How Much Does a Garden Gate Cost in the UK?

Thinking about replacing a tired old garden gate, or adding one to improve security and kerb appeal? In the UK, the price can vary a lot depending on the material, size, and whether you need installation, posts, and locks included.

How Much Does a Garden Gate Cost in the UK?

A standard garden gate in the UK usually costs between £150 and £600 for supply only, while a fitted gate typically comes in at £350–£1,200. Timber is usually the cheapest, composite and hardwood sit mid-range, and metal or bespoke gates can push the total much higher.

What Factors Affect Garden Gate Costs?

Several details influence what you’ll pay, and small changes can make a big difference to the final bill. The biggest factor is material: softwood is generally budget-friendly, while oak, aluminium, steel, and wrought iron cost more because they last longer and look more premium. Gate size matters too, as wider side access gates or double gates need more material, stronger hinges, and sometimes heavier posts.

Style is another price driver. A simple featheredge or picket gate is cheaper than an arched, framed, or decorative design. Matching the gate to existing Fencing & Walls can also raise the cost if the contractor needs custom measurements or made-to-order panels. Security features such as locks, latches, bolts, and anti-tamper hinges add to the total, as do extras like a drop bolt, gate closer, or automated access hardware.

Site conditions matter as well. If the ground is sloped, the opening is uneven, or old posts need removing, labour and materials rise. Access can also affect pricing: awkward side returns, narrow Driveways, or gardens with limited side access often take longer to work on. If your gate is part of a larger project alongside Landscaping, Planting & Trees, or general Garden Services, you may be able to save on call-out and labour by bundling the work together.

Average Garden Gate Prices by Material and Style

For a basic softwood garden gate, supply-only prices often start around £80–£180. A fitted softwood gate usually lands around £250–£500 depending on size and hardware. These are popular for side entrances and budget fencing jobs, especially where the gate is mainly for access rather than a design feature.

Hardwood gates are typically stronger and more attractive, but they cost more. Expect £180–£450 supply only, or roughly £400–£900 installed. Oak and other dense timbers are a good choice if you want a substantial look and better weather resistance, although they may need periodic treatment to stay in good condition.

Composite gates are increasingly common for homeowners who want low maintenance. Supply-only costs are usually around £250–£700, with fitted prices often at £500–£1,100. They can be a smart middle ground if you want the appearance of timber without frequent staining or painting.

Metal gates vary widely. Basic steel or aluminium gates may cost £200–£600 supply only, while installed prices are often £500–£1,500. Decorative wrought iron gates can start around £400 and climb to £2,000+ for larger or bespoke designs. These are often chosen for front gardens, entrances, and properties where appearance and security both matter.

Double gates or driveway-style gates are a different category altogether. A simple pair of timber driveway gates might cost £600–£1,500 supply only, while robust metal or bespoke composite versions can run from £1,500 to £4,000+. If you are improving access alongside a new entrance, it is worth comparing this with broader external upgrades such as Driveways or a full boundary refresh.

Style also changes the price. A flat-top, single-leaf gate is usually cheapest, while curved tops, trellis sections, tongue-and-groove panels, or matching gate-and-fence sets cost more. If you’re unsure how a new gate fits with the rest of your boundary, a related guide like How Much Does a Garden Wall Cost in the UK? can help you compare boundary options.

Labour Costs, Installation, and Common Extras

Installation is often the part that people underestimate. A straightforward gate fitting job might cost £150–£350 in labour, but more complex installations can reach £400–£700 or more. If the contractor needs to remove an old gate, replace rotten posts, or set new concrete footings, expect the price to rise.

For a single standard garden gate, a fitter may complete the work in half a day to a full day. A more complicated install, such as a heavy hardwood or metal gate, can take longer because it needs precise alignment, secure fixings, and stronger hinges. If you are fitting a gate into existing fencing, small problems like uneven post spacing or warped panels can add time and cost.

Posts are a common extra. Timber posts usually add £20–£60 each, while concrete or metal posts can cost £40–£100+ each depending on size and quality. If the opening requires new posts, the total project cost can jump by £100–£300 before labour is even counted.

Locks, catches, and security hardware are another factor. A basic latch may cost just £10–£25, but a high-quality lockset, key-operated latch, or heavy-duty bolt could add £30–£120. Decorative handles, self-closing hinges, gate stops, and anti-sag supports all increase the bill too. For premium front garden gates, some homeowners choose electronic access systems or keypad locks, which can move the cost into the £500–£1,500+ range installed.

If the gate area needs preparation, that can add more cost. Clearing shrubs, levelling the area, or repairing broken fencing nearby may involve extra Garden Services. In some cases, a small bit of groundwork is enough; in others, poor drainage or soft ground means the contractor needs to dig deeper footings or improve the base before the gate can be installed properly.

How to Save Money and Get the Best Value

The easiest way to keep costs down is to choose a gate that suits the job rather than over-specifying. For a side entrance or utility access, a strong softwood or good-quality composite gate may offer the best balance of price and durability. Save premium materials for visible front boundaries or areas where security really matters.

Standard sizes are cheaper than custom-made gates, so measuring carefully can help you avoid bespoke fabrication fees. If possible, use existing posts and hardware that are still in good condition. Even replacing only the gate leaf can save £100–£300 compared with a full replacement involving new posts and concrete.

Timing can also help. If you are already booking garden works such as Landscaping, Planting & Trees, fence repairs, or clearance, ask whether the contractor can include the gate in the same visit. Combining jobs often reduces call-out costs and improves labour efficiency. Many homeowners also save by sourcing the gate themselves and paying only for installation, although you should check the fitter is happy to install customer-supplied materials first.

When comparing quotes, look beyond the headline figure. A cheaper quote may not include posts, fixings, disposal of the old gate, or painting and treatment. For the best value, ask for a fully itemised estimate showing supply, labour, hardware, removal, and VAT if applicable. This makes it easier to compare like for like across Cost Guides and avoid surprise extras later.

In most cases, a garden gate is a relatively modest project, but the price can climb quickly once you factor in premium materials, new posts, locks, or difficult access. To get a fair price, gather at least three quotes, check that the contractor has relevant experience with fencing and gate fitting, and look for clear breakdowns of materials, labour, and any guarantees on workmanship.