Choosing garden furniture sounds simple — until you start looking.
Do you go for a sofa set or a dining set? Is aluminium better than rattan? And what actually lasts when it’s left outside in all weathers?
It’s something we help customers with every day at Kings Garden & Leisure, and the truth is, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The best garden furniture depends on your space, how you use your garden and the kind of atmosphere you want to create.
Over the years, we’ve seen how much the right furniture can transform a garden — turning it from somewhere you occasionally sit into somewhere you genuinely want to spend time.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of garden furniture, the materials to consider and how to choose something that works for your space.
If you’re just starting to explore what’s available, it’s worth browsing our garden furniture collection to get a feel for the different styles. And here, we will also guide you through what to look for and what will suit your needs.
Types of Garden Furniture
Before choosing your garden furniture, it’s worth thinking about how you actually want to use your space.
Some gardens are designed for relaxation, with comfortable seating and a more informal layout. Others are used for outdoor dining, family meals or entertaining friends.
The right furniture depends less on what looks good in a photo (although stylish design is important!) and more on how you’ll use it day to day. Once you’re clear on that, it becomes much easier to decide which type of garden furniture will work best for you.
Garden Sofa Sets
If your garden is somewhere you like to relax, unwind or spend long evenings, garden sofa sets are often the best place to start.
They create a comfortable, informal seating area that feels more like an outdoor living room, making them ideal for relaxing, entertaining or simply spending more time outside. With deeper cushions and a more laid-back layout, they’re designed for longer, more comfortable use rather than quick seating.
For larger patios or decking areas, corner sofa garden furniture works particularly well, creating a defined seating space without needing multiple separate pieces.
Garden Dining Sets
If you regularly eat outside, a dining set is often the most practical choice.
Designed for everything from everyday meals to relaxed summer gatherings, these sets create a natural focal point for the garden. Most include a table with coordinating chairs and are built with durability in mind so they can be used throughout the season.
When choosing a dining set, it’s worth thinking about how many people you’ll typically seat and how much space you have available. Larger tables are ideal for hosting, while more compact sets work well for smaller patios or more informal use.
You can explore different styles within our garden furniture dining collection.
Bistro Sets
For smaller gardens, patios or balconies, bistro garden furniture can be a simple but effective solution.
A bistro set creates a dedicated place to sit and enjoy your garden without taking up too much space. Whether it’s a morning coffee or a quiet evening outside, even a small seating area can completely change how you use your garden.
They’re also a great option if you want to add a second seating area in a larger garden, perhaps in a sunnier or more private spot.
Choosing the Right Material
The material you choose has a big impact on both the look of your garden furniture and how much maintenance it requires over time.
Aluminium Garden Furniture
Modern aluminium garden furniture has become one of the most popular choices in recent years.
It’s lightweight, rust-resistant and easy to maintain, making it particularly practical for outdoor use. It also has a clean, contemporary look that works well in a wide range of garden styles.
For many people, aluminium offers a good balance between durability, appearance and ease of care.
Rattan Garden Furniture
Rattan remains a popular option thanks to its woven texture and softer, more traditional look.
It’s comfortable, durable and works well in both classic and modern gardens. Many designs combine rattan frames with deep cushions, offering a similar level of comfort to sofa-style seating.
Garden Furniture for Small Gardens
If you’re working with a smaller space, choosing the right furniture can make a significant difference.
Compact options such as bistro garden furniture or smaller seating sets allow you to create a comfortable area without overwhelming the space.
One thing we often notice in our centres is how much more people use their garden once they’ve added even a small seating area. It doesn’t need to be large to make an impact — it just needs to be considered.
Garden Furniture Trends for 2026
Garden furniture continues to evolve, with a growing focus on comfort, simplicity and materials that are easy to live with.
From deeper seating to more contemporary finishes, the way people use their gardens is changing — and the furniture reflects that.
If you’d like to explore this in more detail, you can read our guide to garden furniture trends for 2026.
When is the Best Time to Buy Garden Furniture?
We’re often asked when the best time to buy garden furniture is.
In general, late winter and early spring is ideal. This is when new collections begin to arrive, and there is usually the widest choice available.
By the time the weather improves, the most popular styles often start to sell through, so it’s worth planning ahead if you have something specific in mind.
Our Favourite Garden Furniture Styles for 2026
If you’re not sure where to begin, it can help to focus on a few key styles that we’re seeing more of this year.
Many people are currently choosing:
• deep seating sofa sets for comfort
• aluminium frames for a modern look
• compact bistro sets for smaller spaces
You can explore the full range within our garden furniture collection.
See the Range in Person
While browsing online is a really convenient way to shop, seeing garden furniture in person is also a great way to make your choic.
At Kings Garden & Leisure in Exmouth and Sidmouth, our garden furniture showrooms are fully stocked, so you can sit down and see what feels right for your space.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garden Furniture
What is the most durable garden furniture?
Aluminium garden furniture is one of the most durable options as it is rust-resistant, lightweight and requires very little maintenance.
Is aluminium or rattan better?
Both are strong choices. Aluminium offers a more modern look and requires less maintenance, while rattan provides a softer, more traditional feel.
What garden furniture is best for small gardens?
Compact options such as bistro sets or smaller seating sets work best, allowing you to create a seating area without taking up too much space.
Final CTA
If you’re planning your garden this year, you can explore and shop the full garden furniture collection online or visit us in store to see the range in person.