The best garden lights to help create a picture-perfect scene

Looking to jazz up your garden and impress your guests? Whether you're after a relaxing evening under the stars or an al fresco knees-up, we've put together a list of the best garden lights so you can decorate your space in a style of your choice.

Whatever your garden is calling out for, from fairy lights to statement lamps, our list of the best garden lights is here to help you add that magical, final touch to your space.

For more ways to transform your garden, check out our favourite outdoor furniture and ideas to glam up your garden wall decor.

Best garden lights for 2024

Bronze Solar Moroccan Fairy Lights

We love the intricate detailing on these Moroccan Line Lights, so if you'd like your garden lights to be stylish as well as practical, these are a great choice. There are 16 lights on the cable which stretches out to 3m, making them an ideal size for stringing along a garden wall or adding pizzazz to a patio. They would also be very cute in a rustic, homemade den alongside your favourite blankets and bold, vibrant cushions. Plus, you could pair them with other bronze garden furnishings- such as outdoor plates and wine glasses - if you want to create a metallic colour scheme.

52ft Outdoor LED Garden String Lights

With a string as long as 52ft, these lights are a winner if you're keen to decorate a larger space. These lights are particularly ideal for outdoor use due to their hardy nature, with sturdy plastic bulbs that aren't likely to smash even in windy weather.

The lights require a power outlet but conveniently, there is a sizeable gap between the plug and the first bulb which is handy when you're looking for the perfect spot in your garden. Their weatherproof nature means they can handle snow, rain and high temperatures in the great outdoors, but they'd look fabulous in a bedroom too.

3 Solar Hanging Monkey Outdoor String Lights

Add instant fun and character to your garden with this string of three hanging monkey lights from Dunelm. Each bulb contains 10 LEDs in a warm white tone, to cast a cosy glow over an outdoor sitting area. Plus, like all jungle creatures, these monkeys love hanging out in the sun - they're solar-powered, so no need to worry about plug sockets or batteries!

Rattan Effect Solar Powered Garden Lantern

A lovely addition to any garden, this sleek black rattan-effect lantern from John Lewis would make a fabulous final touch if you're in the process of decorating your garden. It's solar-powered, so simply place the frame in a sunny spot of your choice using the easy-carry rope handle, so when it comes to the evening, you're ready to go. Also available in a larger size for a true statement piece.

20 Bee LED Solar Fairy Lights

For a fun, playful take on fairy lights, these bee solar fairy lights are likely to be a huge hit. You can nestle this cute set of lights within a hedgerow, or place them on your garden shed to add a lovely glow. The bees light up automatically when it starts to get dark due to the integrated light sensor, so they are low maintenance. To get the most out of these lights, it's recommended they are used in the lighter seasons of spring and summer rather than all year round. And click here for more bumblebee decor ideas.

Cluster Outdoor LED Festoon Lights

The unique style of the bulbs being bunched together makes these Festoon Cluster Lights an interesting and dynamic option. They would look fantastic hanging over a dining table and would also work well with a pergola. If you're looking to amp up the mood levels, you can choose from eight flashing settings or if you'd prefer a more muted, calmer vibe, you can opt for the steady glow. They hang from a hook which means they are easy to move around.

The lights come fully assembled but you'll need to pick up four AA batteries before you can get hanging.

ZFITEI Solar Ground Lights

Fancy creating a runway effect? These garden lights light up automatically when it turns dark, making them an energy-efficient option. They would look wonderful along a corridor or garden gate and they are a solid option if you're looking for a more permanent garden feature. The lights can be used for around eight hours once fully charged and can be quickly and easily installed. There are eight lights in the pack and the lack of wiring means they won't ruin a tidy garden.

Tight for space? Have a look at our top planting tips for small gardens.

Tomshine Solar Lantern Light

If you're not a fan of fairy lights, an outdoor lantern can be a beautiful alternative. The hollowed-out design on this lantern from Tomshine reflects a mesmerising pattern on the ground, making this a very unique and attractive garden feature.

As long as your solar panel is in direct sunlight, this lantern can hang anywhere you like, and it's easy to move around if you fancy a change. It has a built-in 1.2V NiMH AA 600MAH rechargeable battery and should work for eight to ten hours once fully charged. The lantern would help to create a warm atmosphere when you're dining or socialising outside but would look equally gorgeous indoors.

OxyLED 300 LED Solar Fairy Lights

This classic fairy light design is sure to make any garden scene that little bit more charming. Made from malleable copper wire, these lights can be weaved, draped and hung in a variety of places. With no electricity required due to the powerful solar panel, these lights are a quick and easy way to add a touch of glamour to your space. If you let the solar panel soak up the sunshine for six to eight hours, you should be provided with 12 hours of light in the evening.

The lights would look particularly effective wrapped around a stair rail, and would also work well as festive decorations around Christmas time.

For more garden inspiration, take a look at our guide to outdoor lighting.