Spring and summer bring numerous opportunities for us to spend more time outdoors. Short lunch breaks, long lazy picnics out in the open or casual coffee dates in parks are all made better by having a few picnic benches to ensure people are more comfortable while meeting friends or relaxing.
Furnishing outdoor spaces, whether it’s for a park, school, business, or garden, selecting the right picnic bench is important. Picnic benches aren’t just about providing seating—they contribute to the overall aesthetic of the area, ensuring comfort, durability, and functionality. In this guide, we’ll explore the various materials and styles of picnic benches available, helping you choose the perfect one for your space.
Wooden Picnic Benches
Many of our most popular picnic bench and table combinations are made from wood. This shouldn’t come as a surprise, as our clients often require them for traditional outdoor spaces, such as gardens or parks. Timber benches and tables are classic and timeless. We manufacture them from durable wood like spruce, iroko or pine timber. They offer a natural look that blends seamlessly into outdoor environments.
We have models that are pure classics, such as the A-Frame Bench and table, made from strong spruce timber and perfect for pubs, gardens, and parks. Also made from spruce timber, we offer the more quirky Circular Picnic Table, featuring a unique design. If you are looking for something more substantial, we also offer the vandal-proof, robust Cranham picnic suite, constructed from green oak sleepers with sanded, rounded corners for added safety and comfort. It is a beautiful, maintenance-free bench that is ideal for parks, schools, councils, and business complexes.
Whichever model you choose, however, you can be assured that wooden benches have plenty of benefits. They are sturdy, not so hard to maintain, and customisable with stain or paint to match your space’s design. They are especially ideal for parks, nature reserves, and schools, providing a rustic charm.
However, while aesthetically pleasing in their natural beauty, there are some considerations which you should take into account. Wood can require more maintenance than steel, and over time, you will need to apply wood treatments and sealants to protect against rot, pests, and weathering.
Metal Picnic Benches
All of our picnic bench models feature some elements made of wood, but our range also includes combinations of metal and wood, which may be a preferred choice for some clients. The metal and wood pairing can offer the benefits of a classic picnic table, blended with a more urban look. Metal benches, made from materials such as steel, offer an updated, modern, and durable alternative to wooden benches. They are also often powder-coated, which gives them extra protection and style.
Our range includes models like the classically shaped Liverpool Picnic Bench, which is made of strong steel square tubes and larch wood cladding, valued for its tough, waterproof, and durable qualities. This model can fit right in a park or a busy office building garden. We also have the Brentwood Picnic Bench, which is another larch wood cladding option, but this time it is combined with a galvanised steel sheet frame that gives it a very industrial and modern look. If you prefer a more unusual design, consider our Kent model, a triangular-shaped pairing of steel and wood that can be used from gardens to rooftops. Another favourite of ours is the Oxford Picnic Bench, which showcases how powder coating and adding colour to the metal frame can create a very distinct look.
Metal and wood picnic benches are an excellent choice for many clients. Metal is resistant to extreme weather conditions, doesn’t warp, and is less prone to pest infestation compared to wood. Steel is also ideal for high-traffic areas, like shopping centres or business premises, due to its durability. Steel’s qualities, paired with a treated high-quality wood, can give you the best of both worlds – a classic outdoor furniture piece with natural cladding, plus the long life and strong support of a metal frame.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Picnic Bench
When selecting a picnic bench, it’s essential to consider the specific needs of your space and the conditions it will encounter. One of the first decisions you’ll make is the material. Metal, wood, or a combination of the two each brings its own benefits and aesthetic qualities, and the right choice will depend on how and where the bench will be used.
Space & Layout
The amount of space available is another key factor. Larger outdoor areas can accommodate longer, more substantial benches that seat bigger groups, creating a social focal point. In contrast, smaller spaces often benefit from compact or modular designs that maximise seating without overwhelming the area. Taking measurements and considering the layout beforehand ensures the bench will fit comfortably and complement its surroundings.
Climate
Climate also plays a significant role in material choice. In coastal locations, salt in the air can quickly corrode untreated metals, so stainless steel or pure wood options are often best. In regions with harsh winters, benches made from wood treated for cold and moisture resistance will better withstand the elements. Choosing the right material for your climate can dramatically extend the lifespan of your bench.
Usage
Finally, think about how often and by how many people the bench will be used. High-traffic public areas such as parks or schools may require the durability of metal or concrete, while private gardens or less frequently visited spaces might suit the warmth and character of timber. Balancing aesthetics, practicality, and durability will help ensure you select a picnic bench that serves you well for years to come.
Choosing the right picnic bench is about more than just finding somewhere to sit—it’s about creating an inviting, comfortable, and durable feature that enhances your outdoor space. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless warmth of timber, the modern resilience of steel, or the versatility of a combined design, matching the bench to your environment, climate, and usage will ensure it meets both practical needs and aesthetic goals. With the right choice, your picnic bench can become a lasting hub for relaxation, connection, and enjoyment in the fresh air for years to come.