When you’ve got a large garden in the UK, mowing can be a daunting task—unless you have the right petrol lawn mower. For large lawns, you need a powerful, efficient, and easy-to-use mower that can cover a lot of ground without breaking a sweat. The best petrol lawn mowers for large gardens combine power, wide cutting decks, and self-propelled features to make mowing quick and easy. Let’s dive into the top choices available in the UK for 2024!
What Makes a Petrol Lawn Mower Ideal for Large Gardens?
- Wide Cutting Width: A wider cutting width (20 inches or more) reduces the number of passes required to mow the lawn, saving time and effort.
- Powerful Engine: A robust engine (160cc and above) is necessary to handle thick grass and varied terrain without bogging down.
- Self-Propelled Drive: Reduces the physical effort needed to push the mower, especially on sloped or uneven terrain.
- Large Grass Collector: A bigger grass box means fewer stops to empty clippings, making the mowing process more efficient.
- Durability: Sturdy construction to handle frequent use over large areas.
Top Petrol Lawn Mowers for Large Gardens in the UK (2024)
Here’s a detailed list of some of the best-rated petrol lawn mowers suitable for large gardens in the UK, based on engine power, cutting width, ease of use, and overall value.
| Model | Engine Power | Cutting Width | Self-Propelled | Grass Collector Size | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda HRX537 HY | 187cc | 21 inches (53 cm) | Yes | 85 litres | Hydrostatic drive, Versamow selective mulching, reliable build. | ££££ |
| Hyundai HYM530SPE | 196cc | 21 inches (53 cm) | Yes | 70 litres | Electric start, rear-wheel drive, mulching option, foldable handle. | £££ |
| Mountfield SP555V | 167cc | 21 inches (53 cm) | Yes | 70 litres | Variable speed, Twinclip blade, anti-scalp plate, ergonomic design. | ££££ |
| Cobra MX534SPH | 167cc | 21 inches (53 cm) | Yes | 65 litres | Honda engine, 4-in-1 mowing function, robust steel deck. | £££ |
| Webb Supreme WER21HW | 173cc | 21 inches (53 cm) | Yes | 70 litres | High-wheel design, 4-in-1 function, easy-pull recoil start. | ££ |
1. Honda HRX537 HY – Best Overall Premium Option
The Honda HRX537 HY is considered the gold standard when it comes to petrol lawn mowers for large gardens. It features a powerful 187cc Honda GCV200 engine and a 21-inch (53 cm) cutting width, perfect for covering large areas efficiently. The hydrostatic drive allows you to easily adjust the mowing speed, while the Versamow selective mulching system lets you choose between mulching, bagging, discharging, or shredding leaves without needing additional tools. Its 85-litre grass collector is one of the largest available, minimizing the frequency of emptying.
- Pros: Superior build quality, variable speed control, large grass collector, versatile cutting options.
- Cons: Higher price point but delivers long-term value.
- Best For: Homeowners with large lawns looking for a top-tier mower with maximum features and reliability.
2. Hyundai HYM530SPE – Best Value with Electric Start
The Hyundai HYM530SPE offers an excellent balance of power, features, and affordability. It comes with a 196cc Hyundai engine and a 21-inch cutting width, making it ideal for medium to large gardens. The electric start function eliminates the hassle of pull-starting, and the rear-wheel drive system provides better traction on uneven terrain. It also offers a 4-in-1 cutting option: cut and collect, cut and drop, side discharge, and mulching.
- Pros: Easy electric start, powerful engine, foldable handle for compact storage.
- Cons: Slightly smaller grass collector compared to other premium models.
- Best For: Those who want a reliable, feature-packed mower at a reasonable price.
3. Mountfield SP555V – Best for Versatility and Comfort
The Mountfield SP555V is a great option for those who value versatility and comfort. Powered by a 167cc Honda GCVx170 engine with a 21-inch cutting width, this mower is designed for large gardens. Its variable speed control allows you to set the pace to your preference, while the Twinclip blade system provides a finer cut, improving lawn appearance. The anti-scalp plate prevents scalping on uneven terrain, making it great for gardens with slopes or undulations.
- Pros: Variable speed control, ergonomic handle, excellent mulching capability.
- Cons: Slightly more expensive than some competitors but worth it for the added features.
- Best For: Large gardens with varied terrain or slopes, and users looking for maximum control.
4. Cobra MX534SPH – Best for Durability and Performance
The Cobra MX534SPH is a durable and robust mower equipped with a 167cc Honda engine and a 21-inch cutting deck. This model offers a 4-in-1 mowing function—collecting, mulching, side discharge, and rear discharge—giving you flexibility depending on the grass condition. The steel deck ensures longevity, and the large 65-litre grass bag reduces the frequency of stops for emptying clippings.
- Pros: Reliable Honda engine, versatile cutting options, strong steel deck.
- Cons: Slightly smaller grass collector, but still sufficient for most large gardens.
- Best For: Users who want a durable mower that can handle tough conditions and varied mowing tasks.
5. Webb Supreme WER21HW – Best Budget-Friendly Choice
The Webb Supreme WER21HW is a great option for those looking for an affordable petrol mower that doesn’t compromise on quality. It features a 173cc engine and a 21-inch cutting width, perfect for large lawns. The high-wheel design provides better maneuverability on rough terrain, while the 4-in-1 function (collect, mulch, rear discharge, side discharge) adds versatility.
- Pros: Affordable, easy to start, versatile mowing options.
- Cons: Slightly less powerful than some premium models but still sufficient for most large gardens.
- Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners who need a reliable mower for a large garden.
How to Choose the Right Petrol Lawn Mower for a Large Garden
Key Considerations
- Cutting Width:
- For large gardens, a mower with a cutting width of at least 21 inches (53 cm) is ideal. This allows for fewer passes, saving time and effort.
- Engine Power:
- A powerful engine (160cc and above) is essential for handling thick grass and large areas without stalling.
- Self-Propelled Feature:
- A self-propelled mower is crucial for reducing the effort needed to push the mower, especially on sloped or uneven terrain.
- Grass Collector Capacity:
- Larger grass collectors (70 litres and above) minimize the need to stop and empty clippings, improving efficiency.
- Cutting Options:
- Mowers with multiple cutting options (mulching, bagging, side discharge) provide flexibility based on grass type and user preference.
Maintenance Tips for Your Petrol Lawn Mower
- Regular Oil Changes: Keeps the engine in optimal condition and prevents breakdowns.
- Sharpen the Blades: Sharp blades ensure a clean cut, which is healthier for the lawn.
- Clean the Deck: Remove grass clippings and debris after each use to prevent rust and maintain performance.
- Check Air Filters: Regularly clean or replace air filters to maintain engine efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right petrol lawn mower for a large garden in the UK involves considering engine power, cutting width, features, and overall build quality. Whether you opt for the premium Honda HRX537 HY, the feature-rich Hyundai HYM530SPE, or the budget-friendly Webb Supreme WER21HW, there’s a reliable mower to meet your needs. Evaluate what features are most important for your lawn care routine, and invest in a mower that will keep your large garden looking immaculate with minimal effort.