Parasols & Shades

As a guide, your parasol should comfortably cover the tabletop with a little extra shade around the edges so everyone feels protected. For a small bistro set or two‑seater table, a more compact canopy is usually enough. In contrast, a 4–6 seat dining table often pairs well with a parasol around 2.5–3 m in diameter

If you have a larger dining set or a lounge area you’d like to shade, look to the bigger canopies or a cantilever design that can reach over sofas and corner sets. It’s worth thinking about where the sun falls during the day too, so your parasol works hard exactly where you need it

For cantilever designs, always use the recommended base weight and make sure it’s filled and positioned on a flat surface. In more exposed gardens, it’s sensible to close and secure the canopy whenever you’re not using it, so it’s beautifully ready for the next sunny spell rather than at the mercy of a gusty afternoon.

In most cases, yes. Many parasols are supplied without a base so you can choose the right weight and style for your space, whether that’s a neat cross‑base tucked beneath furniture or a statement square base on the patio. Some dining sets include a matching parasol and may recommend a certain base style, while standalone parasols will note when a base is sold separately.

The canopies are designed to offer welcome shade and a layer of UV protection, helping to soften the sun on bright days and keep your seating area cooler. The fabric is typically water‑repellent enough to cope with light showers, so you don’t need to rush indoors at the first hint of drizzle.

Some designs feature tilt or rotation functions so you can easily follow the sun as it moves across the garden, while others are beautifully simple, with a fixed canopy that works best in a specific position. Cantilever parasols often offer the greatest flexibility, allowing you to swing and angle the canopy over different seating areas.

Most parasols arrive with simple, minimal assembly required, such as fixing the pole sections together or securing the canopy to the frame. Clear instructions are included, and the process is designed to be straightforward so you can be set up and enjoying the shade in no time.

Larger cantilever models may arrive in a couple of cartons and are easier to put together with two people, especially when positioning the main frame and canopy. Bases are usually supplied empty so you can fill them safely with sand, water or a combination once they’re in their final spot.