What is the difference between a canopy, a gazebo and a pergola? Garden experts explain the key differences to help you choose

Outdoor seating area with cushions beneath wooden pergola with festoon lights next to pink garden wall.

When planning your perfect outdoor living space, a shade solution should be high up on the priority list - especially if the recent heatwave is anything to go by. Which might have led you to ask - what is the difference between a canopy, a gazebo and a pergola?

While these garden shade ideas seem similar at first glance, each offers distinct benefits and serves a slightly different purpose.