Best Places to Buy Wood Stain in the UK: A Shopper’s Guide to Colour, Finish and Value

Why choosing the right stain matters

Stain might seem like a tiny step in a big DIY or renovation project, but it’s one of the most powerful. A good stain enhances grain, changes tone, protects against the elements, and can make cheap timber look premium. Pick the wrong type or colour and you’ll live with it for years; pick well and a simple coat can transform a tired door, deck or piece of furniture into something you’re proud of. If you’re shopping in the UK, knowing where to buy, what to buy and how to apply it saves time, money and frustration.

Top UK stores to buy stains (where to hunt for the perfect finish)

From massive DIY chains to specialist timber finish shops, the UK has plenty of outlets selling stains and associated products. Below I highlight well-known retailers and niche suppliers where you can find a wide range of options, whether you want an economical exterior deck stain or a premium, low-VOC interior wood finish.

B&Q

B&Q is a go-to for many homeowners because of its wide range and easy-to-navigate stores. You’ll find popular brands such as Ronseal and Cuprinol, plus B&Q’s own branded stains. It’s a good place to compare colours in-store and pick up brushes, sandpaper and stain mixing tins to get you started.

Wickes

Wickes often stocks trade-quality stains alongside popular consumer brands. Wickes is handy for last-minute purchases and larger projects, especially if you need coverage figures in imperial terms — for example stains that cover roughly 200–400 sq ft per gallon depending on timber and prep.

Screwfix

Screwfix tends to attract tradespeople, so you’ll often find higher-performance stains and specialist products such as solvent-based wood preservatives and decking oils. Screwfix’s compact store format and click-and-collect option make it practical for urgent tools and consumables.

Homebase

Homebase balances value and variety and is a solid spot for mid-range stains. Their range covers interior wood stains, exterior stains and clear finishes, plus lots of accessories — useful if you like doing everything in one trip.

Travis Perkins & Jewson (timber merchants)

If you’re working on large projects or using specific timber grades, traditional timber merchants like Travis Perkins and Jewson are worth visiting. They stock specialist wood treatments, wood preservatives and merchant-grade stains that perform well on structural wood, cladding and fencing.

Toolstation

Toolstation is another trade-friendly option where you can find quick-turnaround supplies, small containers for touch-ups and trade finishes meant to stand up to heavy use. They’re handy for tools and accessories too.

Wood Finishes Direct and specialist retailers

For premium brands such as Osmo, Liberon and Rubio Monocoat, specialist retailers like Wood Finishes Direct or independent woodworking shops are great. These outlets offer expert advice, a broader palette of shades and often sample pots so you can test a colour on a scrap piece of wood first.

Amazon UK and online marketplaces

If you prefer shopping from your sofa, Amazon UK and other online marketplaces list almost every brand, from economy stains to high-end oils. The big advantage is choice and quick delivery — but don’t forget to check for sample pots and read reviews carefully to avoid colour surprises.

Types of wood stain: an easy guide

Stains aren’t all the same. Different base chemistries and finishes are designed for different jobs. Understanding the basic types helps you match product to purpose and timber type.

Oil-based stains

Oil-based stains penetrate deeply and are great for exterior fences, decking and furniture that need robust protection. They typically offer rich, deep colours and are forgiving during application, but drying times are longer. Coverage will vary — expect around 200–350 sq ft per gallon on rough exterior timber.

Water-based stains

Water-based stains dry faster, have lower odor and are better for indoor use where ventilation may be limited. They raise the grain slightly, so light sanding between coats is sometimes helpful. Coverage tends to be similar to oil-based products, around 250–400 sq ft per gallon on smooth, prepared wood.

Gel stains and tinted varnishes

Gel stains sit on the surface rather than soaking in, which makes them useful for vertical surfaces, cabinetry and restoration when you want a consistent colour without blotching. Tinted varnishes combine colour with surface protection and are handy for furniture where you want both stain and clear coat in one product.

Interior vs exterior stains: know the difference

Not all stains are formulated to handle the same conditions. Exterior stains include UV blockers, mildewcides and water resistance to protect against rain and sunlight. Interior stains prioritise appearance and low odor. Using exterior stain indoors (or vice versa) can lead to poor results — for example an exterior product might off-gas more, while an interior product may degrade quickly outdoors.

How to choose the right colour and finish

Colour selection is part science, part gut feeling. Think about the wood species, the room or environment, and how much grain you want to show. Light stains preserve the wood’s natural character, while darker stains create drama and depth. Sheens vary from matte to gloss — matte hides imperfections, gloss highlights grain and is easier to wipe clean. Always test a sample on the actual wood under your room’s lighting before committing to a full application.

Preparing wood for staining: the steps that matter

Good preparation often beats a premium product. Strip old finishes if necessary, sand progressively from rough to fine grit, and remove dust with a tack cloth. For new exterior timber, allow it to weather slightly or use a prep wash to remove mill glaze. If you’re staining pine or other resinous woods, consider a wood conditioner to avoid blotchiness.

Sand and clean

Start with roughly 80–100 grit to level out imperfections and work up to 120–180 grit for a smooth finish. Remove dust between sanding steps — dust will trap and ruin the finish if left behind.

Condition and prime where needed

Softwoods and blotchy timbers often benefit from a conditioner. On exterior projects, a base preservative or primer can improve longevity, especially for timber close to the ground or in damp areas.

Applying stain like a pro

Brush, rag or sprayer — which is best? Brushes give control and are great for detail; rags and wipes give a more natural look and are fast on furniture; sprayers are brilliant for even coverage on large surfaces like cladding and decking. Work with the grain, wipe off excess promptly to avoid tackiness, and follow manufacturer drying times closely.

Coverage and coats

Most stains require one to two coats, depending on desired depth. Manufacturers often quote coverage in sq ft per gallon; interior stains on well-prepared wood can reach higher ends of the range, exterior rough-sawn timber the lower end. Remember: applying too thick a coat reduces drying speed and increases the chance of runs.

Tools and accessories you’ll need

Don’t skimp on brushes and cleaning supplies. Synthetic brushes suit water-based products, natural-bristle is best with oils. Keep a supply of lint-free rags, plastic mixing pots, and sandpaper in varying grits. For decking, invest in a stiff broom or decking brush for cleaning and maintenance rather than relying solely on pressure washing.

Maintenance and longevity: keeping stain looking fresh

Maintenance varies by product and exposure. Exterior stains may need a refresh every 1–3 years depending on climate and UV exposure. Regular cleaning, quick repairs to damaged areas, and re-coating when water no longer beads on the surface will extend life. For high-traffic interior items, a top coat of clear varnish or wax can add abrasion resistance.

Health, safety and eco considerations

Look for low-VOC choices if indoor air quality is a concern. Water-based stains typically emit fewer solvents, but the finish might not be as durable in harsh exterior conditions. Always use adequate ventilation, wear gloves and eye protection, and dispose of solvent-soaked rags safely to avoid fire risk. Specialist stores and timber merchants can advise on eco-friendly options and safe removal of older solvent-based finishes.

Buying tips: get the best value and results

Shop around. Big chains often have competitive prices and range; trade suppliers and specialist shops can offer better technical advice or professional-grade products. Buy sample pots where possible to test on real wood. Consider coverage (sq ft per gallon), drying time, and whether you need matching topcoats or cleaners. Comparison sites and customer reviews are useful for spotting bargains and avoiding discontinued shades.

Colour trends and matching to interiors

Neutral, warm browns and grey-washed tones remain popular because they tie into both traditional and contemporary schemes. Dark ebony stains create a high-contrast modern look, while honey and golden tones keep spaces feeling warm and natural. When matching to flooring or furniture, lay swatches side by side in natural light — small differences in undertone can make a big difference once the whole piece is finished.

Common mistakes to avoid

Applying stain to dirty wood, skipping a sample test, or coating too thickly are mistakes I see again and again. Another common error is not accounting for the final finish — if you plan to topcoat with varnish, test how the varnish alters the colour. Lastly, don’t assume colour chips in a store represent final shade; light and wood species change how stain looks.

Where to get professional advice

If you’re unsure, ask staff at specialist retailers, timber merchants or a local paint shop. They can recommend brands suited to UK weather conditions, suggest eco-friendly alternatives and guide you on correct prep. Some stores even offer colour-matching services and small sample tins so you can trial before committing to gallons for a big job.

In short, buying the right stain in the UK comes down to product type, intended use, colour selection and where you shop. Big chains are convenient for one-stop purchases, while trade suppliers and niche retailers provide depth and expertise. Do your prep, test a sample, follow application guidance and you’ll be rewarded with wood that looks great and lasts.

Conclusion: Stain smart and shop well — the right product and the right store make all the difference. Whether you’re reviving an old table, protecting a deck or finishing bespoke joinery, knowing the options and following the basics will help you get a professional-looking result every time.