Oak Pergola Arches - Compact Goalpost Pergola
A single oak arch rather than a full pergola. For a path, a gateway or a garden too small to carry the larger structure.
"Would definitely recommend if you have a little space to fill in your garden." — Jonquil Henry, Google
"Superbly designed and made structure that has beautifully enhanced our garden." — David Neeson, Trustpilot
"The quality of work is top notch, we could not be happier." — Simon, Trustpilot
Because this piece is highly bespoke, we invite you to contact us to discuss options, timings and pricing.
Made to order in our Devon and Dorset workshops – typically 6–8 weeks
Our seats sit at RHS Wisley, Rosemoor, Harlow Carr and Bridgewater
Meet the Maker
Meet Alex De Bono, a skilled joiner following in his father's footsteps. Working from his Dorset workshop since 2013, Alex is our lead maker for bespoke pergolas - from build through to on-site installation.
Loved by our customers
475+ reviews: rated 5.0/5 independently verified reviews across Google and Trustpilot
Purchasing for your home outside the UK?
We've delivered all over the world. Read about our international delivery options
Questions before you order
What wood do you use?
Oak, as standard, with the sapwood cut out. We can build in other timbers on request.
How big can an arch be?
We make each one to your opening: tell us the width of the path or gateway and the height you want to walk under.
Can it carry a swing seat?
Yes, when we design it for one. Say so at the start so the posts and crossbeam are sized for the load.
Is it delivered and installed?
Yes, by our own team; we can also send it ready to assemble.
How do I look after it?
Very little. Let it weather to silver; clear away algae and dirt with a stiff brush once or twice a year. Green oak will split along the grain as it dries – that is normal and does not weaken it.
Do I need planning permission?
Usually not for a freestanding pergola in a private garden, but height limits apply close to a boundary, and listed buildings and conservation areas have their own rules. Check with your local planning authority if in doubt.
A pergola for a smaller garden
Two posts and a crossbar, like a goalpost – hence the name. We build them to your measurements, in prime oak with the sapwood cut out, jointed and fixed so they stay square.
Whether you live in the city or out in the country, our goal post or single-row pergolas are a wonderful addition to those gardens with limited space. As well as providing an excellent space-saving alternative for our larger timber pergolas, they can also act as dividing points in your garden design, either as a simple stand-alone structure or complete with a beautiful handcrafted swing seat.
For more insights on maximizing the potential of small garden spaces, delve into the expert perspectives of renowned garden designer Clarissa Judd in her featured guest blog.
In their own gardens. In their own words.
For more than twenty years, Sitting Spiritually has been chosen by garden-proud homeowners, country house hotels and estates from the Cotswolds to California. Read what they had to say – in their own words, in their own gardens.
"their experience helped me realise my ideas"
I’d never used a swing seat in my designs before, so this was virgin territory to me. Martin was incredibly helpful and knowledgeable about his products so it was an easy decision to use Sitting Spiritually. Martin was able to use his experience to help me realise my ideas and was savvy when it came to costs, making recommendations so we came in on budget. The delivery process was also brilliant with excellent communication from their delivery agents. The clients are extremely happy and find the seats very comfortable. Top marks! Thank you.
Lizzie Taylor Garden Design
Create a stunning focal point for your garden
What is a pergola arch or goalpost pergola?
The beauty of a bespoke pergola arch is that it can be designed and built from scratch to fit the exact dimensions of your space—no matter how small the area.
It's exactly as it sounds - it's a simpler, more subtle version of the traditional pergola you think of. With only two posts and a 'cross bar', it's comparable in shape to goal posts - hence the name.
As with all our pergolas, the goal post pergola is best-in-class when it comes to handmade outdoor structures. Using premium joinery-grade oak, larch, or Douglas Fir, with no sapwood or knots, these stunning garden features will not succumb to rot or twisting. Our pergolas are built to last.
So, if you’re looking for that statement piece for your smaller garden this year, or perhaps you have just the seed of an idea, please do get in touch. Let us help you build the perfect pergola for your space.
Looking for a goal post pergola for your smaller garden? Make an enquiry today
Create the natural look
Despite their reduced size, our goal post pergolas are perfectly suited for growing a whole range of creeping plants or vines to create that natural look in your city garden. Whether it’s wisteria or elegant honeysuckle, bring a touch of the countryside to your urban space with a single-row pergola, and let nature do the rest…
Something beautiful for our garden
What a wonderful company to deal with! Every question answered quickly and our beautiful oak pergola with swing seat was delivered on time and the pieces stacked so carefully ready for assembly. We are enjoying planning the planting of scented climbers to grow up and over the frame - a real treat in our little garden.
Donnas, Trustpilot Review
Updating page...