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14 solar garden lights for a twinkling outdoor space
Give your garden a glow up for spring.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to decorate your outdoor space, solar lights can add a cosy atmosphere to your garden or patio — and they’re more eco-friendly than mains-powered options.
It’s worth noting that solar lights are best suited for display and decor rather than for brightening up your space after dark, as they aren’t as powerful as other options. If you’re after something more practical, have a look at our garden lighting guide for more choice.
How do solar garden lights work?
Solar-powered lights rely on a steady supply of sunlight as opposed to electricity. To set them up, position the solar panel in a bright spot and the sun will charge the battery, which will power up your lights to come on after dark.
Do solar garden lights charge on cloudy days?
Solar garden lights will still work even when it's cloudy outside. They might not soak up as much sunlight as on sunny days, but they’ll still get enough charge to light up at night, although the power might not last as long.
How many hours do solar garden lights need to charge?
Typically, these lights need six to eight hours to charge fully. You can expect your solar lights to illuminate your garden for up to eight hours each evening during summer — although some have an on/off switch for convenience.
14 solar garden lights for an effortlessly elegant outdoor space
From twinkling lanterns to gently flickering torches, here is our edit of the best solar garden lights to create a cosy, welcoming ambience outside.
Lauren was Hearst UK’s Homes and Garden writer, covering the latest trends, sales and product launches for Good Housekeeping, Country Living and House Beautiful, and previously for Cosmopolitan, Red, ELLE, Prima and Harper’s Bazaar. Lauren’s specialism is interiors – whether it’s offering tips on how to perfect a seasonal tablescape or trying out viral kitchenware. She is committed to finding the best-value deals during Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day too, so readers can buy with confidence and save money.
Lauren graduated with a BA in English Literature and Journalism in 2013 and has worked in various editorial roles across the UK, Southeast Asia and North America since 2015. She previously wrote for a local London newspaper, covering everything from entertainment and lifestyle to politics and wellness. When not writing, Lauren can be found bargain hunting for pre-loved trinkets and clothes at various car boot sales across the capital.
Follow Lauren on instagram @laurenkatehannah
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