Last Updated On November 23rd, 2022
Spending time in your garden is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the British outdoors. Whether you like to grow your own veg, tend to flower beds or simply manicure your lawn; getting the best garden shed in the UK will ensure you have secure storage for your tools and equipment.
But with so many different materials, sizes and styles to choose from, picking the right garden shed for you can be hard work. If you’re confused about which shed you should buy, don’t panic – we’re here to help!
In this article, we will view the top sheds on the market; so you can find the best UK garden shed for your lifestyle!
Table of Contents
Our Favourite Garden Sheds Compared
Best Garden Shed Reviews – Top 9 Picks
1. Keter Store-It-Out Ultra (Editor’s Choice)
This unit is great for patio or garden placement. It is ideal for bin storage or use as a bike shed but also makes an excellent container for garden tools, BBQ accessories and other equipment when you utilise the built-in supports for shelving.
Features
The Keter Store-It-Out Ultra Garden Shed’s assembled external dimensions measure 177 x 113 x 134 cm. It is beige with a brown lid and has a 2000 litre capacity. Durable materials make this selection maintenance and fade-free. Its elegant wood effect panels are all-weather resistant, keep contents ventilated and dry, and feature steel reinforcements for a stronger structure overall.
This product provides you with straightforward access from the front or top. It has a hydraulic piston-assisted lid, plus wide-opening double doors on the face. The build also contains a sloped threshold and a bin-opening kit for convenience. A bolt-securing system on the front entries also allows you to make it lockable.
- 2000-litre capacity
- Piston-assisted lid
- Front and top entry options
- Durable and weather-resistant build
- Sloped threshold
- It might have flimsier panels than anticipated
- Some units could arrive with minor defects
- It may be somewhat complicated to assemble
2. Keter Factor 6 x 6 (Best with Skylight)
The Factor 6 x 6 is a great option if you are seeking a garden shed with lots of upgraded features not found on the more simple, basic models.
Features
Keter’s Factor 6 x 6 garden shed is beige with grey window trim and a grey double front door. It has sturdy door handles with the option to be used in tandem with a padlock and the entire structure is weatherproof. Its dimensions are 178 x 195.5 x 208 cm.
The Factor 6 x 6 garden shed has a large 6100-litre capacity and comes with a skylight and a versatile window that gives you the option to install it on whichever side you prefer. To ensure integrity, the double walls feature ventilation grills and steel reinforcements atop a heavy-duty floor panel. The interior of the Factor 6 x 6 garden shed incorporates two adjustable shelves with brackets to help increase organisation and maximise usable space. Expert assembly is available for an additional cost and a 10-year warranty comes included.
Cons for the Manor 6 x 6 include reports of the walls bowing over time or if you overload the shelves and the need for a second person to complete the assembly process.
- Expert assembly available
- Window and skylight
- Two shelves with brackets
- Ventilation grills
- Heavy-duty floor panel
- Two person assembly may be required
- Reports of walls bowing when overloaded
3. Duramax Woodbridge II (Best Classic Design)
The Duramax Woodbridge II is our top choice in terms of aesthetics. It provides you with ample storage space in an elaborate and stylish design that is built to last.
Features
This garden shed is available in different colour variations to suit your style. It features double front doors with a window on either side of the front to enhance natural light within. A pent roof with additional steel truss support, built to resemble shingles, helps to keep the roof clear of snow while also having a stylish appearance. Its dimensions are 324.8 x 247 x 233.3 cm.
The Woodbridge II by Duramax comes with a metal foundation kit so you can securely attach it to a platform. The wall columns are reinforced with metal to enhance the strength and sturdiness of the dense plastic structure. For security purposes, this garden shed features eyes in the door handle for a padlock as well as a latch inside the door on the top and bottom. It also comes with an impressive 15-year warranty.
While the Woodbridge II is quite luxurious overall, it should be noted that it doesn’t come with a floor panel. It also has a lengthy assembly process that will take several hours and require you to enlist help from a couple of friends.
- Metal foundation kit included
- 15-year warranty
- Steel reinforced roof
- Two windows
- Metal-reinforced wall columns
- Floor panels may need to be purchased separately
- May have a lengthy and involved assembly
- May need three people to assemble
4. Keter Manor 4 x 3 (Best Tall)
The Keter Manor 4 x 3 is our number one choice for a tall garden shed with ample vertical storage and a quality build. It has an 1800-litre capacity and a stylish design that easily fits into more confined garden spaces.
Features
The Keter Manor 4 x 3 garden shed has an elegant appearance, at least for a garden shed, and comes in a grey colour with white trim and a black roof and fixtures. Its dimensions are 103 x 129 x 196 cm. The tall, space-saving design features a single front door opening with metal hinges and a lockable latch in case you want to improve security. The Manor 4 x 3 garden shed by Keter includes a floor panel and double walls to ensure effective weather resistance and to keep the contents fully protected.
A ventilation duct above the door, and also built into the floor panel, helps prevent the growth of mildew or mould while still keeping rain and snow outside.
While this option does provide you with lots of vertical storage, it doesn’t have built-in shelving options or comes with an extended warranty. Also, you may want to make sure you set aside a good chunk of time to complete the lengthy assembly process.
- Elegant style
- Tall space-saving design
- No tools are required for assembly
- Built-in ducts for ventilation
- Double walls
- May not be suitable for shelving
- Warranty may not be available
- Assembly process may be lengthy
5. Lifetime Utility (Luxury Choice)
If you are looking for a garden shed that packs a lot of value, this vertical storage unit could be just the thing. It offers a sizeable interior space with a smaller footprint overall.
Features
The Lifetime Utility garden shed has a wood grain texture that gives it a natural feel and appearance. The material is weather-resistant and also UV-protected to keep the paint from fading and cracking.
This impact-resistant garden shed features two double doors with padlock loops so you can increase security. Its walls are double-layered and steel-reinforced for added durability and strength. The walls can also be fitted with brackets and shelves if you so choose. The set already comes with one shelf and six wall hooks. Its dimensions are 192.3 x 110.5 x 176.3 cm when fully assembled.
Unfortunately, this garden shed does come with what consumers are calling a tricky assembly process which is made worse by fittings not being consistently sized correctly. Additionally, it may require a second person and a power drill to get the task completed. Lastly, it has a flat roof so it will collect some snow and leaves.
- Weather-resistant
- Impact-resistant
- Steel reinforced
- Low maintenance
- Padlock loops for added security
- Fittings may not be the correct size
- It may require a power drill and a second person to assemble
- The flat roof may be prone to collect snow and leaves
6. Duramax ECO (Best for Versatility)
Available in a wide array of sizes ranging from 5 x 4 to 10 x 12 metres, this model provides you with a range of storage possibilities. It suits varying outdoor demands and, depending on the dimensions, can contain just about any equipment you like.
Features
The Duramax ECO Garden Shed comes in green or anthracite colours, both of which have white trim. Its features a traditional, gable roof made from sturdy metal. Conveniently, the top can withstand up to 12 lbs./square feet of snow, and the angled configuration decreases the chance of build-up.
This selection is equipped with a simple-to-use sliding door design. It has robust lockable handles on the entry for enhanced protection. A ventilation system is also incorporated on both sides to enhance air circulation inside the structure, preventing stagnant air and odours from accumulating.
- Reinforced with a rigid roof
- Collection of versatile sizes
- Easy sliding doors
- Built-in ventilation system
- Rigid lockable entry handles
- It could be less secure than other options
- Some beams might have sharp edges
- It may require more than one person to assemble
7. Keter Store It Out Premier XL (Hygienic Option)
If you want a durable box-style garden storage shed for your wheelie rubbish bins or BBQ setup, we recommend considering the Keter Store It Out Premier XL.
Features
The Store It Out Premier XL by Keter comes in a grey colour with a black lid and black trim. It has an 1150-litre capacity, large enough for two standard wheelie bins. Its dimensions are 141 x 82 x 123.5 cm. It features a unique bin-opening kit that uses chains and clips to raise the lids of your bins simultaneously with the shed lid. This means you don’t have to touch your rubbish bins until it is time to take them to the curb.
The lid on the Premier XL is built at an angle and features pistons inside to help raise the lid and keep it open with minimal effort on your part. The walls of this storage shed are designed with a ribbed structure and double wall panels for increased strength and durability.
Ventilation ducts are built into the exterior on either side, and a floor panel keeps your belongings elevated and dry. Expert assembly is available for an upcharge. Plus, shelf brackets are included with the purchase.
Even though this shed isn’t terribly big, it does have a lengthy assembly process that some people find confusing. You may also find that the walls bow if you lean heavy objects against them, allowing some unwanted moisture to enter.
- Ventilated design
- Piston assisted top
- Double-wall panels
- 1150L capacity
- Bin opening kit included
- Assembly process may be lengthy
- The side walls have the potential to create a gap
8. Keter Scala 6 x 5 (Best with Double-Walls)
Keter is back again, this time with their Scala 6 x 5 garden shed. This plastic storage shed is weather-resistant and provides you with a significant amount of natural lighting thanks to its two oversized windows built into the front doors.
Features
The Keter Scala 6 x 5 garden shed features wood-style panels in a light brown colour with dark brown trim. The two large front doors are adorned with metal hinges and a sliding latch that has the option to install a padlock for increased security. The walls are constructed using a dual-layer design to improve strength and also enhance security. Its dimensions are 185 x 152 x 226 cm.
To improve air circulation, ventilation ducts are incorporated into the Scala’s durable plastic exterior while still ensuring it retains its weather resistance. A 10-year warranty comes standard, as with all Keter garden sheds.
Sadly, the Scala 6 x 5 does not feature an interior shelving option or steel reinforcements so it may not be quite as strong as some of the other options on our best garden shed list. Additionally, we recommend reinforcing the floor panel as it is relatively thin and less sturdy.
- Two oversized front windows
- Ventilation ducts built-in
- Double doors with metal hinges and latch
- Weather-resistant and low maintenance
- 10-year warranty included
- May not be suitable for shelving
- May not feature steel reinforcements
- Thin floor panel may need to be reinforced
9. Keter Store It Out Midi (Best with Sturdy Floor)
The Keter Store It Out Midi garden shed is our top choice for anyone prioritising a heavy-duty floor panel. A heavy-duty floor is essential if you want to store heavy items in your garden shed while also keeping them off the ground and dry.
Features
The Store It Out Midi is beige with a dark brown base and lid. This compact storage shed has an 845-litre capacity which is designed to be large enough for two rubbish bins or a grill and other garden tools. Its dimensions are 130 x 74 x 110 cm. It features a lift-up top and a double door front opening for easy and versatile access to the contents stored within.
The Midi is made with durable plastic that is both weather-resistant and low maintenance. A sloped entrance adorns the heavy-duty floor, which allows you to easily roll wheeled items into and out of the shed without having to do any heavy lifting.
Added support is built-in to this garden shed walls for optional shelving. It also features lockable handles and comes with a one-year warranty.
Drawbacks to the Midi garden shed include its having thinner plastic walls, which may turn out to be less durable, and the top is not piston-assisted, so it will not stay up once opened.
- Heavy-duty floor
- A lockable design increases security
- Weather-resistant
- 845L capacity
- Built-in shelf supports
- Lift up top is not piston assisted, so may be difficult to access inside at times
- Plastic structure may be relatively thin
Which Garden Shed Material Is Right for You?
When choosing the best sheds in the UK, the first thing you’ll need to decide is which material to go for. Whether you pick a metal, plastic or wooden shed, each has pros and cons which you should be aware of beforehand.
In this section of our shed buying guide, we will view the important differences between each of these materials.
1. Wooden Sheds
Wooden sheds are by far the most traditional and popular type of shed. They are often highly customisable, with options for extra interior shelving, windows, log stores and different types of cladding.
A timber design is attractive and blends well with garden surroundings. Should you wish to give your shed a personal touch, the colour can be easily changed with paint or stain. Although, they can be quite difficult to assemble by yourself if you’re not experienced.
These sheds aren’t flimsy, but the weather will inevitably cause wear and tear over time. Therefore, you should ensure the log used in your shed has been treated with a preservative before buying. There are two kinds of log treatment that are usually done.
a. Dip-Treated Wood
Dip-treated timber is one method. As the name suggests, this treatment involves dipping the timber into a treatment bath filled with a preservative solution. This is a quick method of protecting wood, but the preservative only sits on the surface – it doesn’t penetrate any deeper into the fibres.
Dip-treated wood is a cheaper option but it wears off over time and requires regular maintenance to stay protected. This type of wooden shed cannot rest directly onto the ground as it isn’t adequately protected against the accumulation of moisture that occurs in this area. It should be installed onto a separate base which is usually (but not always) included as standard.
b. Pressure Treated Wood
Pressure-treated (tanalised) log has undergone a process that uses pressure to force preservative treatment deep into the fibres of the wood. It is then left to dry out before being used in construction. This process is much more effective than dip treatments and is seen in the best quality garden sheds.
Tanalised wood is durable and highly resistant to rot and decay. If your shed is going to be in an exposed location, you should choose this to ensure it is protected from the elements.
2. Plastic Sheds
Plastic sheds are a great choice if you’re looking for something which is lightweight and easy to set up. They can be moved around your garden as required, and are simple to disassemble and bring with you if you move home.
Most plastic sheds will come with a floor too, so you won’t need to buy anything else to get going. They are very low-maintenance and naturally resistant to rot and discolouration. However, unlike wooden sheds, they are hard to customise. This means you’ll be more limited in your choice of styles.
3. Metal Sheds
If you want a highly durable shed that will last you many years, a metal shed could be the perfect choice for you. Metal sheds are usually constructed from super-tough, galvanised steel – so they will stand up to bad weather and intense use.
This type of shed requires little maintenance, but they are heavier than wooden and plastic options. Therefore, they can be awkward to assemble, but won’t budge once they’re installed.
Some people don’t like the industrial appearance of metal sheds. If you’re one of them, this can be mitigated by choosing a wood-effect cladding design. Moreover, these sheds are usually supplied without floors; so you’ll have further expenses to consider if this is important to you.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Garden Shed
Once you have decided on the right material, here are some other important features to look for when choosing the best garden shed in the UK.
1. Roof
The kind of garden shed roof you choose will depend on its purpose. Will you be using it for storage of gardening equipment like lawn mowers, hedge trimmers, lawn scarifiers and cordless strimmers? Will you be using it as an office or workshop? Let’s find out which will suit your needs.
a. Apex roofs
These are triangular in shape. They reach a point in the centre that is much higher than the edges on each side, making them a perfect choice if you’re storing tall items. This style of roof enables rainwater to run off both sides and has the greatest amount of headroom in the middle.
If you’ll only be using your shed for storage, headroom is unlikely to be an issue. But if you’re planning to spend some time inside, you may find yourself constantly bending to reach things, which can get uncomfortable.
Due to height, this style of roof is difficult to assemble. If you’re doing it yourself, you’ll probably need someone else to help you.
b. Pent roofs
These are flat with one side lower than the other. This design means rainwater drains only in one direction, so it can be useful if you like to collect rainwater to use in your garden.
Because the roof has a sloped shape, you’ll have more height on one side of the shed than the other. You may also be able to choose which side of the shed the door is fitted for, so you can take advantage of the height at the front or back.
Pent roof sheds aren’t as tall as apex style sheds. Therefore, they are considered a better choice if you need to restrict the height to match your surroundings or avoid upsetting the neighbours.
2. Windows
Whether or not you need windows depends on what you’ll be using your shed for. If you’ll be using it for storage, it’s better not to have windows to improve security as thieves won’t be able to view inside.
On the other hand, if you’re going to be working or relaxing in your shed, windows will offer a better view and warm source of natural light than simply leaving the door open.
3. Base/Flooring
No matter which kind of shed you choose, it will need a solid base before it can be assembled. Most sheds will include a base in the price, but you should double-check anyway before ordering!
All sheds will require a level surface underneath them before installation. Therefore, if you have an uneven garden, you may have to pay extra to get the ground levelled first, or have a customised base created for you.
4. Security
In the year 2015/2016, there were as many as 730,000 reported thefts from gardens and outhouses in the UK. Therefore, if you’re planning to use it as storage for expensive tools, sports equipment and garden equipment, you must consider how secure your belongings will be.
Most of the best shed brands in the UK come with lock brackets for padlocks, but these aren’t infallible against determined thieves. If you’ll be storing valuable items inside, you should look at additional security packages offered by the seller. These include a reinforced framework on doors and windows, as well as extra strong locks and hinges to keep your belongings safe.
Conclusion
All the garden shed reviews we have today would make great options, but our top choice for the best sheds in the UK has to be the Keter Store-It Out Ultra.
With 2000 litres of storage capacity, this garden shed can accommodate wheelie bins, barbecue equipment, or even bikes. It features an integrated floor with a sloped edge, providing easier access when storing or removing heavy items. It also has a latch to which you can attach a padlock. Furthermore, the unit is made of impact and weather-resistant materials reinforced with steel to ensure it stands the test of time.
Of course, it is important to consider different options when you are making such an important purchase, but if you are looking for an attractive, durable and great-value shed, then we highly recommend you consider the Keter Store-It Ultra.
Where is the best place to buy a shed for you? Let us know in the comments section.
Additional Resources
One Response
Very useful and informative, but I do have one criticism. It would be very helpful if the type of wood used for the wooden sheds were included in the description and materials section and not just “pressure treated timber” or similar