Best outdoor furniture 2024: Where to buy
1. John Lewis & Partners
2. Habitat (via Argos)
3. Marks & Spencer
4. Dunelm
5. Cox & Cox
6. FAQs
Investing in the best outdoor furniture is an easy way to transform an outside area, making it feel like a valuable extension of your living space. Whether it's a generous dining table for hosting or a plush comfy outdoor sofa for relaxation, the right outdoor furniture is a game-changer for spending more time outside.
We've evaluated all the new summer collections to round up where to buy the best outdoor furniture to accentuate your chosen garden trends and make better use of your outdoor space this summer after cleaning the patio in anticipation of sunshine days ahead. We've taken into consideration different budgets and styles to suit all.
When buying the best outdoor furniture, Heal’s buying director, Sabina Miller advises, “Treat outdoor furniture with the same consideration as you would an indoor piece." This mindset is important when looking to create an on-trend outdoor living room.
To avoid the most common mistakes when buying outdoor furniture Sabina adds: "It's crucial to look out for weatherproof materials, firm cushioning and durable fabrics that will maintain their high level of quality and style for years to come, whilst also withstanding the often unpredictable weather.”
Where to buy the best outdoor furniture 2024
Why you can trust Woman & Home Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
What makes the 'best' outdoor furniture buys worth investing in? First and foremost, we look for designs that are durable and built to stand the test of time, because good outdoor furniture is an investment you want to last. Secondly, we've picked pieces from the best outdoor furniture brands we've shopped with for years and recommend them as trusted sources on all fronts.
John Lewis & Partners
The department store may be located on the high street but feels anything but everyday when it comes to design and product offerings. The store caters to the most on-trend product launches with a little extra finesse, particularly across home and tech. The outdoor furniture and furnishings collection is vast, spanning everything from garden furniture sets to hot tubs and BBQs.
When it comes to their own brand outdoor furniture collection the in-house design team works hard to offer high-end design at desirable prices, without compromising on materials or aesthetics. Of course, in addition to their own brilliantly crafted furniture, they are also one of the best places to seek exclusive designer brand collaborations.
"Our outdoor collections for 2024 support the changing nature of our customers’ habits, offering more ‘flexible’ solutions for outdoor than ever before from extending tables to portable lighting," says Charlotta Elgh, partner & director of design for Home at John Lewis. "These collections follow the design direction of spring with two main styles; Classic and Modern."
RRP: £1,199 Spec: 4-Seater sofa, Side table and ottoman coffee table Dimensions:Sofa: H60.5 x W161.7 x D79.5cm, Side table: H51 x W45 x D35cm, Ottoman (uncushioned): H20.5 x W70.2 x D70.2cm. Materials: Aluminium, polyester Assembly: Partial Assembly Required
As Charlotte details this year's new additions are designed to offer more flexibility and purpose – as this set demonstrates perfectly. The side table is ideal to move to where it's needed and the multipurpose ottoman provides an extra seat one minute and a coffee table the next.
RRP: £787 Spec: 4 Chairs 1 table Dimensions: Chair: H89 x W63 x D65cm Table: H75 x Dia.110cm. Materials: Aluminium frames, glass top and synthetic rattan Assembly: Self-assembly required
This faux rattan set of four Alora dining chairs and a round, glass-topped dining table are a traditional style that will prove timeless. Equally at home in the garden or conservatory, the set comes with comfortable grey cushions with removable covers for easy cleaning – but who's to say you can't add new cushion colours to refresh the dining set year after year?
RRP: £999 Spec: 1 sofa, 2 chairs and 1 coffee table Dimensions: H85 x W 286 x D94cm. Materials: Grade A Teak Assembly: Self-assembly required
With the ever-popular interior design trend for blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor, this lounge set is interchangeable with gardens and garden rooms.
Comprising two armchairs, a 2 seater sofa and a slatted coffee table this set is the ideal investment for an elegant way to introduce a laidback lounge area to your outdoor space.
Habitat
Habitat has always been the home of design nestled on the high street and thanks to its affiliation with the Argos family it's also now more widely available and accessible for all.
The in-house design team at Habitat remain as focused as ever on delivering the latest on-trend designs and tipping the balance between functionality and fun, as is evident from the bold use of colour within its outdoor furniture collection.
RRP: £70 Spec: 2 Chairs 1 Table set Dimensions: H85 x W 286 x D94cm. Materials: Steel Assembly: Fully assembled
A bistro table and chairs set is a classic choice for balconies and small patios, because designs are compact enough not to take up too much space, and foldable so they can be stored away when not in use. Both chairs and the table can be folded down for easy disassembly.
Habitat's bistro sets are famously known to be the most 'on-trend' colours to add vibrancy to outdoor spaces. Because the powder-coated steel framed set is sold without cushions, this is where you can choose to add cushions for comfort.
RRP: £200 Spec: 2 Overall Dimensions: chairs H82 x W 83 x D73cm table H41 X dia 60cm. Materials: Metal frame & textilene chair seat and back Assembly: Self-assembly
A bold bistro set with a difference because this is more of a lounging set rather than a bistro dining set. The bright green colour makes it hard to miss, even more so thanks to its shapely curves developed by the in-house design studio to welcome an invigorating pop of colour to any outdoor space.
Made in an ultra-durable textilene finish and metal frame, the curvaceous set is comfortable and captivating in aplomb.
RRP: £50 Spec: 1 Chair Dimensions: H78.5 x W 62 x D84.5cm. Materials: Metal, cotton and polyester Assembly: Self-assembly required
Consider this a contemporary take on a classic deckchair design. The sleek metal silhouette feels curvaceous, softened by the cotton canvas sling seat and headrest. However, unlike a traditional deckchair design, this modern metal frame does not fold down for easy storage.
The striking shade of forest green is an elegant way to introduce colour to the garden without distracting too greatly from the surrounding plants and flowers. To coordinate with the green chair there is a petite round coffee in the same shade of metal to sit beside it and provide a practical side table for drinks and snacks.
Marks & Spencer
While there are many great furniture staples within the M&S outdoor furniture collection, we are dedicating our appreciation solely to the famous Lois range. Originally introduced as a colourful chair many years ago the Lois range now offers a huge selection of different furniture options to suit all outdoor spaces.
The first thing that attracts many to the Lois range is the on-trend colours, with new additions of Terracotta and Cobalt blue for 2024. The second desirable element is the comfort level. I can personally attest that these woven chairs are super comfortable despite not looking so. The synthetic wicker woven seats are suspended from a neat metal aluminium frame, which creates an effortlessly comfortable and cocooning seat that is hard to prise yourself away from once you've sat in one.
So whether the original Lois armchair or a new dining chair or corner sofa be assured that this range welcomes a contemporary look to dress in outdoor spaces with unbeatable comfort.
RRP: £129 Spec: Set of 2 chairs Dimensions: H80.5 x W70.5 x D71cm. Materials: Powder-coated steel, faux rope Assembly: Partial assembly required
The original set of 2 Lois garden armchairs is refreshed every season with a new colour palette and this year's Cobalt blue is something to behold. The vibrant blue is magnificent against lush greenery and terracotta brickwork – don't believe me, check out the YSL garden or The Jardin Majorelle in Morocco for inspiration.
RRP: £449 Spec: 1 Sofa, 1 Coffee table Dimensions: Corner Sofa: H87 x W208 x D208 cm Coffee table: H40 x W58 x D58cm Materials: Metal, faux rattan Assembly: Partial assembly required
New to the Lois range is this faux rattan corner sofa and coffee table set which provides a comfortable seating arrangement for multiple people at once – so no more fighting over who gets to enjoy the armchairs. The design is finished with two durable layers of paint for lasting protection against outdoor elements.
RRP: £129 Spec: 1 chair Dimensions: H87 x W70 x D85cm. Materials: Metal, faux rattan Assembly: Partial assembly required
There's something very enticing about the added benefit of movement from outdoor furniture, like the soothing motion of being rocked. The ultimate comfort, the lightweight support of the Lois armchair but on the feet of a rocking chair to gently rock back and forth – is there a better way to relax in the garden? *immediately orders one before they sell out.
Dunelm
Dunelm is the hidden gem that offers thoughtfully designed furniture at the lower end of the budget, without it compromising on quality. Having ordered furniture from Dunelm I have been pleasantly surprised with the craftsmanship.
The in-house design team are always striving to keep abreast of the latest trends while considering their audience and the affordability factor. From space-saving solutions to on-trend rattan designs, this season's collection of garden furniture delivers on all fronts.
RRP: £199 Spec: 1 table 4 chairs Dimensions: Table: H75 x W76 x D76cm, Chairs: H77 x W 56 x D56cm Materials: Aluminium, Rattan Assembly: Part-assembly required
The contemporary chairs make this set look like a designer's find. The curved backrest with the woven seat pad feels inspired by the famous Eames dining chairs – a staple in many a modern abode. Made from robust aluminium and rattan for a long-lasting investment, this stylish set will bring an effortless touch of sophistication to any outdoor space.
RRP: £699 Spec: 2 sofas 1 coffee table Dimensions: 3 Seater Sofa: H81 x W186 x D71cm, 2 Seater Sofa: H74 x W132 x D 72cm, Table: H44 x W94 x D49cm Materials: Metal, glass and rope Assembly: Part-assembly required
The 70s interior trend is not going away anytime soon, and this fabulous outdoor sofa design shows why. this captivating rattan frame exudes decadence and a real confidence in design. Crafted from a robust steel frame, this set boasts a sleek rope weave pattern furnished with invitingly plush cream cushions.
RRP: £249 Spec: 1 lounger Dimensions: H69.5cm x W85.5cm x D160cm Materials: Aluminum, Polyurethane foam & Polyestert Assembly: Part self-assembly required
This sleek lounger design offers comfort and function in equal measure. The simple side ledge provides the ideal plinth alongside the recliner to safely place your refreshing beverage, poolside snacks, book or wireless speaker.
Cox & Cox
Cox & Cox effortlessly delivers the best in the quintessentially British style. Catering brilliantly for charming woven furniture Its traditional wicker-style sofas feature sumptuously deep cushions to ensure maximum comfort, sat upon a hearty aluminium frame to give the designs a classic cottage garden appeal.
To accompany the sofas there's a range of occasional chairs, bistro sets and even recliners to ensure every aspect of garden life is suitably dressed in country cottage style. Despite being designed for the garden these pieces are also ideal for a conservatory if you wish to leave them indoors for part of the year.
RRP: £825 Spec: 2 Chairs 1 Table set Dimensions: Chair: H78 x W62 x D69cm table: H68 by 60cm dia Materials: Powder-coated aluminium, woven PE rope, High-pressure laminate (HPL) tabletop & polyester Assembly: Self-assembly required
This bistro set feels more decadent than a traditional slim table and chairs combo thanks to two square-shaped chairs. Cox & Cox's take on a stylish bistro set is ideal for intimate alfresco meals or coffee breaks with friends.
The woven rope seats are beautifully accented by slender legs and comfy grey seat cushions. Being practical as well as pretty the petite table is made from a clever wood-effect composite, and each aluminium chair frame is powder-coated to prevent rusting.
RRP: £1,495 Spec: 2 Chairs 1 Table Dimensions: H85 x W 286 x D94cm. Materials: Powder-coated aluminium, woven PE wicker & polyester Assembly: Self-assembly required
This set of faux wicker Beaumont loungers offers a heritage-rich country garden vibe to any outdoor space.
Each lounger features a traditional basket weave style design with supportive armrests and a back that can be adjusted to the perfect reclined position for lounging in style to enjoy an afternoon siesta.
The mattress base and comfortable back cushions are water-repellent and UV-resistant making them supremely equipped to deal with the unpredictable British weather.
RRP: £495 Spec: 1 chair and stand Dimensions: H200 x W 110 x D103cm. Materials: Powder-coated aluminium, woven PE wicker & polyester Assembly: Self-assembly required
The hanging egg chairs continue to be the most in-demand outdoor furniture piece for another year, hence why Cox & Cox has added several new shades for summer 2024.
This PE wicker round chair features a sumptuous seat and back cushions, all suspended from a powder-coated steel frame. The design is ideal for creating a spa-like sanctuary, a place to sit back and relax while gently swinging with a feeling of weightlessness in your backyard oasis.
FAQs
What material is best for outdoor furniture?
Choosing the best outdoor furniture is about more than mere aesthetics because the material is key to longevity and suitability for living outdoors. Outdoor furniture is often a costly investment so it's important to consider the right materials, to ensure your new furniture is built to last.
"With a rust-resistant treatment, powder-coated aluminium frames are protected from corrosion and provide defence against chipping and scratching, ensuring that the high quality of the finish will last all year round, and for years to come," advises Heal’s buying director, Sabina Miller advises.
"If you’re looking for a more natural aesthetic, teak is a great option. A tight wood grain makes it one of the strongest and most durable materials for outdoor furniture, while natural oils repel insects, acid and moisture, meaning it requires little maintenance and will be resistant to all weathers."
Is rattan or wood better for outdoor furniture?
Is rattan or wood better for outdoor furniture? It's an age-old debate. We asked Heal's buyer Sabina to offer her expert advice to settle the debate.
"Both rattan and wood carry a naturally timeless and versatile aesthetic, but the longevity, quality and suitability for individual outdoor spaces will vary depending on the investment made –in terms of both effort and cost," Sabina explains.
"We suggest investing in hardwood, such as teak. Highly durable characteristics and self-producing natural oils ensure its finish is maintained over many years, while its coloring fades to a beautiful silvery grey. On the other hand, softwoods like pine and cedar can start to look worn out if left untreated and will lose their structural integrity when exposed to moisture, meaning they need to be stored away outside of summer.
"Natural rattan is also prone to weather damage, but synthetic designs can offer a highly durable and low-maintenance option. However, a poorly woven construction can impact the longevity of the structure, and its lightweight design means it could be damaged in windy conditions."
-
Honestly, Sienna Miller's plum-toned tartan cape and lacy tights made a chic winter warmer you won't regret taking inspiration fromSienna is a pro at combining both glamour and warmth when it comes to winter dressing
-
Gillian Anderson redefines the muted winter palette in vibrant crimson red shirt dressWe're shopping similar styles before they sell out
-
How to transform your garden into a serene zen paradise: 32 inspiring ideasLooking to bring a little peace to your outdoor space? Try out these ways of creating a zen garden right at home
-
Breaking one of these little-known garden laws could cost you up to £20,000 in finesCould you be breaking the law in your own backyard? You could be violating these garden laws without even realising it – here's how to avoid them
-
How to get your garden ready for winterNow is the perfect time to tackle key gardening jobs ahead of the winter months to ensure your plot looks its best for winter and feels set for a healthy revival come spring
-
Get your patio and decking set for the new seasonPatios can look lacklustre after a long summer, here’s how to create a fresh space ready for the autumn and beyond
-
The best outdoor furniture deals to shop in November 2024 include mark downs of up to 80% offShop the best outdoor furniture deals and give your green space an upgrade on a budget
-
How often should you mow your lawn? Garden experts share their advice for healthy grassLawn experts explain how often you should mow your lawn as the weather heats up, along with sharing top tips and techniques for happier grass
-
The 10 best cottage garden plants, shrubs and flowers to include in a traditional cottage-style backyardProfessional gardeners share their pick of the best cottage garden plants for a charming country-style backyard
-
Cottage garden ideas: 19 ways to transform your backyard whatever its sizeCreate your own country-style retreat with these cottage garden ideas recommended by experts, including planting schemes and classic landscaping designs
