Longer days, warmer evenings and more time spent outdoors — summer is the season to make the most of your garden. Whether you’re planning relaxed afternoons in the sunshine or hosting friends and family for a BBQ, now is the perfect time to get your outdoor space ready.
At British Garden Centres, we have everything you need to transform your garden into a space you’ll love all summer long — from stylish garden furniture to BBQs, plants, and accessories that bring it all together.
Start with a summer ready space
Before adding anything new, a little preparation can make all the difference. Give your garden a refresh by:
- Clearing away debris and tidying borders
- Mowing the lawn and edging pathways
- Refreshing tired pots with new compost and seasonal plants
- Cleaning patios or decking to instantly brighten the space
Find the perfect garden furniture
Comfortable, stylish seating is at the heart of any summer garden. Whether you have a spacious lawn or a compact patio, choosing the right furniture helps you create a space that works for you.
Take our furniture quiz to find the perfect collection
The Entertainer Collection
You love hosting and need furniture that brings people together.Think large dining sets, flexible seating, and statement pieces.
The Sun-seeker Collection
Relaxation comes first for you.Sun loungers, daybeds, and laid‑back comfort are key.
The Minimalist Collection
You prefer simplicity and thoughtful design. Clean lines, neutral tones and clutter free spaces.
The Family Collection
Practical furniture for any family occasions. Durable, easy to clean and with plenty of seating.
The City Style
You like sleek designs that work for your space and can be multi-functional. Think comfortable bistro sets perfect for working from home and relaxing in the sun.
The Cosy Collection
Allow your outdoor space feel warm and inviting. Soft seating, cosy cushions, for the perfect relaxing oasis.
Top tip: Think about how you’ll use the space. If you love hosting, go for a larger dining set. For quiet mornings or evening drinks, a cosy seating area may be all you need.
Fire up summer with BBQs and outdoor cooking
Nothing says summer like cooking outdoors. Whether it’s a quick midweek meal or a full garden gathering, a BBQ is the perfect centrepiece for summer living.
See our top four recipes to enjoy your summer and BBQ
- The perfect burgers
- Hot dogs made simple
- Slow-cooked ribs
- Reverse seared steak
Shop our vast collection of BBQ options
Add colour with seasonal planting
Plants are what truly bring a garden to life. Bright, bold colour instantly transforms your outdoor space and creates a welcoming atmosphere.
Step 1: Pick a pot with drainage holes.
Step 2: Fill your pot two thirds full of multi-purpose peat free compost.
Step 3: Choose & arrange your plants. Top Tip: Choose a Thriller - something with height and impact, a spiller - trailing plants to tumble over the pot, § a Filler - medium/ small sized plants to fill out the container.
Step 4: Time to PLANT! Tip each plant out of its pot, loosen the root ball, place them in your pot and backfill with compost around them before firming in place.
Step 5: Water in well § place somewhere where your planter will receive the correct amount of light for your chosen group of plants.
Top Tip: Some great plants for summer colour are Salvia, Dahlias, Fuchsia and Cosmos.
Accessorise your outdoor space
The finishing touches can take your garden from simple to special. Accessories help add personality, comfort and atmosphere, especially when entertaining or spending long evenings outside. Discover our garden accessories range, including:
- Lanterns and lighting for a warm evening glow
- Outdoor cushions and rugs for added comfort
- Fire pits to keep the space cosy after sunset
- Planters and decorative features to complete your look
Layering textures and adding soft lighting can completely transform how your space feels.
No two gardens are the same, and that’s what makes them special. Whether you’re working with a balcony, patio or large family garden, a few thoughtful updates can help you get the most out of your outdoor space.
This summer, it’s all about creating a garden that works for you — somewhere to relax, entertain and enjoy the season in your own way.
