Study Reveals Brits' Dream Gardens

A recent study by Dunster House, garden building specialists, surveyed 1000 UK homeowners with gardens to discover the features of their dream garden, and while colourful, seasonal flower beds top Brits’ dream garden wishlist (40%), the wider picture suggests homeowners are imagining outdoor spaces that go far beyond planting alone.

The data highlights a strong emphasis on gardens being a social space, with several of the most popular features centred around entertaining. Over a third (36%) would include a patio or dedicated outdoor dining area, while nearly three in ten (29%) favour an outdoor kitchen or BBQ. Outdoor lighting (39%) also ranks highly, reinforcing the idea that many want to host and spend time in the garden into the evening, an important feature given the UK’s limited sunshine.

At the same time, this desire to entertain is balanced by a need for privacy. With 36% of homeowners prioritising complete privacy from neighbours, many are looking to achieve both.

Features such as pergolas or covered seating areas (26%) and summer houses, garden bars or garden rooms (25%) reflect this need for flexibility. These additions help create defined areas within the garden, making it easier to host while still offering more sheltered, private spaces to relax and unwind when needed, particularly as 6 in 10 primarily use their garden for relaxing and unwinding.

The 2026 dream trend: Brits want the English country garden

Having a perfect garden isn’t just about features, it’s about style. And despite the rise of modern influences, Brits are still drawn to timeless, traditional design.

The classic English country garden, with its romantic borders and traditional planting, has been named the number one garden style Brits want to achieve in their outdoor space by 2029, with nearly 1 in 5 (18%) selecting it in the survey. Likely influenced by the likes of the Wuthering Heights movie and the newest season of Bridgerton.

Toby Buckland, gardener and TV presenter working with Dunster House, shares how to achieve the English country garden look: “Think weathered, natural materials like stone paths, rustic timber, wooden furniture and terracotta pots. Planting should feel like ‘managed chaos’, with roses and overflowing borders creating a romantic, timeless feel. Adding symmetry at the ends of borders or along pathways, using topiary balls or statement pots, helps frame the space, making the planting feel even more vibrant and natural.”

Following the English country garden style, the modern garden came in as the second most sought-after trend, chosen by 14% of British homeowners. Defined by clean lines, minimal planting and natural materials, followed by the cottage garden style in third (13%), known for its informal layout, colourful displays and mix of flowers and herbs.

Source : Dunster House

Image : Via Dunster House 

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