In a property market currently filled with soaring prices and escalating mortgage costs, the dream of owning a home has never been more challenging according to BLG, a Surrey based development finance company. The dream of a home is no longer confined to four walls; it now extends to the dream of wanting a private outdoor garden. As housing prices soar to unprecedented heights, and the prospect of affording mortgages becomes a daunting challenge for many, the mission to find a hotspot with an outdoor space takes centre stage.
However, a beacon of light does emerge in the form of MG Timber’s Garden Space Report. This report assess regions across the UK; it meticulously ranks them based on the abundance of private outdoor space offered by their properties. Notably, the top ranks of this list highlight the charm of the Southwest of England, where nature entwines seamlessly with residential life.
As the cost of owning a home reaches extraordinary heights, the leading wooden picnic table manufacturer MG Timber report arrives as a resource for those seeking not just a property but a home that harmonises their outdoor space dream. Providing a crucial link between aspiration and achievement in real estate. Join us through this report as we unveil the top-ranking areas, spotlighting the regions where this becomes an attainable reality.
Top 5 Areas To Buy A Property With Garden Space (m²)
1. Cornwall
Nestled on the southwestern tip of the UK, Cornwall emerges as the unrivalled leader in home garden space, boasting an extensive area of 112,298,124m². Currently home to a population of 568,210, Cornwall stands as the 40th largest county in England. As we delve into the scenic beauty of Cornwall’s abundant green spaces, it becomes clear why this county reigns supreme in the realm of natural serenity.
2. Wiltshire
Another scenic area in the Southwest of England, proudly claiming the second spot on our list with an impressive garden space spanning 93,229,364m². The county has experienced a notable surge in population, registering a growth of 8.4% from 470,981 in 2011 to the current count of 510,300. Noteworthy settlements in Wiltshire, including Swindon and Trowbridge, add an urban dynamic to the region’s lush green landscapes. Making it a sought-after destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of nature and community.
3. Dorset
Ranked third in our lineup, Dorset stands tall with a property garden space covering 80,642,160m². Boasting a population of 379,584, Dorset’s appeal extends beyond its green expanses to the picturesque towns of Poole, Weymouth, and Swanage, renowned for their sandy beaches. In Dorset, residents not only enjoy the luxury of ample outdoor space but also the charm of coastal living, making it a coveted destination for those seeking a seaside haven.
4. Birmingham
Breaking the Southwest streak, Birmingham emerges as a bustling urban oasis, securing its place as the highest-populated area on our list. Home to 1,141,186 people, second only to London, Birmingham surprises with a substantial property green space covering 77,152,450m². This contrast of urban vibrancy and expansive greenery positions Birmingham as a unique destination where city life seamlessly integrates with the comforting embrace of nature.
5. Shropshire
Rounding out our top five is Shropshire, nestled in the West Midlands region, offering a serene property green space of 72,354,585m². With a total population of 323,600, Shropshire demonstrates the tranquil coexistence of community and nature. As we explore this hidden gem, it becomes evident that Shropshire is not merely a destination but a testament to the art of balanced living, where green expanses provide a soothing backdrop to everyday life in the West Midlands.
Top 10 areas with the most private outdoor space area (m2)
| Rank | Local Authority | Area | Garden Space Area (m2) |
| 1 | Cornwall | Cornwall | 112,298,124 |
| 2 | Wiltshire | Wiltshire | 93,229,364 |
| 3 | Dorset | Dorset | 80,642,160 |
| 4 | Birmingham | West Midlands | 77,152,450 |
| 5 | Shropshire | Shropshire | 72,354,585 |
| 6 | Highland | Scotland | 71,738,576 |
| 7 | Aberdeenshire | Scotland | 64,298,658 |
| 8 | Cheshire East | Cheshire | 63,633,848 |
| 9 | Leeds | West Yorkshire | 61,291,980 |
| 10 | East Riding of Yorkshire | East Riding of Yorkshire | 55,888,007 |
Top 10 areas with the least private outdoor space area (m2)
| Rank | Local Authority | Area | Garden Space Area (m2) |
| 1 | City of London | London | 3,675 |
| 2 | Isles of Scilly | British Isles | 513,744 |
| 3 | Westminster | London | 1,621,091 |
| 4 | Tower Hamlets | London | 1,735,771 |
| 5 | Kensington and Chelsea | London | 1,961,533 |
| 6 | Hammersmith and Fulham | London | 2,650,087 |
| 7 | Islington | London | 2,774,010 |
| 8 | Hackney | London | 3,563,197 |
| 9 | Camden | London | 3,842,357 |
| 10 | Merthyr Tydfil | Wales | 4,538,742 |
Top 10 areas with the least private outdoor space area outside of London (m2)
| Rank | Local Authority | Area | Garden Space Area (m2) |
| 1 | Isles of Scilly | British Isles | 513,744 |
| 2 | Merthyr Tydfil | Wales | 4,538,742 |
| 3 | Hyndburn | Lancashire | 4,871,109 |
| 4 | Gosport | Hampshire | 5,078,859 |
| 5 | Stevenage | Hertfordshire | 5,191,392 |
| 6 | Blaenau Gwent | Wales | 5,260,358 |
| 7 | Adur | West Sussex | 5,361,392 |
| 8 | Watford | Hertfordshire | 5,659,868 |
| 9 | Shetland Islands | Scotland | 5,723,502 |
| 10 | Burnley | Lancashire | 5,832,777 |
Methodology
We used data from the Office for National Statistics around access to gardens and public green spaces in UK, where we found the property garden space area for all places in the UK.
Unlocking the Perfect Outdoor Space
For those embarking on the journey to create an idyllic outdoor space MG Timber stands as the epitome of craftsmanship and sustainability. Renowned for our high-quality wooden products, including wooden picnic tables, wooden workbenches and outdoor wooden log stores. We cater to both domestic and commercial clients across the UK. With a commitment to sustainability, our timber solutions offer a perfect blend of aesthetic appeal and durability, providing the foundation for creating the perfect outdoor space.