Best Shutters in the UK: Styles, Prices, and Where to Buy

Why Shutters Are a Smart Choice for UK Homes

If you’re thinking about a stylish update that also adds function, shutters are one of the best moves you can make. They lend instant character to a room, control light with precision, and can even improve insulation. Shutters suit everything from a cosy cottage to a contemporary flat, and they’re especially popular in the UK for their tidy look and longevity. Want privacy without blocking the view? Shutters let you angle the light just right.

Popular Shutter Styles Explained

There’s more variety in shutters than many people realise. Picking a style first narrows down materials and costs, and helps you visualise the finished space. Below are the core styles you’ll see across UK retailers and specialist makers.

Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters are the classic go-to—wide louvers, clean lines and a modern feel. The typical louvre widths range from about 2.5 inches to 3.5 inches, which translates into a bold look that still gives great light control. These work well in living rooms and bedrooms where you want a polished, architectural finish.

Tier-on-Tier Shutters

Tier-on-tier shutters split the window into two independently operating sections. Imagine the top and bottom acting separately—perfect for ground-floor rooms where you want privacy at the bottom but daylight from the top. They’re stylish and very practical for front rooms and bathrooms alike.

Full-Height Shutters

Full-height shutters cover the entire window from top to bottom and create a strong statement. They’re ideal for tall windows or French doors and help to provide consistent insulation and privacy. If you want a uniform look across a whole wall of windows, full-height is the way to go.

Café-Style Shutters

Café-style shutters cover only the lower half of the window, leaving the top open to light. Think of a cosy café—privacy where you need it, light where you want it. These are charming in kitchens and dining areas and give a relaxed, country-house vibe.

Materials: Choosing Between Real Wood and Alternatives

The material you choose affects price, durability and the look. In the UK market you’ll commonly see real hardwood, engineered woods, faux wood and PVC alternatives. Each has pros and cons depending on room use and budget.

Real Hardwood Shutters

Hardwood shutters offer an authentic grain and a premium finish. They’re generally more expensive, but they age beautifully and can be painted or stained. If you want a heritage look or you’re refurbishing a period property, hardwood is hard to beat.

Faux Wood and Composite Options

Faux wood and composite shutters mimic the look of timber but stand up better to moisture—ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. They’re often lighter on the wallet and resist warping in humid conditions. If you have a tight budget but still want a shutter feel, these are worth considering.

PVC and Vinyl Shutters

PVC or vinyl shutters are the lowest-cost option and are virtually maintenance-free. They’re durable in damp rooms and easy to wipe clean. The finish can be a bit less refined than real wood, but for utility rooms, bathrooms or rental properties they offer strong value.

Top UK Retailers and Specialist Makers to Consider

Whether you want bespoke, made-to-measure shutters or a ready-made kit, UK shoppers have a range of choices. From nationwide DIY chains to specialist companies focused solely on shutters, each option brings different strengths.

Hillarys

Hillarys is a long-standing UK name known for made-to-measure window coverings. They offer in-home measuring and fitting, a breadth of styles, and frequent promotions. If you prefer a turnkey service from measurement through to final fit, Hillarys is a sensible place to start comparing quotes.

Shuttercraft

Shuttercraft specialises in handcrafted shutters and tends to focus on premium, bespoke solutions. Their range often includes hardwood plantation shutters and tailored designs for tricky windows like bays or arched tops. Expect expert installation and a strong focus on finish quality.

The Shutter Store and The Online Specialists

Online shutter specialists often undercut high-street prices because they sell direct and offer simple remote measuring guides. Companies such as The Shutter Store and other online makers provide good value for standard window sizes, with clear options for materials and finishes. If you’re comfortable measuring yourself, this route can be very cost-effective.

DIY Chains: B&Q, Wickes and Homebase

Large DIY chains offer a mix of ready-made shutters and some made-to-measure options. Their advantage is accessibility and the ability to buy off the shelf for straightforward windows. If you’re fitting shutters in a rental or a temporary setting, a ready-made kit from one of these stores might be ideal.

Department Stores: John Lewis

John Lewis sometimes offers higher-end window treatments and partners with specialist suppliers. Their proposition tends to be a balance of quality and customer service, and they’re a trusted place to explore mid-range options and stylish finishes.

How Much Do Shutters Cost in the UK?

Cost varies widely depending on material, style, window size, and whether you choose fitted installation. Expect to pay anywhere from around £80 for a simple small ready-made panel to £800 or more for a single large made-to-measure plantation shutter panel. For a typical medium window about 3 feet by 4 feet, a good-quality made-to-measure set might land in the £300 to £600 range when fitted.

Price Ranges by Type

Ready-made panels: roughly £50 to £200 per panel depending on material and size. Made-to-measure basic faux wood: approximately £150 to £400 per window. Hardwood plantation, bespoke: often £400 to £1,200 per window including fitting, especially for complex shapes like bays. Always get multiple quotes to see real prices for your exact windows.

Measuring Your Windows: A Simple Guide (Using Inches and Feet)

Before you buy, accurate measuring is crucial. Made-to-measure shutters depend on precise dimensions, whereas ready-made panels require standard sizes. Here’s a quick measuring checklist using imperial units to help you avoid common mistakes.

Step 1: Decide on Frame or Reveal Fit

For a reveal fit, you measure the inside of the window recess. Use a tape and measure the width at the top, middle and bottom in inches—write down the smallest measurement. Do the same for height at the left, centre and right—again record the smallest. For a frame fit that sits outside the recess, measure the total area you want covered, adding a couple of inches on each side if you want more blackout or overlap.

Step 2: Measuring Bay Windows and Arches

Bay windows are trickier—measure each flat face separately in inches and note the angle if possible. For arched tops, measure the full height to the top of the arch and the width across the widest point. Specialist makers can work with these dimensions but will usually need photos or a site visit for an accurate quote.

DIY Installation vs Professional Fitting

Can you fit shutters yourself? Yes, if you’re handy and your windows are standard. Many homeowners with basic DIY skills install shutters successfully. Yet for bay windows, arched windows or high, heavy panels, professional fitting ensures a perfect finish. If you choose pro fitting, factor labour into the budget—expect to pay an extra 10 to 25 percent of the product cost for expert installation.

Styling Tips: Match Shutters to Your Home

Shutters can be subtle or striking. For a modern interior, choose full-height plantation shutters in a crisp white or pale paint. In older homes, natural stained hardwood adds warmth and period authenticity. Café-style shutters work wonderfully in kitchens—pair them with natural wood countertops or painted cabinetry for a cohesive look.

Colour and Finish Choices

White remains the most popular choice because it brightens rooms and blends with most décor. If you want contrast, consider dark stained wood in a room with pale walls for dramatic effect. Many makers also offer bespoke paint matches if you want shutters to match existing woodwork or skirting.

Maintenance and Longevity

Shutters are generally low maintenance. A regular dust with a soft cloth or vacuum brush keeps louvers clean. In kitchens and bathrooms, wipe down PVC or composite shutters with a damp cloth. Hardwood may need an occasional polish or touch-up, especially in sunny rooms where finish can fade over many years.

Energy Savings and Practical Benefits

Shutters can reduce drafts and help regulate temperature, adding an extra layer between the glass and your room. In colder months, a well-fitted shutter can reduce heat loss—think of shutters as a simple, stylish insulation layer. They also improve privacy and can increase perceived property value thanks to their durable, long-lasting nature.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Measure twice and order once. One of the most common errors is using the wrong dimension—always measure in inches and record the smallest values for reveal fits. Another pitfall is choosing a material unsuited to the room; don’t put a delicate hardwood in a steamy bathroom. Finally, read installation instructions or hire fitters for complicated windows to avoid gaps and poor alignment.

Finding the Best Deal: Comparison and Timing

Shop around and compare like-for-like quotes. Specialist companies and big retailers often run seasonal sales around bank holidays and late summer, so timing your purchase can save money. Also, check for sample panels or swatch services—seeing the finish in your own light helps avoid costly returns or remakes.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options

If sustainability matters to you, look for shutters made from FSC-certified timber or recycled composites. Some suppliers offer low-VOC paints and finishes, which help with indoor air quality. Choosing durable shutters reduces waste in the long run compared with short-lived window coverings.

Final Thoughts Before You Buy

Shutters are an investment that pays off in looks and function. Decide on the style and material that match your home, measure carefully using inches and feet, and compare quotes between specialists and larger retailers. Whether you go bespoke or choose a ready-made option from a DIY chain, there’s a shutter solution to fit most budgets and tastes.

Take your time, request samples, and visualise how light will interact with slats in your space. A well-chosen shutter can transform a room like nothing else—think of them as the architectural jewelry for your windows.

Conclusion

Choosing shutters in the UK gives you flexibility, style and practical benefits. From plantation shutters in timber to composite alternatives for humid rooms, there’s an option for every home and budget. Measure carefully in inches and feet, compare retailers and fitting options, and pick a style that enhances your décor. With the right choice, shutters will bring charm, privacy, and light control for years to come.