If you've shopped for garden seating, you've seen this furniture style. It has half a dozen different names. These include companion sets, jack and jill bench, and love seat. They all describe the same thing. The mix of names causes much confusion. Here's what a companion set actually is. Learn why it has many names. Also, find out how to choose the right one for your garden.

What is a companion set?

A companion set has two seats. These are joined by a shared central table. You sit with a small table between you. This is ideal for a cup of tea, book, or drink. Most sets seat two people. Three and four-seater versions add extra chairs. They use the same central table. The table often has a parasol hole. This adds shade on a hot day.

It's the sociable middle ground. It's between a plain garden bench and a full dining set. It's more practical than a bench for chatting. Yet, it's more compact than a table-and-chairs arrangement. This makes companion sets a natural fit. They suit patios, balconies, and smaller gardens. These are places where space is tight.

Why so many names? Jack and jill, tête-à-tête and love seat explained

The different names all refer to the same basic design — they're regional and stylistic variations rather than different products:

• Jack and jill bench — a traditional British name, referring to the two paired seats.
• Tête-à-tête — French for "head to head", describing seats angled towards each other for easier conversation.
• Love seat or garden love bench — emphasises the intimate, two-person nature of the seating.
• Companion set or companion seat — the most common trade term, and the one we use at Bench Store.

If you see any of these terms, you're looking at the same style of furniture. Don't let the naming put you off comparing options.

Angled or straight?

Companion sets come in two configurations. Angled sets turn seats gently towards each other. This makes conversation more comfortable. It also gives a relaxed look. Straight sets keep the seats in line. This suits a more formal setting. It also works against a wall or fence. Both hold the same central table. The choice depends on use and placement.

What to look for in quality companion sets

As with any garden furniture, the material and build determine how long it lasts outdoors. A few things worth checking:

• Timber quality — FSC-certified Scandinavian redwood or a dense hardwood like Roble will outlast cheaper softwoods.
• Treatment — pressure-treated timber resists rot far better than an untreated or lightly painted finish.
• Fittings — galvanised zinc bolts won't rust and streak the wood the way ordinary steel can.
• Guarantee — a rot-free guarantee (Charles Taylor sets carry ten years) tells you the maker stands behind the timber.
• Assembly — check whether it arrives flat-packed or ready to use, and factor in any delivery lead time.

Finding the right companion set

At Bench Store, our garden companion sets are by Charles Taylor. They are handmade in Britain. They use FSC-certified redwood. They also have a 10-year guarantee. Configurations include angled and straight. We are an authorized stockist with 35 years in trade. We handpick every set for quality and comfort. Browse the full companion set range. Or, compare with our wooden garden benches. This helps if you're weighing up a bench.