Lighting ideas for garden parties and al fresco evenings

Whether you're throwing a summer garden party or just enjoying a quiet tipple under the stars, the right lighting can work wonders – transforming your outdoor space and extending those glorious long evenings well past sunset…

What’s the best kind of lighting for an outdoor party?

The key to great outdoor lighting is layering. Mix and match pendants, wall lights, spotlights and portable table lamps to create a space that’s both practical and mood-lifting. A well-lit garden doesn’t just help your guests locate the hummus – it sets the tone for the whole evening.

Outdoor lighting comes in all sorts of flavours, from traditional brass and glass lanterns to modern metallics and coastal classics. So whether you’re aiming for rustic romance or Riviera chic, you’ll find something that fits the vibe.

Do I need waterproof outdoor lighting?

Short answer: yes. Outdoor lighting needs to be IP-rated (that’s Ingress Protection, if you're curious) to ensure it can withstand the odd downpour and general outdoor wear and tear. All of our outdoor and garden lighting is extensively tested for the great outdoors – though they look just as lovely inside too, if you're after that seamless inside-outside flow.

Lighting for summer evenings: tips for creating a magical outdoor mood

Some lights are functional, while others feel like a toast to summer…. But the best outdoor lighting does both. Here are our favorite ways to turn your garden into a glowing, golden wonderland...

1. Create a focal point with hanging pendant lights 

Outdoor pendants are perfect above a patio, deck or porch – casting ambient light exactly where you want it and adding a little drama overhead. A period-style hanging lantern, like our Cromer in bronze, instantly ups the elegance.

2. Frame your doorways and arches with pairs of wall lights

Nothing says “welcome” like a matching pair of outdoor wall lights either side of an entrance. They add symmetry, warmth, and a soft glow that sets the tone for the evening ahead. Ideal for courtyards, porches, and tucked-away corners where guests like to gather.

3. Highlight beautiful garden features

A tree, a sculpture, a crumbling brick wall... whatever you love in your garden, give it the stage it deserves. Adjustable outdoor spotlights like the Zennor let you highlight features with a theatrical (or subtle) flourish. Nestle them in flowerbeds or line a path for practical magic.

4. Add soft accents with up and down lights

Up-and-down lights cast a gentle wash along fences and walls – creating texture, depth and an effortlessly cool evening vibe. Try placing a few at different heights and angles for a layered look that feels relaxed, not regimented.

5. Create a cozy corner with portable lamps