Safety and atmosphere

Good garden lighting makes your outdoor space safer and more inviting after dark. It helps you see paths and entrances clearly while creating a warm atmosphere in the garden. By combining different types of outdoor lighting, you can strike a balance between practical lighting and softer ambient light.

Which lights work best where?

Outdoor floor lamps are ideal for garden paths, driveways and borders. Wall lights provide lighting on the outside walls of your home, by the front door or along garden walls. Solar lighting doesn't require cabling, giving you more flexibility over where you place it. String lights add a soft glow when hung in a tree or along a fence.

Planning your garden lighting

Start with the areas you use to get around, such as the path to your front door, steps and driveway. These need enough light to help you see where you're going. Then add softer lighting to highlight features such as a tree, shrub or garden border. You don't need to light every area equally; a mix of light and shade creates a more attractive effect after dark. Be considerate of your neighbours and local wildlife by directing lights downwards rather than up into the sky.

Mains-powered or solar lighting?

Solar lighting is easy to install because it doesn't require cabling. Many models have a built-in light sensor that switches the light on automatically when it gets dark. If you need brighter lighting or more reliable performance throughout the year, mains-powered lighting may be a better choice. This requires suitable outdoor wiring, including an underground power cable. Always check the stated protection rating (IP rating) to make sure your lights are suitable for outdoor use. For fixed electrical connections, consult a qualified electrician.