Sun loungers might just be the ultimate furniture piece when it comes to relaxing outdoors. On a warm day, there’s little better than putting your feet up and stretching out on a cushioned recliner - whether you’re unwinding after a tough stint of gardening or just making the most of the sunny weather.
There’s a huge selection of sun loungers out there, ranging from inexpensive seating to exquisitely crafted luxury recliners. We’ve gathered together the best sun loungers we’ve found so far this year, including wooden, rattan and chic metal designs.
Whatever your style, you’ll almost certainly find the sun lounger to suit you here.
We've also found these outdoor seats:
The best sun loungers to buy for summer 2023
Plant Theatre Reclining Hardwood Steamer Chair
Traditional design, golden colouring and foldable for easy storage; steamer chairs like this one are a great option if you’re in need of a new sun lounger.
Their carefully crafted wooden design means they can be expensive - especially if you need a couple - but we’ve scoured the internet to find the best steamer chairs available. While cheaper options usually sacrifice design flourishes like subtly curved armrests, this one balances elegant style with a budget-friendly price tag. It’s our top cost-effective choice for this summer.
As part of the package, you’ll get a pre-assembled acacia frame, complete with three reclining positions, a removable footrest and galvanised hardware.
Add the fitted cushion with a head pillow, and mix and match with Plant Theatre’s other furniture, like the Adirondack chair and rocking chair.
Cox & Cox Hatfield Lounger
- Buy now from Cox & Cox (£825.00)
Whether for style inspiration or potential purchases, Cox & Cox is always worth checking when you’re buying new garden seating. Its outdoor furniture collection includes dozens of beautiful designs with a traditional, elegant look.
We love this beautiful faux wicker sun lounger. By adding gently curved armrests and a rounded back cushion, Cox & Cox elevates the standard garden chair to create a luxurious seat with a vintage-inspired twist.
The cushion is also an impressive addition; not only is the filling made from recycled plastic bottles, but it’s water-repellent, UV-resistant and quick-drying. Plus, you can remove the cover easily if you need to clean it.
If you’re in the market for a new dining table too, you could opt for the matching dining set, or the lounge set or curved modular dining set - both featuring a fire pit.
Sage Green Lounger
- Buy now from Dunelm (£79.00)
If modern and minimalist is what you’re after, try this sleek lounger, available for under £80. The sage green colouring gives it a laid-back feel and should mean it blends in beautifully with garden plants and foliage.
One of the best sun loungers for durability and easy cleaning, this recliner is made from powder-coated steel. It’s also got an adjustable backrest, so you can get the perfect angle, whether you’re reading, sipping a cool drink or having a quiet nap.
Maze Ascot Rattan Sun Lounger Set
If you need a couple of sun loungers, why not go for this smart set from Maze? It includes a glass-topped table for your books, drinks and crossword puzzles, as well as matching water-resistant cushions.
The set has a powder-coated aluminium frame and features UV- and frost-resistant faux rattan. It includes recycled materials for sustainability and comes with an adjustable mechanism to change the angle of the headrest.
VidaXL Bamboo Sun Lounger
For something a little different, consider this unusual recliner from VidaXL. It’s made from solid bamboo and has three backrest positions.
Thanks to the bamboo construction, it’s also lightweight, so you can move it around the garden or patio fairly easily.
Reminiscent of warm, tropical locations, this bamboo sun lounger could look great nestled amongst exotic planting displays and relaxed garden features like a garden bar or outdoor bean bags.
Michelle Keegan Lounger
Part-armchair, part-daybed, this lounger is a great choice for relaxing in the sun. It combines golden-toned FSC-certified wood with stylish rope detailing, as well as neutral weather-proof cushions, so it should fit in with any outdoor design scheme.
If the cushions get mucky, just remove the covers for easy cleaning.
We also love Dunelm’s Elements Rope Lounger at a slightly lower price.
Everyday Hamilton Sun Lounger
Clean and stylish with understated grey colouring, this sun lounger is a smart choice for modern homes. It keeps things simple with its slim legs and armrests, all made from faux rattan.
According to the makers, the frame is completely weather-proof and resistant to UV rays, so it should stay looking smart for years to come.
The sun lounger also comes with an adjustable backrest and a 5cm-thick cushion for extra comfort.
Considering other furniture styles? See our guides to these outdoor seating options: