Whether you’re wanting to add some fun to your garden, or you’re hoping you’ll be able to host some summer barbeques this year and have an idea to add some to your gazebo, garden solar lights are a fun, eco-friendly way of lighting up any outdoor space.
They work by charging up in the day, absorbing their power from sunlight, before lighting up as the sun begins to set. That’s why it’s important to make sure you place any garden solar lights in direct sunlight so that your lights shine bright for the whole evening.
They should even charge up on those grey, cloudy days although be prepared for them not to shine throughout the entire night if the weather has not been so sunny.
While some solar panels are built into the light, others have separate solar panels attached to them which are often able to soak up the most light. And although solar batteries last for a number of years, it’s important for the solar panel to be cleaned regularly for residue for optimum use.
To help you find the perfect solar-powered lights for your garden space, we’ve rounded up some of the best and brightest lights on the market to help you get your garden ready for the warmer months.
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The best garden solar lights for outdoor space
Specifications:
Number of lights: 6
Weather resistance: Water, frost resistance
Colour: Bright white
Pros / cons:
Pros:
No power cost whatsoever
Incredibly bright
High quality
Cons:
Some customers have had issues with the top not screwing on properly
Overview:
If you have a path or driveway leading up to your house, it's a good idea to add some garden solar lights to mark out the pathway. Not only will it help you find your way in the dark, it will also look very pretty at night.
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Customer review:
"Lovely sturdy solar lights which aren't likely to disintegrate when next door's football comes over the fence and hits one of them. They are exactly what I've been looking for to replace similar solars that I've had in my garden for some years and which have now more or less seen better days."
Specifications:
Number of lights: 120 (12m)
Weather resistance: Water, frost resistance
Colour: Warm white
Pros / cons:
Pros:
Copper wiring is perfect for shaping around furniture or fences
A huge amount of lights, so there's plenty for the whole garden
Lovely warm colour
Completely waterproof
Cons:
Lights aren't very bright
Overview:
These twinkling fairy lights are very versatile for any space. Whether you want to wrap them around a tree or use them up the side of a wall or fence, they'll make any sized garden space look lovely.
Customer review:
"I bought these to go around a memory arch in the garden. I didnt want anything too bright, something delicate and tranquil. These are just what I wanted, and look great from in the garden and from the house windows."
Specifications:
Number of lights: 50 (7m)
Weather resistance: Water, frost resistance
Colour: Clear white
Pros / cons:
Pros:
Fantastic colour
Great design
Eight stunning modes to choose from
High-capacity battery lif
Cons:
Not incredibly bright
Overview:
For a gorgeous, gentle light that's perfect for a garden arch or gazebo, you can't do much better than these solar-powered globe lights. With over 50 individual globes covering 7 metres, they are perfect for parties and events to really liven up your greenery.
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Customer review:
"We got these to brighten up the end of our garden, and specifically our tree, to give a bit more light at night. The quality seems pretty good to me - we've had some really cheap solar lights, which are like Christmas fairy lights, which quite frankly are not worth the bother. These are a bit more substantial - not as big as they make them look in the pictures but not the very small ones either. The lights feel nice and solid too."
Specifications:
Number of lights: 60 (11m)
Weather resistance: Water, frost resistance
Colour: White
Pros / cons:
Pros:
Fantastic sparkling light effect
Great coverage
Very bright
Cons:
Some users have had some minor faults
Overview:
Ideal for year-round decoration, these lights are perfect for outdoor events and parties and can be hung across walls or pagodas to give your garden an instantly inviting feel.
Customer review:
"I bought these lights for my parents and they were delighted with them. You get 60 lights on a run of 36ft, the lights are waterproof and have been made for outside use. The lights are solar powered and do not need any mains electricity or wiring."
Specifications:
Number of lights: 60 (11m)
Weather resistance: Water, frost resistance
Colour: White
Pros / cons:
Pros:
Incredibly sturdy
Eight modes that each look fantastic
Gorgeous warm light
Cons:
Not very bright
Overview:
If you're a nature lover, these honey bee-inspired lights will be an adorable addition to your garden. We love how they look placed over a bush to give a glow of light and the illusion your garden is a haven for bees.
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Customer review:
"I bought these bee lights because I wanted something different, these are really sweet and look gorgeous in my garden. I love the way there's different options for the lights from steady on to flash. I'm really pleased with them. I would definitely recommend them."
Specifications:
Number of lights: 4 lights
Weather resistance: Water, frost resistance
Colour: White
Pros / cons:
Pros:
Fantastic motion detection
Great warranty
Very bright
Cons:
Not particularly pretty
Overview:
These very smart lights work using sensors and only turn on when movement is detected making them ideal if you prefer to have the lights off when no one is outside. They're also great for added security around the outside of your home. Specs 4 pack attach with screws (included) 60 days money-back guarantee.
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Customer review:
"We live in an unlit cul-de-sac. It is pitch black at night. I was looking for a bright solar light with motion sensor to light up the back of the house as a deterrent to intruders.
These lights have been just amazing, not only are they very bright, they have several useful settings. I like mine illuminated for as long as possible after dark. During the summer months, they stay alight all night (7-8 hours) which is perfect."
Specifications:
Number of lights: 2
Weather resistance: Water, frost resistance
Colour: Warm white
Pros / cons:
Pros:
Fantastic Moroccan lighting effect
Great battery life
Lovely colour
Cons:
Some customers have complained about their lights being too dim
Overview:
This patterned, copper standing lantern can be turned on and off and is ideal if you're looking for a stylish addition to your patio or decking area.
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Customer review:
"After reading all the great reviews for these outdoor solar lanterns I ordered 2 lots, they are absolutely stunning, extremely lightweight easy to assemble and lovely and bright for the back garden, you will not be disappointed, well worth the money."
Specifications:
Number of lights: 50 (7m)
Weather resistance: Water, frost resistance
Colour: Multi-coloured
Pros / cons:
Pros:
Perfect for parties
Adds a ton of vibrant colours to your garden
Great value
Eight modes
Cons:
Can be broken fairly easily
Overview:
Add a pop of colour to your garden with these globe-shaped, bright, multi-coloured string lights. With a separate solar panel, these lights will stay bright throughout the whole night.
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Customer review:
"OK, so this has got me excited as I never end up with good outdoor lights, but these are so bright and colourful and really give off light, so I had to review these. I love that you can change the pattern of colours and the speed of them with the different settings. We've set these up in our little cubby corner outside and it's perfect for some summer atmosphere. Happy!"