Garden Gate Security and Locks UK¶

Guide to securing garden gates, side entrances, and pedestrian access points with UK-approved locks, hinges, and anti-tamper hardware.

Gate Lock Options for UK Gardens¶

Garden gates are a weak point - ONS data shows 34% of burglars enter through a side or rear gate. Gateman, Yale, and Lockmaster offer padlocks from £8 to £50 and mortice deadlocks from £25 to £80. A 5-lever mortice deadlock meeting British Standard BS3621 is recommended. Keyed-alike systems from B&Q allow one key for all gates. Gateman combination locks (£22 - £45) avoid lost key issues and offer 10,000+ code combinations.

Reinforcing Gate Hinges and Frames¶

Weak hinges are the #1 entry method for wooden garden gates. Install 305mm T-hinges with 12mm coach screws into the gate frame. Use hinge bolts with grub screws (anti-tamper) to prevent gate lifting. For metal gates, weld hinge bolts directly. Concrete or metal gate posts are far more secure than timber. Add a drop bolt at ground level for extra rigidity. Treat timber gates annually with preservative to prevent rot at hinge points - rot reduces strength by up to 60%.

Specifications and Comparison¶

Lock Type	Security Level	Price	Brand	BS Standard
Padlock	Medium	£8 - £50	Yale	No
Mortice Deadlock	High	£25 - £80	Lockmaster	BS3621
Combination Lock	Medium	£22 - £45	Gateman	No
Wheel Lock Ground Post	High	£15 - £30	Screwfix	N/A

FAQ¶

What is the best lock for a wooden garden gate?: A 5-lever mortice deadlock certified to BS3621 with a keyed-alike system. Supplement with a padlock and hasp for double security.
Can I fit a lock to a metal gate?: Yes - weld a lock box to the frame and use a shrouded padlock. Mortice locks can be retrofitted if the gate tube is wide enough.
How do I stop my gate being lifted off its hinges?: Fit hinge bolts with grub screws on T-hinges, or weld an anti-lift bracket on metal gates. A ground-level drop bolt also prevents lifting. For more information see our Garden Fence Security and Maintenance UK.

Last updated: 2026-05-31.

External Resources¶

For further information consult authority guidelines at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.