Whether you’re having a party, a gathering, or simply lounging solo in the sun, we’ve put together a few of our favourite essentials and luxuries to help you make the most of your outdoor space.

From handy barbecue tools to smart shade solutions, there’s something for everyone – and it won’t break the bank – especially on Amazon Prime Day.

Ninja Woodfire Electric Barbecue and Smoker

Normally, the idea of an electric barbecue might make you shudder in fear of how unsafe and impractical they are. But we simply can’t say enough good things about this one. Unlike others on the market we’ve faffed around with, the entire device is incredibly easy to use, as well as being much more compact and portable than the rest. It’s easy enough to store inside on a rainy day, but if you forget, or are totally mad, it’s weatherproof – so you can get barbecuing on even the gloomiest days a British summer has to offer.

The smoking function only requires a handful of tiny wood chips and uses a fan to circulate heat and smoke, making it more efficient than many ‘actual’ barbecues. And, on top of grilling and smoking, it also has an air fry, roast, bake, reheat, and dehydrate function, removing the need for dashing back and forth between kitchen and garden.

Shop the Ninja smoker here 

Parasols

A parasol is a great way to unlock a new corner of your garden you thought too ugly to use, or to help turn your scorching patio area into the cool space it was destined to be. Amazon has a plethora of reasonably priced options in a variety of colours and patterns, and all require little setup – as well as being mostly under 50 pounds.

Shop parasols here

Outdoor storage box

One way you could get your garden ready is probably by making it presentable… Luckily, we share your mild-hoarder tendencies, and suggest getting a sleek storage box to chuck all those loose pots and gardening tools into. With the addition of a pillow, you could even turn one of these into a handy bench if you find yourself swarmed with guests.

This 270L model by Kater is weather resistant, and, as a bonus, is made up of 65 per cent recycled plastic.

Shop Kater’s storage box here 

Decorative trellis

A trellis isn’t just a gardener’s friend. Even without climbing plants, the right one on its own can add a subtle elegance to that one plain wall or fence you’ve never been sure how to spruce up. We’re in love with Selection’s bronze leaf design trellis, which comes in a pack of two to create some satisfying symmetry in your garden.

Shop the trelis here 

Keter cooling box table

Investing in a cooling box for your own garden might feel stupid – who needs a tiny fridge so close to the other one? But Keter’s cooling table adds another novelty which is hard to resist. Without any booze or ice added, the table weighs just under 6kg, so has a place anywhere and everywhere in your garden.

For extra ease, the raised table component can be adjusted up and down to give you a range of convenient heights (for when you’re reaching over carelessly from your deck chair). We’re a big fan of the stunning white and brown colour combo that’s bound to give your garden a ‘boujee’ feel.

Shop Keter’s table here

Read more: Landscaping and garden design – how to design the outdoors of your property

Mondeer hammock

It would be easy for us to recommend a plain bit of garden furniture. But if you’re looking to really relax in your garden this summer, why not turn to a hammock? It may make your inner child happy too…

Mondeer’s adjustable model supports up to 200kg and comes in five colours to match the vibe of your outdoor space.

Shop Mondeer’s hammock

Garden lightbulbs

Adding a touch of soft, warm lighting to your garden instantly turns the place into a cosy haven, with no further work required. Rather than retreat inside, you can now enjoy the cooler evenings in your own fairy land, thats now only part make-belief.

This set from Zuske is available in a variety of lengths to suit your specific needs, and can be powered by either the mains’ electricity or solar power. And don’t worry – the bulbs aren’t actually made out of glass.

Shop outdoor lightbulbs here

DIVCHI Garden archway

Much like a good trellis, an archway – even if it leads to no where – is another great way to add some charm and direction to your garden. They pair well with a small trail of slabs, and can be a great inspiration point, helping you to design your garden  around it as a centrepiece. You needn’t have to be a green-finger person to start growing on it either, just some sweet peas growing up it make all the difference.

For the same price, DIVCHI also sell a smaller obelisk shape to serve the same purpose.

Shop the DVICHI archway here

Basics zero gravity chair

We did say no basic furniture, but the comfortability of these Amazon brand chairs is hard to not talk about, and equally hard to pass up on. Nearly 50,000 other shoppers have given it just under 5 stars.

This price includes a set complete with 2 chairs (fit with their own drinks holders) and a small table. Although a tad less socially inclined than other options out there, these relaxed, reclined chairs are still a great upgrade for anyone’s garden.

Shop zero gravity chairs here

…A lawnmower

Saving the most boring til last, if you want to truly get your garden summer ready, a lawnmower is the most obvious but most necessary pick. Luckily, the excitement of having it bought to your door within 24 hours courtesy of Amazon can certainly make this a more bearable activity.

With plenty models £100 and under, Prime Day is the best time to seek a replacement on that rust-bucket in the shed, and finally get to grips with your lawn.

Shop all lawnmowers here

Finn Norris

Finn is a writer and musician. He has written on internet culture, technology, and reviewed music, film, and television. When not frantically tapping away he can be found kicking back with the simpler things: coffee, cats, and football.

The post Small buys to get your garden ready for a big summer appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Whether you want a relaxing, luxury break or an adventure-packed trip we have the latest launches and best travel news, for you to enjoy this summer.

Glass-bottomed pools you make the rocking world go ‘round

nhow Milano

nhow Milano recently opened a new 750 square metre rooftop area that features an infinity glass-bottomed pool located in Milan’s Via Tortona.

The Vertigo Pool is situated alongside two round pools and a solarium. There is also a new restaurant and cocktail bar to complement the view.

Prices per night start at €160 this summer.

For more information head to nh Hotels.

Are you seeking some water wellness?

Beach on the Isle of Mull

New for 2023, Wild Hebridean Swimming Adventures presents its beginner open water development retreats at Achaban House, Fionnphort.

This summer, enjoy adventure swims in some of the world’s most idyllic seas on the Isles of Mull and Iona. There will be guided swim treks, safety courses in cold water swimming, sunrise and sunset dips and 1:1 technique coaching.

Forthcoming retreats will be from 17 to 23 July and 29 Sept to 2 October. Retreats start at £795pp and include transfers, meals, yoga, massage, pilates and coaching.

For more information head to Swim Dynamics.

Looking for the perfect day trip from London?

Mayfield Lavender, Surrey

Banstead, Surrey, is home to Mayfield Lavender for only three months out of the year. It reopened on 20 June and will close again on 20 August.

The 25-acre farm sits on an original 19th-century Victorian lavender field site. There is a tractor ride that runs throughout the day to take in all the sights and smells as well as see the bees and butterflies. It is £2.50 per person.

There is a shop and café selling a range of teas, cupcakes, oils and soaps made with the organic lavender grown there.

It is £5 entry per person. Note that you can only buy tickets when you’re there (weekdays will be less busy).

Fancy a shleepover?

Naughty Sheep

Naughty Sheep have announced their new wellness weekends starting from September 2023 that combine mindfulness and sheep in Gartmore, Stirling.

Their three-day Sheepy Sleepovers involve de-stressing with pet Herdwick sheep while exploring the surrounding hidden gems of Scotland. A three-night stay includes yoga, sound healing, meditations, confidence techniques and, of course, Dougal and Lochie the sheep.

Available from 15 September 2023. Price: £796 per night for up to three people.

For more information visit Tea With Naughty Sheep.

Relaxation with a touch of elegance and charm

Schloss Hotel Roxburghe

SCHLOSS Roxburghe recently celebrated the opening of the new Estate House located within the countryside of the Scottish Borders after an expansion that boasts an additional 58 rooms and a new restaurant and spa.

The new spa facility includes a heated outdoor infinity pool, indoor and outdoor areas for relaxing, a plunge pool and a fitness suite. As well as three treatment rooms and two saunas.

To book, head to Schloss Hotel Roxburghe.

An escape in the city with the girls

Wander Women Collective

The WanderWomen collective in Edinburgh, Scotland, has released a series of outdoor experiences for women this July.

Their upcoming activities include a Forest Bath & River Swim on 6 July and a Hammock Hang Out on the 28^th. Both involve a unique mix of mindfulness and adventure in and around Edinburgh to escape from the daily grind.

Forest Bath & River Swim – 6 July (price: £60; concession £48)

Hammock Hang Out – 28 July (price: £30; concession £24)

For more information visit Wander Women.

Read more: How a life-changing retreat transformed this 60-year-old’s life

Beat the cost of living with these countryside offers

The Inn Collection Group

The Inn Collection Group have re-launched their Winter Breaks offer for 2023/24 in Northumberland, Durham, Tyne & Wear and North Yorkshire.

Starting at £49.50 per person, the package offers bed and breakfast stays with dinner from 1 November to 31 March. The offer is open at 29 inns located in some of the UK’s most picturesque locations such as the Lake District and the North York Moors.

Bookings are available direct from The Inn Collection Group.

A luxurious sleep under the stars in Västerås

Best Western Plus Hotel Plaza has opened the Plaza Rooftop Hotel on a roof terrace in the middle of Västerås in

Plaza Rooftop Hotel, Sweden

collaboration with one of Sweden’s leading bed suppliers, Hästens.

The so-called “Glasdome” is 1hr 30min west of Stockholm and boasts a unique hotel experience with an extensive room service menu. Guests can choose from a variety of experiences such as the world’s highest bungee jump, a hot air balloon flight and private gin tasting at a local distillery.

Prices start at SEK 3,995 (approx. £295) and include a three-course dinner menu, welcome drink, a free minibar, entrance to Hotel Plaza’s Spa and a gym session at Skygym.

For more information visit Plaza Rooftop Hotel.

The ultimate wellness experience in the Maldives

The Nautilus, the Maldives

The Nautilus is hosting the Energy Harmony Retreat this winter in collaboration with Ananda in the Himalayas to combine ayurvedic and yogic knowledge with the timeless hospitality of the Maldives.

The five-star private island hideaway offers beach houses on Hanifaru Bay and an extensive range of facilities and spa amenities. This new retreat will explore Ayurvedic treatments and classes such as Reflexology and Kundalini Massage. There will be tailored gourmet cuisine created especially for the retreat.

Prices start at USD 33,260 for two guests for six nights and include all meals, return transfers, green tax and the programme.

For more information visit The Nautilus.

Summer’s most stylish beach club has officially opened!

Dune Beach Marbella

Bought to you by the creators of Ocean Club Marbella, Dune Beach Marbella opens this summer in El Rosario, Marbella, and offers stunning sea views, stylish décor, and gourmet Mediterranean cuisine.

Surrounded by protected sand dunes, Dune Beach Marbella combines the beach club experience with a sit-down restaurant. Expect middle eastern flatbreads, marinated tiger prawns, Kobe flank steaks and hearty salads. As well as wines, champagnes, or curated cocktails.

For more information visit Dune Beach Marbella.

A Star Is Born

Introducing Celestyal Journey, Celestyal’s long-awaited new ship following its multimillion refurbishment.

Celestyal Journey

With 280% more balcony suites, seven dining venues, eight bars, two pools and an entire deck dedicated to wellness, the Celestyal Journey offers you an opportunity to relax and adventure on the Aegean Sea.

This is the debut of its first-ever penthouse with a private terrace. As well as an updated culinary experience.

Set sail on 2 September and visit Athens, Thessaloniki, Kusadasi, Crete, Santorini, Mykonos and Milos.

For further information visit Celestyal.

Beth Pratt

Beth is one of Silver’s interns. She loves reading and studying literature. Entering her final year of university, Beth still finds time to dance, swim, and have a pint with friends. Her favourite hobby is going to coffee shops, if you can call it a hobby!

The post Travel news July – hot picks appeared first on Silver Magazine.