Arches, Arbours & Pergolas: Which & Why?

If you’re thinking of adding a garden structure to your outdoor space, then you have several options to choose from. Arches, arbours and pergolas all offer shade, privacy and the opportunity to grow climbing flowers, but which one is right for your garden? To help you decide, read our handy guide below to explore their key differences and potential uses.

What is a garden arch?

Garden arches are freestanding structures made from hardwood or metal. They typically feature a curved top, an open centre that you can walk through and trellis or lattice sides. Usually around 2.5m tall, they serve a variety of purposes, from defining entranceways to framing pretty views across your garden. And as they’re wide enough to straddle a path, garden arches can also be used to guide people along designated walkways.

However, garden arches are often used simply as a decorative focal point. The most popular way to decorate them is with climbing plants, as the trellis sides provide a vertical structure on which they can grow. This also makes garden arches ideal for small gardens that lack the space required for pots and planters.

Introducing some thornless roses, clematis, sweet pea or wisteria, will add colour and a beautiful aroma to your garden arch, as well as some much needed shade in the summer. Honeysuckle and ivy are good choices too, as they grow quickly and will last all year round.

Tip: “Don’t put your arch in the shade if you plan to grow climbing plants” - Jack Gardener.

Garden arches are also a stylish feature in themselves, with various designs to choose from. At AWBS, we supply a number of wooden garden arches with domed tops and trellis sides - perfect for growing climbing plants, grapes or even beans. For a contemporary look, we also stock sleek bow-topped arches, alongside more decorative designs with pointed gable roofs.

What is an arbour?

The outer shell of a garden arbour is very similar to a garden arch. Arbours are normally made of timber and feature a roof or canopy to shelter you from the sun. Many are semi-enclosed by trellis sides to provide extra protection from the elements, as well as a place to grow vining plants. However, arbours have a key feature that sets them apart from arches.

Beneath the arch of a garden arbour, you’ll find a built-in bench seat or sometimes, a swing. The main purpose of an arbour is therefore to create a shaded outdoor seating area that you can relax in. For instance, to read a book or to enjoy the view. There is often space to store things under the seat too, which boosts their practicality further.

So, whether you’re looking for a comfortable spot for your morning cuppa or a romantic retreat for the evening, an arbour could be ideal. Not sure where it would go in your garden? Try placing it against a fence or wall for more privacy, shade and respite from the wind. Arbours are also an easy way to inject some greenery into stone patios and concrete yards.

At AWBS, we stock a varied collection of garden arbours, including both gabled and arched designs. Each features a fixed bench seat and either partial or full trellised sides. Our open canopy arbours are perfect for the summer, while our closed roof models are very versatile.

We also supply two-sided arbours that fit neatly into unused corners to make the best use of available space. Our large Valencia corner arbour includes a full roof and trellised sides for shelter in all weathers. It also boasts two benches and a small table for al fresco dining. You could even add some cushions and blankets to create a cosy, private reading nook.

What is a pergola?

The terms ‘arbour’ and ‘pergola’ are often used interchangeably, but they are actually very different garden structures. Arbours are smaller and more intimate with built-in seats. Meanwhile, pergolas are usually larger, more open and do not come with built-in seating. They can be freestanding or attached to a building, and are best suited to bigger gardens.

Pergolas do, however, feature a similar open cross-beam roof that creates a lattice effect. Traditionally, each beam overhangs the frame to create chic projecting eaves, reminiscent of Roman and Italian Renaissance gardens. The roof is then supported by posts at each corner of the square or rectangular structure, creating an shaded walkway or seating area below.

Pergolas are commonly used to structure an outdoor living space, such as a patio or decking area. They provide shade and privacy for lounge areas and hot tubs, especially when draped in vines or roses to create a natural canopy. As a result, they’re particularly useful for south-facing gardens that lack shade and those that are overlooked by neighbours. You can also add weatherproof plastic sheeting to the flat roof to protect against rain showers if you like.

Pergolas can also be used to frame a view or simply for decorative purposes, often with fairy lights to add a subtle glow after dark. Some people also drape them with thin fabric to create cool, shady kid’s play zones and picnic areas - particularly useful during the summer break.

At AWBS, you will find a range of timber pergolas, including traditional square pergolas and round carousel pergolas with curved top beams, both of which are large enough to cover a set of garden furniture. We also stock luxury Apollo domed pergolas that can be used to enclose a fountain or picnic area, or even simply as a quirky centrepiece for visual interest.

Find the perfect addition to your garden at AWBS

Whichever type of garden structure you choose, at AWBS, we have a plethora of arches, arbours and pergola constructed from sturdy, pressure-treated timber for long-lasting style. We also stock a number of complementary products, including matching fence panels and garden trellis panels for a cohesive look.

With prices from just £143 and free local delivery available too, you can easily upgrade your garden, whatever your budget. Browse the full range online or pop into one of our branches in Oxford, Yarnton or Swindon to view our arbours and arches in our garden display area. This will help you envisage them in your own garden to ensure you select the best one for you. Plus, our expert team will be able to answer any queries and help you measure up!