Stay Cool This Summer: The Best Garden Shelter and Shade Solutions

Summary

Whether you're after a peaceful spot to unwind or somewhere shaded to entertain guests, adding shelter to your garden is a game-changer in the summer months. From elegant oak pergolas to living canopies, Haywood Landscapes installs garden shelters that keep you cool and comfortable.

Summer in the UK might not always guarantee a heatwave, but when the sun does come out, we all want to make the most of it! That said, having a bit of shade in your garden can make all the difference - whether you’re relaxing with a cuppa, hosting a barbecue or simply enjoying some quiet time outdoors.

Here are some brilliant garden shelter and shade ideas that not only look beautiful, but will keep you, your family and guests cool and comfortable:

1. Oak Pergolas - Timeless and Natural

Let’s start with one of our firm favourites – the oak pergola. These are perfect if you want something that adds a touch of elegance while giving you that much-needed shade. Made from strong, sustainably sourced oak, pergolas are built to last and only look better with age. Over time, the wood weathers into a lovely silvery-grey, which adds to its natural charm.

You can make your pergola even more special by growing climbing plants like wisteria, honeysuckle, or clematis over it. They’ll give you extra shade, bring in butterflies and bees and add some more creativity to your garden design.

2. Create Shade with Living Canopies

If you love the idea of a garden that feels alive and full of greenery, why not create a living canopy? This simply means using plants to form a natural roof. You could grow grapevines, climbing roses, or even train small trees over arches or trellises.

It’s a fantastic way to stay cool, and the plants will help clean the air and support local wildlife.

3. Woven Willow and Hazel Shelters

For something a bit different (and very eco-friendly), consider using woven willow or hazel. These materials can be used to build little shady nooks, tunnels for kids (and pets) or even simple screens to block the sun.

They’re often grown and harvested locally, so they’re a great sustainable option. And as they age, they blend beautifully into the garden.

4. Canvas Shade Sails – Simple and Stylish

If you want something quick and easy to put up, canvas shade sails are a great shout. Choose ones made from organic or recycled fabric to keep things eco-friendly. They come in all shapes and sizes, and you can fix them between trees, walls, or posts to create instant shade.

Look for breathable, UV-resistant fabrics in calming colours to keep things cool and natural-looking.

5. Permanent Structures

For a more permanent structure, why not have a small shelter installed using wood, brick or natural stone? Whether you want a lovely garden room, outdoor kitchen area or covered bench area – we can help!

6. Plant Trees for Long-Term Shade

Looking ahead, planting a tree or two is one of the best things you can do for natural shade. Trees like silver birch, rowan, or hornbeam grow well in UK gardens and offer dappled shade once they mature. They're also great for wildlife and protecting your lawn.

It might take a few years, but the benefits are definitely worth the wait. It’s also an easy way to add privacy to your garden.

There are so many beautiful and sustainable ways to add shade to your garden. Whether you go for a classic oak pergola, a leafy canopy of vines, or a homemade hideaway from reclaimed wood, the key is to choose materials and ideas that work with your garden - not against it.

At Haywood Landscapes, we have been advising clients and building beautiful gardens across Kent and the surrounding areas for over 30 years.

If you’d like a hand building your perfect retreat, we’d love to help. Contact us here or call us on 01227 733447 to learn more about our garden landscaping services.