Elite Compact Greenhouse Collection Content

About Our Elite Compact Greenhouses

Elite Compact Greenhouses are specifically designed for gardeners with limited space who refuse to compromise on quality. At just 4ft 3" wide, these British-made structures fit into tight corners, narrow side passages, and small patios where standard greenhouses simply won't work. Despite their compact footprint, you'll find the same professional features as full-size Elite models: double sliding doors with cam locks, an integral low-threshold aluminium base that eliminates tripping hazards, and proper guttering that actually works.

Every Elite Compact model includes a single opening roof vent, rust-free aluminium frames, and your choice of three glazing options. The Elite Compact 4x4 offers 16 square feet of growing space, while the Elite Compact 4x6 provides 50% more floor area for not much extra cost. For longer narrow spaces, the Elite Compact 4x8 and Elite Compact 4x10 deliver serious growing capacity without exceeding 4ft 3" in width.

Made in Bolton with over 60 years of British manufacturing experience, Elite Compact greenhouses come with a 20 Year Warranty covering the aluminium frame and base. Free UK mainland delivery is included, with professional installation services available across most UK postcodes. Browse our Elite Compact Package Deals for complete starter kits that include staging and shelving.

Choosing Your Elite Compact Greenhouse

Size selection depends on your available space and growing ambitions. The 4x4 model suits balconies, tiny courtyards, and allotment corners where every inch counts. Step up to the 4x6 for a better length-to-width ratio that makes moving around easier while tending plants. The 4x8 and 4x10 sizes work brilliantly along narrow pathways or against house walls, giving you substantial growing space in surprisingly tight spots.

Glazing choice makes a big difference to both safety and performance. Use this table to compare your options:

• Pricing: Elite Compact Greenhouses start from £555 for a 4x4 with horticultural glazing, ranging up to £1,334 for larger models with premium toughened glass and powder-coated finishes.
• Delivery Times:
  • Standard Silver Aluminium Frames: Delivered within 5 weeks.
  • Coloured Powder-Coated Frames: Delivered within 8 - 10 weeks.
• Headroom & Access: The 5ft 1" eaves height provides comfortable headroom, and the 2ft wide double sliding doors allow easy access for wheelbarrows or wheelchair users.
• Integral Base Included: You won't need to purchase a separate base kit. All Elite Compact models include the integral base—just ensure your foundation (paving slabs, concrete, or decking) is flat, level, and meets the minimum base dimensions. Check our guides on how to prepare your greenhouse base, or get detailed instructions on building a paving slab base or a concrete base.

Looking to maximise your growing space? Our greenhouse staging and shelving options are designed specifically for Elite Compact models. The 2-slat shelving (8" wide) provides high-level storage along one or both sides, while 3-slat staging (11" wide) offers waist-height work surfaces with cantilever bracing that leaves floor space underneath. Colour-coded options match powder-coated frames perfectly. Don't forget Elite greenhouse accessories and spares like automatic vent openers, louvre vents, and bar capping for a professional finish.

For additional context on selecting the right greenhouse for your needs, browse our complete range of small greenhouses or consult our comprehensive greenhouse buyers guide for expert advice on materials, sizes, and features.

Frequently Asked Questions about Elite Compact Greenhouses

• How much do Elite Compact Greenhouses cost?

  Elite Compact Greenhouses range from £555 for a 4x4 model with standard horticultural glazing to £1,334 for larger 4x10 models with premium toughened glass and powder-coated finishes. All prices include free UK mainland delivery. Package deals with staging and shelving offer better value if you're buying accessories anyway.

• Which Elite Compact size should I buy?

  Choose the 4x4 (16 sq ft) for ultra-tight spaces like balconies or tiny courtyards. The 4x6 (24 sq ft) offers 50% more floor area and better proportions for moving around comfortably. Opt for the 4x8 (32 sq ft) or 4x10 (40 sq ft) if you have length available along a narrow pathway or house wall—these sizes provide serious growing capacity while staying under 4ft 3" wide.

• Do Elite Compact Greenhouses need a separate base?

  No, Elite Compact models include an integral aluminium base built into the frame structure. You only need to provide a flat, level foundation surface such as paving slabs, concrete, or decking that meets the minimum base dimensions. This integral base design creates the low-threshold "no-trip" entrance that makes access safe and easy. See our general greenhouse base preparation guide or our specific DIY guides for paving slab bases and concrete bases for detailed instructions.

• What's the difference between toughened glass and polycarbonate?

  Toughened glass is 5 times stronger than standard horticultural glass and shatters into harmless granules rather than dangerous shards, making it ideal for family gardens. It provides 90% light transmission and long single-pane panels with no overlap clips. Polycarbonate (6mm twin-wall) is virtually unbreakable and offers 30% better insulation than glass but transmits around 80% light. Choose toughened glass for maximum clarity and wind resistance, or polycarbonate for ultimate safety around children and superior winter heat retention.

• How long does delivery take?

  Delivery times are based on the frame finish you choose:

  • Standard Silver Aluminium Frames: Delivered within 5 weeks.
  • Coloured Powder-Coated Frames: Delivered within 8 - 10 weeks.

  All deliveries to UK mainland addresses are completely free. Offshore locations and deliveries north of Glasgow require a delivery quote—call for pricing.

• Is professional installation available?

  Yes, our greenhouse installation service is available across most UK postcodes for approximately £430-£600, depending on size and location. Installation typically takes place 2-8 weeks after greenhouse delivery and requires a prepared, level base. Please contact us to confirm availability and get a precise quote for your postcode.