There’s something undeniably charming about vintage garden furniture and here at Lazy Magazine, we are big fans of the classical look. Whether it’s a classic Victorian iron bench or a weathered antique bistro set with a story to tell, these pieces can bring inspiration, character, personality, and a whole lot of "wow factor" to your outdoor space.
At Lazy Susan, we specialise in robust, all-weather aluminium patio furniture. We designed our collection to create a timeless feel. But we also understand the appeal of a one-of-a-kind vintage piece. So if you're on the hunt for some antique charm, here are our top tips for finding and buying vintage garden furniture—plus a few ideas you might not have thought of.
The best places to shop for vintage garden benches, garden tables, and garden chairs
If you're ready to add some vintage flair to your outdoor space, knowing where to look is half the battle.
Whether you're after a charming garden bench with a story to tell, a classically styled table for alfresco dining, or a set of characterful day chairs to complete your patio, the right piece is out there—you just need to know where to look for it.
From bustling car boot sales to curated online marketplaces, these are our favourite places to uncover unique vintage garden tables, chairs, and benches that bring timeless charm and personality to your outside space:
1. Start your search online
Online shopping might not have the thrill of the chase, but it’s a time-saver—and packed with hidden gems if you're prepared to search.
Websites like eBay, Etsy, Gumtree, and Facebook Marketplace are brimming with antique garden furniture. You can filter your search by location, price, or item type to narrow down exactly what you’re looking for.
Use keywords like “vintage outdoor chair”, “retro bistro set”, or “shabby chic garden bench” to discover specific styles, and be sure to set alerts for new listings so you don’t miss out on the perfect piece.
Don’t overlook local listings too. Facebook Marketplace and local community groups are often great places to snag nearby finds that you can pick up quickly—no shipping required!
2. Dig through local second-hand shops and car boot sales
Charity shops, second-hand shops, architectural salvage yards, antique dealers, thrift stores, car boot sales, etc are all treasure troves if you’re willing to drive around and have a rummage. You’ll often come across quirky, characterful antique garden furniture pieces at bargain prices.
In our experience, it is best to bring cash and don’t be shy about negotiating—haggling is expected at many of the places listed, especially car boots. Even a 10% discount can make a difference when you’re buying multiple items or on a tight budget.
3. Ask around — You might get lucky!
Sometimes, the best vintage garden furniture finds come from your circle of friends and family. Put out feelers on social media or in group chats — you’d be amazed how many people have garden furniture gathering dust in their shed. If it’s not being used, they might be happy to give it away or sell it for cheap
Even keep an eye open at local recycling centres, scrap metal dealers, or skips in your neighbourhood. One person's trash is another person's treasure as they say. If you spot something promising, don’t be afraid to politely ask if you can have it. You’d be surprised how often people are thrilled to see an old item go to a new home and be given a new lease of life.
4. Make a day of it — Go exploring
If you love the thrill of the chase, plan a day trip to a nearby town known for vintage or second-hand shopping. Map out stops at antique fairs, car boot sales, and local vintage shops. Get friends or family involved, grab a coffee (and cake, of course), and enjoy the day. Often, the best vintage gems come at the end of a long search—when you’re least expecting them. Also being able to see, touch, and sit in an antique piece before buying helps you make sure you can tackle any repairs needed.
5. Think about the practicalities
When buying vintage garden benches, tables, or chairs, especially online, remember to consider how you’ll get it home. Some sellers offer local delivery, but for longer distances, you can use affordable UK-wide courier services that specialise in furniture.
Alternatively, treat it as part of the adventure and plan a road trip to collect it yourself. Once you've brought your vintage garden furniture home, consider giving it a refresh and a suitable protective finish—a quick sand down, a coat of outdoor sealant, or some new cushions can breathe new life into a classic frame.
Our dos and don't of vintage outdoor furniture shopping
Whether you're scouring a flea market or browsing online for vintage outdoor furniture, keeping a few key tips in mind can help you find pieces that are not only beautiful but built to last—here are our essential dos and don'ts to guide your search.
The Do's:
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Do Inspect
When shopping for vintage outdoor furniture, start by inspecting each piece carefully. Look for signs of rust, rot, or structural damage, especially around joints, legs, and under cushions. A little wear is expected, but make sure it’s something you can fix. -
Do Test
Always test before you buy. Sit on the patio chairs or on garden benches, give the outdoor table a shake, and check for sturdiness. A charming look won’t make up for wobbly or uncomfortable furniture—and repair costs and time can quickly add up. -
Do Measure
Measuring your outside space is essential. Know the dimensions of your garden, patio, or balcony before bringing anything home. Vintage pieces can often be bulky, oddly shaped, or just not the right fit for your patio, no matter how beautiful they are. -
Do Check
Materials like wrought iron, cast aluminium, teak, and certain hardwoods are known for ageing outdoors, so check what the furniture is made of. Softwoods and untreated metals, on the other hand, may not stand up to the elements. -
Do Research
If you’re buying from a dealer, don’t hesitate to ask about the furniture’s history. A bit of background can add charm, context, and even value to your piece—plus, it's always nice to have a story to tell. -
Do Restore
Be sure to factor in restoration costs. A fresh coat of paint, reupholstering, or rust removal can breathe new life into old furniture, but it’s smart to estimate those costs upfront so you don’t go over budget. -
Do Shop
Lastly, be patient. The perfect vintage find might take time. Set up alerts, browse regularly, and enjoy the process—hunting for hidden gems is part of the fun.
The Don't's:
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Don’t Assume
Just because something is vintage, doesn't mean it’s high quality. Not all old furniture was built to last. Look beyond the style and check how well it’s made. -
Don't Deliver
Never forget to ask about delivery or collection. Some vintage pieces are heavy, awkward, or just plain tricky to transport. Make sure you’ve got a plan for getting it home before sealing the deal. -
Don’t Be Shy
Be prepared to haggle for a good deal. Especially at car boot sales, salvage yards, or charity shops. Negotiating is often expected—and can save you a bit of cash for any needed repairs. -
Don't Neglect
Skipping the weatherproofing step is a mistake. If your piece is going to live outdoors, ensure it’s treated for the elements, so be ready to invest in covers and protective coatings. -
Don't Waste Money
Avoid buying something just because it’s cheap. If you don’t truly love it or can’t make it work in your outdoor space, it’s likely to end up collecting dust all over again. -
Don't Fit
Finally, don’t ignore the scale and proportion of a piece. That grand Victorian bench may be stunning, but if it overwhelms your patio, it won’t feel right. Always keep balance in mind.
Our final thoughts on antique garden furniture...
Hunting for vintage garden furniture is more than just the shopping—it’s an experience. Whether you’re scrolling through online listings, rummaging through car boot sales, or making a day of visiting vintage shops, each piece you find is a little part of your garden's story.
While authentic vintage garden furniture has undeniable charm, it isn’t always the most practical choice—especially when it comes to durability and maintenance. That’s where our modern cast aluminium furniture comes into its own.
Designed to mimic the elegance and intricate detailing of classic wrought iron or Victorian styles, it offers the best of both worlds: timeless beauty and contemporary resilience. You get all the character and sophistication of vintage styling without the worry of rust, rot, or structural wear and tear.
Unlike older pieces that often require restoration, regular upkeep, or even a bit of DIY, high-quality cast aluminium garden furniture is virtually maintenance-free. It's weatherproof, won’t corrode over time, and is much lighter and easier to move than traditional iron alternatives. This makes it a perfect long-term investment for those who love the vintage look but want peace of mind, comfort, and functionality.
Whether you’re creating a romantic garden nook or an elegant outdoor dining space, our modern vintage-inspired aluminium sets let you enjoy the charm of the past—with all the benefits of today’s technology. And if you ever decide that vintage isn't for you—or if you’re after something low-maintenance and weather-resistant—choose Lazy Susan—our elegant, hard-wearing aluminium furniture that blends timeless style with modern durability.
If you have photos of our garden furniture, we’d love to see a few snaps for our Do Some Good charity campaign. You can tag us @LazySusanFurniture on Instagram or Facebook or Upload Here.
