How to create your own English country garden

In the summer, your outdoor space really comes into its own. Colourful flowers are in full bloom, the birds are busy singing and when the sun does decide to shine, your garden or balcony is the ideal spot to eat your breakfast, lunch and dinner al fresco.

We all know that a British summer can be short-lived, so there's no time like the present to make the most of the season by decorating your garden with some pretty bunting, cosy cushions and picnic blankets. In no time it will resemble a quintessentially English country garden all green-fingered enthusiasts would be proud of.

So cut back your weeds, give your lawn a mow and create your own outdoor English country haven you can enjoy for the rest of the summer. Here's how...

sit in the sunshine

What does every garden need? Somewhere to sit and eat, of course. And no English country garden would be complete without a pretty table and chairs set, reminiscent of something from a Jane Austen novel, to sit around.

This dining set (pictured below, left), which comes with four heart swirl chairs and one round table, is no exception. Available in cream, it makes the perfect inviting perch to dine on and enjoy a cuppa or two! Or if you are short on outdoor space, try this compact set (pictured below, right) which includes two chairs and a table and would be ideal for a balcony. 

Cutlery and tableware

The perfect English country garden wouldn't be complete without some charming plastic plates, cutlery and tumbler glasses to drink out of. 

This plastic twelve-piece dinner set comes with four large plates, four side plates and four cereal bowls and means you and the family can enjoy your breakfast, lunch and dinner al fresco all summer long. And make the most of the rest of the summer with this classic checked throw and matching cushions which are perfect for picnics or as a blanket when the summer nights draw in. Serve up some refreshing lemonade or water flavoured with lemon slices or mint in this jug and you're ready to picnic in style. 

Eye-catching ornaments

Brighten up your garden with some colourful ornaments which are full of country charm. 

Every home needs a welcoming touch like this gorgeous hanging sign which is made from wood and has a chic, cosy-cottage look. Or invest in this rustic owl ornament which is ideal for nature lovers. And for your table add some lovely little mason jars which you can fill with tealights and this rustic trugg which you could fill with flowers. Complete your look with some red, blue and white polka dot bunting to hang outside to finish off your English country garden.

Feeling inspired to create your own English country garden? Make sure you stock up on everything you need at George or pop into your local store.