With another heatwave on the way, home workers are looking for ways to keep their garden workspace liveable. Shade is vital for protecting both you and your screen from the sun, and Dunelm's Peacock and Gold Carousel Parasol is a colourful answer.
What does the Dunelm parasol offer?
Priced at £100, the parasol comes in a bold peacock blue with gold trim and beading around the edge. It is made from a lightweight material so it can be carried across the lawn as the sun shifts, and a crank handle makes it simple to open and close. Measuring 2.85m across, it supplies plenty of shade for a laptop, tablet, or e-reader.
Unlike some parasols, this one does not include a base. Dunelm offers three bases in a simple black design, while Wilko's Grey Granite Parasol Base, at £49.99, offers a more polished granite-and-chrome finish.
What are the alternatives?
Argos has a cheaper option with the Habitat 2m Square Garden Parasol for £75. This one also requires a separate base, but features a neutral cream colourway rather than a pop of colour. For a more dramatic choice, Debenhams is selling the Outdoor Freestanding Parasol for £99, down from £199.99, and it comes with a metal base as well as solar-powered LED lights for atmosphere.
What do shoppers say?
Reviews of the Dunelm parasol are generally positive. One shopper wrote: 'Great parasol, easy to assemble, provides good amount of shade and looks gorgeous.' Another said: 'A lovely parasol, ready to assemble, a good size of shade area and good quality. Looks lovely with the droplet trim and a lovely blue colour. Love it!'
A third commented: 'A beautiful parasol gorgeous colour looks amazing the crystal droplets really make it.' However, some criticisms have been raised. One customer said: 'The umbrella is exactly what I wanted, colour is gorgeous. My only problem is that it blows over in the slightest breeze and wish it was a bit shorter. I bought the base which was suggested when I ordered it but it seems too small and light. Such a shame.' Another noted: 'Looks very nice, vintage appearance, bright colour. The beading in places a little loose. Easy to sort. Bending the umbrella to an angle as described very hard and I will probably not try again. Pleased overall. Happy with purchase. Had good comments.'
The verdict
The Peacock and Gold Carousel Parasol is a top pick if you want to brighten up your garden and stay shaded while working outdoors. Just be aware that the base is an extra purchase, and at least one reviewer found the suggested base did not provide enough weight to withstand a breeze. This article contains affiliate links; we may receive a commission on any sales generated from them.
