That's an excellent and very practical question! While it might be tempting to simply place your beautiful new garden bench directly onto the lawn, I generally don't recommend it. You *can* do it, but you'll likely encounter several problems. Let me explain why a base is almost always a better idea.
Placing a bench directly on grass can lead to instability and wobbling as the ground softens with rain or irrigation. More importantly, the legs will slowly sink into the soil, creating an uneven and potentially unsafe seating area. This constant moisture and soil contact also accelerates rot in wooden legs and causes rust on metal ones, significantly shortening your bench's lifespan.
So, what should you do? The answer is to create a simple, stable base. For most situations, using solid patio pavers or concrete slabs is the perfect solution. Simply level a spot slightly larger than the bench's footprint, lay down the pavers on a bed of compacted gravel or sand for drainage, and place your bench on top. This distributes the weight evenly, prevents sinking, and keeps the legs dry.
For a more natural look in a cottage garden, you can use a bed of decorative gravel or crushed stone. Ensure you dig out a shallow area, line it with landscape fabric to suppress weeds, and fill it with several inches of stone before positioning the bench. This method offers excellent drainage and stability.
In short, taking that extra hour to install a proper base will save you from future headaches. It ensures your bench remains level, safe, and a charming fixture in your garden for many years to come, rather than a wobbly, sinking afterthought. Your back—and your bench—will thank you!