Best hammocks for relaxing with a good book this summer

The Natalia Double Hammock has a traditional design with a solid wooden pine frame, creating a classic look for your garden’s decking, pergola or lawn and blending seamlessly into natural surroundings. The densely woven double cotton material comes in a choice of seven colours including Blue Lagoon, Mimosa, Tropical and Classic White, so whatever your colour scheme, you’re sure to find one to match.

With a weight limit of 204kg, it’s strong enough to accommodate two people (or a rabble of kids desperate who are desperate for a turn) and with adjustable height settings, you can pick a height that feels most comfortable for you. We love the low-to-the-ground setting which makes getting in and out a breeze, while also providing easy access to your book, drinks and snacks.

The Natalia Double Hammock does require some basic assembly and has a large curved design, so you may need a little extra space than some of the hanging hammocks on our list, however, it’s a great place to snuggle up with your partner or have a pre-bedtime cuddle with the kids at the end of a fun-filled day.

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If you’re on a limited budget and can’t justify the high price tag of a hammock with a stand, the Covacure Camping Hammock is a great alternative, with an affordable price tag that offers excellent value for money.

Made from a lightweight yet robust 70 denier fabric, it’s hard-wearing and tear-resistant, easy to clean and quick drying, packing down into an integrated carry pouch for portability should you wish to take it somewhere further afield.

Whilst it may not look as luxurious as some of the hammocks on our list, its fabric is cool and breathable, making it ideal for sunny days or warmer climates. It’s also generously sized, providing a long and spacious lounger to lie back in, even for the tallest of users.

Two strong iron carabiners and nylon straps are included, allowing you to unpack and hang this hammock in minutes. It also offers flexibility over the hanging distance to help you easily find the most comfortable and secure position.

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If you’re off on a camping trip in the great outdoors and fancy sleeping under the stars, you’re going to want a comfortable sleeping hammock that can keep you safe and secure all night long.

The ENO Nest Hammock comes well regarded amongst travel and outdoor enthusiasts thanks to its high-performance 70 denier nylon fabric. Strong and breathable to keep you cool on warmer nights, it’s also super easy to clean and fast drying too.

Whilst this hammock packs away neatly into a small integrated sack, don’t be deceived, it has a substantial length of nine feet - meaning there’s the versatility of space for two to share (subject to the maximum weight limits) or for you to really spread out and get comfortable if you’ve claimed it all to yourself.

The ENO hammock comes with robust stainless steel carabiners, however, the atlas straps are sold separately, so you’ll need to factor this into the overall cost. If you’re camping in the height of summer, you may also want to consider the ENO Guardian Bug Net to prevent those midges from making unwanted contact during the night.

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If you’re looking for a hammock as a stylish addition to your contemporary garden space, this Habitat Boho Hammock with included metal stand is a modern and sophisticated choice.

With a unique blue mosaic style design, this spacious cotton hammock is cosy and soft against your skin, making it the ideal space to lie back and just breathe, even practising some mindfulness techniques to help clear your mind before bed.

Incredibly low maintenance, this easy-to-assemble frame offers three adjustable height levels, with no knots, ties or additional straps required. While it’s recommended you remove the fabric hammock and take it inside overnight, the stand is weather resistant, so you don’t have to panic when unexpected thunderstorms strike. You may want to buy a cover to protect it during the harsher winter months, as this will prolong its life.

Our only critique? Despite its robust stand, this hammock has a relatively low maximum weight, which is something to bear in mind if your children tend to clamber in too.

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Tested by MNHQ: Read our in-depth VonHaus 2-Seater Striped Cotton Hammock review

With a classic and traditional beach-style design, the Von Haus 2-Seater striped hammock is an affordable, convenient and comfortable hammock for use both at home or away, whether you’re reading books, snuggling up with a loved one or simply scrolling through the AIBU posts in the Mumsnet forums.

Made from 100% cotton canvas, with thick, strong ropes, it’s quick and easy to secure between two fixed points such as trees or veranda beams, ideally measuring around three metres apart. Alternatively, you can use this hammock with a metal or wooden stand (sold separately), which can be an easier option when finding the perfect height.

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The Decathlon 2-person hammock is a great option for those who want to relax in a shared space during a camping trip without feeling restricted or squashed. Generously sized, with an extra long length that allows you to spread out, there’s plenty of room for couples or a parent and kids to jump in and unwind together.

Packing away neatly into the integrated carry pouch, it’s a convenient choice for those switching between their back gardens and outdoor exploits a little further afield, with an easy attachment system that can secure the hammock between two trees or distances of up to six metres.

Made from soft-touch polyester that is lightweight and easy to clean, it’s also surprisingly comfortable and soft against your skin. We love the roomy side storage pocket for stashing your latest chick-lit or thriller, and could also be tempted with the Decathlon Camping pillow (sold separately) for some extra comfort during those afternoon naps.

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Most full-sized hammocks aren’t recommended for young children; but why should they miss out on all the fun?

This super cute hammock has been designed specifically for children, with a gentle rocking motion and removable pillow headrest that provides the perfect place to become  calm and relax before bed.

This comfortable and supportive hammock creates an appealing space for your child to read or listen to audiobooks as part of their bedtime routine. While your child may outgrow this hammock relatively quickly, we love the varnished birch frame and the woven cotton fabric which offer an attractive addition to your child’s bedroom.

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IKEA may be known as the home of flat-packed furniture, but their hanging cotton Hamnoen Hammock requires virtually no assembly at all. Suitable for use on a stand or hanging between two trees, it’s recommended for use between distances of 3-3.5 metres and makes the ideal addition to the shady spot at the end of your back garden on a hot summer’s day.

Whilst it’s only big enough for one user, it offers a reasonable width and long length, making it easy to lie back and relax without worrying about toppling off the sides. We love the classic ‘beach’ style design and with durable 90% recycled polyester; it’s an eco-friendly choice too.

It’s worth noting that while we can’t see the compatible hammock stand online at IKEA, the Hamnoen hammock is compatible with other branded hammock stands (sold separately).

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If you spend a lot of time in your garden and really want to take relaxation to the next level, the Fatboy Headdemock Hammock with stand comes highly recommended, despite its significant price tag.

Available in a choice of nine colours, you can take your pick from a traditional black, dark blue or grey colour or opt for a more vibrant and striking orange or red if you really want to make a statement. Big enough for two to share, this durable padded polyester hammock is extra cosy and comfortable. Throw in some pillows and a cocktail to sip in the shade and you may never want to leave.

While it’s certainly an investment piece for your garden, this oversized double hammock comes with a (fixed height) sturdy frame that folds up for portability and is easy to store when not in use. Equipped to cope with the unpredictable British weather, It’s also water-repellent and UV resistant. While it’s suitable to use all year round, you may want to buy a cover to keep it looking its best.

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If the thought of clambering in and out of a swinging hammock is enough to put you off, a hanging chair or swing seat can make a great alternative.

Ideal for reading, resting or simply nestling in to enjoy the sights and sounds of your surroundings, these stylish and comfortable hammock chairs are suitable for use both indoors and out, whether that’s in your bedroom, on your patio, or in the shady spot under the trees in your garden.

We love the boho chic macrame net pattern with hanging tassels that swing in the breeze as you gently rock back and forth. The challenge? You’ll need to bring it inside if the heavens open and it’s only suitable for one person - so be sure to get out there first!

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If you are searching for something a bit more sturdy than a hammock, but still provides a relaxing swing, then this metal garden swing chair from Argos may be exactly what you're looking for. Stylish and comfy, you can enjoy your garden while safely tucked under the built-in shade, away from the sun's rays.

Although the metal frame can be left outside in all weathers, make sure you bring the cushions and hammock inside when they are not being used to keep them from being damaged by the weather and wildlife.

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