About Our Garden Parasols
We stock 20 garden parasols in standard, cantilever, and tilting styles. Prices start from £99 for a centre-pole model. Canopy sizes range from 2.7 m to 3.5 m in cream, grey, taupe, and green. Every parasol includes a crank handle for easy opening and closing by one person.
Cantilever parasols use an offset pole so you get full shade without a central post blocking your table. They are the best choice for dining sets and larger seating areas. For smaller patios, a standard centre-pole parasol does the job at a lower price. Pair your parasol with our rattan sofa sets, swing seats, or browse our full garden furniture range.
Why We Chose This Range
“Cantilever parasols outsell standard models three to one now. The offset pole means no post blocking your table. We recommend the 3 m canopy as it covers a 6-seat dining set with room to spare. I tested a lot of parasols before choosing these ones. The cheap ones you see everywhere break after one season. The crank mechanisms jam, the fabric fades, and the poles bend in the wind. Our range uses aluminium poles and solution-dyed fabric that keeps its colour for years.”
— Matt, Founder of Greenhouse StoresTypes of Garden Parasols We Offer
Standard Centre-Pole Parasols
Traditional design with the pole through the centre of the canopy. Fits through the hole in most patio tables. Lighter and more affordable than cantilever models. From £99. Best for small tables and budget-conscious buyers.
Cantilever Parasols
Offset pole sits to one side, leaving the entire canopy area free of obstructions. Covers dining sets and sofa areas without a post in the middle. 360-degree rotation on premium models. Up to £629. The most popular choice for outdoor dining.
Tilting Parasols
Centre-pole parasols with an adjustable tilt mechanism. Angle the canopy to follow the sun throughout the day. Crank handle controls both opening and tilt angle. Ideal for south-facing gardens where the sun moves across the seating area.
Large Canopy Parasols (3.5 m)
Oversized canopies for large dining sets, L-shaped sofas, and commercial areas. Cover 8-seat tables with shade to spare. Available in centre-pole and cantilever styles. Best for spacious patios and outdoor entertaining areas.
Parasol Comparison
| Type | Canopy Size | Price From | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Centre-pole | 2.7 m - 3 m | £99 | Small tables, through-table mounting |
| Tilting | 2.7 m - 3 m | £129 | South-facing gardens, sun tracking |
| Cantilever — Matt's Pick | 3 m - 3.5 m | £429 | Dining sets, unobstructed shade |
Quick Guide: A 3 m parasol covers a 4-6 seater dining set comfortably. For larger sets or L-shaped sofas, choose a 3.5 m canopy. Measure your seating area and add 500 mm on each side. The parasol should shade the full area plus a margin as the sun moves through the day.
Matt's Buying Tip
Always close your parasol when you are not using it. Wind is the number one killer of garden parasols. A gust can snap the ribs or flip the whole thing over. Close it, strap it, and weight the base. Use at least 30 kg for centre-pole models and 60 to 100 kg for cantilever models. I have seen too many customers lose parasols to a summer storm they did not expect.
Parasol prices range from £99 for a centre-pole model to £629 for our premium cantilever. All prices include free UK delivery. We recommend storing parasols indoors over winter to extend fabric and mechanism life. Browse our full garden furniture range for dining sets, sofa sets, and loungers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a cantilever and standard parasol?
A cantilever parasol has an offset pole to one side instead of through the centre. This means no pole in the middle of your table. Cantilever models cost more but give you unobstructed shade over dining sets and seating areas. Standard parasols are simpler, lighter, and fit through table centre holes.
What size parasol do I need?
A 3 m parasol covers a 4-6 seater dining table comfortably. For larger sets or L-shaped sofas, consider a 3.5 m canopy. Measure your seating area and add 500 mm on each side. The parasol should shade the full area plus a margin as the sun moves throughout the day.
How do I stop my parasol blowing over?
Use a weighted base of at least 30 kg for centre-pole parasols. Cantilever models need heavier bases, typically 60 to 100 kg with concrete weights or water-filled slabs. Never leave a parasol open unattended in windy conditions. Close and strap it when not in use. This is the single most important thing you can do.
Can I leave my parasol outside all year?
We recommend storing parasols indoors over winter. UV exposure and rain degrade the fabric and mechanism over time. If you cannot store it inside, use a fitted parasol cover and close the canopy fully. Bring it into a shed or garage from October to March for maximum lifespan.
Do your parasols have UV protection?
Yes, all our parasols use UPF 50+ rated fabric that blocks over 98% of UV radiation. The solution-dyed polyester filters harmful rays. This protection does not wash out or fade because the colour is baked into the fibres during manufacturing. Safe for extended sun exposure in summer.
How long do garden parasols last?
With proper care, a quality parasol lasts 5 to 8 years. Solution-dyed fabric resists fading far longer than printed alternatives. Aluminium poles do not rust. The crank mechanism is the most vulnerable component. Store indoors over winter and avoid forcing the crank when wet. Replace the fabric canopy when it starts to thin rather than buying a whole new parasol.
What colours are available?
We stock parasols in cream, grey, taupe, and green. Cream and grey are the most popular choices as they match most furniture styles. Darker colours absorb more heat but provide slightly denser shade. Lighter colours reflect more heat and keep the area beneath cooler. All colours are UV-stabilised against fading.