The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Parasol for UK Gardens

Why Parasols Matter in UK Gardens

Whether you’re hosting summer lunches or enjoying a quiet read in the garden, a parasol can make all the difference. Offering essential shade, UV protection, and style, parasols are a practical and elegant addition to any outdoor space—especially in the UK, where weather conditions can shift quickly.

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1. What Size Parasol Do You Need?

Choosing the right size parasol depends on how much shade you need and the size of your garden furniture.

Quick guide:

• 2–4 chairs → 1.8–2.4 m canopy

• 4–6 chairs → 2.4–3 m canopy

• 6+ chairs → 3m+ canopy or multiple parasols

The canopy should ideally extend 0.5–1 metre beyond the furniture it covers for full shade during peak sun hours.

Explore our full Parasol Collection to find the right size for your outdoor setting.

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2. Types of Parasols for Every Garden

There are two main types of parasols to consider:

• Centre-Pole Parasols – Great for dining tables and smaller patios. Traditional, simple to use, and affordable.

• Cantilever Parasols – Perfect for lounge seating or hot tubs. These parasols offer flexible positioning without a central pole getting in the way.

Looking for shade that fits your lifestyle? Browse our Cantilever Parasols for effortless, elegant coverage.

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3. Materials That Withstand British Weather

UK weather demands durable, weather-resistant materials. Here’s what to look for:

• Aluminium Frames – Lightweight, rust-resistant, and ideal for rainy or coastal areas.

• Polyester Canopies – Fast-drying and UV-resistant fabrics help prevent colour fading.

• Wind-Resistant Design – Vented tops and solid construction reduce the risk of damage on breezy days.

Discover parasols made for UK gardens in our Empire Parasol Collection.

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4. Don’t Forget the Parasol Base

A high-quality parasol is only as good as the base it sits in. Use this guide:

• Up to 2.5 m canopy → 20–30 kg base

• Over 3 m canopy → 40–50 kg base (especially for cantilevers)

• Mobile options – Consider wheeled bases if you want to move your parasol frequently

Need help finding a matching base? Contact us via our contact page for personalised advice.

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5. Style Considerations for UK Gardens

A parasol should complement your garden furniture and design theme:

• Neutral tones like grey, taupe, or white suit minimalist or modern spaces

• Bolder colours like green or terracotta add a vibrant, Mediterranean feel

• Features such as LED lighting, tilting mechanisms, or integrated heaters enhance usability

Our Parasols include stylish and functional options to suit any space.

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6. Frequently Asked Questions

Are parasols waterproof?
Most provide light rain protection, but unless labelled as waterproof, they are primarily designed for shade.

What’s the best parasol for wind?
Opt for vented canopies and heavy-duty aluminium frames with a base that matches your canopy size.

Are cantilever parasols better than centre-pole?
Cantilevers are ideal for flexibility and uninterrupted space—especially useful over lounge sets and hot tubs.

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Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Parasol

For the UK climate, we recommend an aluminium cantilever parasol for modern, versatile shade. However, centre-pole parasols remain a great choice for dining areas and smaller patios.

Visit our full Parasol Collection to find stylish, weather-resistant options tailored for UK gardens.