10 Best Solar Garden Lights To Illuminate Your Nights
Who says the party has to end when the sun sets? With the best solar garden lights, you can keep your outdoor gatherings glowing long into the night. Say goodbye to stumbling in the dark and hello to a beautifully illuminated garden that’s just as inviting at midnight as it is during the day—and safer, too!
Not to mention that it’s better for the environment. Switching to solar-powered LED lighting can slash your energy consumption by up to 75%, meaning you can enjoy the ambience guilt-free while doing your bit for the planet.
But which solar garden lights are the best? And what are the advantages compared to traditional garden lights? We’ll light the way through the best solar lights for gardens, so you’ll never have to trip up over your flower beds again.
Advantages of solar garden lights
Investing in the best UK solar garden lights is a bright idea for several reasons. Here's why they're slowly becoming a must-have for any outdoor space:
Environmental benefits: Solar garden lights harness the sun's power, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions. They provide a sustainable lighting solution that helps combat climate change while enhancing the beauty of your garden. So why wouldn't you make the change? They're basically the same as traditional garden lights, only better!
Cost savings: Solar lights convert sunlight into electricity, meaning you can wave goodbye to high electricity bills and say hello to enjoying a beautifully lit garden without worrying about the ever-increasing energy costs. Their bulbs also tend to be long-lasting, meaning fewer replacements and more savings.
Low maintenance: Once installed, solar garden lights require minimal upkeep. Most models are weather-resistant and designed to withstand the elements, allowing them to shine through rain or shine - literally.
Easy installation: Solar lights are straightforward to install and don't require complicated wiring. Simply place them in a sunny spot and they're ready to illuminate your garden.
Highly versatile: Available in a wide range of styles, including string lights and pathway markers, solar lights offer flexibility that allows you to design your garden the way you want. Whether that's a cosy corner or highlighting a walkway, you can find a solar light for all your garden ideas and needs.
Which are the best solar lights for your garden? 10 best solar garden lights
1. Solar-powered LED parasols
Ares 3.5m Round Cantilever Parasol with Solar powered LED Lights in Beige - £649
Turn your garden into a sunlit oasis with solar-powered LED parasols. Perfect for shading your seating area during the day and illuminating it by night, these multifunctional parasols add elegance to any patio.
Harbour Lifestyle’s Cantilever Parasol with integrated LED lights soaks up the sun's rays all day and provides three hours of power—perfect for summer evenings. Ideal for lazy afternoons and lively gatherings, a solar-powered parasol keeps the good times rolling even after sunset. Pair one with a corner sofa and outdoor rug to create the ultimate lounging space.
2. Solar pathway lights to illuminate garden walkways
Luxor Large Floor Outdoor and Indoor Solar Lantern in Charcoal £99.00
Safely guide your guests (or simply yourself) around the garden with stylish solar pathway lights. These handy little helpers are perfect for lining walkways, driveways or flower beds, providing just the right amount of light to ensure nobody trips on your prized hydrangeas.
They charge up during the day and automatically turn on when the sun sets, offering a hassle-free way to keep your paths bright. Whether you're hosting a garden party or just enjoying a quiet evening stroll, these lights lead the way.
3. Solar spotlights to highlight garden features and plants
Plug & Shine Outdoor Sting 6.3W LED Gold White Individual Spotlight in Anthracite - £59.99
If you want to showcase that stunning sculpture or highlight your favourite flower bed, then solar spotlights are among the best solar lights for gardens.
These powerful task lights focus attention on specific areas, adding drama and depth to your garden at night. Adjustable and easy to install, they will bring your garden’s best features into the limelight and provide all the ambience you need without any wiring woes.
4. Solar string lights for a cosy and ambient garden atmosphere
Solar string lights are perfect for creating a magical atmosphere. Draped over fences, trees or pergolas, these twinkling lights create a romantic setting for hosting intimate outdoor dinners or just sipping a quiet cup of tea. The best part? No plugs, no fuss—just a warm, welcoming glow that lasts from twilight to starlight.
5. Black solar lanterns for a modern aesthetic
Outdoor Ilias 1.2W LED Solar Bollard Light with Motion Detection in Anthracite - £109.99
Add sophisticated black solar lanterns for a contemporary garden look. These weatherproof lights can easily be charged by the sun or with a USB-C connection port to create the perfect warm mood lighting for minimal modern designs.
With three brightness levels and an automatic on switch, pair them with sleek aluminium outdoor furniture to complete the look.
6. Solar wall lights to light up patios and corner sofas
Outdoor Ryse 1.2W LED Solar Wall Light with Motion Detection in White - £45.00
Make your patio pop with solar wall lights—the perfect way to keep your garden seating area bright and inviting. They mount easily onto walls, providing an ambient glow for evening catch-ups with friends over a glass of wine on a cosy outdoor sofa.
Solar wall lights are highly versatile, creating the perfect backdrop for relaxing and entertaining. Plus, they automatically turn on at dusk, so you can set it and forget it while enjoying your evening.
7. Teak Table solar lanterns for a rustic look
Luxor Floor Outdoor and Indoor Solar Lantern In Teak £99.00
Combine natural materials with solar technology for an earthy aesthetic that complements traditional outdoor settings. We’re talking about teak table solar lanterns, of course. Adding rustic charm, these are among the best waterproof solar garden lights, as they are usable both indoors and outdoors and feature three different brightness levels. Perfect for al fresco dining or intimate get-togethers, they cast a warm, inviting glow over tables and seating areas.
Pair them with wooden furniture to create a warm natural look and a zen garden that feels calm and inviting.
8. Solar deck lights for elegant deck illumination
Elevate your deck with solar deck lights that provide both safety and sophistication. These lights are specially designed to blend into your deck and illuminate steps, railings and your overall decking area.
Easy to install and maintenance-free, they look extremely elegant and ensure you and your guests can easily make your way around without any nasty falls. Add a beautiful dining set for al fresco dining or a daybed for long, relaxing evenings.
9. Solar floodlights for bright and secure outdoor spaces
Outdoor Layra 2W LED Solar Bollard Light in Brushed Iron
Illuminate large areas with solar floodlights, perfect for driveways, gardens or anywhere you need a powerful beam. Solar floodlights are a great option for homes located in remote and rural areas or in places that don’t receive a lot of light, ensuring your outdoor space stays visible and secure. Let them light up your home’s exterior and bring peace of mind after dark.
10. Solar security lights for enhanced home safety and security
Outdoor Ryse 1.2W LED Solar Bollard Light with Motion Detection in Anthracite - £59.99
Boost your home’s safety with solar security lights. These motion-activated lights illuminate the moment they sense movement, deterring potential intruders and keeping your property safe. With no wiring required, they’re easy to install and can be positioned to cover key entry points around your home, like windows and doors, with the added benefit of reduced energy costs.
What are the best solar lights for your garden on a budget?
You don't need a sky-high budget to enjoy the best waterproof solar garden lights. With a bit of savvy shopping, you can find good quality solar lights without burning a hole in your pocket.
Luxor Large Floor Outdoor and Indoor Solar Lantern in Charcoal - £99
Shop sales and discounts: Look for seasonal sales and promotions where you can snag quality lights for a reduced price. Sign up for newsletters to alert you to exclusive deals. Check out Harbour Lifestyle's summer sale, with up to 35% off selected garden furniture, including cantilever parasols with solar-powered LED lights.
Prioritise key areas: Focus your budget on illuminating essential outdoor areas, like pathways and seating areas, to get the most out of your solar lights without overspending. Start with the essentials as a priority — you can always add more and expand when your budget allows.
Mix and match: Combine high-end options with more affordable solar lights to create a balanced and stylish look. Use budget-friendly lights, like Harbour Lifestyle's outdoor and indoor solar lanterns, in less prominent areas and splurge on statement pieces with the best solar powered garden lights for focal points.
Choose multi-purpose lights: Get more for your money and purchase solar lights with dual functions, like LED parasols or lanterns that can be moved around as needed.
Look for durable, weather-proof materials: Invest in solar lights made from durable materials that can withstand the elements (an absolute must in the UK), which will last longer and save you money on replacements.
Choosing solar garden lights: what are the best solar garden lights to buy?
There’s so much more to choosing the best solar powered garden lights than just picking the prettiest ones on the shelf. Consider the following to ensure you don’t regret your newest purchase:
Garden size: Larger gardens are more likely to need more powerful lights, such as solar floodlights or spotlights, to cover the bigger areas effectively. Smaller gardens can benefit from more intimate lighting, such as solar string lights or lanterns, to create a cosy atmosphere.
Lighting needs: Do you want to highlight a certain garden feature? Maybe you want to increase safety along your pathways or create a relaxing ambience. Think about the function of your lighting and what you are trying to achieve, and choose lights that match these needs without over-or under-lighting your space.
Style preference: Your garden lights should work together with and complement your outdoor décor. Choose styles that enhance your garden’s style, like sleek solar wall lights for a modern look or teak lanterns for a more rustic vibe.
Practical tips for choosing solar lights
Check brightness: Lumens measure the brightness of the light. Higher lumens mean brighter light, so choose according to the area you want to illuminate.
Think about battery life: Look for lights with long-lasting batteries to ensure your garden stays well-lit throughout the night.
Test light placement: Before finalising the position of your lights, test them in different spots to see where they catch the most sunlight during the day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Ignoring sun exposure: Solar lights need sunlight to charge, so avoid placing them in shaded areas where they can’t soak up the sun.
Overlooking durability: As with all things, not all lights are the same. Choose ones with weather-resistant materials to withstand the elements and reduce long-term costs.
Skipping maintenance: Keep your lights clean and debris-free to ensure they operate efficiently and extend their lifespan and performance.
Light the way with Harbour Lifestyle’s best solar garden lights
Solar garden lights are the ultimate game-changer, combining eco-friendly benefits with cost savings and style.
They offer the same illuminating power as traditional lights while being kinder to our planet, proving that going green doesn't mean sacrificing style or brightness—what's not to love?
Use them to spotlight your garden's best features or create a cosy atmosphere. However you choose to use them, solar lights are undoubtedly the perfect choice for a well-lit outdoor space.
Ready to let your garden shine? Explore Harbour Lifestyle's stylish collection of solar garden lights to add the finishing touch to your outdoor space. Our solar lights offer the same illuminating power as traditional lights while being kinder to our planet (and cheaper on your electricity bill).
For even more outdoor lighting inspiration, check out our outdoor lighting ideas guide.
FAQs
How long do solar-powered garden lights last?
Solar-powered garden lights average around eight hours of lighting. Over time, the batteries may need replacing, but the light itself should last between two and five years, depending on its quality and how well it’s looked after.
Are solar-powered outdoor lights any good?
Solar-powered outdoor lights are becoming an increasingly popular choice among many garden owners thanks to their reliable illumination and easy installation.
An eco-friendly choice, they are just as effective as traditional outdoor models without increasing your monthly energy bills and are easy to install without the complications of confusing wires.
Do solar lights work in winter in the UK?
Solar lights still work during winter in the UK as long as the solar panel receives enough daylight to power up the batteries. As this can be tricky, thanks to shorter daylight hours and less intense sunlight, place your solar lights in areas with the most sun exposure during the day for maximum charge.
Which solar LED light is best?
The best solar garden lights in the UK depend on your specific needs, like your desired brightness and style. Look for lights with high lumens for brightness, durable materials for longevity and features like adjustable settings or motion sensors for greater durability and power.