Solar garden lights: brighten up alfresco evenings with our pick of the best

As the evenings get longer, you’ll likely be tempted to use your outdoor space as frequently as the weather permits. We’ve become accustomed to entertaining outdoors over the past few years–and there's no reason to stop doing so. In light of this, why not invest in some of the best solar powered lights for your garden? A few warm white lights dotted in the flowerbeds can add a celebratory atmosphere to garden parties, drinks on the patio and sundowner cocktails on the garden bench. Even if you're firmly sticking to the indoors until summer arrives, some solar string lights in the garden can offer a lovely twinkling vista from your interiors, instead of a big black void.

Whether you have a large estate, a small front garden or just a balcony, there are small touches and changes you can make to create the most wonderful ambience. Colourful tableware, a scattering of pots and some comfy chairs from the best garden furniture stores can do this but outdoor lighting, in particular, is key. A warm glow can disguise and distract from scruffy lawns and overgrown hedges, changing them from unsightly to magical in a matter of seconds.

Now, you may be thinking, “I don’t have anywhere to plug in lights,” or, “I can’t be bothered to change the batteries when they go flat.” But fret not, because science and design have come together to answer your prayers. Outdoor solar lights are everything you need in one lovely package.

Thankfully, there are many different options when it comes to solar garden lights. You can buy lovely solar fairy lights, solar lanterns and solar stake lights, all powered by the sun. So whatever part of your outdoor area you are looking to light up, there’ll be a good option for you.

What are the best garden solar lights to buy?

If you’re on the hunt for the best solar garden lights, you will need to look for features like motion sensors, different lighting modes, a powerful amount of lumens, weather-resistant or weatherproof casing and a battery that can offer hours of light.

How long do solar lights need to charge?

Although there is no blanket data surrounding this, you can safely assume that a day of sun will take your lamps to full charge, giving them enough energy to shine throughout the night. When you first put your lamps out, they will need a little time to charge, so if you want them out for a particular evening, ensure you get them outside at least 48 hours in advance to maximise their potential.

Where should I put my solar lights?

Make sure to put your solar lights somewhere they are in full sun. This may sound obvious, but it is the only way to truly optimise their glow. If you know you want them in a dark spot, leave them out in full sun throughout the day and then put them in place when night falls. Dotting solar lights along a garden path is often the most popular choice, just make sure both sides of the path get enough direct sunlight, otherwise you’ll end up with a half lit walkway.

What are the benefits of solar lights?

These clever little lights have many benefits. The most important being that they are powered naturally, meaning they are much better for the environment (and your pocket) than mains charged or battery powered lighting. They are also handy for gardens which have no access to plugs.

Sold on solar? Scroll on for our edit of the prettiest pieces available now.

Solar garden lights