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The best outdoor sofa dining sets make a refreshing change from more formal dining table and chair sets, and we're seeing a huge trend for combining the comfort and laidback vibes such :a[garden furniture]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/garden-furniture/the-best-garden-furniture/' } brings. From a chilled Sunday brunch to a barbie supper with friends, these versatile sets make al fresco meals a far more relaxed and enjoyable affair.

Sofa dining sets allow you to eat in comfort and style, and they also come in a wide range of different materials, including trusty all-weather rattan, smooth aluminium teamed with tactile synthetic rope, or rich wood, along with fully upholstered designs. Each have their own distinct characteristics and charm, but they also have differing lifespans and maintenance needs.

**• Best overall:** Habitat Malta 6 Seater Rattan Effect Garden Corner Sofa Set - :a[Buy now at Argos]{href='https://www.argos.co.uk/product/2258032' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}  
**•** **Best for comfort:** Matara Rattan Effect Corner Sofa Set - :a[Buy now at Homebase]{href='https://www.homebase.co.uk/matara-rattan-effect-corner-sofa-set/13951470.html' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**•** **Best value:** COZYBRITE Garden Corner Sofa Rattan Furniture Set - :a[Buy now on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Garden-Furniture-Outdoor-All-weather-Cushions/dp/B0B4JWD8QP/?qtag=mgarticle92-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**•** **Best premium:** Aruba Corner Dining Set With Firepit - :a[Buy now on Robert Dyas]{href='https://www.robertdyas.co.uk/aruba-outdoor-fabric-patio-corner-sofa-set-with-fire-pit-table?' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

‘L’ shape or corner sofas are the most popular design this season. They’re great for squeezing in loads of friends or for lazing around and putting your feet up. Styled to push back close to a wall and tuck into a corner (although make sure you leave enough space for recliners), they’ll make the most of compact patio space.

If you're looking for a sofa dining set to add to your garden this spring and summer, we've rounded up the best on the market. There's loads to choose from, including the more traditional two and three-seater sofas to those that feature a high-low table.

## Best sofa dining sets for your garden {#h-best-sofa-dining-sets-for-your-garden}

## How we chose the best sofa dining sets {#h-how-we-chose-the-best-sofa-dining-sets}

All of these sofa dining sets have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered the style, seating capacity, and dining functionality in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching sofa dining sets to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about. And with help from Modern Gardens Magazine, Garden News and Garden Answers, we share expert gardening knowledge to help you get the most from your product.

### Things to look out for when buying a sofa dining set {#h-things-to-look-out-for-when-buying-a-sofa-dining-set}

### Find your dream set {#h-find-your-dream-set}

These lounge dining sets range from fixed and modular corner sofas to more traditional two- and three-seater sofas, so you can find the best layout to make the most of your available space. ‘L’ shape or corner sofas are the most popular design this season. They’re great for squeezing in loads of friends or for lazing around and putting your feet up. Styled to push back close to a wall and tuck into a corner (although make sure you leave enough space for recliners), they’ll make the most of compact patio space.

If you want a more flexible arrangement then a sofa with :a[two armchairs]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/garden-furniture/garden-armchairs-uk/' } might suit you better. Many sofa dining sets come with co-ordinating benches and individual stools too, which are perfect for accommodating extra guests.

### What are high-low tables? {#h-what-are-high-low-tables}

Some sofa dining sets feature a high-low table, where you can adjust the height from a low-level coffee table to a more formal dining height. They’re a real bonus if you only have room in your garden for one sofa set and you want to use your new settee for everyday lounging as well as al fresco eating.

These nifty tables work in one of two ways. The most popular designs must be lifted up and out of their base and moved to one side before being reslotted in at the higher level. It’s pretty basic and requires two people, but it only takes a few seconds and there’s no built-in tech to go wrong. It can be tricky if the table is already laid with drinks and nibbles though! To be stable, this type of table tends to be block shaped, so it’s not always the most elegant option.

Some tables have gas-lift risers and these effortlessly glide from coffee to dining height at the push or twist of a lever. There’s no need to remove items from the surface, enlist the help of a friend or even get up from your seat, as the simple gas-filled struts do all the work for you.

Table profiles and styling are usually slimmer too, enabling a much wider choice of materials including aluminium, but they do cost more than the simple lift-and-shift variety.

### What material is best? {#h-what-material-is-best}

**All-weather rattan** products vary in quality, cost and performance and this is usually down to the manufacturing processes used. For a long-lasting product, look for seating with a rigid steel or aluminium frame with minimal joints and screws. Look also for mono-extrusion processes where the dye is present throughout the entire rattan strand, rather than just the coating, making any scratches much less visible. It’s easy to keep all-weather rattan dirt-free with a soft bristle brush and non-foaming cleaner.

**Aluminium** designs tend to be slender with clean lines. Light to move – ideal if you like a change of scene – the surface is smooth and can be powder-coated for extra toughness, often in matt black or other eye-catching colours. Thanks to its contemporary good looks it is often paired with tactile details such as panels of woven synthetic rope or hardwoods such as responsibly sourced teak, which contain natural waterproofing oils and need little upkeep.

**Fully tailored fabric sofas** are this season’s outdoor A-listers. Thanks to advances in fabric technology, water- and stain-repellent fabrics have come down in cost and improved in performance. UV-stable and soft to the touch, they can be left out in sudden downpours and are pretty quick to air-dry. Look for solution-dyed acrylic products for a super hardwearing fabric, and check product details to see how easy they are to clean – some materials can even be jet washed and refinished with a home clean kit to keep them in tip-top condition.

### What about the cushions? {#h-what-about-the-cushions}

Although most sofas are designed to be left outside in all seasons, cushions can differ so do check the small print. Some must be brought inside at the slightest glimpse of a shower but we’re seeing more and more that can be left in place in all but the heaviest rain. Often referred to as all-weather or shower-resistant cushions, these relatively new products have fibre-filled inners that allow any water to drain straight through. They’re more expensive than traditional seat pads but well worth it.

Neutral shades such as stone, dove grey, and charcoal are all on-trend this season. Most are UV fade-resistant, machine washable, and quick to dry, but do check if you want your cushions to look just as gorgeous next summer.

## What to read next: {#h-what-to-read-next}

:a[The best garden pods to buy in the UK]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-designs/buyers-guide-garden-pods/' }

:a[Best fire pit tables for a cosy and contemporary garden]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-designs/best-fire-pit-tables/' }

:a[The best Lay-Z-Spa hot tubs that will change the way you relax]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-designs/best-lazy-spa-hot-tub/' }

:a[Must have snug-as-a-hug egg chairs for your patio]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/egg-chairs-uk/' }

**Subscribe to Modern Gardens magazine and get the most out of your outdoor space.** Discover everything you need to know to make your outside space look fantastic, quickly and easily, with hundreds of simple ideas, designer tricks, affordable products and expert advice in every issue of Modern Gardens. **:a[View our latest subscription offers]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/modern-gardens-magazine?utm_source=moderngardensmagazine.co.uk&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=bau_moderngardens&amp;utm_content=affiliates_button' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}** to save on shop prices.

_:a[Eleanor Weaver]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/author/eleanor-weaver/' }_ _is the Deputy Homes & Garden Product Editor for A Modern Kitchen, specialising in kitchen accessories and appliances, including washing machines and microwaves. Having been a renter for a decade now, she loves looking for home inspiration in her spare time and is a master of DIY._

Best sofa dining sets for long lunches and relaxed evenings

If you're new to the world of barbecuing and are looking for a simple-to-use yet high-quality :a[outdoor BBQ]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/cooking/best-outdoor-grills/' }, consider the Weber Spirit II E-210. It offers a high-performance grilling system that ensures you get great-tasting food every time while also being easy enough to operate for a BBQ beginner.

Compared to some other quality BBQs on the market, the Weber Spirit II E-210 has a more compact size, with features like an open cart design for accessory storage and integrated hooks on one of the side tables to pop your tools. One of the side tables also folds down to save your space. If you're limited on outdoor space or want to make a feature of a smaller part of a larger garden, this BBQ could be a good option for you.

As you'd expect from a :a[Weber BBQ]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/cooking/best-weber-bbq/' }, the Weber Spirit II has a sleek design and is made from quality materials so you can tell it's a more premium product, but is it worth the money? Take a look at our Weber Spirit II review to find out what we thought.

## Weber Spirit II E-210 overview {#h-weber-spirit-ii-e-210-overview}

## How we tested the Weber Spirit II E-210 BBQ {#h-how-we-tested-the-weber-spirit-ii-e-210-bbq}

I put the Weber Spirit II E-210 through its paces cooking your :a[traditional BBQ items]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/cooking/best-bbq-food/' }, like burgers and sausages, as well as items that required a bit more cooking on a BBQ, such as a whole chicken. As well as testing the cooking ability, I also took the time to build the BBQ from scratch and gave it a deep clean after use so I could test out the full Weber Spirit II experience from start to finish.

As we'd expect from British weather, all kinds of elements were chucked at me while I tested this BBQ. One minute I was cooking in full sunshine, the next it turned windy so I was able to see whether this was something that affected the cooking conditions.

## Testing the Weber Spirit II E-210 {#h-testing-the-weber-spirit-ii-e-210}

When the Weber Spirit II E-210 arrived at my door, it came on a palette. So, straight off, I would say when ordering this BBQ, you need to make sure you’ve got somewhere large enough to store it until you’ve got time to build it.

To put the whole thing together, I enlisted help from a family friend. The instructions didn’t explicitly say you needed a second person to build it but considering I could probably count on one hand the number of times I’ve used a screwdriver before, I thought it couldn’t hurt to have an extra pair of hands to help me. We took everything out of the box so we could clearly see each part and downloaded the BILT app that Weber recommended so we could follow a 3D visual of the instructions for each step. This part did take a while to figure out as there are a couple of different versions of the Weber Spirit II and I had accidentally downloaded the instructions to the slightly bigger E-310 model to begin with.

The instructions in the manual were broken down into manageable steps so you weren’t overloaded with multiple bits you needed to put together at once. However, the confusion over the different types of Weber Spirit II struck again as the instructions were designed to put together three different models. Some of the drawings of the parts were bigger than the ones used on the E-210 model and there were references to different bags of screws that we didn’t have, making us think to begin with that we were missing parts until we realised they were for a different model.

You will need to carve some time out to actually put the BBQ together. The build took me and my family friend around two hours and I felt like the majority of that time was spent putting the base and wheels together rather than the cooking part of the BBQ. You definitely needed two people for putting the base together as you needed to be able to hold the base sturdy, plus the part you're attaching while making sure the screws and bolt were being put in at the right angle. With my limited DIY knowledge, that just wouldn’t have happened on my own. That being said, although it took a while, it seemed to suddenly come together very quickly after the base was put together.

Considering it was put together in part by someone with no DIY skills at all, I was very impressed with how sturdy the BBQ was. Once screwed together, the parts didn't wobble about at all and it all felt very robust. You can tell all the individual elements, from the cooking grates down to each tiny screw and washer, are made with premium materials just by the feel of them, which is something you'd expect from a barbecue costing you in excess of £500.

## Cooking and testing the features {#h-cooking-and-testing-the-features}

After the build comes the most exciting part - testing the features. Before putting anything on the Weber Spirit II E-210 BBQ, I'd recommend spending time reading the manual. I'd never barbecued anything in my life before so wanted to make sure I'd got to grips with what this BBQ was capable of before getting stuck in.

The Weber Spirit II is a :a[gas BBQ]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/cooking/best-gas-bbq-grill-cooking/' } and offers both direct heat cooking and indirect heat cooking. The direct heat is what you'd be used to on most traditional BBQs as it's designed for cooking smaller items that cook quickly. Think your burgers, sausages, sliced vegetables and things like that. Your indirect heat cooking is more for items that need a slower cooking time, like a whole chicken or ribs. As you'd probably guess by the name, it works by not placing your food on direct heat and once you've popped the lid down, it circulates the heat all around the food to cook it evenly on all sides and through the centre without burning. The instruction manual includes a little diagram of this to show where you need to place the food when using it for indirect heat cooking and how to set up the burners.

### Direct heat cooking on the Weber Spirit II E-210 {#h-direct-heat-cooking-on-the-weber-spirit-ii-e-210}

As a BBQ novice, I thought I'd start with the classic burgers, sausages and chicken as the first things I cooked on the Weber Spirit II. As you'd expect from someone new to barbecuing, there was a lot of fiddling with the burners to get it hot enough and opening the lid to see if the food was cooking as it should. The conditions were probably less than ideal for barbecuing as although it was bright and sunny to begin with, the wind soon picked up (your typical spring day in the UK!) so every time I opened the lid to check they were cooking okay, the wind blew the flame out. The BBQ being quite quiet is a good thing but it did mean that I didn't really know the flame had gone out until I could smell gas. Once you knew what you were doing, it was really straightforward to use and cooked food quickly but it still felt nice and tender. The warming rack was particularly useful for cooking multiple items as I could pop the burgers on top to stay warm while the sausages and chicken cooked for a little bit longer.

### Indirect heat cooking on the Weber Spirit II E-210 {#h-indirect-heat-cooking-on-the-weber-spirit-ii-e-210}

To give myself a bit more of a challenge, I tasked myself with cooking a whole chicken on my Weber Spirit II to see what this barbecue was really capable of. I used the :a[Weber Poultry Roaster]{href='https://www.weber.com/GB/en/accessories/tools-and-cookware/8838.html' } as the tin and emptied a can of beer inside the bit in the middle to enhance the flavour and add more moisture to the bird. Weber advises you to leave the BBQ for 15 to 20 minutes to preheat before adding the roaster inside. The built-in temperature gauge on the lid is so handy for making sure the BBQ was at the right temperature before adding the chicken and great for monitoring it while the bird was cooking without lifting the lid up and letting the heat escape.

To get the right temperature for the indirect heat cooking, it was a bit more fiddling with the burner settings to get the temperature to stay at a consistent level. It was way too hot to start with so I turned the first burner down to the lowest setting while keeping the second burner at the lowest setting but then this meant the temperature was too low. I then kept increasing both burners in small increments until I managed to get the temperature to stay at a consistent 180 degrees.

Once it reached temperature though, I just left the barbecue with the lid down to do its thing. I was keen to avoid the flame going out like it did when cooking on direct heat so I moved the BBQ to a more sheltered spot on the patio to keep it out of the wind. The compact size of this Weber Spirit II E-210 BBQ means that it's easy to move around and it doesn't take up a load of room either, great for those with smaller gardens or balconies. I also didn't lift the lid until I put new potatoes inside to cook alongside the chicken at around the one-hour mark. The total cooking time for the chicken was one hour 45 minutes and I have to say, it produced the juiciest chicken I'd ever eaten - no dry bird in sight! The potatoes were nicely crispy on the outside while still remaining light and fluffy on the inside.

The worst part about barbecuing (or just cooking in general really) is the cleaning up but it's got to be done to keep the BBQ in tip-top condition. Weber advises cleaning the cooking grates when they're hot by scraping the bits off with a metal scraper. This did do the job of getting them off but it just meant the bits went further inside the barbecue rather than being stuck to the grates. The brand says to give the BBQ a deep clean every couple of months or so, so cleaning beyond the grates isn't something that needs to be done every single time you use the barbecue. However, they do say in so many words that you may find the performance of the BBQ and flavour of your food may be compromised if it's too dirty. I'd recommend buying a good quality :a[BBQ cleaner]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/cooking/best-bbq-cleaners-uk/' } to help you make light work of the grime and grease stuck on the grates.

One thing that is really good for a lazy cleaner like myself is that the fat is collected in a tray underneath the BBQ that you can simply chuck away when it's full. No need to scrub the life out of the barbecue trying to get stubborn fat splodges off the stainless steel, it just neatly goes into a disposable tray.

It's no secret that Weber BBQs are a slightly more pricey option compared to other BBQs with similar specs on the market, but what are you getting for that price is a premium quality BBQ. At the time of writing, it retails on the Weber website for £509 and for that, you're getting a sleek stainless steel design, porcelain-enamelled cast iron cooking grates, two side tables, two burners and the other features we've mentioned and tested throughout our Weber Spirit II review. It's also worth noting that Weber BBQs have a 10-year warranty on all parts so that's included in the price.

The Weber website often runs promotions where you can get deals on accessories to make it even more value for money. For example, when I got my Weber Spirit II, they had an offer where you could receive a free Poultry Roaster and :a[instant-read thermometer]{href='https://www.weber.com/GB/en/accessories/tools-and-cookware/instant-read-thermometer/6750.html' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}. The Poultry Roaster retails for £73.99 and the thermometer for £22.79 so it's definitely worth taking advantage of deals when they're available.

## Overall verdict: Is the Weber Spirit II E-210 barbecue worth it? {#h-overall-verdict-is-the-weber-spirit-ii-e-210-barbecue-worth-it}

Overall, I've found the Weber Spirit II E-210 barbecue to be super straightforward to use, which is what I needed as somebody who was a complete beginner to barbecuing. Although I've never owned a barbecue myself before, I can tell how premium the product is through the quality of the materials used. Well, that and through multiple family members and friends commenting on how nice it looked.

I've knocked points off for the build because if it wasn't for the fact I had help to build it, it would have still been sat in pieces on my patio weeks later. While the instructions were clear when it came to each step, it wasn't so clear on what was exactly needed for the Weber Spirit II E-210 as a lot of the diagrams depicted the Weber Spirit II E-310, which is slightly bigger with an additional burner, so there was a lot of confusion to begin with over if we were following the right instructions and if we had all the parts we were supposed to have.

If I was rating it purely on the features and ease of use alone, the Weber Spirit II E-210 would get a straight 5 out of 5 stars. I cannot stress enough how much of a useless cook I am and if I’ve managed to cook a whole chicken on it without getting food poisoning, anyone can. Once you’ve figured out the setting the burners need to be on, the barbecue does all the hard work for you and you can keep an eye on the temperature without even opening the lid so it takes the worry out of making sure your food is cooking how it’s supposed to. The warming rack is also a welcome addition if you’re cooking for multiple people as you can keep everything nice and hot while waiting for everything else to cook to perfection.

## Weber Spirit II FAQs {#h-weber-spirit-ii-faqs}

## What's the difference between a Weber Spirit II E-310 and 210? {#h-what-s-the-difference-between-a-weber-spirit-ii-e-310-and-210}

The only real difference between the Weber Spirit II E-310 and 210 is the number of burners it has. The Weber Spirit II E-210 that we tested has two burners and the E-310 model has three burners. As it has an additional burner, the E-310 is slightly bigger (with dimensions of 113 x 132 x 69cm with the lid closed) and has the capacity to cook for slightly more people too. Other than that, the design and features are all the same so your decision between the two may purely depend on whether you need that bigger capacity and if you have the space in your garden to accommodate the slightly larger size.

## How long will a Weber Spirit last? {#h-how-long-will-a-weber-spirit-last}

With proper care, there's no reason why a Weber Spirit BBQ shouldn't last you for years to come. You'll want to make sure you're giving it a good clean between uses to ensure the BBQ can grill to its full potential every time. We'd also recommend using a :a[BBQ cover]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/cooking/best-bbq-cover-uk/' } to protect it from the elements as we all know how unpredictable the great British weather can be.

The Weber Spirit II E-210 that we tested has a 10-year warranty for all parts, but this doesn't apply to general wear and tear. Be sure to register your BBQ as soon as you get it to ensure it's covered by the warranty.

## Similar BBQs to consider: {#h-similar-bbqs-to-consider}

:a[Essential BBQ tools you need to become a grill master]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/cooking/best-bbq-tools/' }

:a[Best BBQ fuel to use: Guide for hybrid, electric, gas and charcoal barbecues]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/cooking/best-bbq-fuel-guide/' }

:a[Best BBQ brands for grill completists]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/cooking/best-bbq-brands/' }

**Subscribe to Modern Gardens magazine and get the most out of your outdoor space.** Discover everything you need to know to make your outside space look fantastic, quickly and easily, with hundreds of simple ideas, designer tricks, affordable products and expert advice in every issue of Modern Gardens. :a[View our latest subscription offers]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/modern-gardens-magazine?utm_source=moderngardensmagazine.co.uk&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=bau_moderngardens&amp;utm_content=affiliates_button' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'} to save on shop prices.

_:a[Rosie Floyd]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/author/rosie-floyd/' } is a Pets, Homes and Garden Product Writer for Modern Gardens, specialising in outdoor living. Before joining the team at Bauer, Rosie spent almost three years writing content for a garden buildings company so knows her stuff about garden sheds, rooms and offices and how to make the most of your outdoor space._

Weber Spirit II E-210 review: a great option for BBQ beginners

If you want to give your outdoor plants the best chance in life, the best greenhouse can offer you some vital :a[outdoor storage]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/storage/best-garden-sheds-uk/' } with growth-friendly glass walls. A greenhouse is especially useful if you're getting your green fingers stuck into growing new plants, herbs, and produce for your spring and summer :a[pots and planters]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/projects/planting/best-garden-planters/' }, beds, and borders. Some plants may just need starting off in the greenhouse before you plant them out, while others may need permanent space under cover for ultimate protection.

Greenhouses - typically made of glass or polycarbonate, and wood or steel - are a warm, cosy enclosure for your greenery, giving your plants enough light and warmth to grow without facing the tough UV rays or the unpredictable British weather. Especially when it comes to those frosty winter months, greenhouses can be a saviour to all of us gardeners.

• **Best small greenhouse:** Palram Harmony Polycarbonate Apex Greenhouse - :a[View on B&Q]{href='https://www.diy.com/departments/palram-harmony-6x4-polycarbonate-apex-greenhouse/247114_BQ.prd' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best luxury greenhouse:** Crane Garden Buildings Greenhouse - :a[View on John Lewis]{href='https://www.johnlewis.com/crane-garden-buildings-2-4-x-3m-greenhouse-fsc-certified-scandinavian-redwood/p342856' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best large greenhouse:** Rion Grand Gardner Acrylic Barn Greenhouse - :a[View on B&Q]{href='https://www.diy.com/departments/rion-grand-gardner-8x20-acrylic-barn-greenhouse/212850_BQ.prd' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

The thing is though, there are so many choices of greenhouses out there. You can get one that is huge and barn-like that requires serious construction, or one tiny enough to sit on a patio and fit in a few plants. Which one's the best for you? Well, we've covered everything in our greenhouse guide below - including the best greenhouses you can buy right now.

## Best greenhouses UK {#h-best-greenhouses-uk}

### What type of greenhouse should I get? {#h-what-type-of-greenhouse-should-i-get}

There are lots of elements to factor in when you want to start looking for a greenhouse. What size can you fit in your garden? How much can you afford? Do you want a static greenhouse or one that's easily covered and uncovered?

With all of this in mind, there are a few different types of greenhouses you should look towards.

**Wooden or steel bases:** Whereas steel bases are much easier to put together, wooden frames for greenhouses can look more traditional and maybe a more stylish choice - this will make them more expensive, though.

**Plastic-covered:** Want ease and a cheaper choice? Plastic-covered greenhouses are a great option that often has zippers and is easily removed for a lower price.

**Shape:** You'll have to think about the shape and size of your greenhouse. You can get traditional gable greenhouses easily, but lean-to options are often smaller and just as effective if you have a smaller garden. Then you have arching, cathedral, and barn greenhouses too, just to name a few. This all depends on what you're looking for in your greenhouse.

### How much to spend on a greenhouse? {#h-how-much-to-spend-on-a-greenhouse}

This all depends on what materials you want, how many features you want and the choice of size for your greenhouse.

Greenhouses can start anywhere from £30 to over £10,000 depending on what you buy and design, so there's a lot to think about.

For instance, plastic, steel, and wooden frames can be cheaper if they're smaller in size, but they may not be as sturdy if you buy them so cheaply. On the other hand, you can spend lots of money on a specially designed greenhouse with doors and windows, but you may find this isn't necessary for your budget.

We're all about the value you get for your money, so you'll want to do full research into what you're buying before you get it.

### Where should I position my greenhouse? {#h-where-should-i-position-my-greenhouse}

When choosing where to site your greenhouse, you need to consider various factors to make sure it's in the optimal place for plant growth.

You might have an ideal space in mind, but it's worth considering the below:  
• Position your greenhouse in the sunniest part of your garden. This is paramount for getting the most out of your greenhouse. The best position for this would be to have your greenhouse south-facing where possible or, failing that, east side to maximise light during the winter

• Putting your greenhouse in a space that will be sheltered from high winds or storms. This is great for the long-term maintenance and structural integrity of your greenhouse

• Position your greenhouse near a source of water or electricity. This is ideal for easy watering with a :a[garden hose]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/maintenance/tools/best-hose-pipes-uk/' } and providing additional heat in the cooler seasons if your sun exposure is limited

• Make sure to build on level ground with good foundations. Building on a slope will create complications with pots potentially rolling off the inside staging!

• Leave space around your greenhouse. This will make for an easier installation and make it easier to replace any broken panes later down the line.

:a[Best DIY tools for undertaking your garden projects]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden-care/tools/the-best-diy-tools/' }

:a[Outdoor patio heaters to warm up a chilly alfresco evening]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/best-outdoor-heater-gardens/' }

:a[Garden hammocks perfect for instant relaxation outdoors]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/best-garden-hammocks-uk/' }

_:a[Caitlin Casey]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/author/caitlin-casey/' } is a Senior Writer for Modern Gardens, heat, Closer, and Grazia. She covers shopping, women’s lifestyle, popular culture as well as all things trending._

10 best greenhouses to help your plants thrive all year round

We all love sitting in the garden when the weather allows and the best plastic garden chairs are a practical :a[garden furniture]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/garden-furniture/the-best-garden-furniture/' } solution offering you a fuss-free, weatherproof seating option for your outside space. Plastic garden furniture is a contemporary choice that looks great in all gardens and can work anywhere you want to position it - on lawns, patios, decks, terraces, and balconies. Plus, there are so many styles of plastic garden chair available that you're sure to be able to find one to suit your garden's unique style.

In our opinion, plastic is indeed fantastic. Opting for plastic offers many benefits over alternatives such as metal, wood, or :a[rattan garden furniture]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/garden-furniture/best-rattan-furniture-uk/' } - it's lightweight and therefore highly portable, it's practically maintenance-free, and if your plastic garden chairs do get grubby you can simply give them a light scrub and rinse them off with a bucket or a :a[watering can]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/projects/planting/best-watering-cans/' }. Plastic garden chairs are often more affordable than traditional versions too, giving you more spare cash to spend on fun garden-themed purchases, such as :a[lawn games]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/garden-furniture/lawn-games-for-adults/' }.

## Best plastic garden chairs at a glance: {#h-best-plastic-garden-chairs-at-a-glance}

• **Best traditional plastic garden chair:** Two Resol Green Blanes Plastic Sun Lounger Garden Chairs - :a[View on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Resol-Blanes-Folding-Reclining-Plastic/dp/B00I5OJIV0?tag=qmgarticle386-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best designer plastic garden chair:** Habitat Serpa Set of Two Plastic Garden Chairs - :a[View on Habitat]{href='https://www.habitat.co.uk/product/4726469?clickSR=slp:term:garden%20chairs:16:44:1' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best Adirondack-style plastic garden chair:** Sleek Space Adirondack Folding Chair for Garden, Patio, or Deck - :a[View on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sleek-Space-Adirondack-Folding-Garden/dp/B0BDG5ZV3H?tag=qmgarticle386-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

While there's a lot to be said for traditional-style plastic garden chairs, there are also more exciting designer options around that will add a touch of chic to your patio, deck, or balcony. We especially love that thanks to how they're manufactured, plastic garden chairs are often available in different tones that can add a pop of colour to your outside space. We're considering both traditional and modern types in our roundup of the best plastic garden chairs currently available for you.

## Best plastic garden chair for your outside space {#h-best-plastic-garden-chair-for-your-outside-space}

## How we chose the best plastic garden chairs {#h-how-we-chose-the-best-plastic-garden-chairs}

All of these plastic garden chairs have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered the style, durability, and materials in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching plastic garden chairs to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

## What to look for when buying a plastic garden chair {#h-what-to-look-for-when-buying-a-plastic-garden-chair}

**Weight capacity** \- like all chairs, plastic garden chairs have a maximum weight capacity. If that could be an issue for you or anyone in your household, it's worth looking into.

**Seat height** - do you want to use your chair to sit at the garden table? Most of the designs we've featured here are suitable for that, but some, like the Adirondack chair, are made purely for relaxing in.

**Chair weight** - plastic garden chairs are generally lightweight, but if you need something ultra-ultra-portable then check the specs.

**Storage options** - if you have limited garden storage space you may want to look for a foldable option. Anyone with a little more space can consider a stackable choice.

## How to look after your plastic garden chairs {#h-how-to-look-after-your-plastic-garden-chairs}

As we've already highlighted, plastic garden chairs need very little maintenance other than an occasional wipe down with a damp cloth.

One major plus of plastic garden chairs is that they can be left outside in all weather. However, in order to extend their longevity, we'd recommend storing them when they are not in use in a garage, :a[garden shed]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/storage/best-garden-sheds-uk/' }, or even greenhouse. If you don't have those options, consider investing in a :a[garden furniture cover]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/garden-furniture/best-furniture-covers-uk/' }.

:a[10 of the best garden swings for adults]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/garden-furniture/best-garden-swings-for-adults/' }

:a[Comfy and affordable sun loungers]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/garden-furniture/best-sun-lounger/' }

:a[Buyers’ guide: Best buy garden armchairs]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/garden-furniture/garden-armchairs-uk/' }

_:a[Amy-Mae Turner]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/author/amy-mae-turner/' } is a Commerce Content Writer for Modern Gardens, Yours, Take A Break Pets, and A Modern Kitchen. When she's not pottering in the garden or mucking around in the kitchen, she can be found having doggy cuddles with her two beloved cockapoochis._

Sit back and relax in the best plastic garden chairs: Fuss-free and surprisingly stylish

Looking for a large outdoor plant pot? You can't beat a stunning plant pot or planter to help you show off your favourite :a[outdoor plants]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/projects/planting/best-garden-outdoor-plants/' }, shrubs, herbs and even trees, and there are plenty of innovative and beautiful designs to choose from.

That being said, larger plant pots can be tricky to track down and even trickier to manoeuvre around the garden. However, your trees and plants will thank you for some extra room and breathing space, especially plants and shrubs that grow at speed. In our pick of the best outdoor plant pots, we've included :a[planters that can be left outside all year]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/projects/planting/best-plants-pots-all-year-round/' } round.

## Best large outdoor plant pots at a glance

**• Best all-round large plant pot:** Large Oak Wood Effect Barrel Plastic Decorative Garden Patio Trough Plant Pot Planter - :a[View on B&Q]{href='https://www.diy.com/departments/large-oak-wood-effect-barrel-plastic-decorative-garden-patio-trough-plant-pot-planter/5056589104320_BQ.prd' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**• Best large plant pot for jungle plants:** Green Glazed Classical Planter - :a[View now on Gardenesque]{href='https://www.gardenesque.com/products/loudon-artichoke-green-classical-plant-pot?' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**• Best terracotta large plant pot:** Clayton Large Terracotta Plant Pot – :a[View on Gardenesque]{href='https://www.gardenesque.com/products/clayton-large-terracotta-pot?' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

We've rounded up the cream of the crop so you can pick the best large plant pot for you. Whether you want one with luxury finishes or a budget pot, we've got you covered. Plus, for a contemporary touch, check out our round-up of the best :a[funky frost-proof outdoor planters]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/decor/funky-frost-proof-outdoor-planters/' }.

You'll find those made from plastic, clay and terracotta, and we've even included a few that don't require as much watering due to proper filtration. We've also answered popular questions about planting plants in large pots and the best materials to choose from.

## Best large plant pots {#h-best-large-plant-pots}

## How we chose the best large outdoor plant pots {#h-how-we-chose-the-best-large-outdoor-plant-pots}

All of these large outdoor plant pots have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered size, material and value in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching large outdoor plant pots to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about. And with help from Modern Gardens Magazine, :a[Garden News]{href='https://www.gardennewsmagazine.co.uk/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'} and Garden Answers, we share expert gardening knowledge to help you get the most from your product.

Experts say that you should plant rapid-growing plants and shrubs in large containers rather than in :a[small plant pots]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/projects/planting/small-plant-pots/' }. Large containers will hold more soil, keeping it moist and cool. Plants in small containers tend to dry out more quickly and you may have to water them more frequently to keep the plants thriving.

Olive trees, conifers, bay trees and palm trees are just a few trees that thrive in a contained space, hence the name 'container garden' - meaning that despite lack of soil and space, you can create a garden just about anywhere.

Trees can live in a container for as long as they are healthy and happy. If you follow proper steps to ensure your tree's health (including watering), it could stay in the same pot for 20 years or more. Not to mention, your trees and plants will be better protected from pests and diseases in a pot compared to the ground.

### What outdoor plant pots won't crack in bad weather?

Heavy plastic, stone, iron, lead and fiberglass are the best weather-resistant containers to use. Be careful of terra-cotta, as it will eventually expand and crack with repeated freezing and thawing. Assemble your designs early enough that the plants have time to acclimate to their new pots before really cold weather

:a[Stylish hanging baskets to brighten up your garden wall]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden-care/growing/best-hanging-baskets/' }

:a[The best stylish gardening gloves]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/projects/planting/the-best-stylish-gardening-gloves/' }

:a[How to repot plants guide: Everything you need in your tool kit]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden-care/growing/how-to-repot-plants-guide/' }

**Subscribe to Modern Gardens magazine and get the most out of your outdoor space.** Discover everything you need to know to make your outside space look fantastic, quickly and easily, with hundreds of simple ideas, designer tricks, affordable products and expert advice in every issue of Modern Gardens. :a[View our latest subscription offers]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/modern-gardens-magazine?utm_source=moderngardensmagazine.co.uk&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=bau_moderngardens&amp;utm_content=affiliates_button' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} to save on shop prices.

_:a[Hannah Mellin]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/author/hannah-mellin/' }_ _is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for Modern Gardens. She has been working in the Journalism industry for over a decade and has written for an array of brands. When she's not writing, researching or testing products, she's renovating her Victorian terrace, tending to her houseplants and chilling in her jungle garden with her sausage dog Waffle._

Best large outdoor plant pots with space to thrive

The best BBQ brands are as synonymous with Barbies as the flame-grilled Whopper. In fact, brands such as Char-Broil and Weber have historical importance as the originators of the first cast iron charcoal grill and kettle BBQ respectively. If you're looking for the :a[best BBQ]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/best-outdoor-grills/' } it is definitely worth doing some research into what type of grill is going to best suit your needs and which brand has all the accessories and customer support to turn you into a bonafide pitmaster.

Hankering for beer can chicken or T-bone steaks with buttery corn on the cob? Only a BBQ can create caramelised crusts and grill marks. Similarly, spare ribs in a hickory sauce and marinated pork belly get an authentic smoked flavour from low and slow grilling. An oven just can't do these meats justice like a :a[charcoal BBQ]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/garden/garden-trends/best-charcoal-grill-under-100/' } can. Thanks to innovators like :a[George Stephen Snr.]{href='https://www.weber.com/US/en/blog/behind-the-grill/george-stephen-the-man-and-his-legacy/weber-30125.html' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} we are not limited to an oil drum on bricks for our cookouts. BBQ brands have moved with the times and we can now enjoy weatherproof and hybrid models. Some new-fangled grills can even be controlled by an app.

## Best BBQ brands at a glance: {#h-best-bbq-brands-at-a-glance}

• **Best BBQ brand:** Weber Traveler Gas Barbecue – :a[View on Weber]{href='https://www.weber.com/GB/en/barbecues/portable-barbecues/weber-traveler/the-weber-traveler/9010074.html' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best electric BBQ:** Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill and Smoker – :a[View on Ninja]{href='https://ninjakitchen.co.uk/product/ninja-woodfire-electric-bbq-grill-smoker-og701uk-zidOG701UK?' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best Kamado BBQ:** Kamado Joe – Classic III – :a[View on Appliances Direct]{href='https://www.appliancesdirect.co.uk/p/kj15040921/kamado-joe-kj15040921-charcoal-bbq-barbecue?' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

Brands tend to have a unique selling point. For example, Kamado Joe and The Big Green Egg specialise in ceramic Kamado ovens. Similarly, as you'd expect from :a[Everdure by Heston Blumenthal]{href='https://everdurebyheston.co.uk/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}, his range of charcoal and gas BBQs have precision, innovation and technology as part of the user experience. For BBQ completists, you may well form an obsession with :a[Weber BBQ accessories]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/cooking/the-best-weber-barbecue-accessories/' }, where there's everything from protective mitts, thermometers, disposable trays, grill brushes, grill pans, tongs, spatulas and chimney starters.

Finally, there is a price point to consider. Brands such as Tower and Ninja offer budget and mid-range BBQ options. Okay, it will never be a :a[Kalamazoo]{href='https://kalamazoogourmet.com/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}, but you can still jerk your chicken kebabs without the bells and whistles. Whether you're looking for an outdoor oven that's great for low and slow, or you're looking to do some serious direct grilling, discover the best BBQ brands and their sizzling bits of kit.

## :a[Weber]{href='https://www.weber.com/GB/en/home/?' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} {#h-weber}

George Stephen Snr. invented the kettle BBQ and in 1952 created the brand Weber. Weber is an American brand and it's also the number one BBQ brand in the world. From the original charcoal model, to electric, portable, gas and wood pellet grills, there is a BBQ to suit everyone. Weber is a favourite with Modern Gardens writers :a[Adam Binnie]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/author/adam-binnie/' } and :a[Chris Williams]{href='https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/author/chris-williams/' } who have tried and tested several Weber BBQs and accessories. Whether you're grilling hot dogs and burgers or lobster tails and seared scallops, discover a huge range of Weber BBQs and accessories at a range of price points.

## :a[Ninja]{href='https://ninjakitchen.co.uk/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

Ninja makes premium kitchen appliances. Originating in the USA, Ninja's now a globally recognised brand and the world's third-largest small domestic appliance brand. Innovation and quality are at the core of Ninja products.

## :a[Kamado Joe]{href='https://www.kamadojoe.com/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

Based on the design of an Asian-style grill that replicates wood oven cooking, Kamado Joe is known for its distinctive red ceramic BBQ oven. With one foot in ancient cooking techniques and the other in 21st Century tech, the Konnected Joe app allows you to monitor the temperature of the meat with a probe. Kamado Joe has a range of ovens, fuel and BBQ accessories so you can enjoy the complete Kamado experience.

## :a[Big Green Egg]{href='https://www.biggreenegg.co.uk/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} {#h-big-green-egg}

The Big Green Egg was hatched in Atlanta, Georgia in the 1970s by Ed Fisher. He imported Japanese Kamado ovens and sold grilled chicken wings outside his games arcade. Finding importing complex, Fisher designed and built his own Kamado BBQ: the Big Green Egg. It's actually made from NASA-grade ceramics, so it has incredible heat and weather resistance. Also, it comes with a lifetime guarantee. Enjoy versatility with eight ways of cooking, including grilling, roasting, baking, pan cooking, low and slow, and smoking.

## :a[Char-Broil]{href='https://www.charbroil.co.uk/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} {#h-char-broil}

Char-Broil is America's oldest grill brand, established 1948. Based in Columbus, Georgia, Char-Broil has produced innovative BBQ products that are now sold all around the world. From the first cast iron charcoal grill to utilising infrared in their latest models, discover a huge range of all types of BBQ and accessories. From hybrid grills, digital smokers and the TRU-Infrared™ cooking technology that results in 50 per cent juicer meat. In addition, Char-Broil's UK website has some smokin' authentic recipes and comprehensive how-to guides.

## :a[Outback]{href='https://www.outbackbarbecues.com/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} {#h-outback}

Outback was originally a family business, established in 1979, with the aim to make outdoor entertaining possible all year round. The brand prides itself on its quality and innovative British-designed BBQs, firepits, patio heaters and outdoor accessories. Recently, its range of hybrid BBQs have put the fun into versatile al fresco meals. Price range varies widely, from the :a[Signature II Hybrid BBQ]{href='https://www.outbackbarbecues.com/product/signature-ii-6-burner-hybrid-stainless-steel/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} retailing at £2000+ to the :a[Comet Charcoal Kettle BBQ]{href='https://www.keengardener.co.uk/bbq-barbecue/charcoal-bbqs/outback-comet-charcoal-kettle-bbq-black.html' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} currently retailing at just over £100.

## :a[Everdure by Heston Blumenthal]{href='https://everdurebyheston.co.uk/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} {#h-everdure-by-heston-blumenthal}

Everdure is a trusted brand with over 30 years experience in Australia. They collaborated with Michelin Star Chef Heston Blumenthal in 2016 to create an innovative range of charcoal and gas BBQs, and a range of knives and accessories. All of the products are made in Australia. Their BBQs have received several international design awards.

## :a[Boss]{href='https://bossgrill.co.uk/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} {#h-boss}

For sliders and pulled pork tacos... made in the UK, choose a Boss BBQ. Boss is a British brand that makes BBQs that are built to last. Their range encompasses gas, charcoal, dual fuel and electric BBQs. Their gas models have heavy-duty burners for powerful flame and all the BBQs are made from durable stainless steel. Choose Boss for honest-to-goodness barbecuing whatever the weather.

## :a[Tower]{href='https://www.towerhousewares.co.uk/bbq' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} {#h-tower}

Tower is a British brand that's synonymous with domestic appliances and cookware. Tower has been manufacturing kitchen essentials for over 100 years. Their range of BBQs encompasses all price points. Expect to pay £1,000 for their top-end :a[Stealth Pro Six Burner BBQ inc]{href='https://www.towerhousewares.co.uk/gas-bbq/stealth-pro-six-burner-bbq-inc' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}. While their straight-forward electric BBQ is around £50. Additionally, they have a great range of affordable BBQ accessories.

## How we chose the best BBQ brands {#h-how-we-chose-the-best-bbq-brands}

All of these best BBQ brands have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered quality, features and customer experience in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching the best BBQ brands to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about. And with help from Modern Gardens Magazine, :a[Garden News]{href='https://www.gardennewsmagazine.co.uk/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} and Garden Answers, we share expert gardening knowledge to help you get the most from your product.

These big brand BBQ names are available in your favourite online and high street stores. Here's some handy links to the best BBQ deals to get your sizzle on:

:a[Amazon]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/?tag=qmgarticle292-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

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