What belongs in this collection?
These are the pieces that make somebody stop and look twice. The current range covers 92 in-stock designs, from a small cast-metal mouse to full-size stone chess pieces. You will also find gargoyles, dragons, oversized hands, mushroom families and literary characters.
We have kept contemporary art separate. Abstract figures and gallery-style work now sit under modern garden sculptures. This page is reserved for unusual garden ornaments with humour, character or an unexpected subject.
“I use a simple test for this range. A piece has to prompt a question or make someone smile. The subject matters more than whether it is stone or metal.”
Matt, Garden Ornaments
Four ways to narrow the range
Small character pieces
Try a tabletop or border ornament when space is tight. The Mouse on Cheese costs £39 and works without a plinth.
Gothic subjects
Gargoyles, devils and mythical figures suit walls, gates and shaded borders. Browse gargoyles and grotesques for a tighter choice.
Oversized forms
Hand statues and large character pieces need room around them. Check the height, width, base and weight before deciding where they will sit.
Garden games
The Stone Chess Set is the largest item in this collection at £3,500. Plan access and a level base before delivery.
Unusual ornament types compared
| Type | Good position | What to check | Related range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small animal or character | Table, wall or front of border | Visibility among planting | Animal ornaments |
| Gargoyle or mythical figure | Gate, wall or shaded corner | Stable base and viewing angle | Gargoyles |
| Oversized hand, Matt's pick | Open border or patio edge | Scale and carrying weight | Giant Left Hand |
| Full garden set | Lawn or dedicated paved area | Delivery route and total footprint | Stone Chess Set |
Before you order
Mark the listed footprint on the ground with pots or chalk. Then view it from the house and the main path. This catches most scale mistakes. Heavy stone pieces should stand on firm, level paving rather than soft soil. Place small items where planting will not hide them by midsummer.
Read our guide to gothic garden ornaments, see 2026 garden ornament trends, or compare garden statue types. For substantial traditional pieces, use large stone garden ornaments.
Frequently asked questions
What makes a garden ornament unusual?
Its subject or scale is unexpected. This range favours humour, character, gothic themes and oversized forms.
Are modern sculptures included here?
No, contemporary art has its own collection. Visit modern garden sculptures for abstract figures and sculpture-led pieces.
How do I judge the size online?
Use the listed dimensions on the ground. Mark the footprint, then view it from the house and main path.
Can heavy ornaments stand on soil?
A hard, level base is safer. Soft soil can settle and leave a tall or heavy ornament leaning.
How should I choose a gift?
Start with the recipient's interests. Animals, literary characters and small metal pieces are easier than large statues.