Our edit of the best garden benches proves this somewhat traditional garden seat doesn't need to be dull.
Of course, there's nothing wrong with a classic wooden garden bench, but the best outdoor benches in our round-up combine contemporary style, vibrant colour and multifaceted materials, breathing new life into this timeless garden classic.
The perfect option for when the weather isn't quite warm enough for full-on lounging in the sun, a garden bench provides a spot to rest and admire the view, a sheltered nook to enjoy a few pages of a book, and a place to perch with a friend for a coffee.
If you're ready to sort out your entire alfresco seating set-up, then make sure to find the most stylish options in our best garden furniture round-up, but otherwise, read on to discover the best garden bench for your outside space...
Best garden benches
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You can dream you're in an exotic oasis with this colourful and contemporary garden bench from Made.
Woven polyrattan in a vibrant two-tone colourway forms the elliptical seat whilst clean-lined black legs continue the modern look.
Also available in coordinating woven lounge chair, this tropical garden set says cocktails on the patio to us.
Modern lines and a minimal silhouette make up Danish brand Hay's timeless Palissade bench.
A simple yet carefully-considered curved frame makes this metal garden bench surprisingly comfortable to sit on, whilst its clean-lined Nordic appeal has ensured it has become something of a modern design classic.
Alongside the Palissade garden bench, there are another twelve pieces in this extensive outdoor furniture range, allowing the option to build a garden seating set-up that's perfectly attuned to your outside space.
If you have the space then the Yuki bench can be used as hallway seating during the winter months and a garden bench in the summer. However, the useful folding design also makes for space-saving storage if you do want to put it out of sight.
Made from teak-finished acacia wood - renowned for its moisture resistance and durability - this sturdy wooden bench has more than enough space for three to sit on its slatted-plank seat.
Most garden furniture will need storing under cover during the winter months to prolong its lifespan, and if you don't have a large garage or roomy garden shed this can cause problems once the wet weather begins.
The Hampstead bench from Garden Trading solves this problem by looking as desirable indoors as it does out!
Made from polyethylene imitation bamboo to give it more weather resistance out of doors, the on-trend butterfly shape seat is parired with contemporary black powder-coated steel legs.
Available with a range of matching chairs, tables, and swoon-worthy hanging chair, the garden bench makes a great start to an eye-catching garden set.
If you have a small outdoor space, then maximising its potential is all about clever solutions, and this folding bistro bench from Argos Home could be one of them.
Designed to fold away when not in use, this small garden bench means you won't need much storage space to keep it dry during the winter months, and at 82cm wide it remains compact in size even when unfolded - great for balconies and tiny suntraps. (Although two adults might find it a bit of a squeeze).
The bench seat is part of the Eve range which includes two metal folding chairs and a folding table - ideal for making the most of whatever outside space you have.
For show-stopping design, this statement rattan garden bench from La Redoute has to be cream of the crop.
Designed to be used either indoors or out - although it will need to be stored inside in wet weather - this on-trend rattan feature piece is guaranteed to draw admiring glances.
Available as part of La Redoute's Calamus range, which includes an armchair and dining chair in the same bold filigree design, this bohemian inspired outdoor bench is crafted from handwoven rattan with an acrylic finish to increase its moisture-resistance.
If you want a classic wooden garden bench that won't break the bank - and is easy to move around until you find the perfect spot - then Argos' Eve wood bench might just hit the mark.
Its very affordable price tag is down to the fact that this bench isn't made of the usual teak or acacia hardwood that offers garden furniture natural strength, moisture-resistance and durability. But if you're after a fairly cheap option to make the most of the summer sunshine then this is a good compromise.
Just be aware there will be self-assembly involved when this bench is delivered, but everything you need is included in the box.
Sometimes the weather doesn't play ball and give us the brilliant sunshine we'd all like to have when we step out into the garden, but IKEA's best garden bench will still be on hand to brighten your mood.
This solid steel bench is powder-coated in a vibrant and uplifting bright red hue, which brings fun and playfulness to a family garden, or contemporary style to a modern courtyard or patio.
Designed to withstand the elements, the build is sturdy and strong - although that does mean it's pretty weighty to move - offering many years of alfresco enjoyment.
More garden seating:
- The best garden recliner chairs
- The best 8 outdoor chairs for your garden
- Bring an old bench back to its former glory with our bench restoration guide