My hope is that after reading this review of some of the most attractive and functional outdoor benches available, you’ll think about adding one or more to your outdoor landscape, to bridge the ever-widening gap between us and our natural world.
In this modern day of decks and patios, many of us have gotten away from sitting in, or even near, our gardens, close to the flowers and the birds and butterflies that make their homes here.
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The following 11 models are favorite selections that offer quality, versatility, originality, aesthetics, and value we know you’re going to appreciate.
As we’ve seen, outdoor benches are made of various materials, including concrete, metal, and wood. You may find others made from materials like wicker, plastic, and plastic/wood composites.
Our Favorite Garden Benches
- Longwood Cast Stone by Campania InternationalPlow & Hearth Pineapple MetalAntique Rose Style by BellezeOtsun Teak Outdoor Waterproof BenchCedar Countryside by Creekvine DesignsIndoor/Outdoor Reclaimed Wood by RichlandCynthia Teak Glider Bench by Bayou BreezeCorralitos Eco-Friendly Wooden Picnic BenchClassic Vineyard by Little Cottage CompanyHerres Outdoor Industrial Iron and Acacia Wood Patio BenchSand and Stable Lena Wooden Acacia
Also if you keep reading, we’ll also discuss some other considerations that you might want to thing about when purchasing.
1. Longwood Cast Stone by Campania International
Our top pick is the Longwood Cast Stone by Campania International.
Produced in Pennsburg, Pennsylvania, this model consists of three pieces of cast stone, measures 51.25 by 21 by 19 inches, and weighs a hefty 418 pounds.
It’s available in natural and 14 earth-tone patinas, applied by hand for a truly original piece. Two ornate legs support the seat, which is decoratively edged for a classic and timeless appearance.
Longwood Cast Stone Garden Bench
This is the type of seat my great-grandparents enjoyed resting upon, at the top of a hill, flanked by giant hostas, overlooking the flower beds and farm fields below.
By the time I saw it as a child, it was already 50 years old, and I wouldn’t be a bit surprised if it’s still there today.
This model is intended for placement on firm ground, where it will remain, weather naturally, and become an integral part of your landscape for the enjoyment of generations to come. It’s made to last a lifetime.
Key Features:
- Cast stone51.25” W x 19” D x 21” H418 pounds15 finishesClassic style
Pros:
- Lifetime useAmple weight capacity
Cons:
- Heavy to relocate
The Longwood Cast Stone Garden Bench is available from Wayfair.
2. Plow & Hearth Pineapple Metal
Our bargain pick is the Pineapple Metal Garden Bench from Plow & Hearth.
This seat is made from steel that’s powder-coated in a verdigris shade of green that gives the illusion of a gently worn patina, while providing exceptional weather resistance.
Its detailed back features cast iron scrollwork surrounding a gilded version of the colonial symbol of welcome, the pineapple.
A comfortable slatted seat efficiently sheds rainwater, and gently curved arms outline a graceful profile and provide additional support.
Pineapple Metal Garden Bench
An attractive addition to any outdoor setting, this model measures 50 by 21 by 33.5 inches and weighs 37.4 pounds.
I emailed the company and received a prompt response to my query, which speaks well for their attention to customer service. In addition, customers have received advice on purchasing cushions to fit this seat via their website.
A tie-style cushion measuring 48 by 19 by 3 inches, is available from Plow & Hearth in a variety of colors and patterns.
Polyester Classic Swing/Bench Cushion With Ties
Customer service also recommends coating the bench with polyurethane to enhance its resistance to winter weather.
Plow & Hearth accepts returns or exchanges within 90 days of purchase. Shipping charges apply. Customers have one year to return defective merchandise with no shipping charges.
Powder-coated steel and cast iron50” W by 21” D by 33.5” H37.4 poundsVerdigris and gold400-pound weight capacityColonial inspiredAssembly required
Budget friendlyLightweight and moveableAmple weight capacity
May feel hot in direct sunlight
The Pineapple Metal Garden Bench is available from Plow & Hearth.
3. Antique Rose Style by Belleze
This vintage-style settee has a cast iron frame and measures 39 by 20 by 31.5 inches. With a cast aluminum seat, the overall product weight is just 30 pounds.
A pattern of interwoven rose blossoms, leaves, and branches adorns the curved seatback and legs, while a threesome of open-heart wheels embellishes the gently bowed seat.
Flared legs deliver a stable base for this cozy loveseat for two. Choose from three color finishes: bronze, green, or white.
Belleze Antique Designed Rose Style Outdoor Garden Bench
Perfect for a cottage garden setting, seating of this nature harks back to the Victorian era, parasols, and lemonade socials.
Cast iron and aluminum39” W by 20” D by 31.5” H30 poundsBronze, green, and white models330-pound weight capacityVintage styleAssembly required
Easy to moveFlared legs for stability
4. Otsun Teak Outdoor Waterproof Bench
A clean, crisp, design makes this seat perfect for traditional or contemporary settings.
It’s made from Grade-A teak from Indonesia, a dense hardwood that resists rotting and insect infestation, measures 47.2 by 25.6 by 36.2 inches and weighs just over 47 pounds.
Otsun Teak Outdoor Waterproof Bench
This sturdy model is ergonomically designed, with rounded seat and armrests, and has a weight capacity of 560 pounds. Some assembly is required.
This model is untreated, and ages to subtle shades of gray.
Cabot Australian Timber Oil
Teak wood47.2” L by 25.6” W by 36.2” H47.4 pounds560-pound weight capacityAge naturally or oil yearlyCraftsman styleAssembly required
Durable, rot and insect resistantClassic design
Color variations may occur as wood ages, particularly near hardware, unless oiled annually
The Otsun Teak Outdoor Waterproof Bench is available from Walmart.
5. Cedar Countryside by Creekvine Designs
Manufactured of insect- and rot-resistant Western red cedar by Creekvine Designs in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, this product is made to last.
Reminiscent of Adirondack chairs and picnic tables, it weathers to a soft gray as it becomes an integral part of your outdoor landscape.
Measuring 60 by 23 by 33 inches and weighing 35 pounds, it’s easy to assemble, and a pleasure to use. All edges are shaped and smoothed for comfort and safety.
Cedar Countryside Garden Bench
Western red cedar is often treated to retain its original warm color, as opposed to letting it weather to gray.
Per communication with the manufacturer, red cedar should not be polyurethaned, but rather, it should be treated with a water-based stain/sealer.
Western red cedar and zinc-plated steel60” W by 23” D by 33” H35 pounds690-pound weight capacityAdirondack inspiredAssembly required
Durable, rot and insect resistantExceptional weight capacity
Color variations may occur as wood ages, particularly near hardware, unless stained annuallyContact with red cedar wood may cause allergic reactions in some people
6. Indoor/Outdoor Reclaimed Wood by Richland
Industrial meets rustic in this decorative and functional model.
A richly stained backless seat of reclaimed shorea wood rests upon bold and sturdy black powder-coated steel legs for a versatile indoor/outdoor piece that may be utilized as either a bench or a coffee table.
Richland Indoor/Outdoor Reclaimed Wood Bench
It has dimensions of 48 by 16 by 18 inches, weighs 80 pounds, and may hold up to 250 pounds. Some assembly is required.
I was skeptical about the use of railroad ties for furniture, but shorea that has been used for railroad crossties in Southeast Asia is not treated with creosote as US ties are, making its reclamation an efficient way to recycle this durable and attractive wood.
SunGuard UV Protectant
To extend the life of your product in the outdoors, Plow & Hearth recommends a yearly application of a UV protectant like SunGuard, available in a two-pack.
Reclaimed shorea wood railroad ties and powder-coated steel48” L by 16” W by 18” H80 pounds250-pound weight capacityBackless rustic/industrial styleAssembly required
Each product has unique wood grain, texture, and color variationsSmaller environmental footprint with reclaimed woodIndoor or outdoor use as bench or coffee table
Non-uniform wood may have uneven placesMaintenance recommended for products used outdoors
The Richland Indoor/Outdoor Reclaimed Wood Bench is available from Plow & Hearth.
7. Cynthia Teak Glider Bench by Bayou Breeze
This style has the added feature of being a glider, for gentle motion as you relax.
Made of insect-resistant, water-repellant 100 percent teak, here’s a slat-back bench with traditional styling to complement any decor.
This is a beautiful, long-lasting product with a price to match, as teak is prized for its durability.
Cynthia Teak Glider Bench
The dimensions of this product are 37 by 47.5 by 27 inches, it weighs 45 pounds, and it may hold up to 450 pounds distributed evenly.
Teak is a beautiful wood that starts out a warm brown, and weathers to a soft gray.
The only maintenance required is the occasional soap and water wash-up, but if you’d like to preserve the original color, you may apply teak oil.
When buying teak, one cannot always be certain that it has been grown sustainably. This item is manufactured in Indonesia.
Teak, metal glider mechanism37” H by 47.5” W by 27” D45 pounds450-pound weight capacityTraditional styleAssembly required
Durable, insect-resistant, and water-repellantVirtually maintenance-freeTop quality wood and workmanshipEasy assembly
Moderately priceyWeathers to gray without oilEco-friendly sourcing may be difficult to ascertain
The Cynthia Teak Glider Bench is available from Wayfair.
8. Corralitos Eco-Friendly Wooden Picnic Bench
This contemporary style features a slatted, backless seat with integral slatted, triangular legs.
Made in the USA from pine and stainless steel, this model boasts a weather-resistant protective stain that’s available in 17 colors.
It measures 54 by 17 by 16 inches, weighs 33 pounds, and holds 600 pounds.
Corralitos Eco-Friendly Wooden Picnic Bench
While pine is a soft wood, it’s structurally sound and commonly used in building; however, it isn’t naturally insect and weather resistant.
This model is treated with a weather-proof stain that is also UV resistant.
Pine and stainless-steel hardware55” L by 17” W by 16” H33 pounds600-pound weight capacityBackless contemporary design22 colorsAssembly required
AffordableGood structural integrityInnovative design
Off-season storage advisedPine scent may cause allergy symptoms
Corralitos Eco-Friendly Wooden Picnic Bench is available from Wayfair.
9. Classic Vineyard by Little Cottage Company
The Little Cottage company and its Wildridge division are the manufacturers of recycled resin products like this traditional backless plank bench.
Constructed from UV-protected, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), this product is made to withstand temperature extremes.
A contoured seat adds comfort and style, while a trestle support joins the legs for exceptional stability.
Little Cottage Company Classic Vineyard Bench, Tudor Brown
The dimensions of this classic piece are 47 by 18 by 18 inches. It weighs just 35 pounds, yet boasts a weight capacity of 500.
Unlike wood, resin is not prone to insect infestation or deterioration. It’s virtually maintenance free, but wipe occasionally with mild soap and water to maintain a fresh, clean appearance.
Proudly made in the USA in Ohio, this durable seat comes in 19 colors.
HDPE resin with stainless steel fasteners47” L by 18” W by 18” H95% recycled materialsUV protectionBackless traditional with contour19 colorsAssembly required
Comfortable designEnvironmentally friendlyGenerous weight capacityHigh density composition prevents cracking and meltingMinimal maintenanceTrestle for stability
Some folks just don’t like plasticBackless design not to everyone’s taste
The Little Cottage Classic Vineyard Bench is available from Walmart.
10. Herres Outdoor Industrial Iron and Acacia Wood Patio Bench
This generously proportioned model comfortably accommodates three in chic retro style.
Warm brown planks of natural acacia comprise the seat, while the clean lines of black tubular iron form integral back and arm rests. Triangular, tapered iron legs complete a design that evokes the mod ‘60s.
Herres Outdoor Industrial Iron and Acacia Wood Patio Bench
The use of acacia translates to durability at an affordable price. Acacia weathers to a dark gray unless it is oiled annually, and it may be maintained with mild soap and water.
The dimensions of this model are 48 by 18.25 by 26 inches. It weighs 31 pounds and has a weight capacity of 352 pounds.
Some assembly is required.
Acacia wood (solid and manufactured) and tubular iron48” L by 18.25” W by 26” HRetro style31 pounds352-pound weight capacityAssembly required
AffordableDurable, rot and insect resistantRetro style
Small feet may sink into soft groundWeathers to gray unless oiled
The Herres Outdoor Industrial Iron and Acacia Patio Bench is available from Walmart.
11. Sand and Stable Lena Wooden Acacia
Here’s a slat back, plank seat piece that makes a cozy retreat for two.
Made from resilient acacia wood, it’s both sturdy and affordable. And, Sand and Stable has designed it with a timeless, classic look to suit any landscape decor.
Acacia weathers to a dark gray unless oiled yearly and is easily maintained with mild soap and water.
Lena Acacia Garden Bench
It measures 30 by 45 by 20.28 inches and weighs just over 20 pounds, with a weight capacity of 275 pounds. Full assembly is required.
The manufacturer offers a six-month warranty on this product.
Acacia with teak details35.25” H x 48.5” W x 25” D20.4 pounds275-pound weight capacityClassic slat and plank styleAssembly required
AffordableDurable, rot and insect resistantSix-month limited warranty
Weathers to gray without oilLacks trestle support for added stability
The Lena Acacia Wood Garden Bench is available from Wayfair.
Many Ways to Sit and Gaze
Have I convinced you to come down off the deck to sit among the flowers and foliage that beautify your outdoor space?
There are many models from which to choose, and now you have a starting point.
In addition to an assortment of materials, they come in a vast array of styles, ranging from streamlined and contemporary to ornate and vintage.
Let’s narrow down the choices with a closer look.
Arms or No Arms?
The benefit of having arms at either end of a seat are two-fold.
First, they provide a grasping place to facilitate safe and comfortable sitting and standing. Second, they are nice for resting an arm or a drink.
On the other hand, arms may make two visitors to your home feel restricted and uncomfortably close.
Back or Backless?
Having a backrest for support may provide comfort and contribute to relaxation.
However, the placement of a seat with a back provides a 180-degree view, as opposed to the 360-degree view offered by a backless seat that is approachable from all sides.
Solid or Slatted Seat?
A solid seat may be quite comfortable to sit on, but when it rains, water will pond on it, requiring drying before sitting, and possibly undermining your product’s finish over time.
On the other hand, a slatted seat promotes rainwater runoff, dries quicker, and helps to preserve your product’s finish.
Permanent or Portable?
A permanent model is generally the most expensive, and stays put. It’s too heavy to move around the yard, or store in the shed. Cast iron, concrete, and some wood models fall into this category.
The advantage of a seat that stays in place is that it becomes an integral part of its surroundings.
If it weathers naturally, you have a maintenance-free seat to set and forget. If it requires oiling or painting, you’ll need to maintain it yearly.
If you choose a lightweight seat, you can move it around the yard to suit your needs, with the option of storing it indoors during inclement weather.
Provided you heed the weight limits, and move it with care, a product of this nature can provide years of service for a budget-conscious price.
Take a Seat Among the Flowers
A garden bench is an invitation to come into the garden, feel grass between your toes, smell the flowers, and relax beneath shady trees.
Choose a seat that reflects your personal style, and place it where you can enjoy relaxing and reading, sipping a cool drink, or chatting with a friend.
Add creatively arranged outdoor lighting, for an attractive nighttime focal point.
My favorite bench wraps around an oak tree and has become a regular feature in my life. I share it with a family of gray squirrels that like to perch here to feast on an abundance of acorns in the fall.
In spring, I have an awesome view of azaleas, forsythia, and my most popular birdbath.
And, an eyeful of black-eyed Susans and pink Echinacea in summer sparks my creative juices on lazy, hazy days.
Which bench will you select to add to your garden space? Come down into the yard and enjoy nature’s spectacular show!
We love to hear from our readers. Leave us a comment below with your questions, and share your ideas to make the most out of your outdoor space.
And if you’re looking for other outdoor furniture, be sure to check out some of other buying guides next:
- The Best 10 Deck Boxes for Your Porch, Patio, Pool, or VerandaThe 11 Best Gazebo Choices for Garden Relaxation15 of the Best Porch Swings for Your Outdoor Space
