Best Acoustic Guitars in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update February 8, 2024
An acoustic guitar with a good sound allows you to perform music pieces of almost any music genre. So stop putting off your dream, ...Read more
PROS

Thanks to a hand-made finish, the body looks neat, allowing the guitar to deliver warm and bright tones.

CONS

The materials are a bit soft so the instrument may get damaged during transportation.

OUR VERDICT

A classic acoustic model for beginner and amateur musicians completed in a familiar shape. A somewhat shorter fretboard makes it easier for kids and teens to play. The guitar is made of high-quality wood materials.

detailed parameters
Body Material

Spruce/Meranti

Back Material

Meranti

Fretboard Material

Rosewood

Neck Material

Nato

Number of Strings

6

Hand Orientation

Standard

Extras

N/A

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The walnut fretboard with 3-mm Pearloid dot position inlays is optimal for guitar practice. The scalloped X bracing of the instrument, on the other hand, makes it a tad bit more responsive and the sound richer.

CONS

The basic string set leaves something more to be desired in terms of quality.

OUR VERDICT

Fender guitars are popular not only among beginners but also in more professional circles. And, looking at CD-60 V3, you can clearly see why. Fairly light and nice to the touch, it will be a good option both for recording and practice.

detailed parameters
Body Material

Spruce/Laminated Mahogany

Back Material

Laminated Mahogany

Fretboard Material

Walnut

Neck Material

Mahogany

Number of Strings

6

Hand Orientation

Right-handed

Extras

Set of strings

Warranty

1 year

PROS

Every customer receives a complimentary guitar lesson with an expert teacher. The kit includes a set of spare strings and plectrums.

CONS

Requires regular tuning.

OUR VERDICT

A convenient shape designed specifically for learning the instrument. The guitar is recommended by music teachers and tutors. The model is easy to use and tune, which makes it a perfect choice for beginners starting from the age of 12. 

detailed parameters
Body Material

Basswood/Maple

Back Material

Linden

Fretboard Material

Rosewood

Neck Material

Rosewood

Number of Strings

6

Hand Orientation

Right-handed

Extras

Shoulder strap, Set of strings, Set of picks, Free online lessons, Beginners guide

Warranty

Amazon's 30-day return policy

PROS

The lower part of the fretboard is made of rosewood, while the neck is completed in mahogany, which makes the composition fairly durable. Conversely, the classic E-shape pickguard will protect the lower part of the guitar's body. 

CONS

A slight buzz noise coming from a few frets (requires some tuning to get rid of).

OUR VERDICT

The DR-100 from Epiphone is not only a great-looking guitar but also an excellent acoustic instrument that can compete with some top-of-the-line products when it comes to sound quality. It is a go-to pick for beginners learning how to play and experienced guitar players alike.

detailed parameters
Body Material

Spruce/Mahogany

Back Material

Mahogany

Fretboard Material

Rosewood

Neck Material

Mahogany

Number of Strings

6

Hand Orientation

Right-handed

Extras

Set of strings

Warranty

1 year

PROS

Rich packaging and 6 months of online guitar lessons make this model one of the best beginner kits.

CONS

No second shoulder strap pin.

OUR VERDICT

A full-sized acoustic model with a carry bag and other accessories for learning and playing. Additionally, the steel strings with a dreadnought body and a convenient neck shape make this instrument a great transition model from a small to a regular guitar.

detailed parameters
Body Material

Spruce

Back Material

Nato

Fretboard Material

Rosewood

Neck Material

Nato

Number of Strings

6

Hand Orientation

Right-handed

Extras

Guitar tuner, Shoulder strap, Carry bag, Rock Star Academy 6 months guitar tuition, Set of picks

Warranty

1 year

Bass Guitars Acoustic Guitars

The Sound That Sets a Standard

The fact that this is the model that the majority of guitar teachers recommend already says quite a lot about this particular guitar and the Yamaha brand as well.

The body of the guitar itself is made of a combination of spruce and meranti wood, both of which are really soft to the touch. That being said, the guitar is extremely vulnerable to physical damage and thus, requires a sturdy carry bag for transportation. On the bright side, the rosewood fretboard in combination with nato neck creates warm and rich acoustic tones. Additionally, some of the parts and the finish are handmade, which also contributes to the bright and recognisable sound of this model. Thanks to the thoughtful design touches here and there, both natural and sunburst models look gorgeous.

As for the fretboard length, it is somewhat shorter than one of a regular classic guitar, which will be suitable for teens and beginner players that are just starting to learn how to play this instrument. However, keep in mind that the strings that come with this guitar will need some initial tuning before playing. Otherwise, they can snap and you will have to purchase a set of replacement strings.

The F310 Yamaha acoustic guitar has one of the best sound capabilities in its class which makes it a perfect choice for beginners who want a model that sounds like a real musical instrument.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £114.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B000RVYW7E

Excellent Practice Guitar

The Fender CD-60 V3 is a dreadnought acoustic guitar and, as you would expect, it is quite big. Measuring at 96.1 x 43.1 x 8 cm, it won’t be a good option for beginner players. That said, if you've used acoustic guitars before, it can be a perfect option for you.

When it comes to materials, the body of the CD-60 V3 is made of mahogany, while the fretboard features a combination of walnut and mahogany on the neck. Together, they create a distinct Fender sound. But, to achieve it, you will need to tune the instrument properly.

Owing to the scalloped X bracing of the guitar, the CD-60 V3 from Fender has a richer bass and loudness, while the instrument itself feels more responsive compared to other acoustic models in the same price range.

The only thing about this product that could use a bit of improvement is the basic set of strings the guitar is equipped with. Although they are not bad, their durability leaves something more to be desired. With that in mind, we recommend getting an additional set of strings just in case the standard one won’t meet your standards.

Finally, if you are looking for a decent acoustic guitar model for daily use and practice, then this guitar from Fender will be right up your alley.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £107.53
Stock In stock
ASIN B07RL6VG3H

Suitable for Adults and Teens

The Martin Smith W-100-SB-PK is perhaps one of the best beginner kits on the market today. The acoustic kit features a number of handy accessories alongside an actual acoustic instrument.

The said kit includes a set of spare strings and plectrums, guitar straps, and free online lessons that will help you make your first steps as a future rock star. The included shoulder strap can be adjusted in length from 78 to 142 cm, which makes the guitar suitable for players of all sizes. What is more, the online lessons are quite straightforward and simple and can teach you such things as how to hold the instrument and how to care about it in the long run. Additionally, the guide is quite informative and, by watching it, you can learn how to play your first chords.

As for the musical instrument itself, its body is made of standard basswood maple and a rosewood fretboard and neck. For its modest price, the guitar delivers a sound of moderate quality and thus, this model is more suitable for beginner musicians rather than professionals. If you happen to be an experienced musician - don’t expect wonders from this instrument. All in all, the acoustic guitar kit from Martin Smith is a good option if you want to try out a new hobby and figure out whether you'd be willing to invest time in it.

Last updated price £64.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00413PFFW

Great All-Rounder

The Epiphone DR-100, like many other entry-level acoustic instruments, is made of mahogany to cut manufacturing costs. That said, the guitar has a rich bass and overall good sound quality (once you tune it).

The only real difference to the finish of the instrument is that it is not laminated like similar guitars, which makes the surface of the guitar less glossy and eliminates some of the reverb. The fretboard, on the other hand, is made of rosewood with a full mahogany neck in the back. All of these materials are pleasant to the touch and make playing the instrument a comfortable experience.

Surprisingly enough, this Epiphone acoustic guitar can sound better than some premium-grade, professional models, thanks to the good combination of high-quality materials and precise craftsmanship that went into the product. The only real negative thing about the instrument is a slight fret buzz. However, if the guitar's tuned properly, it is barely noticeable.

In the end, the DR-100 is a real steal for the money when it comes to sound quality and, if you think it’s just too good to be true, we recommend trying it out as many other happy guitar players did. If all goes well, you won’t have to go back to other entry-level instruments. Versatile and good-sounding, this acoustic model will definitely find a spot on your guitar rack.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £129.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B0002D02J4

A Beginner's Dream

This model will be a great choice for people who recently started learning the guitar and want to transition from a short-scale instrument to a regular one. Thanks to a convenient shape of the neck and a dreadnought body, the instrument is a good pick for kids and teens.

The sound of the guitar is surprisingly rich and pleasant to the ear as for the model that is made of regular quality wood. When it comes to materials, the neck and back of the instrument are made of nato wood and the fretboard features a standard rosewood that is used in the majority of budget models.

The Stretton Payne is one of the few models that come with a guitar tuner. Although some may find it somewhat small compared to regular models, it does its job well and is a pleasant addition to the whole package. Unfortunately, the kit does not include a spare set of strings and thus, you will have to purchase it in advance if you plan to play the instrument for a while. Additionally, the kit features a carry bag, shoulder strap, and 6 months of online guitar lessons that will help you make your first steps as a musician.

To wrap things up, this modestly priced starter kit is perhaps the best acoustic guitar for beginners for its price and will be a good present for anyone who always wanted to start playing the guitar but was not sure where to start.

Last updated price £99.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B003WJXSMS

What Is an Acoustic Guitar?

The guitar is one of the most played instruments in the world, and that's for a number of reasons. First of all, it allows you to produce a wide range of sounds and perform a variety of music genres, from folk to hard rock. Next, it is quite portable: it won't take much space in your apartment, nor will it be too heavy to take with you to your music class or on a journey. It can be played pretty loud if you are performing or quiet if you do not want to disturb your family while rehearsing.

There are several acoustic guitar shapes available on the market. A parlour guitar is perfect if you need a compact acoustic instrument. Dreadnought guitars offer a balanced sound and allow performing almost any music style. Auditorium acoustic guitars are recommended for finger-style players while grand auditorium ones are equally good for strumming and picking. Finally, there are jumbo guitars designed for those looking for a larger instrument with a powerful sound.

Once you have chosen the guitar that suits you best, it is time to find the perfect guitar picks that will make your playing more stylish and comfortable. With a set of good-quality guitar strings, you will be able to change the tone of your instrument to your liking.

Sources:

1. Acoustic guitar, Wikipedia. April 28, 2018.

2. Acoustic guitar body shapes explained, MusicRadar. October 25, 2017.

3. Dreadnought (guitar type) Wikipedia. March 24, 2018.

Other reviews