From smoking shelters that keep your premises compliant to cycle shelters that protect bikes and encourage green commuting, outdoor shelters are essential infrastructure for any commercial, public, or industrial site.
This guide covers everything you need to know about buying outdoor shelters in the UK.
Why Outdoor Shelters Are Essential
Since the smoking ban of 2007, businesses must provide designated outdoor smoking areas. Beyond compliance, shelters serve many purposes:
- Legal compliance with the Health Act 2006 (smoking ban)
- Weather protection for staff, visitors, and cyclists
- Keeps smoking areas organised and away from entrances
- Protects bicycles from rain, frost, and UV damage
- Provides covered waiting areas at bus stops and entrances
- Enhances premises appearance with modern designs
Types of Outdoor Shelters
Smoking Shelters
Open-sided shelters that comply with the Health Act 2006 (must have at least 50% open sides). Available in lean-to and freestanding designs. Typically 2m x 1.5m or larger.
Cycle Shelters
Covered structures that protect bikes from weather while providing secure parking. Usually combined with Sheffield stands or floor racks.
Waiting Shelters
Covered seating areas for bus stops, hospital entrances, school pick-ups, and visitor waiting areas. Include benches and weather protection.
Walkway Canopies
Covered walkways between buildings or from car parks to entrances. Keep staff and visitors dry during rain.
Key Benefits
- Legal compliance — smoking shelters meet Health Act requirements
- Weather protection — roof and partial sides shield from rain and wind
- Durable construction — galvanised steel frames last decades
- Professional appearance — modern designs enhance premises
- Modular options — extend or reconfigure as needs change
- Low maintenance — powder-coated steel and polycarbonate panels
How to Choose the Right Shelter
1. Purpose
Smoking, cycling, waiting, or weather protection? Each has specific design requirements — especially smoking shelters, which must meet legal open-side requirements.
2. Size
Base size on the number of users. Smoking shelters: allow 1m² per person. Cycle shelters: 2m depth per row of bikes. Waiting shelters: bench seating for expected numbers.
3. Material
Steel frame: galvanised for weather resistance. Roof panels: polycarbonate (clear or tinted) or steel. Side panels: polycarbonate, mesh, or open.
4. Location
Smoking shelters must be away from building entrances and windows. Cycle shelters near building entrances. Waiting shelters near access points.
Shelters for Different Sites
| Site Type | Recommended Shelter |
|---|---|
| Offices & Workplaces | Smoking Shelter + Cycle Shelter |
| Schools | Covered Cycle Shelter + Waiting Area |
| Hospitals | Waiting Shelter + Smoking Shelter |
| Retail Parks | Walkway Canopy + Cycle Shelter |
| Industrial Sites | Smoking Shelter + Covered Walkway |
| Transport Hubs | Waiting Shelters with Seating |
Shop Outdoor Shelters at Britannia Safety
We stock a range of outdoor shelters for smoking, cycling, and waiting — all built to last in UK conditions.
👉 Browse our full Shelters collection here
- Smoking, cycle, and waiting shelters
- Galvanised steel frames with polycarbonate panels
- Freestanding and lean-to designs
- Compliant with Health Act 2006
- Fast UK-wide delivery
- Trade and bulk pricing
Why Choose Britannia Safety?
- Range of styles — shelters for every purpose and budget
- Quality build — galvanised steel built to last 20+ years
- Legal compliance — smoking shelters meet all UK regulations
- Expert advice — we help you choose and position your shelter
- Fast delivery — dispatched within 1–2 business days
Frequently Asked Questions
Do smoking shelters need planning permission?
Small freestanding shelters typically don't need planning permission under permitted development rights. Larger or attached structures may require approval — check with your local authority.
What does the law require for a smoking shelter?
Under the Health Act 2006, a smoking shelter must have at least 50% of its wall area open to the air. It must not be enclosed. Businesses must provide proper signage.
How are shelters installed?
Most shelters are bolted to a concrete or tarmac base. Some freestanding models can be weighted with ballast plates. Installation typically takes a few hours.
Shelter Your People & Property
Outdoor shelters are a practical, legal, and professional addition to any site. Protect your staff, visitors, and bikes from the British weather.
👉 Shop Shelters at Britannia Safety — quality shelters, fast delivery, trade pricing.
Need a custom specification? Contact us for expert guidance.
