If your ideal night out includes staying in the garden, it might be time to build your bar. Whether you're drinking pints with friends, quiet cocktails, or lemonade with the kids, an outdoor bar adds fun and function to your space. Here's how to plan, build, and enjoy it without overcomplicating things.
Planning Your Garden Bar
Before building anything, let's consider how to choose the right spot, manage costs, and avoid unwanted surprises.
Assessing Your Space
Start with what you've got. Ask yourself:
- Is the area flat and easy to build on?
- Can it be accessed easily from the house?
- Does it need shelter from wind or rain?
- Is it close to power, or will you need battery lighting?
Even a small patio or corner can become the perfect pub.
Setting a Budget
You don't need a huge wallet to build something great. Budgeting helps keep the build practical.
Break it down into:
- Structure: shed, bar kit, or custom build
- Furniture: seating, tables, or stools
- Shelter: gazebo, pergola, or parasol
- Lighting and accessories: solar lights, signage, storage
- Optional extras: music, heating, or a mini fridge
Start with the essentials, then add the extras as needed.
Legal Checks
For most UK homes, adding a garden bar doesn't require permission. Still, keep these in mind:
- Adding electric or water may require a sign-off
- Anything too tall or close to a neighbour's boundary could cause issues
- Selling alcohol means you'll need a proper licence
Need help with legal checks? Check out the Planning Portal: Outbuildings Guidance
Design Inspirations
From classic pub vibes to beach-bar fun, here's a mix of garden bar styles to match your space and personality.
Traditional British Pub Style
- Timber cladding or exposed brick
- Hanging baskets or wall-mounted taps
- Chalkboard for "beer of the day"
- Warm, ambient lighting
Modern Minimalist Bar
- Straight lines, neutral colours
- Metal and wood finishes
- Hidden storage
- Clean counters and uncluttered decor
Tiki or Beach Bar
- Bamboo or thatched roofing
- Rope or rattan accents
- Bold, bright cushions
- Neon signs or string lights
Sports Bar Setup
- Waterproof TV mount or projector screen
- Fridge stocked with cold cans
- High stools and comfy loungers
- A bottle opener bolted to the wall (a classic)
Rustic and Vintage Touches
- Upcycled wood and tin
- Old pub stools or milk crates
- Reclaimed worktops
- Edison bulb lighting
DIY or Professional Build
Whether you pick up the tools or hire the experts, this section helps you decide what best suits your time, skills, and budget.
DIY Garden Bar Projects
It's not as tricky as it sounds. Some wood, a few screws, and you're halfway there. If you're building it yourself, stick to simple shapes like:
- L-shaped counters
- Drop-down bar tops
- Shelf-backed sheds
Zest Garden Bar and 2 Stool Set
The Zest Garden Bar Kit is a great place to start. It's beginner-friendly and doesn't take over your whole garden.
Hiring a Pro
Get someone in if you're including electrics, water, or a big garden room. It might cost more, but you'll have peace of mind and a smoother finish.
Find rated local tradespeople on MyBuilder.
Features and Finishing Touches
From comfy seating to clever lighting, here's how to outfit your garden bar with all the extras that make it work and feel right.
Seating Options
Bars need somewhere to sit or lean, at the very least. Options include:
- Tall stools for counters
- Dining sets for garden parties
- Soft seats or loungers for relaxed drinks
Charles Taylor Deluxe Alfresco Bar Set
This Charles Taylor Deluxe Alfresco Bar Set adds comfort without the faff. Available at Bents Garden & Home. Benches for Groups
Benches keep things social and save space. They're ideal if you enjoy hosting.
Forest Garden Sleeper Pew Bench
This Forest Garden Pew Bench fits easily into any layout.
Lighting
Good lighting turns a garden bar into something magical.
Mix and match:
- String lights: easy and decorative
- Solar wall lights: low-effort and long-lasting
- LED strips: under shelves or counters
- Feature lights: like signs or themed lamps
Let's Party Neon Wall Sign
The Neon Party Wall Sign by Outdoor Living is bright, bold, and brilliant! It's a talking point in itself.
Weather Cover
Even in summer, rain happens. You'll thank yourself later for adding cover.
Norfolk Leisure Royce Cube Gazebo with LED
This Norfolk Royce Gazebo offers space to host, has built-in lighting, and looks great.
Storage That Makes Sense
You don't want to keep running inside for glasses. Plan for:
- Lockable storage
- Built-in shelves
- Pull-out drawers or bar carts
Keter Cool Bar Ice Cooler Table
Keep drinks chilled with the Keter Cool Bar. It even acts as a table.
Making It Even Better
Want to go beyond the basics? Here are the fun extras that turn a good garden bar into your favourite place to hang out.
Fire Pits and Hot Tubs
Add warmth, comfort, and a good excuse to stay outside longer. A fire pit brings everyone together when the temperature drops, and a hot tub turns your garden bar into a full-on retreat.
Are you thinking about a hot tub? Visit the Jacuzzi Hot Tub Centre at Bents for expert advice and a range of options.
Want a fire pit to match your setup? Browse our full fire pit range to find one that suits your space and style.
Explore our garden kitchen ideas for additional inspiration on outdoor cooking and entertaining.
Entertainment Ideas
Keep people laughing or dancing with:
- Bluetooth speakers
- Outdoor games
- A dartboard or quiz night
For more outdoor entertainment ideas, check out our Garden Games section.
Seasonal Switch-Ups
Switch it up throughout the year:
- Fairy lights and throws in winter
- Pumpkins and lanterns in autumn
- Flags, bunting, and floral touches in spring and summer
Cleaning and Maintenance
Keep your garden bar looking sharp and ready to use with these simple upkeep tips for every season.
Day-to-Day Care
Keep your bar prepared for action by:
- Wiping down surfaces
- Storing soft cushions inside
- Checking woodwork for signs of wear
Read Bent's complete guide: How to Clean Garden Furniture.
Seasonal Checks
Before winter:
- Cover or pack away bar equipment
- Drain taps or pipes
- Reseal or treat wood as needed
Build Yours Your Way
Garden bars don't need to be big or expensive. You can accomplish a great deal with creativity and the right tools. Whether it's a corner bar for two or a summer-long social spot, the best one is the one you use.
Visit Bents Garden & Home for help with kits, accessories, outdoor furniture, and everything you need to bring your garden bar idea to life.
Have a photo of your setup? Tag us on Instagram or Facebook. We'd love to share your space.
Author Bio
Written by the team at Bents Garden & Home, a family-run garden centre that's helped UK customers grow and build since 1937. Whether you're potting plants or pouring pints, we know what it takes to make outdoor spaces feel good.