Pros: Includes top vents to prevent condensation build up or stuffiness.
Cons: Extra weights will be required if you plan to leave it outside during harsh weather.
Customers are saying: It does need weights for windy weather but it’s generously sized and ideal that you can move round the shade as the sun rises/sets.
Best wall-mounted outdoor umbrella
Norfolk Leisure 2m Square Wall Mounted Cantilever Parasol
Why we love it: If you’re committed to having an umbrella, this wall mounted style is a great option. It has a strong aluminium frame and arm that extends out from your wall, saving space that you would usually need for a sizeable base; plus it comes in the perfect neutral grey tone.
Pros: Sun and rain proof, as well as including quick and cost-free delivery.
Cons: Screw fixings not included as it will depend on your property’s wall surface as to what you’ll need.
Customers are saying: Looks neat and chic when closed and not in use and is much sturdier than a floor/cantilever parasol.
Garden gazebo parasol
KETTLER Panalsol Pagoda Gazebo, 3m, Grey
Why we love it: Not technically a parasol, but providing buyers with the same sun shade with 10x more stability and Mediterranean pergola-esque style, this KETTLER gazebo is a top pick for use over hot tubs, bbqs and outdoor dining set ups.
Pros: Features vents to prevent condensation and moisture build up, as well as offering free delivery within one week.
Cons: Isn’t 100% waterproof, but rather showerproof.
Customers are saying: A durable product at a competitive price and it’s super easy to move about as required when the sun moves.
How do I choose a garden parasol?
Aesthetics aside, size is the main factor to consider when choosing an outdoor umbrella. Assess the actual outdoor space you have and then take into account other factors like your furniture (you don’t want a parasol that only covers part of your table or overwhelms it), where you’ll anchor the umbrella and don’t forget to factor in any over hangs or roofing. Likewise, remember to check whether your parasol of choice includes a base and/or whether you’ll require outdoor heating for the colder months – peek our top picks here, if you don’t have time to browse…
M&S COLLECTION Concrete Parasol Base
Electric Umbrella Parasol Mounted Infrared Heater – Black
Another point to consider is whether the umbrella provides UV protection or is more of a decorative parasol.
What kind of outdoor umbrellas are there?
When it comes to outdoor umbrellas, your options are a traditional parasol, a cantilever umbrella or a wall mounted umbrella. Traditional umbrellas are a lightweight option that have a straight pole that either needs a heavy base or can stand within your garden furniture to anchor it; they are able to be tilted and height adjusted, but don’t allow for too much movement.
John Lewis & Partners Wood-Effect Wind-Up Parasol, 2.7m, Oyster
Cantilever style umbrellas on the other hand have a curved arm, that allows the parasol to be tilted and swivelled so you can move your shade; plus the base and main structure can be kept out of your way due to the long arm. They are a lot heavier and can’t be moved around as easily.
Outsunny 3(m) Garden Banana Parasol/Hanging Cantilever Umbrella
Lastly wall-mounted umbrellas are also an option, but they very much become a permanent fixture of your outdoor space. They’re ideal if you’re limited on space however.
Norfolk Leisure 2m Square Wall Mounted Cantilever Parasol
What is the best garden parasol?
We’ve curated an edit of the best garden parasols, but our overall top pick for a practical, stylish umbrella that will provide you with plenty of coverage would be John Lewis’ 3 meter freestanding parasol. It’s easy to adjust, features UV50+ sun protection (your skin can thank us later) and it includes solar powered lights on the canopy for when the sun sets. And we love the minimalist, contemporary design – need we say more?
23 best sun loungers for every budget to bring chic holiday vibes to your back garden