The UK's bestGarden Storage Benches2022 Review

The best garden storage benches will be inconspicuous; charming as benches in their own right with subtle storage as a bonus. Enter: the Keter Eden Garden Storage Bench. Coming in three different finishes, this stylish bench would be a great addition to the garden even if it didn’t have a practical storage compartment – but it’s pretty excellent that it does!

An ideal size for seating two adults, at 140 x 84 x 60 cm, this bench has a firm resin construction that is sturdy and feels very secure to sit on. One could easily forget about the 265 L storage compartment hiding underneath. And yet, 265 L is a lot of storage space, meaning cushions, gardening tools and children’s tools can all be squirrelled away out of sight.

As expected from Keter, this model is both weatherproof and waterproof, doing a great job of keeping the contents dry even in heavy rain. Although, of course, as with all storage benches (no matter how weatherproof), it’s worth bearing in mind that stored items will still be susceptible to damp. Still, during warm summer days even textile items can be stored safely, allowing for cushions, blankets and throws to be pulled out at a moment’s notice.

The bench can also be locked using a padlock, adding a bit more security to the idea of leaving things in it overnight. However, this is probably most useful for deterring animals from getting inside rather than stopping thieves, so storing very valuable items inside the bench isn’t recommended.

Stylish outdoor seating isn’t always easy to find, especially when you’re looking for something that will also work simultaneously as practical storage.

The Rowlinson Rattan Storage Bench comes in a modern, understated grey which complements most of the tones commonly found in the garden – from red brickwork to green vegetation and neutral paving. The biggest risk with storage benches is that they look bulky and out of place, but this rattan-effect storage solution is subtle and discreet.

Besides complementing the garden aesthetically, it offers 150 L of storage space which is ideal for holding cushions and blankets, or even kid’s toys if you don’t want them littering the lawn.

The bench is fully weatherproof, with a hardwood timber construction and durable rattan-effect weave. It can be left outside in bad weather and is perfect for two people to sit on comfortably.

Even the grey padded bench cushion is showerproof, though it should be brought in during heavier rain to extend its life. Whilst the contents of the bench will also be relatively well protected during light rain, it’s not advisable to leave textiles in there for extended periods – like anything left outside they will likely get affected by damp after a while.

The storage space is accessed via the hinged seating area. It sits neatly flush when closed and is well reinforced to provide comfortable and secure seating as well.

For smaller gardens, the Keter Hudson Garden Storage Bench offers 272 L of storage in a slightly more compact design than the other benches featured here.

Measuring 132.7 x 89 x 61.2 cm, it’s marginally shorter than the Keter Eden bench, suitable for fitting into smaller nooks in the garden, whilst still offering a substantial amount of storage space.

With a two-tone finish, the resin construction of this bench doesn’t look overly synthetic or plasticky, yet it’s infinitely easier to maintain than a wooden model. Remaining weatherproof and water resistant throughout the seasons, without any treatment needed, it’s certainly a time and effort saver as well.

Whilst the smaller size may make it more difficult to store longer items likes brooms and spades, there’s still ample space for storing patio supplies, yard games, candles and other outdoor items. Plus, you can be safe in the knowledge that they are protected from the elements outside.

One thing to note: the storage compartment may let water in during heavy rain – as always, it’s worth considering what you’re looking to store and at what time of year.