Where to Hang Your Hammock in Your Garden
Find the Right Spot
Choosing where to hang your hammock is half the experience. The right spot turns a simple piece of fabric into your favourite place in the garden. Here's how to get it right.
Between Two Trees
The classic setup. Look for two solid trees spaced roughly 3 to 4 metres apart. Hardwoods like oak, beech or ash work best. Avoid young or thin trees that might bend under weight. Wrap your straps high enough so the hammock hangs with a gentle curve, not pulled tight like a washing line.
On a Patio or Deck
No trees? A hammock with a steel or wooden stand is the answer. Place it on a flat, even surface. Decking works well, but check that the boards can handle the weight. Avoid placing your stand on soft ground where the legs might sink in after rain.
Under a Pergola
If you have a pergola or a solid beam structure, hanging a hammock underneath gives you shade and shelter. Use heavy-duty hooks rated for at least 150 kg. Make sure the structure is anchored properly and not just decorative.
In a Sheltered Corner
Wind is the enemy of a good hammock session. Look for a spot that's naturally sheltered by fences, hedges or walls. A south or west-facing corner that catches the afternoon sun is ideal in the UK.
Think About the Ground Below
Grass is comfortable underfoot, but it can get damp. Gravel or paving stones underneath keep things dry if you like to step in and out barefoot. Either way, make sure the ground is level.
What About Indoors?
A hanging chair works brilliantly in a bedroom, conservatory or living room. You'll need a solid ceiling joist to take the weight. If you're not sure, get a builder to check before you drill. Alternatively, a chair with its own stand needs no fixing at all.
Final Tip
Before you commit, sit in the spot for ten minutes at the time of day you'd normally use it. Check the sun, the shade, the noise level. If it feels right without the hammock, it'll feel even better with one.
Shop Hammocks