With the unpredictable British weather, it's great to have a garden structure that offers both shade and shelter. But which to choose? We pit pergola v gazebo to help you make the right decision for your outdoor space.

Large patio in back garden with louvred metal pergola over hot tub. Lawn beyond.
A hot tub is better served by our Proteus grey pergola than a gazebo, as shown in here in this design by Epoch Garden Design Built by Olive Tree Landscaping, London NW8.

Once you've made your decision over pergola v gazebo, either will be the perfect spot to read a book, meditate, spend time with the family, or settle down for a shady snooze while enjoying all that being outdoors has to offer.

Both will create an extension of your living space and can be furnished as a lounge or dining area to entertain guests. Come rain or shine you can enjoy your outdoor space. However, each one suits a different situation better. Let's discover which is right for you.

Pergola

Pros

  • adds a wow-factor to your garden
  • enhances your garden design by adding structure and a vertical dimension
  • is permanent, so it's always ready for use
  • helps define a dining or entertaining area
  • can add value to your property
  • offers waterproof shelter when installed with a roof
  • can offer versatile shade options when fitted with an adjustable roof
  • may have adjustable sides for varying levels of protection from sun and breezes
  • comes in a range of colours, styles, and sizes
  • adds year-round opportunities to use the garden

Cons

  • more expensive than a gazebo
  • is a permanent structure – which can be a con in some circumstances
  • needs a firm base and cannot be erected directly onto grass
  • may need careful planning to fit one into a small garden

Gazebo

A pop-up gazebo is an essential for those that enjoy the great outdoors.
A gazebo offrs quick shelter and shade. 

Pros

  • is a temporary structure, so you don't have to redesign the garden
  • provides effective cover during hot weather or showers
  • adds useful cover for BBQs and other events in the garden
  • is portable, and can be taken away to festivals, on camping trips or lent out to friends
  • easy to erect and dismantle
  • stores away in a neat, if heavy, package
  • comes in a wide range of colours
  • can be erected on any surface, including grass
  • is a budget-friendly choice

Cons

  • doesn't offer the same style and wow-factor as a pergola
  • cannot offer more than one level of shade
  • needs constructing and deconstructing
  • may not be allowed in some public spaces
  • is made of material, so not as long-lasting as a pergola
  • is heavy to manoeuvre when dismantled
  • may be available with sides, but these can't be adjusted

Hopefully, these points have given you a clearer idea of your needs and whether a pergola or gazebo would best suit your garden. So, if you're now yearning for a pergola...

Why choose our metal pergolas

Path down side of garden between beds to grey aluminium pergola over garden furniture
The modern design of our metal pergolas means they blend in beautifully with a broad range settings, as here in this design by VaRa Garden Design.

Take a look at our range of competitively priced, modern aluminium pergolas. Easy to assemble, and with a sleek, stylish appearance, all come with louvred roofs, to give maximum flexibility on shade. There's also an option to have adjustable sides. Their slim, simple profile fits effortlessly into all styles of garden. With one of our pergolas you'll soon find yourself making the very most of your garden.