About Our Elite Windsor Lean-To Greenhouses
The Elite Windsor lean-to greenhouse is specifically engineered for challenging UK spaces where standard models simply won't fit. With its ultra-compact 4ft 3" width and remarkably low 6ft 7" ridge height, this British-made aluminium structure solves the common problem of bungalow owners and those with low garage walls who thought a lean-to was impossible. The Windsor's clever design includes a low-threshold entrance that prevents tripping, built-in gutters for clean water runoff, and your choice of 10 powder-coated colours to complement any property.
Why We Chose This Range
“The Elite Windsor is a permanent fixture in our catalogue because it solves the 'Bungalow Soffit' problem that plagues thousands of UK gardeners. Most manufacturers design lean-tos with a ridge height of 7ft 6" plus, which simply doesn't fit a standard property built between 1950 and 1990. We chose the Windsor because it’s a 'proper' greenhouse—heavy aluminium, high-tensile fixings, and full glazing options—that has been meticulously shrunk in height without sacrificing the No-Trip low threshold access we insist on for our customers.”
— Matt, Founder of Greenhouse StoresEach Windsor comes with a minimum of one roof vent, though models over 6ft long include two as standard for proper air circulation. You can select from 3mm horticultural glass for traditional growing, toughened safety glass for areas near doorways, or 6mm twin-wall polycarbonate for superior insulation. Browse our Lean-To Greenhouses range to compare designs, or explore the wider Elite Kensington 4ft Wide Lean-To Greenhouses if you prefer a higher ridge option. Every Windsor includes free UK mainland delivery and a comprehensive 20 Year Elite Warranty.
Comparison: 4ft Wide Lean-To Height Options
| Feature | Elite Windsor | Elite Kensington 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Ridge Height | 6ft 7" (Low Profile) | 7ft 3" (Standard) |
| Width | 4ft 3" | 4ft 3" |
| Bungalow Fit | Primary Choice | Restricted |
| Base Included? | Optional | Optional |
Key Features of the Elite Windsor
Compact Dimensions Perfect for Restricted Spaces
- Fixed width: 4ft 3" (1.32m) - ideal for narrow side passages
- Ultra-low ridge: 6ft 7" (2.01m) - fits under standard UK bungalow soffits
- Eaves height: 5ft 2" (1.58m) - comfortable growing headroom
🔧 Matt's Installation Tip: The Soffit Clearance
When measuring for a Windsor, do not just measure the wall height. Check for soffit boards, overflow pipes, or fascia boards that protrude. You need at least 50mm of clearance above the 6ft 7" ridge to successfully install the lead flashing or flashing tape.
If you are using the optional Aluminium Base Plinth, remember this adds 5 inches (125mm) to your total height. If your clearance is extremely tight, I recommend skipping the plinth and building a level paving slab foundation instead to keep the structure as low as possible. Read our full base and flashing guide here.
Safety & Accessibility
- Low-threshold entrance prevents trips and makes wheelchair access easier
- Single sliding door operates smoothly even in confined spaces
- Toughened glass option recommended for lean-tos near house doors
Quality Construction
- British-manufactured aluminium framework with 20 Year Warranty
- Choice of 10 powder-coated colours including forest green, olive grey, and ivory
- High-tensile stainless steel fixings resist coastal corrosion
Ventilation Options
- Minimum 1 roof vent (4ft model)
- 2 roof vents standard on 6ft+ lengths
- Optional louvre vents for low-level air intake
Practical Design Details
- Integral guttering channels rainwater away from foundations
- Pre-drilled framework speeds up assembly
- Compatible with optional aluminium base plinth (adds 5" to all heights)
Complete Windsor Size Range
| Length | Width | Eaves Height | Ridge Height | Door Opening | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4ft | 4ft 3" | 5ft 2" | 6ft 7" | 5ft 2" × 1ft 9" | £429 |
| 6ft | 4ft 3" | 5ft 2" | 6ft 7" | 5ft 2" × 1ft 9" | £539 |
| 8ft | 4ft 3" | 5ft 2" | 6ft 7" | 5ft 2" × 1ft 9" | £619 |
| 10ft | 4ft 3" | 5ft 2" | 6ft 7" | 5ft 2" × 1ft 9" | £729 |
| 12ft | 4ft 3" | 5ft 2" | 6ft 7" | 5ft 2" × 1ft 9" | £819 |
| 14ft | 4ft 3" | 5ft 2" | 6ft 7" | 5ft 2" × 1ft 9" | £949 |
| 16ft | 4ft 3" | 5ft 2" | 6ft 7" | 5ft 2" × 1ft 9" | £1,029 |
| 20ft | 4ft 3" | 5ft 2" | 6ft 7" | 5ft 2" × 1ft 9" | £1,199 |
ℹ️ Note: Adding an optional base plinth increases all heights by approximately 5 inches. Prices shown are for horticultural glass; toughened glass adds 25–35% to cost.
Why the Windsor's Low Ridge Matters
Standard lean-to greenhouses typically have ridge heights of 7ft 6" to 8ft, which creates a critical problem for UK bungalow owners. Most bungalows built between 1950–1990 have soffit boards sitting at approximately 7ft to 7ft 6" from ground level. The Windsor's 6ft 7" ridge fits comfortably underneath with 5–11 inches clearance, allowing proper flashing installation without cutting into the roofline.
This compact height also benefits those with garage walls, garden room installations, or properties with low boundary walls where planning restrictions limit structure height. The 5ft 2" eaves still provide ample headroom for working inside — you won't be stooping while potting plants or tending tomatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Elite Windsor Lean-To Greenhouses
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Will the Elite Windsor fit under a bungalow roof?
Yes. With a ridge height of 6ft 7" (2010mm), it is specifically designed to fit under standard UK soffits which usually sit at 7ft. This leaves enough room for flashing to ensure a watertight seal against your house wall.
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Does the low height affect the growing space?
While the ridge is lower, the 5ft 2" eaves height remains standard. This means you still have plenty of vertical room for staging and mid-sized plants without needing to stoop when working inside.
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Do I need to buy the optional base?
It depends on your clearance. The base adds 5" to the height. If you have restricted height, we recommend building a level concrete or slab base and bolting the greenhouse directly to it using the integral base rail.
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How much does an Elite Windsor lean-to greenhouse cost?
Elite Windsor lean-to greenhouses start at £429 for the compact 4ft model with horticultural glass and reach £1,199 for the spacious 20ft version. Upgrading to toughened safety glass adds 25–35% to the base price.
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What's the difference between the Windsor and Kensington lean-to ranges?
The Windsor has a significantly lower 6ft 7" ridge height specifically designed for bungalows, while the Kensington's 7ft 3" ridge is 8 inches taller. Both models share the same 4ft 3" width.
✅ Ready to transform your available wall space into a productive growing area? Browse our Elite Windsor collection above or call our specialist team on 0800 098 8877 for personalised advice. Every Windsor includes free UK mainland delivery and Elite's comprehensive 20 Year Warranty.