I love looking to Shirlie Kemp for garden inspiration. This time I'm taking notes from the greenhouse, which she's decorated for autumn.

Shirlie is no stranger to exploring her interior style outside. Last year, she decorated her greenhouse for Christmas; the Ideal Home team were immediately enamoured with this greenhouse idea.

Decorating a greenhouse is a wonderful way to express your personal style in the garden, and it's becoming an increasingly popular trend. Here’s how you can use Shirlie as inspiration.

Couple Martin and Shirlie Kemp frequently share glimpses of their home and garden life on their home’s Instagram account @maisonnumber9. Most recently, we were left impressed by the couple's towering pumpkin archway, and it seems that the Kemps have had a bumper crop of pumpkins this year, as these colourful squashes have been turned into decor and fill their greenhouse.

‘She hasn't tried too hard to make it look like a perfectly staged interior; it still looks like a greenhouse, and I think that's what works best. The pumpkins are arranged along the shelving among all the greenery so they almost feel like part of the harvest and not just purely decorative, and the contrast between the bright orange pumpkins and the lush green plants is really well done,’ commented Gareth Davies, design director at Classic Interiors.

‘She's also made brilliant use of lighting with the warm orange lights hanging along the greenhouse roof that create a lovely glow that you can see from outside, which will look really cosy in the dark evenings. I also love the little seating area just outside, which gives the greenhouse a more relaxed, lived-in feeling.’

Should you decorate a greenhouse for autumn?

If you need any more convincing, Shirlie isn’t the only celebrity who has taken to this trend. Dawn French’s greenhouse is beautifully decorated, and chef Clodagh McKenna likes to furnish her garden pub for Christmas. Greenhouse decorating is a fun way to express yourself, while also turning garden buildings into rooms we actually want to spend time in and relax in.

‘Seasonal decorating in a greenhouse is a lovely idea, and Shirlie’s greenhouse looks straight out of a fairy tale. A greenhouse often sits unused throughout autumn and winter until spring, merely there to shelter vulnerable plants from frost and for storage, but decorating your greenhouse means you can extend the life of your garden into winter,’ says Laura Rich, interior designer at Furniturebox.

‘It’s also a perfect hangout spot; it’s reminiscent of cottagecore we saw everywhere earlier this year. Dressed with lights, foliage, pumpkins and a couple of chairs (and a heater!), a greenhouse becomes the perfect cosy spot for a pumpkin-spiced latte, a mulled wine, a quiet read or a little festive gathering. Not only that, but you’re also immersed in nature; being in a greenhouse surrounded by your quieter (but still lovely) garden is the perfect way to ground yourself.

‘It also saves the home from becoming overly themed. Many of us love pumpkins as decor, especially those unusual varieties that feel rustic and home-grown, but we don’t necessarily want them as part of our interiors. A greenhouse is the perfect sanctuary for some Halloween fun without it cluttering your living room or kitchen.’

How to decorate a greenhouse for autumn

In Shirlie’s greenhouse, it’s clear she’s opted for a natural style. Her pumpkins do all the talking, while her warm lighting creates a warm, cosy glow. It’s comforting, rustic and easy to achieve yourself.

‘Start with lighting. Wind warm white LED fairy lights (always choose warm for that glow) along the roof bars and frame of the greenhouse. Solar or battery lights avoid the need for an outdoor socket, so I’d choose these for functionality purposes,’ advises Laura.

Meanwhile, Gareth would start with pumpkins - you can opt for fake ones if you haven’t had a bumper crop like Martin and Shirlie.

‘I'd start with a collection of pumpkins in different sizes arranged along a shelf, use different heights and leave some space between them so the plants are still visible. You don't need loads like Shirlie's, you can use just a handful grouped together,’ he says.

‘Then if you've got enough space, I'd add a small vintage-style chair or bistro table to make the greenhouse feel like somewhere you could comfortably sit with a cup of tea and enjoy your surroundings.’

Get the look

Are you ready to embrace the greenhouse decorating trend like Shirlie?

Al fresco gatherings aren't just for summer – if you know how to transition your garden for outdoor living in autumn, you'll have a cosy venue for guests and the family.

Temperatures are plummeting by the week, but with a few outdoor living room ideas, you can continue spending time in your garden for even longer. Shelter, warmth and light are essentials for outdoor gatherings in autumn – and a few accessories can make the setup even cosier.

Here are a few ways I'm transitioning my garden for outdoor living this autumn.

1. Shelter

Rain can totally spoil our social plans, especially at this time of the year – but not if you make use of a few garden shade ideas that double up as autumn weather protection.

Those could be as simple as a huge garden parasol, or as clever as a motorised awning that retracts as and when you need it to. I've got my eye on PERGOLUX UK's awnings, which are currently £75 off when you use the code AUTUMN75. They come with handy integrated LED lighting, and an optional wind sensor that automatically retracts the awning in severe weather (so you know when it really is time to head inside!).

Just make sure you can use a patio heater under a pergola or gazebo before you crank up the heat. Speaking of which...

2. Outdoor heating

Autumn is a chilly season, especially as we enter November, but outdoor heating will allow you to enjoy the outdoors no matter the temperature. You might prefer a patio heater that keeps temperatures consistent, like the Kettler Kalos Copper Lantern Electric Patio Heater from John Lewis, or a classic fire pit that adds to the ambience.

‘To keep the chill at bay, heating options form the heart of any cold-weather gathering,’ says Lucy Hewitt, marketing campaigns manager at British Garden Centres. ‘Sleek steel fire pit bowls and traditional chimineas all provide instant warmth while creating a dazzling visual centrepiece for roasting marshmallows and sharing stories.’

If you're after a classic fire pit bowl, I love this Idbury Fire Pit from Garden Trading.

3. Solar-powered lighting

Garden lighting ideas can completely transform an autumn garden. This season, it’s all about cosy, sustainable lighting that’s as decorative as it is practical on dark evenings.

‘Solar-powered festoon lights are an elegant choice for outdoor spaces all year round,’ says Claire Bassett, lighting trends expert from Lights4fun. ‘In autumn, I would style them around bare-branched trees – the lights would highlight the natural shape of the branches after the leaves have fallen, bringing a beautiful sense of structure to the garden.’

We’ve been hanging these solar-powered lanterns from the trees in our garden for a cosy, rustic effect. Claire recommends warm white fairy lights like these Lights4fun Warm White Carnival Solar Festoon Lights for this time of year because ‘they create a cosy, classic glow that brightens long and dark evenings.’

4. Cosy accessories

Transitioning a garden for outdoor living in autumn wouldn't be complete without some cosy accessories. They can refine any garden furniture idea, turning the whole area into a comfortable hub for relaxation and social gatherings.

‘Creating a winter-ready outdoor lounge starts by making your garden seating into something that wants to make your guests linger,’ says Lucy from British Garden Centres. ‘Nestling deep cushions, faux fur throws, and thermal blankets onto seating creates an inviting sofa nest that rivals the comfort of any indoor living room.’

With a few shelter, heating and lighting ideas, you can easily transition a garden into a cosy space for autumn outdoor living.

Gozney, the name behind some of the most coveted outdoor cooking kit on the market, has released a range of accessories designed to solve a whole range of pizza oven problems with prices starting from £29.99.

From a prep board to prevent your dough sticking to a solution to the ugliness of gas bottles, this range is tailor-made for those who want to perfect their best pizza oven set ups.

My favourite of the bunch solves a longstanding issue I've had with my pizza oven – how to properly clean it. That's where the very clever M.O.P. Stone Cleaning Tool (£59.99 via Gozney) comes in. Here's how it works.

The new M.O.P. is speficially a pizza stone cleaning tool which rewrites everything you probably currently think about cleaning your oven. In our guide to cleaning a pizza stone, we advise waiting until your oven is entirely cooled before getting stuck into cleaning but this accessory changes all of that.

Rather than hanging around before you can get stuck in, this brush can be used as soon as the flame on your oven is off and once it's cooled down to 250-400°C. From there you first use the scraper side of the brush to get rid of the top layer of debris from your pizza cooking session.

The stainless steel element of the blade should make it very hard wearing – but do remember you need to keep it flat to the stone to avoid causing any damage. Once the hard layer of debris is gone, you then use the damp sponge side to clean away any other visible mess.

The long aluminium handle makes this brush safe to use and effective at really getting into the cavernous space of your pizza oven. And the removable sponge head, made of aramid fiber, should last for 50 uses before you need to replace it.

For me this cleaning tool solves a longstanding problem I've had with keeping my oven as tidy as I'd like it. Often the advice with pizza ovens is to let debris burn off but if that doesn't quite cut it for you either, this will be a real gamechanger.

And I predict that the other products in this collection, including a clever non-stick prep board designed to contain mess and make the handling and stretching process easier (£79.99 via Gozney), are also going to go down very well with the pizza making community. If you've been at the helm of an oven during a pizza party, you'll know anything that keeps the stress levels at a minimum is always going to be worth its weight in gold!

Which of these new problem-solving accessories is your favourite?

Sir David Beckham’s greenhouse is giving us serious garden envy, and if you haven’t already invested in one for your garden, let this be your inspiration.

There is no shortage of good greenhouse ideas, and the former footballer’s Cotswolds garden is one of the very best. With Victoria and David using their greenhouse not only to grow a variety of delicious fruit and vegetables, but also to entertain, it goes to show just how versatile these spaces can be.

Plus, with growing your own a huge garden trend this year, there’s all the more reason to set up your own greenhouse to get growing. You don’t need a garden as grand as the Beckhams’ either, as I’ve asked experts how to make them work for any space.

David frequently takes to his Instagram page to show his fans what he’s been growing in his stunning Alitex greenhouse. From roses to chillis and tomatoes, David provides a steady stream of plant inspo to his fans, with many commenters even referring to him as ‘Farmer David’.

Of course, what David has is a huge multi-purpose greenhouse, which isn’t always suitable for small gardens. However, what he is great at, is displaying how many different plants and vegetables you grow if you choose to invest in a greenhouse. The whole purpose of a greenhouse is to extend your garden’s growing season, and the frequent posts celebrating David’s produce is simply proof of this.

‘A greenhouse gives people a dedicated space to slow down, unwind and spend time outdoors while enjoying the satisfaction of nurturing something from seed to harvest,’ comments Andrew White, Sales and Marketing Director at Rhino Greenhouses.

'The accomplishment of producing your own fresh fruit and vegetables throughout the year is high; there’s something really special about assembling a salad with produce that you’ve grown yourself or adding homegrown ingredients straight from your greenhouse to your dishes. Plus, there are the added benefits to wellbeing – it’s easy to see why more people are embracing the grow-your-own lifestyle.'

I've already mentioned that David’s greenhouse is an Alitex greenhouse. Alitex produces a bespoke greenhouse that can cost thousands of pounds. If you understandably don’t have this much cash to drop on a greenhouse, don’t worry. Tiny gardens and smaller budgets should consider a growhouse (£30, Argos), while you can get a traditional-style greenhouse for under £250 at B&Q.

‘You certainly don’t need Sir David’s budget. A smaller greenhouse with a simple timber frame can create the same traditional feel,’ states Jenny Davis, head of marketing at Forest Garden.

‘Choosing a standard-size greenhouse rather than a bespoke design will keep costs down, while a lean-to or compact model can be a good option if space is very limited. You can also save money by keeping the interior simple and adding shelves, pots and tools gradually rather than trying to complete everything at once.

‘Ultimately, it’s not the size or price that matters. Even a modest greenhouse can give you the pleasure of growing your own plants and having a little garden retreat of your own.’

Through scrolling David's Instagram it's easy to see what a joy his garden brings him. And if that's not a burst of positive garden inspiration, I'm not sure what is.

One of my housemates just made the best autumn investment: a solar lantern.

If you’re looking for garden lighting ideas that look far more expensive than they really are, try the Adiwo Solar Flame Hemp Rope Lanterns from Amazon – a single lantern costs just £9.99 (£8.07 in the Amazon Prime Big Deal Days sale!), or you can grab a pair for £16.99. They’re solar-powered outdoors (and rechargeable indoors), and they give off the cosiest glow after dark. Equipped with a rustic rope handle, they’re ideal for Halloween parties, autumn decorating, or general warm ambience outdoors and indoors.

Here’s a little bit more about the Adiwo Solar Flame lanterns – and a few pictures of ours working their magic in the garden.

Of all places to buy garden lighting, you can be sure that Amazon has some of the best deals – and the Adiwo Solar Flame Hemp Rope Lanterns are a shining example of outdoor lights that look a lot dearer than their price tag. My housemate hung a couple of them in the various fruit trees around our garden, and they give our garden a really magical feel after dark.

They aren’t just static lights, either: you can choose from two modes, and the flashing option creates a dynamic flame effect, looking just like a real candle behind the frosted plastic.

The lanterns are solar-powered outdoors, which means they recharge naturally from sunlight and they’re super eco-friendly. They provide up to 8-10 hours of continuous light on a full charge, which is more than enough to cover garden parties or cosy evenings snuggled by a patio heater. You don’t even have to switch them on, because the built-in light sensor does it for you at dusk (and then switches the light off when the sun comes up at dawn).

You might be wondering if you can leave the lanterns outdoors in the rain (I know I was), and the answer is that you can: they come with an IP44 waterproof rating, which means they can withstand rain, strong winds and frost.

Ours reside in the trees, but the Adiwo Solar Flame lanterns would look beautiful hanging from a pergola or perched on a tabletop, too.

My housemate also gifted me one for my bedroom, and even during the day, turned off, the rustic rope looks right at home on my wooden bookshelf (and enchanting during the evening!). Indoors, you can simply charge them via a USB charger within 3-4 hours.

Other affordable solar lanterns

If you’re looking for an affordable way to decorate your garden and create a cosy ambience this autumn, we can’t recommend the Adiwo Solar Flame Hemp Rope Lanterns enough. They’re an absolute steal for the price!

I’ve always been a Richard E. Grant fan and not only for his acting. His eye for interior design means he has curated one of Ideal Home’s favourite celebrity homes, and his garden is no exception. In fact, his use of topiary to zone his outdoor space is a great example for anyone struggling to add structure to their garden.

When it comes to garden ideas, Richard E. Grant’s is undoubtedly eccentric. I’ve previously raved about his gorgeous wisteria display and the XL baubles hanging from his trees. In fact, every time I take a peek at his Instagram, it feels like I spot another magical feature.

But the reason his fairytale garden looks so wonderful is that it is well-zoned. Richard’s use of topiary hedging creates clear distinctions within his garden, maintaining a whimsical, not crowded look. Here’s how you can do it, too.

Amongst Richard’s eclectic garden decor, one thing is clear. The repeated use of topiary hedges throughout his space helps segregate his garden into clear zones - in particular, defining his garden seating area.

‘He has used one material to do the dividing rather than a different treatment in every area, so the garden reads as one place with rooms in it, not as a set of unrelated patches. That single repeated element is what holds the whole thing together. It is also the approach that ages well, because there is nothing in it that dates,’ adds Michael Wheat, garden designer and founder of Ponds by Michael Wheat.

If you’re looking for the best hedging plants to zone your garden, Richard’s topiaries are a good example because they create structure in the garden whilst remaining a natural alternative to fencing.

‘Richard's garden incorporates a lot of evergreen plants, ensuring that it looks green all year round. It is a highly personalised, fun space, featuring many eclectic decorations like baubles hanging from trees. Hedges are better for the environment and for wildlife, but they can take years to reach their full height and will not be as easy to move if you change garden zones,’ says Richard Barker, horticultural expert and commercial director of LBS Horticulture.

Should you zone a garden?

While Richard’s garden is clearly sizable, there are benefits to zoning a garden of any size; in fact, it’s particularly beneficial for small gardens.

‘Zoning is the difference between a garden you look at and a garden you use. An open rectangle gives you one view and one activity, and you take it all in from the back door in a second. Break it into areas and you have to walk through it to see it, which makes a small plot feel considerably larger than it is,’ says Michael.

‘It is also practical. Zoning lets you put the dining area where the evening sun is, the working end where nobody has to look at it, and a quiet seat somewhere you cannot see from the kitchen window. Most gardens that feel unsatisfying are not too small, they are undivided.’

Zoning a garden gives each area of a garden a clear purpose. It helps create pathways throughout your garden and can even help make your garden feel like an extension of your home. For example, you can create a distinct garden seating area, growing area or wildlife section. It is like turning your garden into multiple rooms like your home. Hedging also offers plenty of benefits.

Hedges can be kept low to create subtle boundaries, or they can be left to grow tall to provide complete privacy between garden zones. Most plants used for topiary are evergreen, meaning that garden zoning will stay intact all year round,’ says Richard.

‘Dense hedging can naturally reduce noise better than fencing and shelter areas from harsh winds. Even when trimmed neatly, the denseness of topiary hedges makes them an important source of shelter for birds and insects.’

Richard’s hedging will also stay green all year round, ensuring evergreen colour. There is just one main drawback to be aware of and that is topiary hedges are high-maintenance.

‘The honest trade-off is time and maintenance. Yew is the classic, and it is not as slow as its reputation suggests, but you are still looking at years, not a season, and it wants cutting once or twice a year, or it loses the crispness that makes it work. Boxes are quicker to establish but blight and box moths have made it a risk. If someone wants the effect faster, hornbeam gets there sooner and holds its brown leaf through winter, so it still screens,’ advises Michael.

If you want your garden to not only look effortlessly put together, but feel like an extension of your home, zoning is a great way to achieve this look. If you’re looking for something that will add year round colour, and is a little whimsical, Richard E. Grant’s is a fabulous example to follow.

Wondering which outdoor furniture trends are worth buying into for 2027?

Next summer might seem like a long way off, but now is actually the perfect time to snatch up garden furniture deals. I’m always on the lookout for garden trends, and this time, I’m putting the spotlight on the outdoor furniture styles and themes you’ll want on your radar for 2027.

Here are three of the outdoor furniture trends I’m most excited about for 2027.

1. Practical shade solutions

It’s safe to say we’ve had a hot summer, and with El Niño on the scene, 2027 is predicted to be even warmer. If you’re looking for ways to keep your patio cool in a heatwave, it’s worth investing in a proper garden shade setup.

'Pergolas and awnings are set to remain a worthwhile investment, particularly for homeowners looking to make the most of their outdoor space throughout the year,' says Andrew White, outdoor expert at Harbour Lifestyle. 'Awnings are a practical option for smaller gardens, terraces and balconies, providing instant, adjustable shade without taking up valuable floor space. Motorised designs are particularly useful, allowing you to control the amount of shade at the touch of a button as the sun moves throughout the day '

If you go for a retractable awning, they work as a convenient garden shade idea without taking up space permanently outdoors. You can take £75 off these awnings from Pergolux when you use the code AUTUMN75, so it’s the prime time to order one.

Pergolas are another brilliant garden shade idea. Reilly Gray from Suns Lifestyle adds, ‘No longer simply structures for supporting climbers, the modern aluminium pergola designs have become sophisticated outdoor living spaces in their own right, with louvred and retractable roofs, integrated lighting, side screens and drainage systems providing control over light, shelter and shade. ‘For me, they're one of the best long-term investments you can make.

2. Modular furniture

Modular furniture is another outdoor furniture trend that’s worth buying into for 2027, because it’s so versatile. The popular garden furniture idea allows you to mix and match setups to accommodate guests, dinners or quiet evenings spent relaxing in the garden.

‘Modular furniture is the way forward,’ says Jonny Brierley, managing director of NUMA. ‘It allows you to transition from a private sanctuary to a hosting hub in minutes. You can keep pieces separated as individual armchairs for a quiet morning coffee, then push them together to create a massive, cohesive 'daybed' or extra-long sofa for evening drinks with guests. It gives you the power to dictate the social flow of your garden.’

Reilly also agrees that modular furniture is worth buying into for 2027, adding, ‘Whether you're creating a relaxing lounge area, a dedicated dining zone or a space to entertain, these styles can be adapted as your needs change, making them a flexible solution that’s personal to you and your space.’

The stylish modular George Home Santorini Natural Curve 5 Piece Outdoor Sofa Set was an Ideal Home Awards garden winner.

3. Inviting the holiday feel home

If you hopped on the Mediterranean garden bandwagon this year, you wouldn't be the only one: more and more of us are curating an outdoor space that feels like you're on holiday, and with increasingly hot summers on the scene, Mediterranean plants are the ones that will fare best.

It's also a chance to choose outdoor furniture that allows us to make the most of the sunshine – and feel like we're at a resort in our own back gardens.

‘In terms of style, the resort-inspired feel will continue to influence the garden, with furniture, loungers and daybeds capturing the essence of far-flung destinations proving popular,' says Reilly.

'Daybeds in particular are something we expect to see more of, encouraging you to slow down and really enjoy the garden whether it's positioned by the pool, underneath a pergola or in a secluded corner.'

I've got my eye on this Costway Patio Daybed from Debenhams, which comes with a retractable canopy.

The outdoor furniture trends worth buying into for 2027 are the ones that adapt our gardens to hot weather and allow us to make the most of summer hosting.

When you think of premium BBQs, the first image that comes to mind is undoubtedly the Big Green Egg. Its round shape and British Racing Green colourway have become synonymous with quality cooking. But the time has come to change your perception, as Big Green Egg have just dropped a brand new colourway - The Onyx.

Big Green Egg is one of the best BBQs you can buy and is highly favoured by chefs and celebrities due to its superior cooking abilities. And this is the first time a new colourway has been announced in the brand’s 50-year history.

The Big Onyx Egg gives the iconic egg a sleek black update and is designed to blend seamlessly into contemporary gardens. Here’s everything you need to know.

Launching today (24 September), the Big Onyx Egg is available in large size and to Big Green Egg members only. It is free to sign up for the membership scheme.

Inspired by the precious stone, Onyx, the ceramic outer shell features a deep, dark glaze, with the faintest hint of green shining beneath the surface. Inside, customers should be familiar with what they see.

The most important things to know about these egg BBQs are that they deliver precise temperature control, are incredibly versatile to use and are suitable for roasting, baking, slow cooking, smoking and even rotisserie. It’s these features, as well as the incredibly high-quality materials used to craft them, that make Big Green Egg BBQs so popular amongst professionals and one of the best charcoal BBQs on the market.

‘The decision to add a colour to the world’s most famous green was not one we took lightly. The Onyx came from listening to our customers, who wanted an EGG that could sit naturally within the more contemporary outdoor spaces they were creating. It took us time to get the finish right, but we knew we had it when we could still see that subtle trace of green in the sunlight. The Onyx may look different, but underneath it is the same EGG our customers have trusted for generations,’ comments Dan Gerstacov, CEO of Big Green Egg.

However, despite the colourway being the most obvious change, the Big Onyx Egg has had two upgrades to be aware of. The Quick Lights Kit means you can light the coals from below, via the Draft Door, for faster ignition and better heat distribution. It also has a Dual Zone System that makes it easier to switch between cooking modes or use multiple modes simultaneously. For example, you could roast a chicken on one side of the dome and grill vegetables on the other.

There’s no denying that large Big Green Eggs can be expensive, retailing for £1,495, and the Big Onyx Egg is expected to be no different. If it’s a little out of your budget, here are a few cheaper alternatives we recommend.

Alternatives

Are you a fan of the latest Onyx colourway, or do you remain loyal to the iconic green egg.

Dawn French’s beautifully decorated greenhouse is serving as a reminder to treat our outside spaces as an extension of the home.

If you’re in need of new greenhouse ideas, I’d highly recommend taking a look at writer, comedian and actor Dawn French’s joyous example, which uses a mix of potted plants and pottery to create a stunning display.

And experts say that decorating your greenhouse is a great way to ensure your personality shines as much in your garden as in your home. Here’s how to do it like Dawn.

Dawn French's decorated greenhouse

This isn’t the first time a celebrity has demonstrated the benefits of decorating a greenhouse. Shirlie Kemp decorated her greenhouse for Christmas and instantly had us obsessed with her twinkling lights and foliage.

Since greenhouse decorating has taken off as a garden trend in its own right, and if you’re in need of some non-seasonal inspiration, Dawn is your girl. Posting on Instagram, Dawn was showing off a new mirror mask, which offered a glimpse into the greenhouse around her.

I spotted plenty of pretty geraniums in pots (Pelargonsjuka is a Scandi gardening trend Dawn is a fan of), with small ornaments and hanging plates nestled in between. It’s a simple idea but one that creates a gorgeous lived-in look.

‘What I like about Dawn French’s greenhouse is its personality. It doesn’t feel as though it has been decorated according to a particular trend or with the aim of looking immaculate. It feels joyful, individual and lived-in, which is exactly what a garden space should be. There’s a real sense that it reflects the person using it,’ says Francesca McEvoy, design expert at Crane Garden Buildings.

‘Plants themselves are obviously a huge part of the look, too. Mixing different heights, trailing plants and interesting pots can make a greenhouse feel wonderfully layered and established rather than overly styled. I particularly like the slightly eclectic approach, where everything doesn’t necessarily match perfectly. Greenhouses lend themselves beautifully to that relaxed, collected-over-time feel.’

How to decorate a greenhouse

If you’re feeling inspired to decorate your greenhouse, the best thing about Dawn’s is that she hasn’t relied on trends to decorate hers. It looks like her own individual expression and interests, which is what the experts say you should apply to yours.

‘We spend a lot of time in our greenhouses, whether that’s tending to plants, admiring our crops or simply relaxing. Greenhouses have become an extension of our home, so it’s natural to decorate them with as much consideration as we do our indoor spaces,’ says Andrew White, sales and marketing Director at Rhino Greenhouses.

‘Adding seating such as a small bench or bistro set, soft furnishings for comfort or ornamental features such as vases, storage containers, lights all go towards giving the greenhouse more life and personality.

‘Not only does decorating a greenhouse make it an even more enjoyable place to spend time, it can help turn it into a multipurpose space, whether that’s relaxing with a drink and book, or hosting a dinner or drinks evening.’

Recently, Fred Sirieix revealed he uses his greenhouse as a hosting and dining space, so if yours is large enough, you can definitely transform it into a multipurpose space. Just remember, it can get quite warm in there!

‘My advice would be to think about how you actually want to feel when you’re in the greenhouse. If you want it to be somewhere you can sit with a cup of tea as well as tend to plants, give yourself a comfortable chair. If colour makes you happy, introduce it through pots, furniture or accessories. And don’t worry too much about making everything coordinate. Some of the most charming garden spaces are the ones that have evolved naturally over time,’ adds Francesca.

Decorate your greenhouse

If you're planning on decorating your greenhouse, add decor you'd have in your own home. This way your greenhouse will feel like an natural extension of your indoor space.

There’s a new garden dining spot on the cards: the greenhouse.

Since TV personality and Fred introduced Hampton’s The Causeway greenhouse to his space, he’s created a ‘plant to plate’ space ‘where ingredients can be grown, harvested and enjoyed in the very same setting’. It isn’t just a space to grow your tomatoes – it’s about carving out space to appreciate the hard work you’ve put into your crops, enjoy a cosy cup of coffee, and even entertain guests.

You don’t need a huge space to create a dining room out of your greenhouse, either. I spoke to the experts to find out how we can apply the greenhouse dining trend to our own gardens.

Between an emerging greenhouse decorating trend and Fred’s using his greenhouse as a dining space, it’s clear that gardeners are beginning to want more out of their glasshouses. In Fred’s case, it’s about connecting gardening with hospitality.

‘As someone who has spent a lifetime working in hospitality, I've always appreciated where great food comes from,’ says Fred. ‘The idea of nurturing ingredients from seed to harvest and then enjoying them just moments later, surrounded by the plants that produced them, really appealed to me. There's something wonderfully authentic about that connection from plant to plate.’

According to Mervyn Montgomery, founder and joint director of Hampton, Fred’s greenhouse dining idea is a rising garden trend.

‘There is certainly a growing interest in gardeners incorporating dining areas into their greenhouses, reflecting a wider shift in how these spaces are being used,’ he says.

‘The type of dining area varies hugely. Some people incorporate more formal dining furniture, while others prefer relaxed bistro-style tables and chairs that can be brought in just when they’re entertaining.’

In fact, the greenhouse dining trend might have been around for longer than we realise. According Victorian greenhouse manufacturer Alitex, there’s been an appetite for combining growing and dining spaces for a while.

‘Alitex has long seen this dual purpose in action, with customers creating spaces that combine growing, relaxing and entertaining,’ says Nelly Hall, creative director at Alitex. ‘We often see, for example, our beautiful benching at either gable-end to leave the centre free for a bistro table and chairs.

‘Ultimately, it’s about seeing glasshouses as an extension of the home – a horticultural room under glass, surrounded by the things you love to grow.’

A simple bistro set like this Habitat Eve 2 Seater Metal Garden Bistro Set can transform a greenhouse – especially if you're working with a smaller space.

Does the greenhouse dining trend work in a small garden?

You don’t have to have a huge greenhouse to jump on the greenhouse dining trend – even a smaller glasshouse like the Palram Canopia Harmony 10 x 6 ft Green Aluminium Apex Greenhouse from B&Q can accommodate space for plants and outdoor living.

‘In a smaller garden, simply creating a cosy corner with an armchair, bench or stool can give you much of the same enjoyment,’ explains Mervyn. ‘There’s something particularly rewarding about sitting amongst your plants enjoying a bowl of soup made from home-grown veggies, with a chunk of crusty bread on the side.’

It’s just about keeping your greenhouse clean and designing it in a way that maximises the space you already have.

‘The key is to think vertically and be clever with the layout,’ says Nelly from Alitex. ‘A smaller greenhouse doesn’t have to mean choosing between growing and dining; it’s about making every inch work harder.

‘Start by keeping the centre of the greenhouse relatively clear for a small table and perhaps two chairs. Use the perimeter for growing, with L-shaped or wraparound benching, and strawberry boards providing valuable growing and storage space up higher, without encroaching on the 'dining' area.’

Nelly also recommends growing vegetables vertically, since climbing plants like beans and cucumbers free up valuable floor space. This Garden Gear peat and bean tunnel from Thompson & Morgan is ideal.

Get the look

Gardeners are embracing the greenhouse dining trend more than ever, and I think we’re going to see a lot more of the idea in gardens across the UK over the next few years. It's another benefit of owning a greenhouse!

Even though we’re at the tail end of summer, there are still some warm days ahead, both in August and likely in September, too, before the cosy season officially starts. And this is likely the last opportunity you’ll have to update your outdoor set up as the likes of Argos are currently running big garden furniture sales – and some of my top picks from the Argos garden furniture sale are currently available at half price!

This time of year is one of the best times to buy garden furniture – this is when you can get some of the best garden furniture deals since brands are wanting to get rid of any remaining stock and make space for new season products. So some of the best outdoor furniture is available with large price drops.

When shopping the Argos sale, all you need to do is apply code GREEN50 at check out to be treated to a 50% off discount. There are also some outdoor furniture designs on offer with 30% off when you apply the code GREEN30. But I’m here for the best deals so all of my top 6 sale picks are 50% off.

My top picks from the sale

Even if you don’t get to enjoy the newly purchased outdoor furniture much this summer, it’s a great early investment for next year. This way you’re going to be ready before everybody else once the al fresco season comes around in 2027 – and you’ll save some serious money in the process. Especially since retailers like Argos and Habitat often bring back their garden furniture year after year. So in a few months time, you’d have to pay full price for the same product again. But not if you invest now.

You’re going to be so smug come next summer – and rightly so!

Everyone knows Aldi’s middle aisles are often filled with hidden homeware gems, but this weekend the brand is tapping into one of this summer’s biggest wellness trends with the launch of a premium ice bath.

If this year’s multiple heatwaves have left you dreaming of a cold water plunge then you are in luck, as ice baths have become one of the biggest garden trends of 2026. While their cooling properties can offer relief on hot summer days, the boom in popularity is due to the many health benefits linked to regular cold water immersion.

While ice baths were once the sort of novelty only available in luxury wellness facilities, they are becoming commonplace in our homes as more people are creating their own spa-den’s and outdoor wellness spaces. And now, this Sunday (16th August), Aldi are launching an ice bath that will allow you to feel the benefits, without breaking the bank.

Aldi’s ice bath is perfect for gardens of all shapes and sizes. The inflatable design, with a pump included, makes it easier than ever to set up and use. Simply blow up the base, close the valves and place it on an even surface. Fill with water, and add bags of ice until you meet your desired temperature.

10°C to 15°C is thought to be ideal if you want to feel the benefits without the risk of cold water shock, but if you are a beginner you can work up to this. A thermometer is not included with the Aldi tub, but I recommend buying one (like this £9.99 option from Amazon) to ensure your bath is at optimal temperature.

Once inflated, the bath’s rigid structure means it can stay put for multiple days, ensuring easy access for any time you’d like to take a plunge. It is recommended to plunge multiple times a week, working up to spending around 2–5 minutes within the cold water bath. The ice bath also includes a filter pump, which helps to avoid stagnant water.

The premium ice bath is a step up from a £24.99 version that Aldi launched earlier on in the year. The new version comes at an increased cost of £150, but for a two-person tub with a durable design and included accessories, it’s still more affordable than some of the other ice baths to buy on the high street.

The benefits of ice baths

As a frequent runner and gym goer, I am no stranger to an ice bath. While I haven’t yet invested in an at-home set up, I have paid to use cold water plunge pods in gyms and wellness facilities multiple times due to the physical and mental health benefits that they provide.

‘Cold water immersion gives people a direct, tangible sense of control over their mental clarity, stress levels, and emotional state,’ explains Dr Tasmin Lewis, founder of Wellgevity. ‘It also provides muscular recovery and circulatory stimulation without joint impact and triggers the release of dopamine. Because of this, regular cold exposure is associated with reductions in low mood and anxiety symptoms.’

‘Cold immersion can act as a training stimulus for the nervous system,’ she adds. ‘The initial gasp reflex is a stress response. But, with repeated exposure, the body learns to meet that surge and settle. This improved capacity to transition between stress and recovery carries over into everyday life, resulting in calmer stress responses, improved mood, and better sleep.’

It’s no secret that our homes are becoming sanctuaries, so the addition of ice baths to our outdoor spaces feels like a natural progression. ‘Cold plunging has gone from something most people associated with elite athletes to something we are now seeing in ordinary homes and gardens, and that’s a really positive shift,’ explains Jake Newport, CEO of Finnmark Sauna.

‘For years, the big garden investments were hot tubs, outdoor kitchens and garden rooms. Now we’re seeing people dedicate space to things that support their wellbeing, and ice baths fit perfectly into that,’ adds Jake, ‘And people aren't necessarily creating enormous, expensive home spas. It might be an ice bath, a sauna or an outdoor shower tucked into a corner of the garden, or simply a plunge pool on the patio.’

If you like the sound of cold water immersion and want to transform your outdoor space into a wellness retreat, be quick. Aldi’s ice bath is a special buy launching in stores this Sunday (16th August), and I imagine it will sellout quick.

Upgrade your set up

Level up your wellness experience with these added extras

One early evening last week, I looked out onto my patio, and I genuinely thought that something had gone very, very wrong.

Hundreds of flying ants (I'm not exaggerating) had suddenly appeared, swirling around in what looked like complete chaos. My husband and I stood staring at it, trying to figure out what on earth was happening. Our first instinct was to just run in and shut the door, as we had no intention of letting them continue the party inside the house.

We were convinced there had to be a reason they'd chosen our patio. Had we left food out or were they attracted to something we'd done in the garden? It all seemed a bit bizarre, so naturally, I did what I usually do and googled it.

I found out that what I had just witnessed wasn't actually an insect invasion, since there wasn't anything to draw them to that area. And what we'd stumbled across was actually one of nature's annual events. It's something called the nuptial flight.

So I asked experts for some more information on it, so if you come across clouds of flying ants yourself, you'll know what it is and whether there's a need to panic as I did (understandably so if you look at what we witnessed below).

According to Mosh Latifi, co-owner of EcoCare Pest Management, what I witnessed was completely normal.

'What you witnessed is one of nature's most spectacular annual events. The nuptial flight is the moment when the black garden ant colony releases its winged reproductive ants, the queens and males, to mate in the air,' he explains.

'Multiple colonies in the same area respond to the same weather trigger simultaneously, which is why it looks like the ants have appeared from everywhere at once. It can genuinely feel alarming if you do not know what it is, but it is completely natural and typically lasts only a few hours to a day.'

I'd also assumed they had flown into our garden from elsewhere, but, according to Mosh, the reality was quite literally much closer to home.

'Paved surfaces such as patios and driveways absorb and retain heat, creating warm thermal pockets above them that flying ants actively seek out for their nuptial flights. If you have ant colonies established beneath or around your patio slabs, those are almost certainly the source. The ants emerge through the gaps between slabs rather than flying in from elsewhere, which is why it can look like they appeared from nowhere.'

And the timing wasn't a coincidence either, according to Daniel Steward from Shield Pest Control. 'Flying ants are most commonly seen during warm and humid spells, typically between July and August in the UK. Many people refer to 'Flying Ant Day ', but it's not usually a single day. Different colonies can emerge over several days or even weeks depending on weather conditions. Warm temperatures followed by rain or humid air create the ideal conditions for swarms to appear.'

Mosh adds that the weather is the key trigger. 'The trigger is a very specific combination of weather conditions: warm temperatures, high humidity and calm air, usually following a period of rain. This is why it tends to happen on muggy, overcast days, rather than the brightest summer days. When those conditions align, colonies across a wide area release their flying ants almost simultaneously. After mating in the air, the males die and the fertilised queens land, shed their wings and attempt to start new colonies underground.'

The good news is that if you do experience this, there's very little you actually need to do.

'The nuptial flight itself is a one-off event and will pass on its own within hours, so trying to intervene in the moment is usually more trouble than it's worth,' says Mosh. For the longer term, keeping patio joints well-filled with polymeric jointing sand (like this Rhino Power Bond Plus, £59.95 at Amazon) removes the entry and exit points that ants use, which reduces how many colonies can establish beneath your paving.'

Peppermint oil (this 100ml bottle is perfect, from Amazon) sprayed around the patio perimeter is a deterrent to foraging ants throughout the season and makes the area less hospitable for colony establishment in the first place.'

Daniel also recommends focusing on prevention rather than reacting once the swarm has started.

'Flying ants are also attracted to food residue and moisture, so keeping kitchens clean, wiping away sugary spills quickly and fixing leaks or damp areas can help make properties less appealing to them. Outdoors, keeping bins sealed and removing excess food waste from patios and outdoor dining areas can also reduce attraction.'

'For those looking for natural deterrents, diluted vinegar sprays (like Miniml white vinegar spray from Amazon) or soapy water can help disrupt ant scent trails around entry points such as windowsills, door frames and patios. Strong-smelling scents such as peppermint and citrus can also help discourage ants from settling in certain areas, although these solutions usually need regular reapplication during warmer weather.'

Shop ant repellents for patios

However, he adds that if you notice 'persistent ant activity indoors or large numbers emerging from walls, flooring or brickwork, it may indicate a nest close to the property. In these cases, it's best to contact a professional pest specialist, who can safely identify the source of the infestation and recommend the most effective long-term treatment.'

Thankfully, in our case, the swarm disappeared almost as quickly as it arrived. They were partied out by later that evening.

So there you have it! Now that I know what nuptial flight is, I won't be as freaked out if it happens again.

So if you suddenly find yourself fleeing from your patio because hundreds of flying ants have just descended, there's no need to fear. It's just a strange summer spectacle that looks dramatic, but is actually completely normal.

And... breathe....

Who doesn’t love dining al fresco in the summertime? But if wasps have gotten in the way of you enjoying your meal outside, pest experts have revealed a handy trick to keep them away from your plate.

I bet anyone who’s had a picnic, meal or BBQ disturbed by an interested wasp will have spent plenty of time searching for ‘how to get rid of wasps?’ afterwards.

Wasps are attracted to food, which is why you'll often catch them flying around your outdoor dining areas. This is why experts say to leave a ‘wasp offering’. Leaving a small amount of your food out for wasps encourages them to go to that plate and stay away from yours.

What is a wasp offering?

When it comes to deterring wasps, you do have a wide range of options available. You can use scents that deter wasps in your home and in your garden, or choose plants that deter wasps from your patio. However, when it comes to food, wasps are persistent, which is where a wasp offering comes in handy.

‘A wasp offering is simply a small piece of sweet food, a blob of jam, a grape or a small piece of fruit, placed at a distance from your dining area to give wasps an alternative target. The idea is to draw them away from the table rather than trying to keep them away from the garden entirely,’ explains Mosh Latifi, co-owner of EcoCare Pest Management.

‘It is one of the more effective simple tricks available and it has logic behind it. Wasps are not specifically interested in you. They are interested in food. Redirecting their attention to an easier target reduces how often they land on your plate. It will not stop every wasp but it meaningfully reduces the number of encounters during a meal.’

Is it a good idea to use a wasp offering

Leaving a wasp offering is a good way to keep wasps off your plate, but it does need to be used alongside other methods, Mosh warns.

‘A wasp offering combined with keeping food and drinks covered when not being eaten, avoiding sweet-scented products at the table and staying calm rather than swatting when a wasp does come close gives you the best chance of an undisturbed al fresco meal. Swatting releases an alarm pheromone that signals other wasps to investigate, which is the opposite of what you want,’ he says.

However, aside from your meal, you need to ensure your garden isn’t doing anything to attract wasps either.

‘The most effective way to deter wasps is to remove what attracts them. Keep food and sweet drinks covered when eating outdoors, clear away leftovers promptly and make sure outdoor bins have tightly fitting lids. Fallen fruit should also be picked up regularly, as fermenting fruit is a major attraction,’ adds Daniel Steward, Managing Director at Shield Pest Control.

So, next time you plan to enjoy a meal in your garden, remember to dish up a small plate for the wasps, too.

The Weber Genesis EPX-335 Smart Gas Barbecue, £1649 at Weber, is an outdoor cooker for serious chefs. It's an impressive piece of kit. If you're looking for a portable barbecue which you can pack away in the car for camping trips, then this is not the buy for you. If, however, you like to grill in the garden and want to up your grilling game by exploring more ways to cook on gas, then you'll be hard pushed to top this option.

With the ability to roast, bake, steam, or even stir-fry by replacing the cooking grate with custom-fit WEBER CRAFTED grillware, the Weber Genesis EPX-335 is like no other barbecue I have ever seen or heard of before. From cooking caramelised onions on the side burner to searing large joints of meat on the sear zone, this has got to be up there as one of the best BBQs to date.

Although we tend to seldom cook on disposable charcoal BBQs in our household, a gas BBQ seemed appealing to try out - especially since we have recently had a patio laid, which would make the perfect base for it. The fact that this gas BBQ is also a smart BBQ made me more curious to try it out for size since I'd never used these functionalities before.

Keep scrolling to see how we got on. From its delivery through to using it to cook dinners, we've covered every aspect in this review.

Weber Genesis EPX-335 smart barbecue specifications

• Fuel type: Liquid petroleum gas
• No. of stainless steel burners: 3
• Main burners: 11.4kW
• Sear zone burner: 3.81kW
• Side burner: 3.52kW
• Total cooking area: 4133 cm²
• Warming rack area: 823 cm²
• Side tables: 2
• Swivel castors: 2
• Swivel locking castors: 2
• Meat probes included: 1
• Dimensions (lid closed): H160 x W166 x D77.5cm
• Warranty: up to 12 years, depending on parts

Delivery, unboxing and set up

The Weber Genesis EPX-335 arrived on a crate, which was delivered on the footpath outside our house. We live in a mid-terraced house with no access to the back garden for a delivery lorry to get to easily. This gave us the task of swiftly getting it off the footpath and through the house to the back garden. The box was big and heavy, and there was absolutely no way that I could lift it, let alone with my husband's help. We tackled it by gradually unboxing the BBQ, piece by piece - and there were a lot of pieces.

This is something which you'll need to take into account if you do go ahead with placing an order with one of these mighty BBQs. Unless you have a driveway or access to the garden for the crate to be lifted down, you will need at least two people to help you move the parts because some are heavy.

Each part of the BBQ felt quality and robust, and although we had just spent 30-or-so minutes unboxing it, we were impressed with how it was starting to feel. Each part comes with a Weber warranty of up to 12 years, so you know that everything to do with the kit is backed by the confidence of the brand.

It's recommended that two people set up the BBQ to save time and to share the load of the heavy parts. However, my husband ended up taking over the reins of this, and it took him approximately two hours. Top tip: follow the instructions. At first it was daunting, but when you get your head around the graphic symbols, it was quite easy.

Because we unboxed the piece bit by bit, we couldn't easily find what they were referring to, which made it confusing, but all items are clearly marked in boxes, so it's best to lay these all out before making a start.

You will need more space to assemble the BBQ, and thereafter, than you may think. We keep saying that it is big, and that it is. We found that once you get into a flow of assembling it, it does come together relatively quickly, but in addition to the supplied tools, you'll find it useful to have a screwdriver.

Building the BBQ is an intermediate level. If assembling things is something which you tend to shy away from, then this is not going to be for you. You'll need to decide if it's going to be worth your time because there are plenty of other good gas BBQs available to buy, which may / may not have all the bells and whistles of the Gen sis 355, but it'll be much easier to start with.

Before you can use it for the first time, you'll need to get a gas canister, which is available from general hardware stores or petrol stations. This is another consideration because it's likely that you'll either need a car to collect it or arrange for delivery. Without this, you won't be able to use it, so it's pretty essential.

First impressions

Once you get the BBQ all set up, and you take a step back to marvel at your new outdoor cooker, you realise just how much of a serious piece of kit it is. The finish quality is fantastic, using high-quality stainless steel in all the key places.

The chunky dials leave little room for error - there’s nothing fiddly about them. The bonus rear light features around the dials add a bit of pizazz to the patio.

Following the chunky, well-built theme, the weight of the grill lid adds to the build quality and further reassurance at just how well engineered the BBQ is.

Despite the size, the BBQ is easy to move around. It’s guided by four chunky trolley-style castors with an easy-to-use foot operating mechanism.

What's it like to use?

Under the hood, in the main grill area, are three Proprietary PUREBLU high-heat burners which are designed to produce the most efficient, even flame for consistent, precise heat and reliable ignition. There's also an extra-large sear zone, which enables you to sear multiple food items simultaneously, giving you ultimate control and flexibility for whatever you are cooking, be it from a lightly smoked fish to a sizzling sirloin steak. A feature which brings even more flexibility is the side burner, which will enable cookware such as pots and pans to be introduced to further expand the range of cooking options.

The electronic ignition makes lighting the burners super easy. So far, it has worked every time. It's powered by supplied batteries, which do exactly what they are supposed to do, taking the stress out of constantly trying to light a BBQ. It's really quick to heat up - we were cooking on gas within 10 minutes.

We found that the digital thermostat is an absolute godsend because you know exactly what is going on inside the grill. It even comes with an attachment for using as a meat thermometer probe, which is essential for longer cooks on larger pieces of meat

There's the option to have direct heat, indirect heat and a generous-sized warming rack. These can be used in this way all at once, thanks to the expandable top cooking grate. You can have a burger sizzling, veggies roasting and corn on the cob on the upper rack. This is a new feature for the GENESIS grill, which provides extra room to cook appetisers, sides, or main course dishes.

When preparing food to cook and serve, we found the extra-large prep and serve table mega useful. Our kitchen is fairly compact, so being able to take food out and assemble it on a plate ready for tucking in to saved a lot of toing and froing, as well as space.

I've read that the prep and serve table accommodates more trays and dishes than previous Genesis models, and although I don't have hands-on experience with these, I am grateful for the extra space.

We really like that the dials are quick to respond and they are lit by LEDS, so when cooking in low-light levels, we can still see clearly. There are also under-the-lid LED lights, which illuminate the entire barbecuing surface - from the side table to the grates. This lighting system is perfect for barbecuing any time of the day, although we preferred the evening.

We (also) really like the built-in storage. It's really useful. It's a good place to keep the manual (until you're confident using it) as well as utensils, gloves and pots and pans. You can't lock it, however, so just don't leave anything valuable in it if this is something which is going to play on your mind.

We're looking forward to using wood chips at some point in the near future to add that smokey flavour, and to cook a thin crust pizza. We've also found a recipe for a beer-can chicken that we are excited to try when we next get a good spell of weather.

Other features

One of the biggest selling points of the Weber Genesis EPX-335 is that it is smart. It has Integrated WEBER CONNECT Technology, which promises to create the perfectly grilled food through real-time food temperature alerts, reminders, and flip and serve notifications at the barbecue or directly to your smartphone. To take advantage of all that this tech has to offer, you'll need to have the WEBER CONNECT app downloaded onto your device.

It's a complete game-changer which enables barbecue-goers to stay connected to their barbecue while taking care of guests, watching the game, or enjoying a drink. But we couldn't pair the device with the app on the first attempt. This is something which we’ll try again (and again) when we next get the opportunity - we'll just need to boost the WiFi, or something.

Cleaning the Weber Genesis EPX-335 Smart Gas Barbecue

Cleaning is never going to be easy with a big BBQ like this, as there is only one place to go. However, there is a really useful catch tray for all the juices at the bottom, and Weber has designed all of the components to be removable for cleaning.

You should expect to give the BBQ a quick clean after each use, which will help to maintain it. Scourers and purpose-made scrapers are readily available at all hardware shops and from Weber directly, with prices starting from £6.39 for a 30cm grill brush. This will make scraping off yesterday's dinner a lot easier, and also prevent the flavours of your fish and veggies from tainting today's steak.

In the manual, it's advised that you give the grill a deep clean at least twice a year, but if you use it regularly, then you should be aiming for at least once a quarter. Everything will need to be cleaned, and there are detailed instructions advising how to clean a BBQ, which is all really easy to follow.

Storing the Weber Genesis EPX-335 Smart Gas Barbecue

If you have somewhere to store it during the colder months, then it can be easily moved on the four castor wheels into a sheltered outbuilding. This will help to protect it from the elements and generally prolong the life of the BBQ.

If, like us, you do not have somewhere to store it and need to leave it on the patio, then we would highly recommend you buy the purpose-made cover for £131.99 on weber.com for this model, as it can quickly get dirty following rain and exposure to the sun.

Should you buy the Weber Genesis EPX-335 Smart Gas Barbecue?

If you want to take your grilling skills up a notch and spend more time cooking outdoors, then we can wholeheartedly recommend this BBQ. Unboxing it and putting it together may take a while, but once it's all set up, you won't look back. Each small part adds to the overall quality of the product that the Weber Genesis EPX-335 Smart Gas Barbecue is, and with a warranty of up to 12 years, it's backed by the confidence of the brand, too.

There is no denying that it is expensive. At just shy of £2,000, it is an investment. It will open up a lot of culinary doors, such as smoking and cooking a pizza, not just grilling. Everything you could need - apart from the gas canister - is available to buy on the Weber UK website. There's plenty of support, should you need it, from online chats to user guides and recipes.

The built-in smart tech is what elevates the price, but this is something which should give you the confidence to try cooking new things. There are plenty of recipes to try in the app as well as on the Weber website, and it removes the guesswork of when the food is ready to eat. As well as this smart feature, there are loads of other features such as the meat probe, LED lights and expandable top cooking grate, which make it a top choice.

When it comes to refreshing my garden for summer, there is one online brand I always turn to for unique and expensive-looking garden furniture: La Redoute. The online store is essentially France's answer to M&S, selling everything from fashion to homeware, but it's the garden furniture that impresses me, and other interiors editors, time and time again.

La Redoute sits in the mid to high price range on the high street, but it delivers designer looks at a fraction of the price of designer brands such as Soho Home. However, if you want to get the designer look for even less, La Redoute is hosting a massive final garden clearance sale with prices reduced by up to 60% on some of their most lust-worthy pieces.

The outdoor coffee tables and sculptural side tables are where La Redoute really shines. I've got my eye on the Dendi Ceramic Garden Side Table in a gorgeous ochre colour as an easy way to add the tile trend to my garden. If you're looking to upgrade your BBQ setup, I've also spotted the Wassif Acacia Garden Table, which I picked up last summer to turn into a mini outdoor kitchen, reduced to under £200.

I've trawled through the clearance sale, and these are the pieces I'd recommend snapping up while they're on super sale.

When it comes to luxury looking pieces at a reasonable price point La Redoute is a treasure trove of hidden gems. However, this is a 'final' clearance sale so if you don't want to miss out I'd recommend hitting checkout asap.

As part of the work we've been doing on our house, we also gave our patio a much-needed makeover. Once the new space was finished, I wanted to make sure we could enjoy it as much as possible, especially on hot, sunny days. That's what prompted me to swap our parasol aesthetic for a crank awning from 247 Blinds, and it's easily been one of the best decisions we have made so far.

If you'd asked me a few summers ago what the best way to add shade to a patio was, I'd have said a good parasol. It's a classic choice for a reason. It's easily moveable, there are lots of variations in design, and there's one that suits every space. And for years ours did the job well enough.

But after one too many sunny afternoons constantly repositioning it to chase the shade, while the heavy base got in the way of chairs and took up valuable patio space, I started looking at other solutions. And a crank awning is by far the best choice.

The biggest surprise wasn't just that there was more shade, but how much more patio became usable. With a parasol, you're always working around the central pole. The shade shifts throughout the day, meaning someone inevitably ends up sitting in full sun, while the bulky base takes up precious floor space and limits where furniture can go.

In contrast, the awning extends directly from the house, covering our seating area evenly without anything interrupting the space underneath. Our coffee table, chairs and outdoor seating area could all sit comfortably beneath it.

It also shades the paving itself, which makes a noticeable difference to little feet on the hot days we've been having this summer. Rather than the patio absorbing heat and radiating it back up, the whole space feels way more pleasant to sit in.

I chose a manual crank awning because I wanted something simple and reliable, as I'd heard that some electric mechanisms could be temperamental and let's face it, the manual was more budget-friendly.

While fitting it definitely isn't a one-person job because you'll need at least two people to safely lift and secure the awning onto the wall brackets. However, it's completely worth the effort and not at all unattainable to do yourself if you've got a good drill, as it comes complete with all the screws and fixings.

Once installed, the awning looks incredibly sleek against the house and feels much more like a permanent feature than a freestanding parasol ever did.

Using it is really simple too. A few turns of the crank handle and the awning smoothly extends across the patio. If the weather changes or we want more sunshine late in the day, it rolls in just as quickly.

I also like that you can choose how far to extend it depending on the weather, which is a little different to something like a shade sail, which isn't as adjustable. On a warm day, I wind it out partway, while during heatwaves and strong sun I extend it fully to maximise shade.

Shop crank awning alternatives

One thing I hadn't expected was its many cooling benefits. By preventing direct sunlight from reaching both the patio and the back of the house, our awning creates a much more comfortable, cooler outdoor space.

And as a bonus, it's helped keep our house cooler too. Because it shades our patio doors during the hottest part of the day, far less direct sunlight streams inside, which is very welcome, as our well-glazed space can become sweltering. I've definitely noticed it doesn't heat up as quickly, so it's much more comfortable to sit in.

Another big advantage is that the awning is easily put away. When it's retracted, it sits neatly against the house, so it doesn't dominate the space like a pergola or parasol would. Our patio looks way more considered now too with this built-in patio cover, and it really complements the rest of our renovation.

Don't get me wrong, a parasol still has its place for smaller patios, balconies and if you're renting, but if your seating area is against your house, an awning offers far more consistent coverage. Plus, it'll make the space feel more like an outdoor living room, and because the fabric is waterproof, it's also a great place to shelter from the rain and stay outside, especially if you're hosting.

Shade lounging essentials

So, if you've done something similar to us and you've invested in your patio and want to make the most of it, I'd wholeheartedly recommend considering an awning. Aside from it being a genius shade idea, it's also a sure-fire way to make your patio look more expensive to boot.

Last week, in the midst of one of this summer's many heatwaves, I hosted eight of my friends in my garden as part of my hen do celebrations. I say 'host' loosely, as my job was simply to prepare the outdoor furniture and supply the hosting/kitchen essentials while my friends acted as chef, bar staff and waiters.

I thought I had everything covered to get my small garden ready to host. I'd invested in a £35 folding table from B&Q and some metal folding chairs from Habitat so everyone had a seat (but I could fold them away afterwards). I also pulled out my Shark FlexBreeze HydroGo Misting Fan, £129.99 at Shark, to help keep everyone cool, and used my Roberts Revival Petite 2 Radio, £99 at John Lewis, as a speaker for music.

However, I quickly realised I'd neglected several small details that would have made all the difference when hosting people outdoors in this current heat. Here are the buys I'll be picking up before my next garden party.

1. Drinks cooler

My garden is tiny, and I figured I'd have no need for an outdoor cooler as my fridge is right next to the back door, barely 20 paces from the table. How wrong I was.

Whether you're drinking beer, cocktails or fizz, keeping guests' drinks topped up is a full job. Even with my fridge so close, it felt like a chore to tear yourself away from the conversations to grab a top-up of bubbly, and it was too hot to leave more than one bottle out at a time.

Next party, I'm planning to invest in either a chic metal cooler that I can fill with ice to keep bottles chilled or a full cool box instead of an outdoor fridge. I'm currently eyeing up the Argos Campos 25L Cool Box in green, which is £18 and would blend in beautifully with my mini outdoor kitchen.

2. Ice maker

Even though I'd purposely gone out to buy a new bag of ice on the morning of the party, we still blasted through it in topping up the soft drink pitcher alone. Next time I'm investing in an ice maker like this £99 from John Lewis. It produces 12kg of ice in 24 hours; for comparison, the average bag you can buy at the supermarket typically weighs around 2kg.

While I'm calling it a hosting essential, the rate I've been getting through ice this summer and the strain it's put on my ice tray, an ice maker would pay for itself in no time.

3. Fly fans

When eating outside flies are always a pain, but this year (along with wasps) they've been next level. Once the food was out on the table, especially when it came to the cakes or sweet treats, we were dive-bombed by every flying insect and bug around.

I'd been relying on citronella candles to try and keep the flies away, but next time I'm investing in fly fans to protect the food. You'll often see them used abroad in holiday resorts or at food markets in summer.

4. Parasol or gazebo

This is going to sound like a no-brainer, but I made the crucial mistake of not buying a parasol or shade structure back in late spring when there were plenty of budget versions available. I live in a north-facing garden, and so figured I could get away with the natural shade my fence and house provided. I should have known better.

While the day of the actual event wasn't as hot as it had been, I still managed to get sunburnt, and we had to keep a close eye on the clotted cream and any iced cakes on the table, which swiftly turned into little puddles.

5. Seat pads

I own two seat pads already, but shamefully it didn't occur to me to invest in some extra sets for the additional folding chairs and garden chairs I put out in the garden. It took my friends deciding who was wearing the most suitable outfit to risk sitting on the (baking hot) metal chairs for me to realise my mistake.

I always think seat pads are a lovely addition to personalise a bistro set, but I'm investing in a couple of back-up pads ahead of my next event to use on my metal folding seats and to make my mismatched indoor and outdoor seating combination look a little more uniform.

If you're hosting a couple of summer gatherings and realise, like me, you're missing one of these hosting essentials, I'd recommend buying fast. Outdoor furniture stock at the best places to buy garden furniture are dwindling fast, as are other outdoor hosting essentials, so my advice is to buy now or regret later.

Given that the sun hasn’t seemed to stop shining this summer, it would be foolish not to indulge in hosting a few get-togethers in the garden. But if your outdoor space needs a few finishing touches, don’t fear, as I’ve found nine stylish and savvy outdoor hosting essentials at Argos for under £100.

It was the Serenity 2 Seater Metal Garden Bistro Set, priced at £90, that caught my eye at Argos initially when plotting a budget garden revamp. But, when hosting outdoors, you really need to consider all bases beyond having the best outdoor furniture for guests to sit on.

This summer, you'll need the best parasol to offer some respite from the heat. I'd also recommend adding some garden lighting ideas, which will also come in handy to keep the party going into the warm evenings.

I'm happy to report that I've uncovered some budget gems still in stock at Argos that will help you be the hostess with the mostess without the expense. It pays to be a bargain hunter, and luckily, I’m willing to share all I’ve found. So, if you have any summer soirees lined up, these are the summer buys under £100 that will elevate your hosting game.

It's the attention to detail that guests remember, which is why it always pays to anticipate their needs and provide garden furniture and accessories that make a difference to the hosting experience.

Outdoor lighting is becoming just as important as the lamps and light fixtures you put in your home. This summer, fairytale-inspired outdoor lighting has exploded in popularity. However, if light-up mushrooms and floral stakes aren't for you, I've recently spotted a more boho-inspired style emerging as a playful way to turn your outdoor space into an enchanted garden - solar-powered hanging lanterns.

Garden lighting ideas should be both practical and beautiful, and these lovely paper-lantern style garden lights are just that. Cluster a couple of these lamps together, and when the sun goes down, it will create a magic look, reminiscent of the paper lantern festival scene in Tangled.

Solar-powered hanging lanterns

These garden lanterns have a similar look to the classic IKEA paper lantern that casts a lovely diffused glow at night, except they're made from more sturdy, weather-proof fabric so that they can withstand the wind, rain, heat, and anything in between. And most of them, such as the Lights4fun tassel lanterns, available at Amazon, come equipped with solar-powered lights.

A huge driving force behind these emerging outdoor lighting trends is that so many of them are now solar-powered. This means that you don’t have to worry about batteries or recharging them. Instead, the incorporated mini solar panels collect power from the sun during the day and automatically turn on in the evening when it gets dark. They're effective, low-maintenance and magical looking.

During the day, the paper lanterns will give your garden a relaxed, boho look. But once the sun sets and the lights turn on, they will look extra magical.

The Light4fun versions are my current favourites, and while I haven't tried them yet, they come with glowing reviews from customers. ‘Beautiful when set up and easy to put together. Endured rain, thunderstorms and a heatwave and still looking great,' wrote one.

‘These lanterns are very beautiful, well-made and well worth the money. Everyone who comes to the garden admires them. Definitely recommend,’ writes another.

My top tip for styling these lanterns would be to hang them in clusters from a pergola or in a tree. If you can, I'd weave in different sizes too to create a beautiful graduated effect.

Alternatively, if you only have a small space, this lantern style of lamp is often available as mini string lights that can be hung along a fence or woven through the spokes of a parasol.

How are you lighting your garden this season – are you investing in some chandeliers like Amanda Holden? Or are you recreating Nigella Lawson's magical garden lighting set-up?

For me I'll be embracing the boho look with these lovely lanterns.

The UK is experiencing its third (yes, third) heatwave of the year, but this doesn’t mean it’s too hot to enjoy our gardens — especially as garden experts are recommending this stylish garden furniture idea to help keep your patio cool.

It would be fairly annoying to discover that all your patio ideas have gone to waste if it is too hot to sit out and enjoy the outdoor space this summer. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to cool a patio, including this unusual method you probably haven’t considered yet.

Experts have revealed that outdoor rugs are useful for far more than simply making your garden seating ideas look good. They can also help cool your patio.

How to use outdoor rugs to cool a patio

If you’ve been wondering whether garden rugs are worth it, from a cooling perspective, yes, they absolutely are. This is because outdoor rugs don’t tend to retain as much heat as patio stone, so they feel cooler underfoot.

‘As temperatures continue to rise, creating a cool and comfortable outdoor space becomes just as important as styling it. If your patio is paved with stone, you'll know how quickly it can heat up under the sun, making it almost impossible to walk across barefoot,’ says Kirsty Barton, Brand Storytelling Manager at Alternative Flooring.

‘A great way to avoid this is by incorporating outdoor rugs into your patio area. Not only do they help define seating and dining spaces while introducing colour, pattern and texture, they can also create a softer surface underfoot, helping to reduce the heat radiating from the sun-soaked paving stones.’

When selecting a rug for your garden, you’ll need to ensure you use the correct material. Experts recommend selecting rugs made from recycled PET or polypropylene, as it absorbs less heat than stone. Dunelm's stylish blue striped indoor/ outdoor rug (£35) is 100% propylene, and a good option.

‘Since many outdoor rugs are made from synthetic fibres (ours are made from 100% recycled PET plastic bottles), they don't retain as much heat as hard surfaces, helping to create a comfier and cooler floor to walk or sit on. Your pets will thank you too as it'll prevent them from burning their paws during hot weather,’ says Reilly Gray, co-founder of Suns Lifestyle.

However, Reilly does also point out that outdoor rugs are not the only way to cool a patio, nor are they what you should rely on to cool a patio. While great for helping your floor feel cooler, you will need to provide shade, too - which you can do with a sun sail (£34.99, Amazon) or pergola (£145.99, B&Q).

‘Outdoor rugs are definitely a worthwhile investment to add comfort and reduce glare, but they would not be a cost-effective way to cool an entire patio. Instead, introduce shade with pergolas, awnings or sails to help block direct sunlight and reduce heat buildup. Pairing your shade solution with outdoor fans, strategically placed planting and lighter coloured paving will help create a much cooler and more enjoyable space, especially during the hotter weather,’ says Reilly.

Shop outdoor rugs

Here are a few of my favourite outdoor rugs for a stylish patio. Made from recycled PET for a cooler feeling underfoot.

When used alongside other cooling methods, an outdoor rug can make your patio feel cooler and more comfortable to walk on. It will earn you instant style points, too!

Hosting outdoors in the UK can always be a gamble thanks to our unpredictable weather. Usually, that would mean preparing for rain during a BBQ, but right now it's all about protecting guests from the heat, and I've found the perfect stylish shade solution on sale at Argos, the stylish Argos Home Garden Gazebo.

The best parasol is a great garden shade idea for a small space, but if you have a larger garden, I'd recommend investing in a gazebo, which will provide a larger, more stable shaded area. The Argos Home garden gazebo is usually priced at £170, but right now it is reduced by 20% to £136, making it a bargain price.

A gazebo is the ultimate multi-tasking outdoor hosting essential, protecting guests from rain and sun, whatever the weather. However, they're usually green or navy monstrosities, but not this one. This beige gazebo wouldn't look out of place around the pool at a luxury resort.

The Argos Home garden gazebo measures 3m x 3m, so it can easily cover an outdoor sofa or dining set. It has a solid steel structure, making it more suitable for withstanding rain or a slightly windy day than a standard parasol or shade sail. However, it can't be used in high winds or during storms.

It has four side panels that, when drawn back, look like elegant draped curtains. However, if the weather takes a turn for the worse, the sides can be zipped up to protect from extreme sun or rain to create an outdoor room. As a bonus, it also includes net curtains, which can be drawn to help protect against flies and midges during an evening outdoor dinner.

The gazebo is the perfect neutral base for most outdoor living room ideas. I love how Argos has styled it with a corner outdoor sofa, rug and some striped soft furnishings to add a splash of colour.

However, I think it would look equally as stylish with two sunloungers and a side table underneath for a cooling spot for guests to recline. To keep it looking luxe in your own garden, I'd recommend sticking to the best garden furniture in natural wood finishes or wicker and weaving in colour through the outdoor cushions, and a tray or vase on an outdoor coffee table.

This summer, Argos has been one of my favourite places to snap up outdoor decor to up my hosting game in my small garden. Here are some pieces I'd style the gazebo with to create the ultimate space for your guests to lounge this summer.

Are you opting for a parasol or gazebo to shade your garden party guests this summer?

We’re in for a long, hot summer, making it unsurprising that coastal gardens are trending for 2026. And if you’re looking to nail this look on a budget, B&M has some brilliant buys to snap up right now.

While coastal garden ideas are having a moment right now, they’ve been a classic garden design choice for decades. However, with this year’s garden trends prioritising climate-resilient planting and the warning of extreme heat becoming a new normal, drought-resistant coastal plants are becoming the new normal for UK gardens.

And to complete the look, this, of course, means the surge in popularity of coastal garden accessories. From rattan plant pots to glowing lanterns, here are the affordable coastal garden buys to snap up from B&M right now.

‘Coastal garden decor is all about creating a space that feels calm and natural. As more people make the most of their outdoor space, they're looking for gardens that capture that holiday feeling and somewhere to really switch off. Coastal style lends itself perfectly to that with its relaxed colour palette and a look that never feels too polished,’ explains Dayna Isom Johnson, Etsy's trend expert.

‘The key is to keep the look subtle. Natural textures, striped cushions and beach-inspired ceramics bring in a coastal feel without making the space look overly themed. Handmade pieces work especially well because they add character and make a garden feel collected over time. It's about capturing that easy, lived-in feeling rather than trying to recreate a beach on your patio.’

If you want your garden to look like something out of a Nancy Meyers film, aka the coastal grandma aesthetic, you can’t go wrong with rattan. From rattan planters (like this Dunelm plant pot) to even a rattan garden water butt (£500 at Garden Trading), rattan is one of the easiest ways to nail the coastal look.

You should also consider a cream and blue colour palette. Add nautical stripes to your gardening furniture in the form of the best outdoor pillows. I like this Deck Stripe Cushion from Wayfair, which looks just like a stereotypical striped sailor's shirt. And lastly, you can’t go wrong with some nautical finishes like this White Company Whitewashed Bamboo Lantern (£45).

‘For those sunny afternoons, a sun lounger is the ideal garden companion for sunbathing, and adding a parasol for protection finishes the look and creates a relaxing spot for a laid-back summer day. Plus, with parasols with fringed edging, add a fun, retro-inspired element (reminiscent of 1970s beaches), transporting you back to fond memories of your favourite holiday destinations,’ adds Helen Barlow-Davis, product development manager at Laura James.

‘Accessories can also do a lot of heavy lifting. For example, bring in colour with ocean blues with cushion covers and throw blankets, which work for outdoor sofas and seating areas. Plus, as the sun sets, soft lighting can transform your garden into a tranquil outdoor retreat. Lanterns, warm string lights, and solar-powered lamps add a subtle glow reminiscent of beachside evenings. Placed along pathways or around seating areas, they create a welcoming atmosphere perfect for relaxing or entertaining.’

B&M’s products are only available in-store. If you don’t have one local to you, I’ve rounded up a few more coastal alternatives that you can shop online.

Have you caught the coastal garden bug this summer?

Last summer, I noticed a small gadget sitting on almost every outdoor restaurant table while I was on holiday. It was a fly fan, and after seeing just how well it keeps insects away from everyone's food. I was so impressed, I ordered a couple while I was still there.

So when I spotted Aldi launching its own Ambiano Bug Repellent Fan for just £2.99, it immediately caught my eye as I'll probably pick up a few more when they arrive in stores on Thursday, 9th July. Having used fly fans last summer, I can safely say they are a genius little gadget that keeps flies and other flying insects away from food, making outdoor entertaining pest-free.

If you love hosting BBQs, garden parties and alfresco lunches, having one or two of these is definitely a must. And at that affordable price, I don't think they'll stick around for long!

After watching these fans in action day after day on holiday, I was convinced they were worth trying myself. I bought two and use them near our outdoor kitchen setup and on the outdoor table.

They work brilliantly at keeping flies away from food without relying on citronella candles or sprays. Of course, they don't create a bug-free garden, but they do make a noticeable difference to where food is prepared and served, which I think is pretty important when entertaining.

If you're wondering how something so small can keep flies away, it's actually surprisingly clever. The fan's soft, flexible blades spin to create a gentle stream of air that disrupts a fly's flight path, making it difficult for them to hover or land on your food.

At the same time, the blades feature reflective holographic patterns that catch the light as they spin. Flies' compound eyes are particularly sensitive to movement and flashes of light, so the constantly shifting reflections make the area appear threatening, encouraging them to steer clear (which is a lot like the disco ball hack we covered recently).

Best of all, it does all this without chemicals, sprays or strong-smelling citronella candles, making it a simple, food-safe solution for eating outside.

While I mainly use mine for BBQs and garden parties, they're also great for picnics and camping trips. Their compact, battery-powered design (some are USB rechargeable) means you can pop one into a picnic basket or camping box to help keep flying bugs away from all sorts of delights wherever you're eating outdoors. And of course, you can use them indoors too, as we all know, flies love to visit us indoors in the summer.

And at £2.99 (which is way cheaper than others on the market), Aldi's version is fantastic value, making it really easy to recommend if you're looking for a simple way to make outdoor hosting that bit more enjoyable.

Shop fly fan alternatives

Having relied on fly fans throughout last summer, I know just how effective they can be. Aldi's £2.99 version is an absolute steal, so I'd be quick if you want to get your hands on one (or five).

I’d say it’s rare that a garden soiree doesn’t carry on into the evening, which means the majority of us benefit from quality outdoor lighting. And if you’re looking for something that truly takes you from day to night, then Lidl’s Parasol With Solar LED Lights (£39.99) is exactly what you need.

Of course, the most important thing the best parasols should do is offer shade and protect you from the sun. But thanks to the clever addition of lights, they're now starting to become an essential garden lighting idea too.

With the inclusion of LED solar lights, Lidl is offering a seamless transition into evening entertainment. Landing in stores on Thursday (9 July), here’s everything you need to know about the Lidl LIVARNO Parasol with Solar LED Lights.

Lidl’s parasol has been reduced from £59.99 to £39.99, making it one of the more affordable options available on the market.

It has 36 LED lights on the canopy struts, designed to provide soft overhead lighting when the sun sets. It has three adjustable light colours - warm, neutral and cool white - which you can control at the touch of a button.

The parasol itself has an automatically-locking crank to ensure easy usage, and it provides adequate UV protection, in accordance with UV standard 801. For optimal shade, you can adjust the parasol into three different positions,and the shade is ventilated to enhance airflow - which I’d argue is a must on hot, sweaty days.

Once charged, you can expect four hours of illumination time from the LED’s and the parasol comes with a removable cover to keep it protected when not in use. One thing the parasol doesn’t come with is the stand. However, its 38mm pole should fit this Amazon Heavy Duty Patio Umbrella Holder (£21.99).

The main draw of Lidl’s parasol is its dual functionality. It offers both shade and light. This dual function means it's particularly well-suited to small gardens or patios, where you may lack the space for both a parasol and one of the best garden floor lamps.

However, if you have a small space and already own a parasol, you can easily upgrade your parasol to have the same dual function. You can purchase parasol lights (like this £19.99 attachment from Amazon) which attach to your parasol and offer the same effect - so you don’t need to rush out and buy a new one for the sake of it.

Lidl’s LED solar parasol will only be available in-store and while stocks last. So, I’ve rounded up a few more affordable options you can purchase online.

If you’re looking to make the most of your garden this summer, then an LED parasol can ensure you stay enjoying your space as day transitions to night.

If I wanted to give a garden privacy this summer, I’d use a hedge bed like B&Q’s Bopha Rectangular Wood Trough (£54) to add instant height and structure to my borders.

There are plenty of garden screening ideas to help zone your space and gain privacy from nosy neighbours, and one of the easiest (and most natural ways) is by making the most of your plants, in particular hedges.

Having spotted B&Q’s hedge beds on a recent trip to the store, I saw first-hand how handy these troughs are for crafting your own garden privacy ideas, they can also become a haven for wildlife too.

The Bopha Rectangular Wood Trough has a capacity of 110L and is ideal for growing edibles and flowers in your garden. Standing at 35cm, they create height and structure to your garden borders and patios.

Many flowers, such as some geraniums, dwarf zinnias and crocuses, don’t reach great heights, so container planting is an excellent way to ensure your eye is drawn to them, whilst adding extra height and structure to the space.

Now, this won’t exactly offer loads of privacy, but you can also add taller-growing plants to the trough thanks to its 40cm depth, such as agapanthus, delphiniums and verbena, which offer privacy through their height, as well as stunning bursts of colour.

The trough itself has drainage holes in the base, which allow excess water to drain away, preventing the soil from becoming waterlogged, although container plants do benefit from being watered more in a heatwave. You will, however, need to apply a suitable oil finish (such as the Osmo Garden Furniture Oil, £30.62, Amazon) periodically to maintain the trough’s colour and weather resistance.

As well as adding extra height to your garden, the trough can also be used to carve out zones in your garden. This easy garden layout idea really couldn’t be any simpler. Simply arrange your troughs to create zones, such as a seating area or BBQ space. Think of them as flowering screens.

These planters are also great for supporting local birds. Once blooming, the trough offers a sheltered spot off the ground that birds can take respite in.

‘I recently purchased the Verve Bopha 110L trough, and I'm very impressed. At 80cm wide, it provides plenty of space for a variety of plants. The build quality feels very durable; the wood is thick and feels like it will hold up well against the elements. Aesthetically, the brown finish is lovely-it has a natural, premium look that fits perfectly in my garden. Overall, a high-quality item that feels like it’s built to last,’ says one review.

‘Really pleased with the planters, they are solidly built and sturdy and just the right size to fit perfectly on the patio. The stained wood is attractive and blends well with the perennial flowers I've planted in it to give that extra bit of colour in winter,’ says another.

Add privacy to a garden

While a hedge bed will add privacy along fences or around seating areas when the plants have established themselves, if you are looking for a more instant fix, here are a few alternative patio privacy ideas.

If you want to use natural planting to create privacy in a garden, these wooden troughs are the stylish planters to help you do it.

When planning how I wanted my tiny urban garden to look, I took inspiration from my favourite London and Parisienne cafe. They managed to turn small outdoor spaces into a pocket-sized oasis with simple bistro sets and pretty table lamps, and Aldi is dropping the perfect set of solar table lamps for under £5 this week.

Cafe-gardens have become an emerging garden trend. This trend is all about turning any outdoor space you have into a version of your own at-home coffee shop/wine bar. It's a look made for small garden ideas, as it romanticises the humble bistro set as the perfect spot for a quiet morning coffee or an intimate glass of wine in the evening.

An outdoor table lamp is an essential part of elevating a bistro set. You'll see them on the tables of most chic cafes or wine bars, casting a lovely, romantic glow in the evening. I've been on the hunt for one, and Aldi's mushroom lamps are not only chic but the most affordable I've come across.

The Aldi table lamps launch in-store on 9th July in two different styles. There is the mushroom lamp, my particular favourite, with its conical shape and a circular design that will cast out more light from the sides. Both of them are available in black, white/beige and sage; however if is the sharp black version that caught my eye as looking the most expensive and sophisticated.

Both styles of lamp are priced at £4.99, which is also a great reason to buy them. Most rechargeable outdoor lights will cost you around twice that price. However, there is another star reason to buy them: they're solar-powered rather than rechargeable, so as long as you leave them out in a sunny spot, they can be left to do their thing without plugging into a charger every few days.

The most similar solar lamp I've come across in terms of look and price to the Aldi version is this Solar Black Metal Table Lamp at Habitat, on sale for £9.60.

These table lamps aren't the only gems in the Aldi specialbuy drop this week. In the middle aisle, you'll also be able to find the Solar Penzance Candle Lanterns for £8.99, which are perfect for elevating the romantic feel of a garden. I'm also very tempted by the solar decorative string lights for £7.99 that have a similar chic and simple design to the table lamps.

The best planned garden lighting ideas are all about creating layers and pockets of illumination. That is as simple as stringing up some lights along the fence for ambience, adding task lighting with a table lamp on a bistro set, and finally dotting in decorative lanterns as accent lights to illuminate planting.

Alternatives

Aldi's lights will only be available to purchase in-store, so I'm having to go on a dedicated shopping trip on the 9th to hunt a pair down. However, if you don't have a store near you, here are a couple of other affordable garden lamps I've been considering to get the cafe-garden look.

Will you be elevating your garden dining set with a new table lamp this summer?

If the recent flush of warm weather has had you realising your garden fence and shed are looking a little tired, it might be time for a repaint with one of this year's five trending paint colour combinations. for the garden.

Colour trends aren't just for indoors; our gardens have plenty of opportunities to be drenched in colour too. Bringing our interior tastes outside has been a big gardening trend for 2026. It’s all about expressing our personalities, and painting or choosing the best garden furniture in a new colour is one of the easiest ways to do that.

But if you need a little encouragement to get creative, here are the colour trends to test out in your garden this summer for a stylish new look.

1. Sage green and warm neutrals

Let’s start simple. Sage green is a soft, relaxing shade both indoors and outdoors, and when paired with a warm neutral colour, you can create a soothing spa garden retreat. It may be a simple combo, but it is by no means dull.

‘One combination we’re seeing a lot of is soft sage greens paired with warm neutrals, like sandy beiges or stone tones. It’s a really calming look that works beautifully with the natural tones and textures of the outdoors and helps create that relaxed, lived-in feel people are after,’ explains Donna Taylor, colour and design manager at Johnstone’s Paint.

2. Burgundy and pink

Warm tones are all the rage right now, and don’t be afraid to bold with a rich burgundy and pink pairing. This combination works perfectly for hosting areas, as it is warm, inviting and effortlessly stylish. Why not pair John Lewis’ burgundy salsa chairs (£149) with this B&Q sculptural side table (£60.49) for a bold look? Alternatively, for a softer look, pair earthier terracotta pink planters with a bold burgundy garden set like the one above.

‘For those looking to make more of a statement, deep burgundy paired with dusty or blush pink adds depth and sophistication. Rich burgundy anchors the space, while softer pink tones stop the palette from feeling too heavy. It's a combination that works especially well with flowering plants and creates a layered, designer feel,’ says Olly Cavner, operations director at Essential Living.

3. Yellow and white

If you want something fresh and exciting, try a sunny yellow, paired with a bright white. This colour combo can make your garden feel brighter and even larger - perfect for small spaces.

‘At the other end of the spectrum, sunny, buttery yellows with crisp whites or pale greys are having a moment too. They instantly brighten up fences, planters or garden furniture and bring a real sense of energy to the space - perfect for making smaller gardens feel brighter and more open,’ says Donna.

4. Ocean blue and beige

If you are looking for coastal garden ideas or Mediterranean garden ideas, this colour combination is begging for you to try it. Blue has been a huge interiors trend this year, so it feels only natural that it’s having its moment in the garden, too.

‘People are increasingly looking to create outdoor spaces that feel like an escape, and coastal-inspired palettes are growing in popularity as a result. Ocean blue accents combined with sandy beige tones bring a calm, holiday-inspired feel that's perfect for patios, outdoor dining areas and balconies. The colours feel light, airy and work beautifully in both contemporary and traditional gardens,’ says Olly.

5. Pink and blue

2026 has also seen a further increase in dopamine decor both inside and outside the home. So, if you’re keen to fill a garden with a characterful colour, give pink and blue a try.

‘It’s also hard to ignore the influence of ‘dopamine décor’, which is still going strong outdoors. We’re seeing more people mixing playful pops of colour - think bright blues, corals or even fuchsia with stripes or patterned textiles for a more relaxed, layered look,’ says Donna.

Are you tempted to try any of these trending colour combinations?

I write about garden lighting almost every day in the summer, so it takes quite a bit to impress me. However, cult favourite lighting brand Pooky's new outdoor rechargeable lantern caught my attention immediately. I got to see these stylish garden lights IRL on the day of the launch – and to say that I ‘liked’ them would be a huge understatement.

The Pooky Stefan lantern by The Novogratz is easily the prettiest garden lighting idea I’ve seen this year. And I don’t say this lightly, especially since I’ve already seen some lovely outdoor lamps and lighting solutions this season as stylish and whimsical lighting is one of the biggest garden trends.

The outdoor rechargeable lanterns were created in collaboration with US design duo Cortney and Robert Novogratz, also known as The Novogratz. Available in five pretty colours, the collection was previously launched in the US last year, but now it's landed in the UK.

Pooky’s interior wireless lamps have been a huge success since day one and are among the brand’s top sellers. But this is the British brand’s first foray into outdoor rechargeable lights, utilising the same signature Genesis cell to power it as the company’s other wireless designs. This allows the lanterns to illuminate your outdoor space for anywhere from nine to 17 hours, depending on the chosen brightness, which can in turn be controlled with the included remote control.

I’m certain these outdoor lights will fly off the shelves in no time, especially given their unique design. I’ve never seen lanterns take on such a charming shape, reminiscent of bird houses or even bird feeders – but in the best way possible. And this becomes especially obvious if you choose to hang them up as Pooky is selling a specially designed lantern hook for £40 to go with these lanterns.

Not only do these lanterns boast an original shape and come in five beautiful shades, but there are also three sizes available to choose from, with prices starting at £140 for the smallest (and cutest) one.

Shop the range

The lanterns were launched in the US, on The Novogratz duo’s home turf, last year. Originally, they planned to keep the launch to the US, but after much demand they decided to bring them back to the UK.

When speaking to Jo Plant, chief creative officer at Pooky, she revealed that it was the dark blue ‘denim’ colourway that turned out to be the bestseller in the US, to her surprise. However, it’s the green ‘moss’ and the pink ‘blush’ that she predicts will do well here in the UK.

For Cortney Novogratz, the colourful aspect of the design was perhaps the most important and exciting, ‘What I love most is how we've brought much-needed colour to outdoor spaces - especially that vintage-toned pink - and the way the cordless technology allows these stunning designs to enhance any gathering without limitations.’

But if you’d like to bring some whimsy into your interiors, you can use these Pooky lanterns indoors, too, as I have done with my little denim blue number.

Which colourway have you got your eye on?

Since buying my first home with a tiny outdoor space, I've become obsessed with outdoor hosting. This week, I'm plotting a weekend BBQ to take advantage of the weather, and I've already made plans for a few other gatherings later this month. However, entertaining in a petite outdoor space can be challenging, so I have to be very selective about the things I choose to invest in for my garden, but I've spotted some outdoor hosting gems at Argos.

Currently, I've been getting by in my garden with a little bistro set and one of the best electric BBQs, the Lumin Webber available at Argos, for whipping up snacks. However, I think it's time for an upgrade. I don't have space for a full outdoor kitchen, but I have spied several bargains at Argos on Ninja's Artisan Electric Outdoor Pizza Oven and the Ninja Frostvault, both of which are reduced by 20%, which will do the trick in creating a micro outdoor kitchen instead.

I've also been eyeing up the Argos Home folding patio set to give me a little more space for people to sit when entertaining, but I can easily fold it away when it's not in use.

Over the past few months of gathering friends in my garden, I've realised that it's also the small things that make a difference. Whether that's a little Bluetooth speaker to have music bubbling in the background or some chic glasses that make my little courtyard feel like a trendy restaurant.

If you're looking to elevate your next outdoor gathering, I thought I'd share my wishlist of hosting essentials I'm snapping up this summer at Argos.

There are so many reasons to celebrate outdoors this summer and I can't wait to make the most of my tiny garden.

Whether you're creating a shaded spot for lazy weekend lunches and BBQs or an outdoor room for entertaining, covering your pergola is what turns it from a fair-weather feature into a space you'll actually use in any weather, especially if you live here in the UK with its temperamental heatwaves and frequent showers.

The right roof or canopy can provide welcome shade during a heatwave, shelter from summer showers and even help you stay cosy on cool evenings. So if you're wondering how to weatherproof a pergola, there are plenty of stylish options to choose from. From clever pergola roof ideas to retractable canopies, side screens and permanent roof panels, the right solution for you depends on how you want to use your pergola and garden.

And many of these pergola ideas will also make your outdoor space feel more polished and expensive. So I've asked outdoor living experts to share the pergola covers they recommend most and how they might help make yours suitable for all weathers.

1. Invest in an adjustable louvred roof

An adjustable louvred roof, like this bargain from OUTSUNNY, is one of the most versatile ways to upgrade a pergola for all-weather use. The slats can be opened to let in sunshine or closed when the weather turns, giving you complete control over the space.

'When it comes to making a pergola suitable for year-round use, the roof design is one of the most important considerations,' says Reilly Gray, Co-founder of Suns Lifestyle. 'Modern pergolas increasingly feature adjustable louvred or retractable roofs... making the space usable in almost any season.'

Andrew White, outdoor expert at Harbour Lifestyle, adds that many designs also feature integrated drainage and optional side screens, helping create an outdoor room that feels like an extension of a home, so you can still enjoy the space when conditions are a bit less predictable.

2. Add a retractable waterproof canopy

A retractable canopy is an affordable way to add shelter while keeping your pergola feeling open. It's a clever garden canopy idea, especially if you want shade in summer without committing to a permanent roof. It gives the flexibility to enjoy open skies when the weather is good, while providing shelter when you need it.

A retractable waterproof canopy is a good option if you want flexibility,' says Jamie Winspear, Managing Director at Oak by Design. 'It can provide shade on sunny days and some rain protection, but it can still be pulled back when you want the pergola to feel open.'

Installation is just as important as the canopy, however. 'The key is making sure it is fitted with enough slope for rainwater to run off. If water is allowed to sit on the fabric, it can sag and put extra strain on the structure,' Jamie explains.

If you're shopping on a budget, options like the IKEA Hammaron retractable pergola offer a similar flexible design, as do these picks below. Or you could make your own with shade cloth, like Gardening with Ish on Instagram, by buying a roll of UV-protection fabric like this one from Amazon or precut fabric from B&Q. Or you can buy ready-made shade canopies from Amazon.

3. Install permanent roof panels

If your pergola is used for outdoor dining or entertaining, roof panels offer reliable shelter throughout the year while complementing other garden shade ideas in your outdoor space.

Jamie recommends polycarbonate, glass or metal panels depending on how much natural light you want to retain, adding that whatever material you choose, good drainage is essential to prevent water pooling around the frame.

4. Choose a durable aluminium pergola

The frame is just as important as the roof. While timber offers classic charm, aluminium is a lower-maintenance choice that won't warp or rust.

Reilly says powder-coated aluminium pergolas are designed for longevity and often include features such as integrated lighting, concealed drainage and side screens, making them one of the easiest ways to make your patio look more expensive, without undertaking a full garden makeover.

5. Add side panels or outdoor blinds

Side panels help block wind, increase privacy from neighbouring gardens and make a pergola feel much more sheltered.

Jamie recommends timber slats, glass screens, curtains or retractable screens depending on the look you're after, while Andrew says built-in blinds are ideal if you want extra shade without permanently enclosing the space.