A day in the life of….our warehouse manager
Read this special Q&A blog for a behind-the-scenes glimpse at what a typical day involves for our warehouse manager, Shaun Barnes.
The latest news from Canopies UK
Keep up to date with all things newsworthy in the world of canopies.
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Product spotlight: The Italia commercial entrance canopy
Stylish and modern design, our Italia canopy enables our customers to get more use from their outdoor space and give it the wow factor too. Read all about this statement canopy in this blog…
We pass the test – in more ways than one…
We’re a team of GRP canopy manufacturers that lead the field, make the impossible, possible and make sure everything we do is to the highest standard – and we have the accreditations to prove it!
The Cantabria: One canopy, so many different uses
The Cantabria canopy is used by the hospitality world for all sorts of different things, like the examples featured in this blog post…
How we took the Cantabria to another level at the DoubleTree Hilton Tower of London rooftop bar
The Wildside at Savage Garden retractable hotel rooftop bar has arrived. Take a look at the exclusive venue at the DoubleTree Hilton Tower of London.
A day in the life of….our canopy surveyor
Read this special Q&A blog for a behind-the-scenes glimpse at what a typical day involves for Michael Conway, canopy surveyor at Canopies UK.
Product spotlight: Connekt
The Connekt outdoor canopy is the ideal canopy for school playgrounds and much more. Find out all about it in this special product spotlight blog.
Canopies UK announced as HOMES event 2018 exhibitor
We're on the HOMES event 2018 exhibitor list and will be showcasing our GRP door canopies at the two-day event for the second year running. Find out more.
A day in the life of….our technical engineer
Read this special Q&A blog for a behind-the-scenes glimpse at what a typical day involves for Mick Barnes, technical engineer here at Canopies UK.
An introduction to our payment plans for canopies
Here at Canopies UK, we believe you should be able to have the canopy you want, not the canopy you can afford. Our payment plans for canopies have been designed to enable schools and businesses to do just that.
How we solved two space issues with one solution at St Michael’s High School
School dining canopies are being used by many schools these days to create extra dining and seating space, just like St Michael’s High School in Chorley, recently did. Read our case study for the full details.
Product spotlight: The Cantabria
Our Cantabria outdoor canopy is hugely popular within the hospitality and education sectors. You can find out all about it in this special product spotlight blog.
Location, location, location: Advice on positioning restaurant seating canopies
Are you a restaurant owner who’s thinking about installing an outdoor canopy, but aren’t sure where to put it? Check out this blog which contains inspiration and insight based on case study examples.
Outdoor canopies – why bother?
What’s the big deal about outdoor canopies? And what are the benefits of installing them? We answer these questions, and more, in this blog post.
How we helped Accrington Stanley create a fan zone that’s in a league of its own
Football stand canopies are just one of our many fortes and something we were recently asked to manufacture and install for Accrington Stanley FC. This case study contains the full details.
Why we offer a ten-year guarantee and what it means for our customers
We offer extensive product, labour and installation guarantees for all of our outdoor canopy solutions. Find out more about the guarantees, as well as what they mean for our customers in this blog.
The Canopies UK journey – where we are now and where we’re heading
We're now one of the country’s leading designers, manufacturers and installers of outdoor canopies. But where did it all start? And where are we heading? Get the answers in this special Q&A blog with MD, Jason Eastwood.
How we served up a large helping of additional space at Winstanley College
Read this case study and discover how Canopies UK’s Cantabria outdoor canopy solution helped generate more much-needed dining and study space at Winstanley College in Wigan.
Signs it’s time for you to invest in an outdoor canopy
Looking to make better use of outdoor space? Maybe you’ve simply ran out of room. Whatever your circumstances, there are numerous benefits to be gained when opting for an outdoor canopy. Here are the signs it’s time to invest in one!
How to guarantee your outdoor canopy is fit for purpose?
Whether you’re a school, hotel, restaurant or commercial business – your new canopy needs to be fit for purpose. Find out how we ensure every one of our canopies is designed, manufactured and installed to fully meet your requirements.
Top 5 reasons why schools invest in outdoor canopies
Schools are increasingly becoming switched on to the benefits outdoor canopies can bring, not just to their students, but their staff too. So, why are outdoor canopies such a good investment for schools? We’ve listed the top five reasons right here!
Everything you Need to Know About Fixed Awnings
All of our awnings are bespoke and made to order. Unlike some models, our fixed awnings aren’t retractable or made out of canvas; instead, they’re fixed to your property and made out of Glass-Reinforced Polyester (GRP). Not only do our awnings look the part, they also help to: Reduce the temperature inside your home […]
Everything You Need to Know About Glass Verandas
A glass veranda is a great way to transform your outdoor space and create the perfect haven for entertaining family and friends. All of our verandas are tailor-made to suit your needs and available with heating and lighting options, giving you an additional space that can be used in all weathers. How much […]
Canopies for Schools in East London: Our Latest Installations
The start of 2018 has been a busy period for Canopies UK, especially when it comes to work in the education sector. Whether they’re providing shelter to parents waiting for their children or creating a year-round location for outdoor learning, education canopies offer numerous benefits. Read on to find out about our latest umbrella canopy […]
Canopies in Bristol, Kenilworth and Norwich: Our latest installations
Canopies UK has recently completed work on a series of schools and businesses across Bristol, Kenilworth and Norwich. Over the years, we’ve worked with countless schools and companies, who all recognise the many benefits outdoor canopies can bring. Read on to find out about our latest school walkway, commercial entrance canopy and ...
School Canopies in London: Our Latest Installations
Throughout November, Canopies UK has completed work on a series of London school canopy installations. We are seeing growing interest from the education sector, as schools increasingly recognise the benefits of providing covered areas to protect pupils and parents from the elements. Read on to find out about our latest school walkway and ...
4 key questions for finding the right door canopy for your refurb or retrofit project
Door canopies can play a huge part in the overall success of refurbishment and retrofit projects. Yes, they may only form a small element of these projects, but they can instantly make a property look unique, as well as professionally finished. Ideally, you want to choose the right door canopy for the project at […]
Recent Canopy Installations in Greater Manchester
Over the last few months, we at Canopies UK have been busy installing canopies across the North West, using innovative canopies to maximise outdoor space for a range of industries in Greater Manchester. Here are some of our best results: JD Sports Ltd, Rochdale JD Sports Ltd Michael Faraday Avenue Rochdale OL16 4FW Canopy […]
The benefits of owning a door canopy!
When entering or leaving your home, there is nothing worse than being exposed to the elements, especially when you are stopping to get out your keys or put down shopping bags. A door canopy could be your ideal solution. Not only does it offer protection from the elements for yourself, but it will keep […]
Plastic Carport, Door & Roof Canopy Installation: All You Need to Know
If you’re thinking about having a plastic canopy or carport installed at your home, you might have a few questions on how the whole process works and where to even begin. But don’t worry, our experts at Canopies UK can help guide you through every necessary step so that you can add a stylish and […]
Completed Education Canopy Installations in September
At Canopies UK, we’ve been hard at work carrying out our latest installations at a wide range of education facilities across the UK. We’ve been helping primary schools, secondary schools and colleges to maximise their outdoor space with our innovative canopy systems – see the results below. Canopies in Yorkshire Carlton ...
School Funding: Could You be Getting Extra Budget for your Education Projects?
With the new academic year comes the consideration of school funding for various essentials, from materials and meals to teaching costs and training, building work to maintenance and more. Recent cuts in school funding have been well documented and so it pays to know where to go for financial assistance. Read on to find out […]
School Canopies in London, Kent and Worcester
Canopies UK have recently completed projects on schools which all required outdoor shelter to solve their needs. Our education canopies provide a range of benefits for both curriculum and recreation, while adhering to Ofsted guidance regarding the advantages of the outdoors to the learning environment. Read more on how we helped these three ...
The Decline of the Front Garden: Four Tips for Optimising Outdoor Space
Studies have shown that front gardens have rapidly declined over the last few decades, with paved driveways taking their place and 4.5 million houses now lacking any type of plant life to the front. So what does this mean for home design – and how can we make the most of our properties’ exteriors? Outdoor […]
The Benefits of Owning a Patio Canopy
As the official start of summer kicks off with the longest day of the year, our thoughts inevitably turn to our gardens. Could this be a season of blissful afternoons spent on the patio and evening barbecues shared with friends? What better way to spend a weekend than inviting loved ones over for a get-together, […]
The Five Major Benefits of Outdoor Play
A recent survey found that one in five British children don’t play outside on an average day. With everyone’s time so precious these days, how many are prioritising outdoor pursuits anymore? There are many benefits to outdoor play for children, and it is proven that children who play outside are more likely to protect nature […]
Top 5 Summer Design Trends for Bars and Restaurants
Summer is high season for bars and restaurants, when people want to get out and make the most of the improved weather while it lasts. Drinkers and diners craving a respite from the daily grind seek the best-equipped venues to enjoy some downtime out in the open air, to socialise al fresco with that unbeatable […]
Everything You Need To Know About Carports
Adding a carport to your home is a practical purchase with many benefits, from maximising your property’s space to protecting your car or caravan from the harsh and unpredictable British weather. Our bespoke designs have even more to offer than that. That’s why we’ve put together a buying guide to help answer any questions or ...
3 reasons why you should include a canopy in your home renovation
Adding a door canopy, carport or patio canopy to your property is a vital consideration when undertaking any home renovation project. They are a worthwhile investment, protecting your property from adverse weather conditions which could otherwise cause extensive and problematic damages – especially during the winter months. Not to mention the ...
New product launch: Give your site a touch of Italia
Canopies UK has officially taken the wraps off its latest canopy system, which is designed to help the educational, hospitality and commercial sectors get more from their outdoor space – with added wow factor. The Italia, which is Canopies UK’s premier canopy range, incorporates an aluminium structure and silver shine finish to create a ...
What are site specific calculations (and why do they matter)?
So, you’ve decided to invest in an outdoor canopy, but how can you be sure that it will be fit for purpose? Yes, your supplier might be able to provide you with a canopy system that looks good on paper, and they might even be able to offer fast installation, but what assurances are […]
Outdoor canopies and the growing appetite for extra dining space
Schools focus: Outdoor canopies and the growing appetite for extra dining space Is your dining room at full capacity every lunch time? Do your pupils struggle to find somewhere to sit because there’s not enough space? Perhaps they’re even spilling out of the canteen and into other parts of the school? It’s a […]
Three common problems that restaurants and hotels can prevent with an outdoor canopy
Three common problems you can prevent with an outdoor canopy With the nights drawing in and the clocks changing at the end of this month (October), there’s no getting away from the fact that summer’s been and gone for another year. Like many sectors, the change in the seasons, particularly from summer to autumn/winter, […]
Olympic hopeful Blythe Fourie puts in strong performance at ITU Age Group World Triathlon Championships in Mexico
At just 16 years old, Blackburn triathlete Blythe Fourie is already well on track to achieve her dream of representing Great Britain at the 2024 Olympic Games. She’s been competing in triathlons for less than three years, but with the help of our sponsorship she recently travelled to Mexico to race in the ITU […]
Why there’s no need to call time on your outdoor space this autumn
Why there’s no need to call time on your outdoor space this autumn (or ever again!) With the nights drawing in and the clocks changing next month (October), now’s the time when the hospitality sector tends to start doing less with their outdoor space and more with their indoor space. But what about if […]
How to Ensure You Get the Best Possible Canopy for Your School?
As the trend for outdoor teaching in the education sector continues, installing a canopy, sheltered walkway or covered play area outside of the traditional classroom is becoming increasingly common. It’s a great way for schools, nurseries, colleges and academies to maximise the functional space around their buildings. But in order to ...
Psychologists Explain Your Home Design Choices
The old adage urges us: Don’t judge a book by its cover. But the reality is that we all judge each other constantly based on personal appearance and first impressions. And the same goes for our houses: they tell people a lot about us, our personalities and our past experiences. It’s hardly surprising that a […]
Canopies UK Sponsoring Future Olympic Hopeful Blythe Fourie
Canopies UK is proud to announce a sponsorship deal with Blythe Fourie, an extremely talented young triathlete from Wilpshire near Blackburn who hopes to follow in the footsteps of Non Stanford and Vicky Holland representing Great Britain at the 2024 Olympic Games. The 16-year-old recently raced for Team GB at the ITU World Duathlon ...
The benefits of owning a patio canopy
As the official start of summer kicks off with the longest day of the year, our thoughts inevitably turn to our gardens. Could this be a season of blissful afternoons spent on the patio and evening barbeques shared with friends? Will this be the year we can actually invite family over for a get-together and […]
The Cantabria: Increase sales & use your outdoor space all year round
Like it or loathe it, there’s no getting away from the Great British weather. Unfortunately, for the hospitality sector, it’s a common challenge UK pub, restaurant, bar and hotel owners all have to contend with, year in, year out. For instance, having customers wanting to eat outside, but not being able to because the weather […]
Canopies UK Accreditations: Why they matter
At Canopies UK, we have invested a great deal of time and money to ensure that we not only meet, but surpass the strict standards expected from our accreditors. This includes being able to adhere to design stipulations, as well as wind & imposed load specifications administered by independent regulators. Our customers come first, and […]
Protect your home and property from wet and windy winter weather
Winter weather can cause significant damage to your home and garden. Find out how our range of canopies can protect your property from the elements. As much as we all dream of a white Christmas, the reality is that the harsh winter weather is a nightmare for our properties. Eight in ten UK households have […]
Dont let your pupils be left wet and cold this winter!
Its that time of year again. The days get shorter and weather gets worse. Pupils spirits begin to dampen with the downpour outside, whilst parents waiting for their children huddle together to stay out of the weathers wrath. Of course its not just parents and children who need protection from the elements; teachers are at […]
Canopies UK Announces Two More New hires To Join Their Growing Team
Were really excited to announce the appointment of the latest new hires to the Canopies UK team, and were all looking forward to working with them as they join our growing team of highly qualified staff, each experts in their own field. Alison Cooper Telemarketing Executive Firstly, wed like to welcome and introduce Alison […]
Outside dining canopies for education facilities: What are my options?
For many schools, dining outside is only a viable option during the summer months when the sun is shining. However, an outdoor dining canopy can help to solve this problem, providing children and staff with the freedom of eating outside all year long without having to worry about the weather. There are a variety of […]
Cantabria canopy maximises cover numbers and provides added value to restaurants
The launch of Canopies UKs newest, state-of-the-art system helps restaurants, cafes and pubs capitalise on their outdoor space all year round, maximising the profitability of any establishment whatever the weather. The Cantabria has been specifically designed for the hospitality industry, and has already proved a huge benefit to those ...
Cantabria at The Garrack Hotel
Canopies UK recently launched a new product that helps restaurants and hotels capitalise on their outdoor space, all year round, maximising the profitability of any establishment. Andrew Baragwanath, owner of The Garrack Hotel, Cornwall had the following to say about the recent install: “The Cantabria canopy allows us to keep hold of our ...
The Ultimate Guide To Caravan Maintenance
Are you a caravan enthusiast? Do you love nothing more than hitching your van up on a Friday evening and just heading out into the British countryside, travelling across the UK on your weekends? Well if you do, youll know just how important it is to look after your caravan every year. The more care […]
Bolton school wins £10,000 canopy in Operation Playground
A school in Bolton has won a £10,000 canopy from Darwen firm Canopies UK, after beating off competition from over 200 others in an initiative called Operation Playground. Red Lane Primary School, in the Breightmet area of Bolton, have won the prize after students at the school worked together to devise their own playground game. […]
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Can your school beat Uplands Junior School in Operation Playground?
Uplands Junior School in Wolverhampton has become the first school to take part and submit their entry in Canopies UKs new initiative Operation Playground. Launched last month, and running until the end of 28th November, the initiative is aimed at promoting active learning in schools and encouraging children to participate more in outdoor ...
Is Health and Safety Ruining Our Children’s Childhood?
At Canopies UK, we want to encourage children to get back outdoors and playing in the street, in the local park or in the garden. With over half of mums preferring to keep their kids indoors, its safe to say that were a health and safety nation. We have looked in to the facts and […]
Operation Playground is launched for UK Primary Schools
Canopies UK have launched a national campaign to get primary school children outside with a new project under the name Operation Playground. The aim of Operation Playground is to get children working together in teams both inside and outside the classroom to create their own fun, enjoyable and safe playground game. To help deliver this, […]
Canopies UK helps Aberdeen FC cover up for disabled fans
Canopies UK has helped Scottish Premier League club Aberdeen improve their Pittodrie ground ahead of the new season by installing a canopy that will provide protection for visiting disabled supporters. Aberdeen prides itself as being an integral part of the local community and constantly looks for ways to improve itself in order to not only ...
August figures break Canopies UK records!
Canopies UK has registered record financial figures throughout the month of August that surpasses anything achieved in its 23-year history. The Darwen-based company, which manufactures and installs bespoke carports, canopies and shelters for residential, commercial properties and schools saw turnover exceed £650,000. This beats the previous ...
Cycling to prevent childhood obesity
Cycling is a fun, healthy activity for both parents and children. It burns calories helps reduce carbon emissions, promotes an active lifestyle and can become a lifelong hobby. Cycling at 5mph for 30 minutes can burn over 150 calories (even more if youre carrying some excess weight). Cycling with children will give them a great […]
Dangers of the Sun : Polymorphic Light Eruption
As many as 15% of people in the United Kingdom may be affected by a condition called Polymorphic Light Eruption (PLE), which is an abnormal reaction to sunlight, a leading Dermatology clinician has advised Canopies UK. The dangers of the sun are well-known but aside from the risk of skin cancer and melanoma, people may […]
The benefits of canopy systems!
Canopy systems have been around for a good number of years and over time the market has grown, both in the structure make-up and in the amount of businesses selling canopies. Canopy systems offer solutions to all kind of problems, whether it is to protect an area from the elements keeping it dry and […]
Gazeebar Canopy!
Spring into action this year by avoiding the April showers at your school, after being limited to the indoors over a lengthy and cold winter now is the time to let the children get outside and reconnect with nature. Avoid this years April showers and head outdoors with our umbrella shaped Gazeebar style canopy, […]
How to maintain and clean your canopy!
Although our canopies are made from highly durable fibre glass, and require no maintenance, they do sometimes require a spruce up, just to bring them back to their former glory. Due to the weather we have in this country our canopies can take quite a battering, especially in the autumn and winter months. Sometimes the guttering can attract ...
Canopies UK advertising plan for 2013
Generating enquiries for our domestic sales team is extremely important. Enquiries lead to appointments and appointments then lead to sales. In a struggling economic climate businesses have to be adaptable; one particular question that is always being asked at Canopies UK is how to attract new customers and what media vehicle to ...
The benefits of a door canopy!
When entering or leaving your home there is nothing worse than being exposed to the elements, especially if you are struggling to find your keys and your hands are full of the weekly shop. A door canopy from Canopies UK could be your ideal solution, not only will it protect you and offer you […]
Pupil Premium increased for 2013!
With the start of a New Year comes the start of new school budgets. 2013 has brought a large increase for the education sector with budgets up by 6% on 2012 to a total spend of £97.2 billion. The recently introduced Pupil Premium which is the programme to help provide additional support and funding […]
New year, new term!
It is a new year but for most schools they have just reached the half way mark. With the start of 2013 comes a new school term and with it new ideas. Schools will look to the year ahead and look to draw up improvement plans for their buildings and this will then be reviewed […]
Canopies UK on TV!
Canopies UK have today launched a major advertising campaign on national TV. Whilst this is not the first time Canopies UK have been on TV, this will be the first foray for over 5 years. The company has invested considerably in this project to ensure a good start to 2013. There is no better […]
Christmas Canapés from Canopies UK
Canapé Bites Tomato and Basil Bites Preheat the oven to 220c/200c fan, gas mark 7. Line 2 x baking sheets with baking parchment. Take 320g of ready-made puff pastry and halve the sheet widthways. Using half of the pastry lay it on a floured surface and cut into 24 pieces. With a sharp knife […]
Christmas traditions around the world
Christmas is celebrated in many different ways around the world, varying by country and region. Many areas of the world have elements in common such as Christmas trees, wreaths, Christmas stockings and the Nativity. Christmas carols are generally sung and stories are often told of figures such as Baby Jesus, Santa Claus, Father Christmas, ...
Fundraising ideas to boost your canopy fund!
Here at Canopies UK we specialise in high quality, self-supporting school canopies and freestanding school shelters. If you are looking for a covered walkway, covered playground or an outdoor seating area but the funds are a little low, why not try getting the community, parents and pupils involved with some fundraising events to top ...
Is your home protected for the winter?
The cold nights are drawing in and being prepared for winter can help us to stay safe. Below are some tips on protecting you and your home. Good planning can also help to reduce maintenance and utility costs. To save energy, during the day heat only the rooms that you are using and warm […]
Winter is coming!
Have you dug out your hats, scarves and gloves and put on your thermals? It seems that after three years of quite harsh winters which included high levels of rainfall, long periods of freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall we can likely expect the same this year. While snow falling can be fun and waking […]
Canopies UK to install additional canopy at Manchester Communication Academy
Canopies UK carried out a double canopy installation in 2011 at the newly-built Manchester Communication Academy. Due to the success of the project the Academy has been in contact and asked them to install a 3rd canopy for a different area. Previously, the Academy called in Canopies UK to install two large canopies over an outdoor ...
Canopy colours!
What is the purpose of the canopy and what area is the canopy for, are the most important questions to answer when making a decision about an outdoor canopy? Equally important is how the canopy will look; both on the eye and in the surroundings it will be installed. Whether it is a fixed canopy on the building or a free standing canopy away ...
Why choose a canopy from Canopies UK
As the UKs largest supplier and manufacturer of outdoor canopy solutions, with over 20 years manufacturing experience, it is no wonder Canopies UK are the 1st choice for homeowners and commercial premises when looking for a canopy system. We have supplied over 30,000 canopies to customers throughout the UK and they have ranged from individual ...
Protect your caravan with a canopy
For many caravan enthusiasts autumn and winter can bring many challenges, especially in protecting your caravan against the elements. If you are a keen enthusiast then you will be going away all year round (even in the winter), by doing this you will be helping to keep the caravan maintained, noticing any problems that may occur due to ...
Great North Run – Breast Cancer Care
Robert Cassidy the Marketing Manager at Canopies UK competed in the 2012 Great North Run on the 16th September, running for his chosen charity of Breast Cancer Care. After lots of training he braved the elements and took his place in the 2nd largest participated half marathon in the world. The run is the premier event in the Great […]
Grants for schools
Grants for schools At Canopies UK we understand that all schools want to improve their facilities whether it is the latest technology, equipment for sports or improvements to the building. In tough economic times it is always good to understand what grants you may be able to apply for. Below are a couple of bodies that are […]
Successful nursing home photo shoot
Canopies UK recently completed a photography shoot at Little Gaynes Residential Care Home in Upminster. Having supplied and installed the white cantilevered canopy in July, the care home owner was more than happy to allow us to spend an afternoon with a local photographer to take some shots of the canopy, but more importantly shoot some ...
Safety first at Canopies UK
Before any of our canopies can be supplied and installed, whether it be for a domestic or commercial location they have to go through a series of tests. It is important that we understand the durability and strength of our canopies so that we can offer peace of mind to the customer, by giving them the knowledge that our products […]
Why school canopies are important in getting children outdoors!
At Canopies UK we are proud to be the largest supplier and manufacturer of outdoor canopy systems to the education sector, having installed at over 4000 educational facilities. Outdoor learning is strongly encouraged by OFSTED and the Education Secretary’s manifesto ‘Every Child Matters’. This manifesto states: Every ...
‘100 in 100’ Apprenticeship campaign
Industry-leading canopy supplier Canopies UK has signed up to a government initiative to help generate more apprenticeship opportunities in the North West. MD Elaine Morris explains: “The 100 in 100 campaign is a great local initiative, the aim is to recruit 100 apprentices in 100 days throughout the North West. The programme will not ...
Sunburn protection
With the British summer underway, we’re all preparing for our annual ration of good weather, but there is a downside to our unusually clear blue skies. Sunburn is your body’s reaction to skin cells being cooked by ultraviolet radiation. The sun’s rays may feel good on your skin, and we all need a little […]
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Canopies built to last
All of our products come with a 10 year guarantee.
We are confident in the quality and craftsmanship of our products.
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The country's leading canopy suppliers.
During more than 25 years in business we have supplied well over 30,000 canopies throughout the UK.
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