Quick answer
Start with your garden, not the product. Measure the flat area, leave generous clear space around it and pick the largest size that fits – often 10ft or 12ft for a family. Then choose a shape: rectangular for the most even bounce, oval as a middle ground, round for small spaces and budgets. Finally check the enclosure, pads, springs, frame and spare-part support. Short on time? Go straight to our best trampolines list.
1. Measure your garden first
Most trampoline regrets come down to space. Measure the level area where it will stand and remember that a trampoline needs clear space on every side: no fences, trees, sheds, walls, patio edges or low branches at jumping height. The manufacturer's manual states how much clearance is required, and that is the figure to plan around. Look up as well as around – a branch that seems high from the lawn can be in the way when someone is bouncing.
The surface matters too. Level grass or another soft, even surface is the usual choice. A slope makes the frame sit at an angle and increases the chance of it moving, so level the ground or choose another spot. In exposed gardens the trampoline needs anchoring – an anchor kit is a small cost compared with a trampoline blown into a neighbour's garden.
2. Pick a size for your space and your jumpers
Once you know the space, choose the size. A larger jumping area gives more room to move and makes it easier to stay in the centre, but takes more of the garden and costs more. In the UK round trampolines are sold by diameter in feet – 8ft, 10ft, 12ft and 14ft are the most common – while rectangular and oval models are given as length by width. Our trampoline size guide goes through each size in detail.
| Size | Usually suits | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| 8ft | Small gardens, younger children | Limited room to move. See 8ft |
| 10ft | Most family gardens | A popular all-rounder. See 10ft |
| 12ft | Families with two or more children | Needs a good-sized lawn. See 12ft |
| 14ft | Large gardens, older children | Needs a lot of clear space. See 14ft |
| Rectangular 3.5 × 2.5 m and up | Even bounce, tricks, gymnastics | Needs a long, narrow space |
Treat the table as a rough guide rather than a rule. The age and number of jumpers and the space available matter more than any single measurement. The manufacturer always states a recommended minimum age and maximum user weight, and those limits should be followed.
3. Choose a shape: rectangular, oval or round
Shape changes how a trampoline feels. On a round trampoline every spring pulls towards the centre, so the jumper is drawn back to the middle. A rectangular trampoline gives a more even bounce across more of the mat, which is why it is preferred for tricks and gymnastics. Oval sits in between, giving a longer jumping area than a round one without being as long and narrow as a rectangle.
| Shape | Strength | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Rectangular | Most even bounce, good for tricks | Usually pricier, needs a long space |
| Oval | Longer jumping area, easy turn-taking | Bounce varies more than rectangular |
| Round | Compact, centres the jumper | Less even bounce near the edge |
We cover the differences in more depth in rectangular vs round vs oval trampolines.
4. Springs, frame and mat
Springs do most of the work. Manufacturers often name their springs by model or tier – North, for example, uses S400, S700 and S1200 Pro. We classify these as standard, reinforced and pro based on the manufacturer's own tiers; that is our classification, not a measured value. Some retailers also state the number of springs, but a higher count alone does not guarantee a better bounce.
The frame should be rigid and protected against rust. Brands describe their frames with their own names such as "Heavy Duty" or "Pro". The mat – the jumping surface – is often called a performance mat on higher-end models. Where a figure is missing we show "n/a" in the comparison rather than guessing.
5. Safety: enclosure, pads and entrance
A safety net enclosure and a pad covering the springs and frame are basics for most families. Check whether the net seals against the mat (so nobody can slip between the mat and the frame), whether the entrance closes by itself and whether the springs are fully covered. The European standard for garden trampolines is BS EN 71-14. We only say a product meets it when the manufacturer or retailer states so. Read our trampoline safety guide and browse trampolines with enclosure.
6. In-ground or on legs?
An in-ground trampoline sits flush with the lawn. It is less visible and removes the drop from the edge, but installation means digging and the ground must drain well. See our in-ground trampolines guide and the in-ground trampolines we compare.
7. Warranty, spare parts and assembly
A trampoline lives outside all year, and nets, pads and springs wear. Check how long the manufacturer supplies spare parts and what the warranty covers. North says spare parts exist for all models, and the advertiser states that parts are available for over ten years. For many other brands we do not have the figure and show "n/a". A weather cover also extends the life of the mat and pad – see our trampoline cover guide.
Assembly takes time and is best done by two adults. Some models are marketed as screwless or tool-free. Whatever you buy, follow the manual step by step and check that every spring and net pole is secure before the first bounce.
8. Price and value
Prices vary widely, from simple garden trampolines to premium models costing well over £1,000. A higher price usually brings stronger springs, thicker pads, more safety features and longer spare-part support – but not always. Our scores are based on specifications, and commission never affects them. See how we compare, or put two models side by side in the compare tool.
How to use our comparison
Every product in our comparison is shown with the details the manufacturer or retailer actually states. If a figure is missing – maximum user weight, warranty length or spring count, for example – we show "n/a" rather than guess. Scores are based on specifications across safety, performance, durability, ease of use and value, and any commission we may earn from retailers never affects them. We have not tested the trampolines hands-on, so use the comparison to quickly rule out models that do not suit you, then read the manufacturer's manual and terms before you decide. We explain exactly how everything is calculated on our how we compare page.
Mistakes to avoid
- Buying the biggest size without allowing for clear space around it.
- Setting the trampoline on a slope or close to fences and trees.
- Skipping anchoring in an exposed garden.
- Choosing on price alone and then finding no spare parts.
- Letting several people jump at once when the manual says otherwise.
Checklist before you buy
- Measure the space and check the clearance in the manual.
- Choose size and shape to suit the space and the jumpers.
- Check the enclosure, pads and entrance.
- Compare springs, frame and maximum user weight.
- Check warranty, spare parts and delivery terms.
Frequently asked questions
What size trampoline should I buy?
The largest size that fits with the clearance stated in the manufacturer's manual. For many families that means a 10ft or 12ft round trampoline, or a rectangular model around 3.5 × 2.5 m.
Is a rectangular trampoline better than a round one?
Rectangular gives a more even bounce and suits tricks and gymnastics. Round takes less space and draws the jumper to the centre. The right choice depends on your garden and how it will be used.
Does a trampoline need a safety net?
For most families, yes. An enclosure and pads reduce the chance of landing off the mat or on the springs. Always follow the manufacturer's manual.
Have you tested these trampolines?
No. We compare using manufacturer and retailer specifications and show "n/a" where data is missing, which is why we never use the phrase "best in test".
How much does a good trampoline cost?
It ranges from a few hundred pounds to well over £1,000 for premium models. See current prices in our trampoline comparison.
Always follow the manufacturer's manual and local regulations. This guide does not replace the instructions supplied with the product.