How Much Does a Garden Gate Cost? Complete UK Pricing Guide for 2025
A garden gate serves as both a functional entryway and a design statement that sets the tone for your entire property. Whether you need a simple pedestrian gate for a side passage or an impressive double gate for vehicle access, understanding garden gate costs helps you budget effectively and make informed material and style choices. Gate prices vary dramatically based on size, material, design complexity, and installation requirements, with options ranging from budget-friendly basic gates to premium custom designs.
This comprehensive guide breaks down garden gate costs across the UK in 2025, from wooden and metal options to contemporary composite materials. You'll discover typical pricing by gate type, what affects costs, how professional installation compares to DIY approaches, and how to get the best value when purchasing and installing your garden gate.
Quick Answer: Garden gates in the UK typically cost £80-£300 for the gate alone, with installation adding £150-£400. Budget basic wooden gates start around £80-£150, mid-range quality gates cost £150-£250, while premium hardwood or decorative metal gates reach £250-£600+. A complete installed pedestrian gate typically costs £250-£600, while double vehicle gates cost £400-£1,200 fully installed.
Understanding Garden Gate Costs in the UK
Garden gate pricing combines the cost of the gate itself with installation labour and hardware. Understanding these components helps you evaluate quotes and identify where you can adjust specifications to suit your budget.
Types of Garden Gates and Their Costs
Pedestrian Gates (Single Opening)
Single pedestrian gates for foot access typically measure 900mm to 1200mm wide and cost £80-£300 for the gate alone depending on material and design. Standard softwood pedestrian gates cost £80-£150, offering basic functionality at budget-friendly pricing. These gates are typically 1.2-1.8 metres tall and available in lap or panel construction matching standard fence panels.
Mid-range timber pedestrian gates including cedar or better-quality softwood cost £150-£250. These gates feature improved materials, better construction quality, and often decorative elements like decorative hinges or latches. The improved quality and appearance justify the moderate price increase for properties where the gate is visible from the street.
Premium hardwood or decorative metal pedestrian gates cost £250-£450, offering distinctive character and exceptional durability. Wrought iron designs, hardwood construction with ornate details, or contemporary metal finishes command premium pricing but create stunning entrance statements.
Double Pedestrian Gates
Double pedestrian gates featuring two opening panels for wider passages cost approximately 50-80% more than equivalent single gates. A quality softwood double gate costs £150-£250, while premium double gates reach £400-£700. Double gates suit wider entrances, allowing two people to pass simultaneously or easier access for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Vehicle Access Gates (Single)
Single vehicle gates typically measuring 2.4-3 metres wide cost £200-£500 for the gate alone. Standard softwood vehicular gates cost £200-£350, providing functional access without premium features. These gates must be substantially constructed to handle repeated opening and closure plus the weight of vehicle contact.
Mid-range vehicular gates including cedar or premium softwood cost £350-£550, offering better materials and smoother operation. Premium hardwood or decorative metal vehicle gates cost £500-£1,000+, with ornate wrought iron designs commanding top prices.
Double Vehicle Gates (Pair)
Double vehicle gates for wider driveways cost £400-£1,200 for gates alone, with premium options exceeding £2,000. Standard softwood double gates cost £400-£700, while mid-range cedar gates reach £700-£1,000. Premium hardwood or elaborate metal designs can exceed £2,000, particularly when custom-made to specific designs.
Double gates require more substantial posts and hardware than pedestrian gates, adding installation complexity and cost. However, they provide impressive entrance statements and improve property aesthetics for substantial homes.
Material and Their Price Implications
Softwood Garden Gates
Pressure-treated softwood represents the most economical gate material, available from retailers including B&Q, Wickes, and Screwfix at competitive prices. Softwood gates typically cost £80-£200 and suit most property styles despite being the least durable option. The pressure treatment protects against rot and insects for 10-15 years with basic maintenance.
Softwood gates available from major retailers typically feature pre-assembled construction simplifying installation. However, they often show visible quality variations with thinner boards and basic framing compared to custom-built options. These budget gates suit temporary use or rental properties where cost matters more than longevity.
Cedar Garden Gates
Western Red Cedar gates cost £150-£350 and offer superior durability compared to treated softwood while maintaining traditional aesthetic appeal. Cedar's natural oils provide inherent rot resistance without chemical treatment, making it environmentally preferable for quality-conscious homeowners. Cedar gates develop attractive silver-grey patina when left untreated or can be maintained at original colour through annual oiling.
Cedar gates typically last 20-30 years with minimal maintenance, providing excellent long-term value despite higher initial cost. The beautiful grain patterns and pleasant aroma add premium qualities that justify the investment for visible gates.
Hardwood Garden Gates
Oak, sweet chestnut, and other hardwoods represent premium gate materials costing £250-£600, offering exceptional durability (30-50 years) and developing beautiful, aged character. Hardwood gates work beautifully in period properties, formal gardens, or where distinctive statement pieces enhance property value. The substantial weight and durability of hardwood requires appropriately sized hinges and posts.
Tropical hardwoods including teak offer extreme durability but raise sustainability concerns. Always verify FSC certification when selecting tropical hardwoods, ensuring responsible sourcing through certified sustainable forestry. The Timber Trade Federation provides guidance on sustainable timber sourcing.
Metal Garden Gates
Steel and wrought iron gates cost £200-£600+ depending on design complexity and finish quality. Wrought iron provides traditional elegance perfect for period properties and formal gardens, with ornate designs commanding premium prices. Galvanized or powder-coated finishes protect against rust while powder coating offers colour options matching contemporary designs.
Aluminium gates cost £150-£400, offering lightweight construction with excellent rust resistance ideal for coastal properties. Modern aluminium gates featuring clean lines suit contemporary properties while traditional designs complement period homes.
Mild steel gates cost £200-£500, providing strong durable construction suitable for vehicle access or security applications. The industrial aesthetic suits contemporary properties, and modern finishes available through powder coating prevent the rust concerns of traditional bare steel.
Composite and Vinyl Gates
Composite or PVC gates cost £200-£400, offering low-maintenance alternatives to traditional materials. These gates won't rot, warp, or require painting, though they may not suit all aesthetic preferences. The synthetic appearance sometimes looks less authentic than natural materials, though quality composite products have improved significantly.
Composite gates typically last 25-30 years with virtually no maintenance beyond occasional cleaning. For busy homeowners or those prioritizing convenience over traditional aesthetics, composite provides excellent practical value.
What Affects Garden Gate Costs
Multiple factors beyond basic material choice significantly impact your total gate investment. Understanding these variables helps you identify cost drivers and make informed decisions.
Gate Size and Dimensions
Gate width dramatically affects cost, with every 30cm increase typically adding £20-£40 to gate price. Standard pedestrian gates at 900mm cost less than 1.2 metre gates, while double gates spanning 2.4+ metres cost substantially more. Custom sizing beyond standard dimensions may incur additional charges or require bespoke construction.
Gate height affects cost through material requirements and structural needs. Standard heights (1.2-1.8 metres) fall within normal pricing, while custom heights require special construction. Taller gates may need reinforced construction or additional framing, increasing costs by 10-30%.
Heavy gates including hardwood or ornate metal designs require stronger hinges, latches, and posts capable of handling the extra weight. These stronger components add £20-£50 to hardware costs. For extremely heavy gates like elaborate wrought iron designs, specialist hinges may cost £50-£100+ each, potentially adding £100-£200 to total installation cost.
Design Complexity and Customization
Standard designs available from retailers cost significantly less than custom options. Pre-made gates with basic solid panels cost £80-£200, while standard decorative designs (picket or lattice tops) cost £120-£250. Custom designs including special cutouts, decorative elements, or unusual proportions cost £200-£600+ for bespoke construction.
Bespoke gates designed to match existing fencing, complement architectural features, or achieve specific aesthetic goals require custom fabrication. Expect to pay 50-200% premiums for fully custom gates compared to standard options. Custom gates require detailed drawings and communication with makers, extending timelines by 4-8 weeks typically.
Decorative elements including ornate hinges, latches, or hardware add £20-£100 depending on quality and complexity. Traditional black iron hardware costs less than stainless steel or specialist finishes. For premium aesthetic gates, hardware becomes an important design element worth the additional investment.
Installation Labour Costs
Professional gate installation typically costs £150-£400 depending on complexity and location. Simple pedestrian gate installation on level ground costs £150-£250, while double vehicle gates requiring substantial posts and concrete bases cost £300-£400+. London and Southeast England see 20-30% higher installation costs than national averages.
Installing gates on sloping ground, removing old gates, or navigating awkward access may add £50-£150 to installation labour. Posts requiring setting in concrete add £30-£50 per post to labour costs. Some installers include post setting in their quotes while others charge separately.
Gate hardware installation including hanging, alignment, and latch adjustment costs approximately £50-£100 typically included in installation quotes. However, verify what's included when obtaining quotes to avoid additional charges.
Posts and Foundations
Standard timber posts cost £15-£40 each depending on size and wood type. For gates, posts typically need to be larger than fence posts (4x4 inch minimum) to handle gate leverage and weight. Larger posts cost £25-£50 each.
Concrete posts cost £30-£60 each offering superior durability and load-handling capacity ideal for heavy gates or vehicle access. Setting posts in concrete requires mixing and curing time (typically 24-48 hours), which some installers include in labour costs while others charge separately.
Concrete bases or footings for substantial gates may cost £80-£200 per post depending on required depth and reinforcement. For double vehicle gates requiring heavily reinforced posts handling substantial weight and repeated stress, expect significant foundation costs.
Professional Installation vs DIY
Deciding between professional installation and DIY approaches depends on your skills, available time, and project complexity.
Professional Installation Benefits
Professional installers ensure gates hang correctly, close smoothly, and operate reliably for decades. Proper installation involves precise post positioning, level hanging, and careful alignment preventing sticking or misalignment. Achieving this level of quality requires experience and proper tools.
Installation guarantees typically cover 12 months minimum, providing recourse if issues develop. Professional warranty proves valuable if gates sag, stick, or fail to close properly, ensuring remedial work without additional cost.
Time savings prove substantial professionals typically install pedestrian gates in 1-2 hours and double vehicle gates in 2-4 hours. DIY installation often requires full days or multiple work sessions, spreading the project over weekends.
Professional installers handle all aspects including removing old gates, setting posts in concrete, hanging new gates with proper alignment, and adjusting hardware for smooth operation. This comprehensive service eliminates the complexity and potential mistakes common in DIY projects.
DIY Installation Considerations
DIY installation saves £150-£350 in labour costs, potentially reducing a pedestrian gate installation from £350-£600 to gate cost only. These savings prove meaningful for budget-conscious homeowners with appropriate skills and available time.
However, DIY installation requires significant effort and expertise. Posts must be set plumb (perfectly vertical), with concrete mixed to correct consistency and allowed proper curing time. Gates must hang level and square, aligned to close smoothly without binding or gaps.
Quality concerns represent the biggest DIY risk. Improperly hung gates may sag within months, particularly if posts aren't adequately set in concrete. Poor installation often requires professional remedial work costing as much as professional installation would have initially.
Tool requirements include post hole diggers or augers (£30-£80 purchase or £20-£40 hire), spirit level, tape measure, drill, and possibly concrete mixer (£25-£50 hire). While individually modest costs, tools add to your budget.
For those considering DIY installation, our comprehensive guide to garden fence ideas and fence installation costs provide valuable context about property boundaries and project planning.
Regional Price Variations
Garden gate costs vary across the UK based on local labour rates, material availability, and regional market conditions similar to fence installation pricing.
London and Southeast England
London sees premium gate pricing with installation costs 20-30% above national averages. Professional pedestrian gate installation typically costs £250-£350 labour, while double vehicle gates cost £350-£500 labour. Material costs remain similar to national averages, though some specialist materials may cost 5-10% more.
The Home Counties including Surrey, Kent, and Essex see costs 10-15% above national averages, ranging from £200-£300 for pedestrian gate installation. These areas offer slightly lower costs than central London while maintaining access to quality professionals.
Northern England, Scotland, and Wales
Northern regions offer competitive installation pricing 15-25% below national averages. Professional pedestrian gate installation typically costs £100-£180 labour in Northern England and Scotland, while double vehicle gates cost £200-£300 labour. Rural areas sometimes offer even lower rates, though remote locations may incur travel surcharges.
Wales provides competitive pricing throughout the region, with pedestrian gate installation typically costing £120-£200 and double vehicle gates £220-£320. The region's strong fencing and gate industry ensures quality workmanship at reasonable rates.
Hidden Costs and Additional Expenses
Beyond gate purchase and basic installation, several additional costs may apply to your project.
Post Replacement and Structural Work
If existing posts are rotten, undersized, or inadequately positioned, replacement may be necessary. Removing old posts and installing new timber posts with concrete bases costs approximately £80-£150 per post. If multiple posts require replacement, costs escalate quickly replacing two posts for a double gate may add £160-£300 to your installation.
Structural issues including wall-mounted gates or gates on slopes may require specialist work. Reinforced installations, additional bracing, or alternative mounting systems may cost £100-£300 extra beyond standard installation.
Latch and Hardware Options
Basic latches and hinges cost £15-£40 total. However, quality self-closing hinges, magnetic latches, or security locks may cost £50-£200 per gate depending on specification. These premium options justify investment for gates receiving heavy use or providing security-critical access.
Self-closing mechanisms add £30-£80 to pedestrian gates and £50-£150 to vehicle gates, ensuring gates close automatically preventing accidental opening or security lapses. These mechanisms prove valuable for gates providing pool access, security perimeter boundaries, or locations where gates must reliably remain closed.
Automatic gates with electric operators represent substantial investment starting at £1,000-£3,000 just for the operating mechanism, plus installation adding another £300-£600. While expensive, automation provides convenience for vehicle access and accessibility benefits for those with mobility challenges.
Planning Permission and Regulations
Most garden gates don't require planning permission, as they typically fall under permitted development rights. However, gates exceeding certain dimensions or in conservation areas may require approval. Check with your local planning authority if gates are unusually large or your property is in a sensitive location.
According to the Planning Portal, gates adjacent to highways must open inward onto your property rather than outward, preventing obstruction or safety hazards. This requirement may affect gate positioning or opening direction.
Getting Accurate Quotes from Gate Suppliers
Obtaining detailed comparable quotes ensures fair pricing and clear understanding of what's included.
Information to Provide
Specify exact gate dimensions including width and height. Indicate whether you need single or double gates, pedestrian or vehicle access, and preferred materials and style. Mention whether you need old gate removal, new post installation, or existing posts can be reused.
Provide site photographs showing the gate location, existing posts or walls, and ground conditions. These visual references help suppliers provide accurate quotes rather than making assumptions.
Request quotes including the gate itself, hardware, post installation if needed, hanging and alignment labour, and old gate removal if applicable. Clear specification prevents quote variations making comparison difficult.
What Quality Quotes Include
Comprehensive quotes specify exact gate design and materials, all hardware included, labour including old gate removal and new installation, post work if required, and any guarantees covering labour and materials. Timeline information should clarify expected start date and completion time. Payment terms should specify deposit requirements and payment schedule.
Red Flags Indicating Unreliable Suppliers
Be wary of quotes substantially below market rates typically 30%+ below comparable quotes which may indicate inferior materials or workmanship. Cash-only requests without invoicing limit consumer protection. Pressure for immediate decisions or large upfront payments suggests caution.
Reluctance to provide written quotes or detailed specifications indicates lack of professionalism. Reputable suppliers provide detailed written quotes allowing comparison and documentation.
Comparing Gate Options for Value
Strategic material and design choices maximize value from your investment.
Long-Term Value Analysis
Consider total ownership costs rather than just purchase price. Pressure-treated softwood gates cost £80-£150 initially but may require replacement after 10-15 years, plus maintenance every 3-5 years. Cedar or hardwood gates cost 2-3 times more initially but last 20-40 years with minimal maintenance. Over 40 years, durable materials often prove more economical despite higher initial cost.
Composite gates cost 2-3 times more than softwood but eliminate all maintenance needs. For busy homeowners or those prioritizing convenience, the premium may prove worthwhile through avoided maintenance and longevity assurance.
Front Garden Investment Value
Front gates visible from the street significantly impact property appearance and potentially affect property value. Investing in quality materials and attractive design for front gates often proves worthwhile through kerb appeal enhancement. Mid-range cedar or decorative gates costing £150-£300 create distinctive impressions worth the investment.
Back and side gates prioritizing function over appearance can suit more economical options. Budget softwood gates perfectly adequate for hidden boundaries don't impact property appearance.