Garden Arbour Buying Guides

How to Choose the Right Size Garden Arbour

Size is the first decision. Get it wrong and your arbour will either overwhelm the garden or look lost in it. Here's how to approach it.

Measuring Your Space

Before you start shopping, measure the area where you plan to position your arbour. Allow for:

• The footprint of the arbour itself, including any roof overhang
• A clear approach path of at least 60cm on each side
• The view from the house — where you position it affects how the whole garden reads
• Local planning restrictions (conservation areas and listed buildings may have size rules)

Single vs Double Arbours

Single arbours typically measure 90–120cm wide and seat one or two people comfortably. Double arbours run to 150–180cm wide and suit two adults side by side. Corner arbours are designed to sit diagonally in a garden corner and often have a larger internal seating area than their footprint suggests.

Garden Arbour Materials

Most UK garden arbours are made from timber, though metal-framed designs are becoming more popular. Here's what each offers.

Pressure-Treated Softwood

The most common choice. Scandinavian redwood and pine treated under pressure with preservative are rot-resistant and last 10–15 years with basic maintenance. Most arrive ready to paint or stain. FSC-certified options are widely available and confirm responsible sourcing.

Hardwood Arbours

Oak, acacia and iroko are used in premium garden arbours. Hardwood is denser, naturally more durable and typically lasts 20+ years. It costs more upfront but requires less frequent treatment than softwood. Oak develops an attractive silver-grey patina if left untreated.

Metal-Framed Arbours

Powder-coated steel arbours are low-maintenance, weather-resistant and suit contemporary garden styles. They don't rot or warp and hold climbing plants well. The trade-off is that they tend to feel less warm aesthetically than timber. Galvanised steel lasts particularly well in exposed locations.

What Base Do You Need?

A garden arbour needs a solid, level base to prevent movement and water pooling around the posts. Good options include:

• Concrete paving slabs — the most practical and widely used base
• Decking boards — works well if the arbour is sited on an existing deck
• Gravel with compacted hardcore — allows drainage
• Concrete slab — for a permanent, heavy installation

Use post spikes or adjustable post base anchors where possible. Setting timber posts directly into soil or concrete traps moisture and causes base rot — the most common cause of premature arbour failure.

Roof Styles Explained

The roof style affects both the look of the arbour and how well it performs in UK weather.

• Apex roof: The classic pointed roof. Sheds rain well and suits traditional garden styles. The most common choice.
• Pent or flat roof: A modern, single-slope or flat roof design. Suits contemporary gardens and tends to be lower in overall height.
• Open lattice roof: Slatted or trellis-style roof that lets light through and is ideal for supporting climbing plants. Less effective at keeping out rain.
• Pergola-style: An open overhead frame with no solid roof covering. Creates dappled shade and supports heavy climbers. Works best in sheltered spots.

Installation and Assembly

Most garden arbours arrive flat-packed. Assembly typically takes 2–4 hours with two people. Tips for a smooth build:

• Lay all components out and check against the parts list before starting
• Pre-drill screw holes in softwood to prevent splitting
• Apply a generous coat of exterior wood preservative to all cut ends before assembly — this is where moisture gets in
• Use stainless steel or galvanised fixings to prevent rust staining on timber
• Check that posts are truly vertical with a spirit level before fixing permanently

Many retailers offer a professional installation service — it's worth asking when you order.

Maintenance Tips

A well-maintained arbour lasts significantly longer. Here's what to do each year:

• Apply a quality exterior wood stain or preservative to all timber surfaces every 2–3 years
• Check base posts annually for signs of rot or movement — press a screwdriver gently into the wood at ground level to feel for soft spots
• Keep climbing plants trimmed back from the roof so they don't trap moisture or add excessive weight
• Clear fallen leaves from any horizontal surfaces over winter to prevent moisture retention
• Inspect metal fixings, bolts and brackets for rust each spring and replace any that are corroding