The Ultimate Guide to Garden Bar Sets
Do you want to raise the bar on your summer garden parties?
Entertain your friends al fresco and while away many a ‘happy hour’ with an outdoor bar set. Bar sets contain everything you need to enjoy a cheeky tipple in the garden. There’s no need to venture into a sweaty club or overpriced pub when you can have a seriously stylish night out at home!
If you’re looking for the best garden bar set to impress your guests, we’ve put together this ultimate guide to answer all your burning questions. This is the best guide to outdoor bar sets you’ll find – bar none!
Why a garden bar set?
One of the most popular reasons for choosing an outdoor bar set is if you have a smaller garden or patio with little room for a full dining set. A bar set is a more compact option that can be ideal for a couple or small family who still want to be able to eat and drink outside. A bar table and chair set is the perfect place to enjoy a champagne breakfast or glass of vino under the stars – we’ll raise a glass to that!
What to consider when choosing a garden bar set
Size
When choosing your garden bar set, consider how many people will regularly gather around it. Are you a party animal who often entertains 3 or more friends at a time – in which case you’ll want a minimum of a 4-seater set – or are you more of a 1-on-1 kind of socialiser? If you have space to store extra bar stools when not in use, you could go for a larger set than you need so that you can accommodate guests.
Style
There are a number of style considerations with garden bar sets, including the colour, shape, and height of the table and chairs. Generally speaking, bar sets have higher seats than other garden furniture sets. The bar table may be circular, square or rectangular. You’ll want to find a style that suits your space and the theme of your garden – do you want ultra-modern sky bar vibes or a more traditional, homely pub feel?
Additional Features
There are several additional features you might want to look out for in your garden bar set. Some examples include:
- Fire Pit
Want to keep the warmth and good vibes going after sunset? Then you might like an outdoor bar set with an integrated fire pit, such as the Regal Bar Set by Maze Rattan. With 8 seats to position around the rectangular fire pit table, this stunning set is perfect for keeping the party going until the early hours!
- Parasol
If you’re the optimistic type who always keeps your fingers crossed for sun, choose a garden bar set with space for a parasol in the centre. Many of our bar sets have optional parasols, so you can be prepared for all weathers!
- Footrests
As bar stools tend to be higher than regular dining chairs, a footrest might be more important than usual to ensure the seat is comfortable and accessible – especially if you are a little vertically challenged!
- Ice bucket
Some garden bar sets have an ice bucket in the centre of the table – perfect for keeping your champagne as cool as you are! These can usually be covered when not required, giving you full use of the table. If your garden bar set doesn’t have an ice bucket, don’t worry – you can always purchase one separately.
Material
Garden bar sets can be made from a variety of materials, including:
- PU Rattan
PU Rattan is one of the most popular materials for garden furniture – and it’s easy to see why. This material is stylish, hardwearing and affordable. It’s usually used in conjunction with a durable powder-coated metal frame, as with our Maze Rattan Winchester 6-Seat Bar Set.
- Upholstered
An upholstered garden bar set is made from a combination of foam and fabric, again usually built around a metal frame. The material used should be weatherproof, UV and fade-resistant. This is one of the most luxurious options and can create the feeling of an indoor bar, outside!
- Wood
Wooden garden bar sets might be made from hardwood or softwood. Hardwoods such as teak and oak are stronger and denser than softwoods – but also tend to be more expensive and less sustainable. Softwoods such as cedar and pine are easier and cheaper to find but may weather more quickly. Wooden bar sets should be oiled regularly to keep them looking their best.
- Metal
Metal is another popular material choice for garden bar sets and can give your garden a cool, industrial feel. Aluminium is rust-resistant, durable and easy to maintain. However, other metals can corrode, and your metal garden furniture may need to be brought inside when it rains to prevent rust.
FAQs
Should you cover garden furniture every night?
You should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for caring for your garden furniture. Most recommend covering your furniture when it’s not in use to prolong its life. Some sets come with a cover included, whereas for others, you may need to purchase one separately.
During summer, when the weather is mild and you are using your furniture regularly, it is not usually essential to cover it every night. However, during winter or adverse weather conditions, it can be advisable to cover your set or even bring it inside to prevent damage. Doing this will ensure your garden bar set ages like a fine wine!
Can I leave my garden bar set outside over winter?
Depending on the durability of the material used, many garden bar sets are ok to be left outside over winter. However, it is recommended to use a cover to protect your furniture from the elements and ensure it looks just as good when your bar next opens for business!
Can I place my garden bar set on grass?
Ideally, we recommend positioning your garden bar set on a solid, flat surface, such as a patio or decking area. There is nothing stopping you from placing it on grass, but bear in mind that the slim legs of bar stools are likely to sink into the turf and could damage your lawn.
How quickly can I get a garden bar set delivered?
Very quickly indeed! Many of our outdoor bar sets are available on a 7 – 10 working day dispatch time. Check the shipping information on the product page before placing your order for an accurate indication of delivery times.
