fully water resistant
4. Outsunny 3m x 3m Gazebo Marquee Metal Party Tent Canopy Pavillion Patio Garden Shelter
Outsunny- these are the guys that have been letting the good people of UK make the most of their gardens and yards no matter the weather. Their newest release titled the Outsunny Gazebo Marquee Metal Party Tent may be the most expensive canopy on this list, but I promise you it’s for very good reason. This particular model is jam packed with so many protective features it’s like having a fort in your backyard.
This nifty gazebo from Outsunny features a canopy with the ability to repel water, anti-oxidation and harmful UV rays from the sun. But even with all those protective features, this is one of those units that looks so stylish you just can’t help but give it a second, third and even fourth glance. As if that wasn’t enough, the canopy comes with a reinforced top and 8 pegs that give you extra stability even against the windiest of climates. And if it rains, you can rely on the plastic holes to drain any excess water away.
What I like about it:
- Top tier quality components and construction
- UV blocking capabilities
- Plenty of ventilation and stability
5. Redstone 4 Sides Gazebo 3 x 3 Metre – 2 Sides with Windows
Let’s face it; there are times when you definitely need a lot more quantity than quality. If you’re looking for a canopy that will house a lot of people but won’t cost you an arm and a leg, then the 4 Sides Gazebo from Redstone is your new best friend. This larger, Redstone pavilion is more than suitable for enjoying the outdoors and keeping the sun at bay.
This gazebo consists of hardy, steel poles that make it tougher than plastic models. Aside from offering easy access from all directions, the 4 Sides Gazebo from Redstone incorporates two large windows to let the light in and create a realistic outdoor environment. Once you’re all done with the quick and easy setup, Redstone’s gazebo will look great in any garden, wedding, party or celebration. What’s more, the purchase includes a carry case that is secured for easy transport.
What I like about it:
- Extremely budget friendly price
- Massive windows for authentic outdoor experience
- Easy setup and access from any side
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Gazebo in the UK
Now that you’ve seen some of the most popular temporary shelters in the UK, you might just be a tad bamboozled by all the array of options out there. That’s why you have to take a step back and weigh your options before things become too overwhelming.
Lucky for you, I’ve done a mountain of research on the types of materials to occasions and even features that you probably didn’t even know existed. Here’s how to choose the best gazebo for the job.
a) Consider the Gazebo’s Purpose
First things first… why are you getting a gazebo in the first place? This is a crucial question that every prospective canopy owner must ask themselves. The prospects and possibilities are literally limitless; it helps if you know what you’re going for. Some of the most common reasons people get gazebos include:
- Perhaps you just need a place to relax, chill and unwind
- Maybe you want something quick for a wedding or birthday party
- Some people buy gazebos to increase the value of their homes
- As an area for entertaining guest over lunch or dinner
- As a working or playing area
- Gazebos are also great as outdoor exercise areas
b) Know the Features You Need
Once you know what purpose you need the gazebo for, going through the features will be much easier.
Material
This is without question the most important factor to consider when shopping for a gazebo. The choice of material you pick will have a massive influence on the durability, strength, portability, and price. While the canopy fabric is usually a polyester blend, there is an extensive array of materials used to make the frames.
The most common are metal and aluminium gazebos that are used in parks, events, and homes due to their incredibly high levels of durability and portability. Vinyl gazebos are also a great, budget friendly option, but they are not as durable as metal frames. Wood frames also offer a unique, natural touch to the yard but are not as durable and portable.
Shape and Size
From smaller rectangle 7 footers to massive, 20-foot-long octagonal monsters, gazebos come in different shapes and sizes. It’s safe to say that size will also play a crucial role in the choice you make. Unless you own acres and acres of property, you might want to get the maximum size right. For something smaller such as an intimate gazebo or a loveseat, go for something below 7 sq. ft. But if you’re looking for something that will host large parties regularly, then feel free to take up as much unused space in your yard as possible.
Design
Simply by looking at my fairly small list, you can already tell that gazebos come in different designs. When making your choice, go with a design that complements the intended purpose and is consistent with the available space. Some gazebos come with open semi-open roofs that can be adjustable for a balance of shade and sun while others allow for less or fewer walls. There are also some pop-up designs for easy installation as well as all the colours you could ask for.
Roof
Hold on now; I’m not saying that some gazebos come without a roof. That would defeat the purpose of getting one in the first place. However, there are some innovative features that add to the overall quality of your roof and hence your gazebo. One basic feature that almost all roofs have is the ability to keep water out. However, premium models offer features such as UV protection to keep all users safe.
Assembly and Portability
You will also need to match your canopy to your lifestyle. If you are looking for something to take camping, then look for an extremely portable and easy to set up model that can fit in your vehicle without any hassle. However, permanent or home models can be more heavy duty since there won’t be much moving involved.
c) Consider the Price
No matter what service or product you buy, it always helps to make sure that the investment is worth the price. Same applies to gazebos; you should at no time invest excessively if you don’t plan to use it often. Your investment must be directly proportional to the usage you are planning to get out of the gazebo. If you’re just looking for a decorative piece that will barely be used, then something cheap but attractive will do just fine. But if the gazebo will also double as both a working area and playing area then invest in something that can handle the regular use.
Gazebo FAQs
Q: Do I need a foundation or any site preparation before setting up my gazebo?
As long as you have a fairly flat or reasonably level area in your yard, then you won’t need any site preparation whatsoever beyond a little cleaning and raking up. In this case, reasonably level means less than a foot of slope from one side to the other. If the slope is much steeper, then you might have to level it, set up a foundation or use gazebo posts.
Q: How important is a ventilated cupola?
Having a ventilated roof on your gazebo is very important. An unventilated roof traps hot air and makes the whole gazebo very hot and uncomfortable. This is the sole reason why most building codes now require ventilated ridge caps on homes.
Q: What is a Gazebeque?
Much like the name itself suggests, a gazebeque is a steel fire pit in the centre of a gazebo that is equipped with a charcoal grill and funnel-shaped exhaust stack that allows smoke to exit through the roof. Just fire her up and you have a great outdoor gazebo barbeque.
Q: Are gazebo canopies universal?
Some are, and some aren’t. If you need to replace a gazebo canopy then it should be easy; just look for a canopy with the same dimensions as your old one. Not all gazebos are made equal though, and some replacements won’t fit your frame, so make sure you measure well to avoid disappointment.
Q: Are gazebo waterproof?
Although almost all gazebo manufacturers will claim that their products are waterproof, this is not always the case. Especially at the lower end of the price range, some gazebos can be made with lower quality materials which makes them even less likely to stand up to a sprinkling.
They may be resistant to a light shower, but very few gazebos will withstand torrential rain – unless you apply a weatherproofing spray. These are easy to find, just shop around online or ask at your local hardware store.
Q: Can gazebo withstand wind?
The higher the quality the better all round your gazebo will be. That being said, if it is not correctly pegged, weighted and roped then it doesn’t stand a chance and you may well find it in the neighbour’s garden the day after a strong wind!
As long as you set it up correctly your gazebo should withstand a bit of a breezy day, but you would always be advised to take it down if you know there is some really serious weather on the way.
Q: Can a gazebo be used as a carport?
You may use it temporarily (at your own risk); however, I wouldn’t recommend using it as a permanent solution for your car parking.
Q: Can a gazebo be washed?
Check with your manufacturer first. The covers of your gazebo can go in the washing machine, you just need to check that your machine has a large enough capacity. If it is too small and you don’t know anyone with a big enough one, then launderomats usually have a few larger than average machines designed for washing duvets and large items, so your gazebo should be able to be washed.
Final Word
There you have it; all the information you need about gazebos right at your fingertips. The rest is now up to you. For those of you who still aren’t convinced, there no better way to protect your friends, furniture and outdoor possessions than a gazebo. Unless you want the next outdoor bash you host to be in a tool shed, get yourself one of these gazebos today and don’t forget to tell me how it goes.