The UK, with its picturesque gardens and historic homes, provides the perfect backdrop for enchanting outdoor gatherings. As night falls, the right lighting can transform your garden into a fairytale setting. Below, we explore captivating lighting ideas to elevate your next outdoor party.
1. Outdoor Fairy Lights: Nothing screams ‘magical’ quite like twinkling outdoor fairy lights. Drape them over trees, fences, or pergolas. Their soft glow provides subtle illumination and an air of whimsy. For added charm, opt for solar-powered fairy lights that charge during the day and light up as dusk settles.
These rope-style outdoor party lights combine durability with decorative flair. Perfect for wrapping around garden furniture or trailing along fences, they emit a warm, steady glow that instantly transforms your garden into a party-ready haven. The lights pictured above are ideal for adding charm to intimate seating areas—just drape them over chairs or weave them through railings to create a romantic, low-effort setup. Opt for waterproof versions with built-in timers or dusk sensors for a stress-free glow-up.
If you’re after something with a bit more drama, the Garden Ivy Rope Fairy Lights (£49.95, SparkleLighting on Etsy) are a fantastic option. These cleverly designed lights mimic trailing ivy while delivering a golden glow, powered by solar, battery or plug. They work beautifully on brick walls, trellises or pergolas—any vertical surface where you want to make an impact. Their mixed power source gives you the flexibility to use them all year round, whatever the weather.
Buy here: SparkleLighting on Etsy – £49.95
Rated 5 stars for item quality, delivery, and service.
Another option worth considering is the Flexi Outdoor String Lights, starting at £22.95, also by SparkleLighting. These dainty battery-operated lights are ideal for wrapping around tree trunks and branches, offering a ‘starry night’ effect that’s especially beautiful for summer garden parties or laid-back evenings under the stars. Their flexible copper wire design means they’ll twist and bend around almost anything—perfect for getting creative with your outdoor party lighting.
Buy here: SparkleLighting on Etsy – from £22.95
Perfect for trees, parasols, and garden features.
2. Festoon Outdoor Lighting: These bulbous lights are perfect for a more vintage vibe. String them overhead between trees or structures to create a ‘starry night’ effect. They’re especially beautiful for late-night summer barbecues.
For a striking update, consider the Drop Festoon Lights by SparkleLighting (£85.95+ on Etsy). These generously sized bulbs emit a warm, amber-toned glow that adds instant atmosphere to any alfresco setup. Whether suspended from a pergola, glasshouse frame, or overhead beams, these outdoor party lights evoke the charm of classic European bistros—perfect for evening entertaining.
Their design brings an intimate, low-lit ambiance ideal for outdoor dinners or garden celebrations. Try hanging them above a dining table or hot tub seating area for a look that feels both elevated and inviting. Rated five stars for quality, delivery, and service, they offer reliable elegance with a commercial-grade finish.
Buy here: SparkleLighting on Etsy – from £85.95
Vintage charm with modern reliability—ideal for stylish gatherings.
For a more flexible option, the Extendable Black Table Clamp with Solar Festoon Lights (£50, Rockett St George) is perfect for smaller-scale setups. These stylish clamp-on lights are ideal for intimate dinners or relaxed evening drinks, especially when outdoor sockets are out of reach. Simply attach the arms to either end of your table and enjoy instant festoon lighting powered entirely by solar energy.
The clamp system allows you to create height and structure without the need for nearby walls or overhead beams, making it a great solution for patios, lawns, and alfresco dining in open spaces. Whether you’re dining among wildflowers or gathered under the stars, these outdoor party lights provide a cosy, glowing canopy that feels both effortless and atmospheric.
Buy here: Rockett St George – £50
Solar-powered and space-saving—perfect for pop-up dinner parties.
3. Lantern Outdoor Light: Whether they are paper, metal, or glass, outdoor lantern lights add depth and character. Scatter them on tables, hang them from branches, or line pathways. They come in a variety of styles, from the exotic Moroccan lanterns to the classic British storm lantern.
For effortless elegance, the Four Solar Box Lanterns (£40, Cox & Cox) are a sleek, structured option. Designed to resemble classic storm lanterns, these solar-powered lights glow gently from within thanks to delicately wired fairy lights. They’re perfect for lining gravel paths or placing along the edges of garden decking. Because they’re solar, they’ll automatically switch on at dusk—no plugs or fuss required. This set of four brings both symmetry and sophistication to your outdoor party lights setup.
If you’re after something more decorative, the Round Maroq Lantern (£25, Cox & Cox) is a standout piece. With its delicate black metal filigree pattern, it casts the prettiest dappled light once dusk falls. Use it as a table centrepiece or cluster a few together on a low wall or outdoor coffee table to create a warm, ambient glow. This solar-powered lantern blends traditional Moroccan design with timeless charm, ideal for adding a stylish accent to your party lighting scheme.
4. Tea Light Table Centrepiece: For a romantic and intimate feel, incorporate tea light candles into your table centrepieces. Floating candles in water-filled glass bowls can be especially mesmerising, particularly when paired with soft florals or delicate foliage.
To add texture and charm to your outdoor table setting, consider the Knitted Effect Tealight Holders from TimelessAbode (£8.95+). With their cosy, hand-crafted finish and earthy tones, these sculptural pieces are ideal for rustic garden tables or autumn evenings under the stars. Group them along the centre of a wooden table to complement the glow of surrounding outdoor party lights.
For something more refined, the Two-Way Coloured Glass Candle and Tealight Holders by ClemAndCoLifestyle (£6.25) are an elegant choice. With reversible use for either tealights or taper candles, these versatile pieces elevate any tablescape—especially when surrounded by delicate micro string lights or garlands.
Add a splash of playful colour with the Coloured Bobble Glass Tealight Holders (from £3.75). Available in vibrant shades of pink, blue, and green, these textured votives are a joy to mix and match. They work beautifully for birthdays, garden lunches, or boho-style outdoor dinners.
For a more structured and sophisticated look, the Iron Votive Candle Holder – 5 Cup Ledge (£22.50, Simbicot) is ideal. Featuring five amber-glass votives in a sleek iron frame, this piece adds visual weight and symmetry to your table design. It works well both indoors and out, and the warm-toned glass casts a gentle glow that pairs perfectly with fairy lights or lanterns.
Buy here:
Knitted Effect Tealight Holders – from £8.95
Two-Way Coloured Glass Candle Holder – £6.25
Coloured Bobble Glass Tealights – from £3.75
Iron Votive Candle Holder (5 Cup) – £22.50
Whether rustic or refined, tea light centrepieces are a simple way to add romance, warmth and layered lighting to your evening gathering.
5. LED Furniture: For a modern touch, invest in LED furniture pieces such as tables, chairs, or decorative orbs. These pieces can shift colours and add a dynamic feel to your party space.
6. Outdoor Pathway Lighting: Guide your guests with soft, ground-level lights along pathways. Solar LED stake lights are an eco-friendly choice that provides a muted illumination to ensure guests can navigate safely.
7. Fire Pits: There’s nothing quite like gathering around a fire pit. It offers warmth, a focal point, and a soft, natural light that’s perfect for roasting marshmallows or simply chatting the night away.
8. Garden Uplight: Strategically placing garden uplights to shine up onto trees, walls, or sculptures can create a dramatic and striking effect. It’s especially effective for highlighting key architectural or natural features in your garden.
9. Projection Night Light: For those looking to truly impress, a projection night light can cast patterns, colours, or even videos onto surfaces, creating an interactive experience for guests.
10. Water Feature Lighting: If you have a pond or fountain, consider underwater lights. They not only highlight the water feature but also create mesmerising reflections.
Whichever lighting you choose, safety should be paramount. Always ensure cables are secured and not a trip hazard. If you’re using candles or fire pits, keep them away from flammable materials and always have a fire extinguisher on hand.
With the right lighting, you can enhance the ambiance, ensuring a memorable evening for all. Whether you’re going for a whimsical, romantic, or modern theme, there’s a lighting solution to suit every garden party.
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FAQs: Outdoor Party Lights
How do you light an outdoor party?
Start by layering different types of lighting for both function and ambience. Use overhead string lights like festoon or fairy lights to define your space, lanterns or solar stake lights to illuminate pathways, and candles or tea light holders for table settings. Incorporating a mix of light sources helps create a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for evening entertaining.
Do solar string lights really work?
Yes, solar string lights are a practical and eco-friendly solution, especially during spring and summer when there’s ample sunlight. Modern versions often include battery backups or hybrid plug-and-solar options, ensuring consistent illumination. They’re a popular choice for outdoor party lights thanks to their fuss-free setup and automatic dusk-to-dawn function.
Is it okay to leave LED string lights on all night?
In most cases, yes. LED string lights are designed to be energy-efficient and generate minimal heat, making them safe for extended use. However, it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s guidance and use timers or solar versions to conserve energy when possible.
What lighting is best for outdoors?
The best lighting for outdoor spaces depends on your needs. Fairy lights and festoon bulbs create mood lighting, solar-powered lanterns and stake lights are great for pathways, and candles or tea lights work beautifully on dining tables. For outdoor party lights specifically, look for waterproof, weather-resistant designs with warm white or amber-toned bulbs for a soft and inviting glow.
Looking for more ways to elevate your gatherings? Explore our Entertaining section for seasonal styling tips, menu ideas, and beautiful hosting inspiration to complement your outdoor party lights.