The best garden parasols and beach umbrellas for a stylish summer
A garden parasol is both a decorative and incredibly practical addition to your garden. There are endless options available in all shapes and sizes: adjustable, portable, patterned, fringed, brightly coloured or neutral. And as we all know how important staying protected from the sun is, a parasol or beach umbrella is another line of defence, alongside the factor 50. Anyone who has attended an outdoor event with little shade, or headed out for a beach day in the scorching sun will know what a lifesaver a parasol can be.
As the joys of long summer evenings, warm nights and outdoor dining lie just around the corner, you may be starting to think about readying your garden for you and your guests. Garden furniture, from the top garden furniture shops, such as tables and chairs, will naturally be at the top of your list, but it is the details, like an outdoor lamp for evening ambience, a printed tablecloth for al fresco dinners, or a garden parasol to lounge beneath, that make for a truly special experience. The best garden parasols are versatile too; opt for one that can be dismantled and transported in its carry bag, and take it along to the beach - when the British weather allows, of course.
The best garden parasols for summer 2026
Why we love it: In a searing orange-red that will pair beautifully with the greenery in your garden, this is a luxury parasol from the specialists at Business & Pleasure Co. We particularly love the design details, from the striped, piped edging to the choice to have a patterned fabric on the underside, which can be appreciated when you're relaxing beneath the umbrella on a balmy summer afternoon.
Why we love it: With a subtle, delicate stripe and gentle scalloped edge, this Rowen & Wren parasol is an exercise in understated luxury. Available in a blue or pink colourway, with a cedar wood frame and antique brass hardware, it is a garden umbrella that has been designed with a focus on quality as well as style.
Why we love it: A seriously well-crafted piece from Danish design brand Fritz Hansen, the Messina has a smart striped design, in Teflon-coated fabric to repel dirt. Beneath, the frame and post are made from FSC-certified kapur wood, and a double pulley system makes opening and closing it a breeze. You will need to buy a base separately though.
Why we love it: For an exceptionally high-quality, well-designed parasol in a lovely colour, look no further than Soho Home. Tuuci is the outdoor lifestyle brand that provides all the House with their parasols; this particular one is inspired by Copenhagen's Soho House. It's incredibly durable, being made from marine-grade materials, but it also has a price tag to match. The base is also included, unlike with some of the cheaper options. A stellar investment piece.
Why we love it: The pointed canopy of this parasol, courtesy of Ferm Living, is very striking and elegant. It is also available in a beige colour, but we love the ‘military olive’ version shown here, for something earthy and a bit different. The stem is made from FSC™ certified French beech wood, and its polyester fabric has a UV30+ protection factor. A carry bag is included.
Why we love it: This quintessential parasol from Sumner is a great piece to have on hand for beach days and picnics alike. At £29.99, it's on the more affordable end of the scale, so it's a great one to have in the garden shed in case of rainy days.
Why we love it: Made by a creative community of women in Jodhpur, these parasols are testament to their skill. A fairly new company, Jaipur Garden Parasols have a really lovely offering of handmade pieces- even the bases of the parasols are hand carved by craftsman in the Alwar district.
Why we love it: For use in the centre of a garden table or standing alone, this beautiful garden parasol for outdoor living has been handmade in south west Burma.
What is the best garden parasol to buy?
Before purchasing your garden parasol, try to consider what its primary purpose will be. Perhaps you wish to take your parasol out and about with you on a picnic or a trip to the beach? A lighter number that folds down neatly will do the trick. A cantilevered, overhanging parasol will allow you to move it around until you’re aptly protected from the elements, or until your dining table is well covered. However, they’re often more cumbersome with a larger base. If you want thorough sun protection, look for one with a UV resistant canopy to block harmful rays.
Scroll on for our edit of the best garden parasols for all budgets, from the decorative to the practical.
What are the benefits of a garden parasol?
A garden parasol is one of those items that can elevate an outdoor space wonderfully. On sunny days, a parasol umbrella can offer UV protection and enable you to lunch outside without worry of getting burnt. On windy days, you can use a cantilever garden parasol to offer some protection from the elements.
Comments
Back to Top
