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Telegraph
2 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Telegraph
The best solar garden lights, with advice from a Gardener's Question Time expert
The best solar garden lights come in a range of colours and designs to brighten up your outdoor space, whether you choose stake lights for highlighting borders, decorative lights for the fence or a pretty lantern for the table. As well as creating ambience when entertaining, some solar lights for the garden can be used for a more practical function to add an extra layer of security around your home. Solar garden lighting can, however, be a little hit and miss – shining brightly one day, then looking as dull as a scorched August lawn the next. But with advice on how to buy and how to care for your lights throughout the year, you can enjoy the best solar garden lights for more than a single season. Below, I've tested a selection of this year's most eye-catching solar garden lights that you can buy online. You can read my full reviews further on, followed by answers to some frequently asked questions by Gardener's World expert panellist Matthew Wilson. But if you're in a hurry, here's a quick look at my top five: What are the best solar garden lights? At a glance How to choose the best solar garden lights There are lots of different solar garden light designs on the market. In this list, you'll find novelty designs, 'festoon' string lights for trees, fences and gazebos which look like a string of traditional lightbulbs and solar lanterns to add magic to the lawn. There are stake lights for showcasing your best flower borders and motion-sensor solutions for the garden path. Award-winning garden designer and Gardener's Question Time panellist, Matthew Wilson, also has five tips on the best ways to use solar lights in your garden: Use a mixture of lights – festoon, spike and uplighters, for example – to create different effects. Don't rely on solar lights to provide 100 per cent fool-proof security lighting. It feels like too much of a risk. Motion-sensor lights are best used as an add-on – rather than as the main feature – in your security set-up. Combine solar lights with other light types, such as plug-in/rechargeable lamps, candle lanterns and so on. Don't mix bulb colours – a mix of warm whites, cool whites and blue whites don't really look good together in a garden setting. Use more lights with lower lumens (the unit which measures the amount of light emitted) to create a glow, rather than a few bright lights that will make you feel uncomfortable, disrupt wildlife and annoy the neighbours. How we test solar garden lights During my 20 plus years as a journalist I've reviewed everything from the best cordless lawn mowers to the best bee hives for urban beekeeping. Combining my love of gardening and technology by testing the best solar garden lights has been a treat. For help in choosing them, I followed Wilson's advice, opting for ambience over brightness. I was looking for charming glows, twinkles and flickers, not glare. I set the lights up in a sunny border in my garden and assessed each light on visibility, design, functionality and aesthetic appeal. After a full day of sunlight, I monitored how well each design lit up after dark and checked in on them at three in the morning to see if they were still shining as brightly as they did after sunset. I've been testing solar lights for a few years now, so I've also highlighted any changes I've seen over time where relevant. Read on to discover which designs I thought stole the show and will add style to your garden this season. If you're upgrading your outdoor space, don't forget our guides to the best garden heaters, best garden chairs and best rattan garden furniture. There's also a new guide to the best fire pits for even more after-dark ambience. Why you can trust Telegraph Recommended Our thorough, real-world tests will always help you find the best gardening product. No manufacturer ever sees Telegraph Recommended reviews before publication and we don't accept payment in exchange for favourable reviews, nor do we allow brands to pay for placement in our articles. All reviews are based on independent expert opinion and our hands-on testing. Visit our Who We Are page to learn more. Best solar garden lights 1. Best Buy Solar Lights: Geemoo 6-Pack Solar Flickering Dancing Flame Lights Score: 10/10 We like: The impressive warm glow of these solar garden lights, which come in a great-value pack of six With their fiery, flickering glow, you could be forgiven for thinking that these solar-powered stake lights are candle-lit. They are powered by a high-end polysilicon solar panel with a built-in rechargeable battery. They can light up for up to 10 hours in summer, once fully exposed to the sun. I thought these solar-powered lights stood out from the crowd due to their noticeably eye-catching glow. When I looked out of the window in the middle of the night, they were the most prominent and attractively hued solar lights shining in my garden. They were also easy to assemble and good value as they come in pack of six. Although their black plastic waterproof frames don't look or feel like the most premium lights I've seen, I think they are great for lighting up garden paths and flower borders. Key specifications 2. Best Value Solar Lights: Lutec Fia Solar Wall Light As a firm fixture on the garden wall or fence, this Lutec solar wall light claims to shine bright for up to 10 hours a night and did so on test. It comes with screws and as an amateur DIY-er, I found it easy enough to fix into place. It has a heavy-duty aluminium frame and LED filament bulb and I think its subtle industrial styling would fit into both urban and country settings. It brightened up a dark corner with a warm 200 lumen glow, but I think that if you fix a few along a wall with ample spacing between, it would provide an attractive way to lighten up a path or driveway. Every time I look out of the window and catch a glimpse of it, I'm half expecting Mr Tumnus to pass by. Key specifications 3. Best Solar Lantern: Rockett St George Pretty Stars Gold Outdoor Solar Light As solar lanterns go, this is one of the most striking designs I've discovered. Described by Rockett St George as 'the glow-up your garden has been waiting for', the twinkling star-shaped light pattern projected through the star cut-outs come dark is certainly impressive. The gold metal design feels well-built and of premium quality. The solar panel sits in the top of the lantern and once it has been in the sun for six hours, the lantern will shine in the dark for up to eight. It's an eye-catching decorative fixture in daylight too, and while at 34 centimetres high, it's quite large, it's lightweight and comes with a handle for easy transportation – you'll just need a large enough patio set. I've also been quite protective of mine, bringing it in at night to store on the windowsill, where its starlight flickers magically around the window. Key specifications 4. Best Solar Fence Light: Garden Trading Solar Festoon Light String With so many solar festoon-style string lights on offer online, it can be daunting to know which model to pick, but I think this Garden Trading design stands out for a number of reasons. For a start, you get up to 20 bulbs that are conveniently spaced apart on a single 12.5-metre string (many just have 10). The vintage design looked good along my garden fence, but I think they would work equally well along the trim of a gazebo or nestled loosely in tree branches. While they weren't the brightest lights in my test – possibly due to just how many bulbs were working off one small solar panel – I liked the way you can switch between light modes, which included a static and a twinkling setting. Key specifications Size: 3m of cable between solar panel and first LED bulb Colour modes: Warm white Warranty: Unspecified Dual power charging (USB and solar): No 5. Best Solar Fairy Lights: Solar Centre Lumify Warm White & White USB Solar Fairy Lights If your garden needs some instant summer sparkle, these lights will do the trick. While it's not essential, Lumify suggests fully charging the battery via USB for around four hours before using the lights for the first time, as this gives them a boost on first use and means they will run for 12 nights from a single charge without needing the sun. Alternatively, you can leave the solar panel to charge for three days prior to first use with the lights switched off. There are 300 LED lights in this pack and much like putting Christmas lights on a tree, there's a spaghetti junction of cables to contend with. You'll need to have a clear plan on where to install them. I scattered them around a large garden bush and come nightfall, the fairy lights sparkled brightly for eight hours on a timer. There is an optional power-saving mode that reduces the brightness too. I didn't see much difference in the two, so left it at full power and prayed for more sun to work the solar magic. Key specifications Size: 2m of cable between solar panel and first LED bulb Colour modes: White, warm white and blended white Warranty: 1 year Dual power charging (USB and solar): Yes 6. Best Solar String Lights: Appam Solar Powered Warm White 300 Integrated LED Outdoor String Lights These string lights add surprising interest to a tired-looking fence and would divide up an area of patio or drape around a gazebo just as effectively. The design has 10 strings fitted with LED lights each 10cm apart from the next and hanging down by a generous 250cm, meaning they'll suit tall fences. Installation was easy; I hammered a few nails in and draped the top of the cable over them to fix it in place. The string lights cascade down freely. While it's hard to say how well they will last after one season, I found them shining warmly and vibrantly every night and at this price, I don't think you can go wrong this summer. At under £15, they make an excellent change from the standard solar stake or festoon lights you generally see brightening up a garden at night. There's also a generous two-year warranty to fall back on. Key specifications 7. Best Security Solar Light: 4lite Solar LED Bollard Light Score: 9/10 We like: The powerful 230 lumens, 10m sensing distance and two motion detector modes This motion-sensor aluminium LED bollard light is modern in design and great for paths and lawns to add an extra layer of security around your home. You can set it to be on all the time after dark, or so that it just comes on when you walk near it. It has a maximum sensing distance of 10 metres and lit up in a bright and cool white each time I approached. It's not the prettiest solar light I tested, but definitely practical. Key specifications 8. Best Solar Stake Lights: Cox & Cox Four Solar Tiered Stake Lights These stake lights come as a set of four with a warm white bulb inside that lasts for up to six hours after dark. Each light has an attractive matte black plastic finish with a clear ribbed lantern top that's removable and hides the light switch. The black frame feels solid and the stakes piece together smoothly for a simple set-up. The stake tip that stabs into the earth feels robust too, making all the difference if you're trying to place it in tough soil. I put them evenly around my borders and they looked lovely, lighting up the flowers and foliage come nightfall. They also help to establish a barrier between the grass and the flowerbed, so the kids think twice before they go trundling over my flowers to retrieve their rogue football. Key specifications Size: H 30.5cm, D13.3 cm Colour modes: White Warranty: Not stated. Dual power charging (USB and solar): No 9. Best Decorative Solar Light: Fallen Fruits Tulip Bazaar Solar Lantern The Tulip Bazaar lantern comes in a soft sage green finish that adds a touch of Moroccan style to a garden, patio or balcony. It arrives packed flat in the box with a built-in solar unit and a metal frame that you insert inside to fill the lantern out. A metal hook slips onto the frame so that you can display it on a fence hook or tree branch. It's made from a durable material called Tyvek, which is designed to be weather-resistant and limit tearing or fading. But as it's lightweight, I would be inclined to bring it indoors on blustery days, so that it doesn't blow away. The warm glow this lantern emits at night, however, is stunning and its single solar light stayed on for over four hours. I think it looks good on its own, but even better in a set with the similarly styled Fallen Fruits Oval Paisley Solar Lantern or the Fallen Fruits Oval Mosaic Solar Lantern. Key specifications 10. Best Solar Border Lights: Zink Maltby Outdoor LED Solar-Powered Path Lights This set of four path lights is easy to stake into the ground but comes with screws for deck-mounting too. Two meters of black cable links each stake light, but I disguised this relatively well in my overgrown flowerbed when I was setting up. With enough sunlight, the charging time for these spots is up to 10 hours and they stay on for up to 11 hours at a time. Unlike any of the other solar lights I've tested here, these lights comes with a remote control that operates from up to five meters away. This meant I could make use of the eight lighting modes, including the coloured light setting. There's also a fading warm white light, an alternating coloured light and warm white mode and a flashing colour option that's great for a bustling garden party. Key specifications 11. Best Solar Table Centrepiece: Solar Helsinki Lantern This sophisticated black lantern is 31.5cm high and 19cm wide and I think works well on a tabletop, for use on a patio, or next to a flowerbed. Its legs are sturdy and while I would have preferred a warm light as opposed to a bright light, its run time of up to six hours didn't disappoint. Its stand is a little fiddly, so you'll need a solid base on which to place it. While my sample didn't last more than two seasons, I think if it's kept out of the rain and protected from the elements when not in use, it should last longer. Key specifications 12. Best Tree-hanging Solar Light: Solar Company Solar Bug Light – Smart Garden Bumble Bee Score: 8/10 We like: How easy they are to hang and how brightly they shine We don't like: The wires are a little flimsy Great for adorning trees and adding charm to the fence, these cute bumblebee solar lights measure 14cm in height. There's also a ladybird option. I hung a few from my pear tree and was impressed at how brightly they glowed after dark. Try not to pull on the wires, however, as they do easily stretch and will hang low. Key specifications Size: H 10 cm, W 10 cm, D 7cm Colour modes: White Warranty: 1 year Dual power charging (USB and solar): No 13. Best Colour Hanging Light: SOLARBABY Solar Flowers If the sun has dried up your flowerbeds, give them a burst of colour with this set of four flower stake lights. They look surprisingly like real flowers during the day and can provide a colour-changing light show at night. Not as fun as RHS Wisley's, but one I thought was worth waiting for after a full day of sun. I've had these in my garden for a couple of years but the flower colour started to get bleached by the sun and the lights eventually diminished, so think of them as an annual solar flower rather than a perennial. Key specifications Size: H 44cm, W 9cm per stem (pack of 4) Colour modes: Multicoloured Warranty: No Dual power charging (USB and solar): No 14. Best Solar Light for Pot Plants: Dakota Fields Alyvea Black Solar Powered Pathway Lights These are described as pathway lights, but I preferred to use them to brighten up my doorstep pot plants. The stems are quite small, which is something to consider if you're borders are overgrown, as they might get lost within. The colourful lights shine brightly, however and the multi-coloured effect makes a refreshing change from standard warm white lighting. The tips of the plastic stakes feel a tad flimsy, so be careful inserting them into the ground as I expect they might break with too much force. But they're a good pick for some fun and colourful lighting in a modest-sized garden. Key specifications 15. Best Solar Festoon Lights: 4Lite Antheia Solar Traditional Festoon These festoon lights are part of a wider 'Antheia' range, so you could kit your garden out with coordinated spike lights and wall lights, too. Some even have in-built motion sensors for added security and all come with the same pleasingly warm white light. The ones I tried seemed well built and proved reliable, with robust bulbs and a cable that's secure enough to withstand the British summertime. I hung these festoon lights on the fence and they brightened up the area until the early hours of the morning. Key specifications Solar garden lights FAQs What are the brightest solar garden lights and how bright should they be? 'Around 100 lumens will create a soft light on a pathway,' says Gardener's World expert panellist Matthew Wilson, 'while 150 lumens would work for an outdoor dining space.' Do solar garden lights work in rain and in winter and how long should they last? Solar technology certainly should work in the rain or on shorter winter days but Wilson says: 'Ultimately, we're asking a small solar panel to do quite a lot of work.' It's better to think of solar lights as soft ambient lighting and have more of them, augmented with other light sources, he explains. 'The solar lights I have in my garden typically stay on for around three to six hours after dusk in summer but only 30 minutes in winter – it all depends on how much sunlight there is and how efficient the solar panel you choose.' How do you clean and care for solar garden lights? A typical solar light comes with a solar panel, rechargeable battery and lamp. Some also have a backup USB charging feature. 'With exposure to the elements, outdoor solar lights can get damaged, rust over and their wires can break,' says Wilson. 'If your solar light stops working, it may be that the battery has worn out, so it's worth checking to see if you can replace it with a rechargeable battery.' To get the best from your light, make sure your solar light panel is clean. Brian Davenport from The Solar Centre – which Wilson recommends as a good quality retailer – advises cleaning the solar panel from time to time with a soft, slightly dampened cloth to prevent the build-up of dirt, debris or snow. Also, check the solar panel is in direct sunlight during the day as they can easily get knocked about by wind, rain, pets or garden wildlife. An average solar collector needs around eight hours of sunlight for the best results after dark. 'Take your lights inside over winter if possible or when sustained bad weather is on the horizon,' suggests Wilson. 'The reality is that solar lights rarely have the kind of high-quality weather proofing to make them last, which is why they need a little attention when the forecast looks bad.'
Auto Blog
7 days ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Walmart is selling ‘very bright' $100 outdoor solar lights for $26, and shoppers say they're ‘worth every penny'
Autoblog aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. During the warmer months, your outdoor space quickly becomes your go-to for hangouts and dining al fresco. While the sun helps to brighten your yard during the day, you probably need a little help with nighttime illumination. Right now, Walmart is having an awesome deal on the Qunler Outdoor Solar Lights. For those who want to add extra lighting to their outdoor area, this compact option is now available for just $26, which is 74% off the original retail price. Qunler Outdoor Solar Lights, $26 (was $100) at Walmart The two-pack of solar lights can be controlled via a wireless remote with four setting options including long light, dim, strong, and SOS flashing mode. Each solar light measures 7.08 inches long, 5.70 inches wide, and 6.69 inches high, and offers 304 built-in super bright LEDs that can produce up to 2,500 lumens of high brightness output. With a four-head design that has a 270-degree lighting angle, you can easily illuminate your backyard, patio, driveway, pathway, and more. The lights also feature motion sensor technology with a 26-foot sensing distance and 120-degree sensor. 'Worth every penny,' wrote one shopper. 'Recommend to any person who is interested in solar lighting. I have had this for 1.5 years and still works amazingly. Save money on electric bills and batteries.' 'Great solar lights,' said a second reviewer. 'Very bright and great price.' Another added, 'Very pleased with the quality of these lights.' To charge the lights, make sure they are placed under direct sunlight for up to two days on the first use. They are powered by a built-in 2,000mAh battery and feature a mono-si solar panel for quick charging. No matter the weather, these lights will still shine brightly due to their IP65 waterproof, heat-, and frost-resistant construction. Your purchase also includes a wall base, installing screws, and expansion anchors that help you mount them to garages, sheds, and more. A fourth customer wrote, 'This works perfectly in my yard. It is also easy to install because it's solar and has no wires to run. Highly recommended.' Get ready for summertime fun with these $26 outdoor solar lights. They are a quick and easy way to make sure your space is properly lighted at night. About the Author Victoria Garcia View Profile
The Sun
03-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Dunelm is selling a £5 garden accessory that will transform your outdoor space
SHOPPERS are flocking to Dunelm to get their hands on a set of adorable bumblebee lights. The outdoor accessory is just £5 and is perfect for brightening gardens after sunset. 1 The solar-powered string lights come in two modes - flash or static - and boast warm white LEDs. Each pack comes with 20 bee -shaped bulbs and has two years guarantee. Customers have shared their praise for the cute lights, with one writing: "Wonderful value. Very pleased with the product. Hopefully ordering more!" "Very happy with these. I've hung them along the edge of my shed roof - plenty string length for what I needed." Another added: "Good lights, they are still working even with the dull weather." A fourth wrote: "Love them, they look great in my garden and light up beautifully at night." The lights are made with a weather-resistant design in mind which also means the product is easy to maintain. Delivery is available from £3.95 or if you're in a hurry, you can pay £6.95 for express. There is also free same-day Click & Collect depending on your location. Molly-Mae swears by £22 Dunelm buy she 'can't go anywhere without' for great sleep & says it's the 'best thing' she owns To check your eligibility, visit Dunelm's website. Shoppers have also been rushing to buy more cost-savvy products at Dunelm. Dunelm 's Fallen Fruits Traditional Cast Iron Bird Bath with 2 Birds comes in at a cost efficient £12. The elegant-looking hydration station boasts two cast iron birds and comes with a bird bath or tray. More purse-ruffling options can be found on Water Features Garden Fountain Specialist with prices starting from £139.99. The delightful bird statue description reads: "Invite nature into your garden with this delightful Two Birds Bird Bath. "Easy to assemble and suitable as either a bird bath or feeding tray, it offers a charming and functional accent for any outdoor space." Birds using the bath can help reduce insect populations, including pesky mosquitoes. And fans of al fresco eating have been singing the praises of a handy Dunelm accessory that looks great - and is as cheap as chips. Dunelm 's Foil Charger Plate comes in two shades - charcoal and gold - and has been reduced to 31p from £1.25. Customers have described the plates as 'great quality' and a 'fantastic price'. The hand wash only items are a staple for any outdoor brunch or dinner occasion and measure 33cm (13"). The superstore explained about the product: "Ideal to place under your dining plates, this round foil charger plate is perfect for occasional dining to decorate your dining table setting and is available in a range of colours." Dunelm's top interior design trends for 2025 Maximalism Maximalism is about unleashing your creativity and bringing joy to everything around you, day in and day out. Bold pattern combinations of florals, checks and geometrics set the tone with a bright joyous colour palette that holds everything together. Don't mistake Maximalism for having loads of stuff, it's about mixing and matching florals, layering key pieces and storytelling throughout your home, and ultimately doing things your own way. Dunelm's new collaboration with Sophie Robinson is all about that. Minimaluxe The interiors world has witnessed the evolution of "minimalism" into a richer, more luxurious iteration. The goal is quiet luxury - simplicity with a sense of sophistication. Minimaluxe focuses on creating spaces that are pared down yet warm, elegant, and inviting. Gloriously tactile textures, in a palette of warm neutrals, with hints of caramel and gold, complete the look. Introducing softer forms and round edges to avoid a space feeling overly stark The Edit Built on the philosophy that having fewer thoughtfully designed and well-made things helps us leave a lighter imprint on the earth. Interior design is shifting to be inspired by the natural world, and all its perfect imperfections. Take Dunelm's The Edited Life collection, it focuses on natural materials like wicker, jute and linens - as well as décor pieces and hand-thrown pottery vessels that feature forms dictated by the artisan's mark. Soft relaxed fabric textures mixed with uneven wood grains help bring this neutral, look together. New Nouveau Blending 19th century inspired maximalism with a contemporary colour palette this collection takes inspiration from the ornamental art form from the Nouveau era. Rich and luxurious, blending a little bit of history with a more modern aesthetic you can mix and layer into your home. Stylised Lily motifs adorn sumptuous textiles and wallpapers mixed with marbling & stained glass vintage style lighting for a vintage inspired look, with a modern twist.
Associated Press
01-06-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Ultra Beam Lighting Responds to UK Demand Surge with Expanded Range of LED Soffit Lighting Solutions
UK-based Ultra Beam Lighting expands its LED soffit downlights range to meet growing demand for stylish, energy-efficient outdoor lighting. SOUTHAMPTON, GB / ACCESS Newswire / May 31, 2025 / As UK homeowners and businesses invest more in energy-efficient exterior lighting, Ultra Beam Lighting announces the expansion of its full range of LED soffit lighting products, including outdoor soffit lights, LED fascia downlights, and exterior soffit lighting options designed for long-term performance and aesthetic impact. Ultra Beam Lighting Ltd Logo Driven by a national rise in architectural lighting upgrades, Ultra Beam Lighting has seen a notable increase in demand for outdoor downlights that provide security, visual appeal, and energy savings. The company now offers an even wider selection of LED soffit downlights for both residential and commercial applications supporting projects from single-family homes to retail spaces. 'With the growing trend toward energy-efficient outdoor design, customers are asking for lighting that's both powerful and visually subtle,' said Duncan Munday, Company Director of Ultra Beam Lighting. 'We've responded by expanding our offering of soffit lights to include both recessed and surface-mounted styles in various finishes and lumen levels.' The updated selection includes: Ultra Beam Lighting's user-friendly website now features an intuitive browsing experience for customers to compare models by finish, beam angle, and brightness level. The retailer supports all products with over 20 years of lighting expertise and dedicated customer support. About Ultra Beam Lighting Founded in 2018 and based in the UK, Ultra Beam Lighting supplies innovative lighting solutions for residential and commercial spaces. Backed by two decades of industry experience, the company specializes in high-performance indoor and outdoor lighting, with a focus on quality, durability, and customer satisfaction. Media Contact: Duncan Munday - Company Director [email protected] Tel: 0800 678 5156 SOURCE: Ultra Beam Lighting press release
The Sun
07-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
8 best solar powered garden lights UK 2025: Tried and tested
WANT to give your garden a magical makeover without adding to your energy bills? The best solar lights are the perfect solution - and we've put the best ones to the test. From cosy glows to practical path lighting and twinkling fairy lights, solar-powered options can completely transform your outdoor space after dark - all without spending a penny on electricity. The best solar lights keep shining for hours (many lasting until sunrise), with options to suit every garden size and style. Some even double as security lights, while the smartest models can be controlled right from your phone. Whether you're looking to create a feature in flower beds, line a pathway, brighten up balcony railings, or weave lights through tree branches, there's a solar option that fits the bill. Today's solar lights come in an impressive range of designs - from different colours and white light tones to dynamic patterns that create stunning visual effects. Feeling overwhelmed by all the choices? We've spent weeks testing various solar lights across different designs, sizes and price points to find the very best options available in the UK right now. Here's what you need to know before brightening up your outdoor space this summer. Best solar lights for the garden at a glance: 1. Solar Centre Festoon Lights 8 Solar Centre Festoon Lights, RRP £49.99 Cons: On the pricier side Rating: 5/5 The Solar Centre Festoon Lights are first solar string lights I've found that actually look as bright as plugged-in electric versions - no exaggeration! Yes, they're more expensive than budget options, but the quality completely justifies the price tag. The 25 glass LED bulbs are spaced along a sturdy 8m black cable, giving them a gorgeous vintage feel that transforms any outdoor space. That generous length means you can easily drape them across a pergola or along a fence without needing to buy multiple sets. What really sets these apart is their remarkable longevity - I've had a set installed since last summer that's still performing brilliantly, even after making it through the winter months. The dual brightness settings are a clever touch (though I've found the dimmer mode only lasts marginally longer than the brighter setting). Each bulb features smart little hooks, making them easy to attach to wires or other fixtures. But honestly, it's the impressive brightness that keeps impressing guests - everyone assumes they're mains-powered until I tell them otherwise! If you've been disappointed by dim, short-lived solar lights before, these Solar Centre Festoon Lights will completely change your expectations. 2. HETP Solar Motion Sensor Security Lights 8 HETP Solar Motion Sensor Security Lights, RRP £29.95 Cons: None Rating: 5/5 I've tried dozens of solar security lights over the years, but these HETP sensors are genuinely in a different league. After I spotted them at my brother-in-law's house, I refused to believe they weren't connected to the mains - he had quite a job convincing me they were actually solar-powered! What makes these stand out is just how insanely bright they are. I'd actually say they're even more powerful than many traditional wired security lights I've tested, which is pretty remarkable for a solar product. The motion detection is spot-on too, triggering at exactly the right moment (no false alarms) and staying lit for ages. Installation couldn't be simpler - just a couple of screws and you're done. I love their sleek, modern design that looks properly high-tech rather than cheap and plasticky like so many alternatives. The clever integrated solar panel means there's no separate unit to mount, so with careful positioning, you're getting professional-level security lighting without any wiring headaches. If you're looking for security lights that deliver serious illumination without adding to your electricity bills, these HETP lights are absolutely worth investing in. Genuinely impressive performance that's converted me from a solar security light skeptic into a total believer. 3. yiyicas 2-Pack Solar String Lights 8 yiyicas 2-Pack Solar String Lights Outdoor, £9.99 BUY AT AMAZON Pros: Unbelievably reliable, fantastic copper wire design, serious staying power, great brightness Cons: None Rating: 5/5 I've been utterly amazed by these lights since installing them last summer. What's genuinely mindblowing is that they've twinkled away EVERY SINGLE NIGHT without fail - and if you've tried as many solar lights as I have, you'll know what an incredible achievement that is! I've wrapped two strings around a bay tree trunk in my garden, and they've been incredibly consistent performers. Even during the darkest winter days when we barely saw any sunshine, they still lit up reliably every evening. Their energy storage capability must be exceptional because they're positioned where they only get morning sun (they're completely shaded all afternoon) yet still perform brilliantly. The copper wire design is a game-changer - super lightweight and incredibly versatile. You can wrap them around literally anything - tree trunks, pergolas, fences, railings - and they stay exactly where you put them. Unlike bulkier string lights that can sag or drop, these maintain their position perfectly. At 10 meters per string (with a generous 100 LEDs on each), you're getting plenty of coverage from the pack. They emit a lovely warm glow that creates the perfect atmosphere without being overpowering. If you're tired of unreliable solar lights that work for a week then give up, these yiyicas strings are the solution you've been looking for. 4. Carnival Solar Festoon Lights 8 Carnival Solar Festoon Lights, RRP £39.99 BUY AT LIGHTS4FUN Pros: Oversized statement bulbs, seriously versatile, eight lighting modes, practically unbreakable, excellent value Cons: None Rating: 5/5 These are properly chunky bulbs that make a real statement - and unlike most solar lights, they actually look fantastic during daylight hours too! The clever hooks on each bulb mean you can easily attach them to wire or other fixtures, making them incredibly versatile. One of my absolute favourite features is the eight different lighting functions. You can switch between everything from a static warm glow to what they brilliantly describe as a "funky flash" or chase effect depending on your mood. It's like having multiple string lights in one! The perspex construction is a genius touch that makes these far more practical than glass alternatives - they're much safer to handle and virtually indestructible. Perfect if you've got kids or pets running around (or if you're just a bit clumsy like me). They look absolutely stunning draped across a pergola or garden structure, casting a beautifully warm glow that instantly creates that perfect relaxed garden atmosphere. The quality is exceptional, especially considering the price point. 5. SolarCentre Smart Festoon Lights 8 BUY AT AMAZON Pros: App-controlled from anywhere, mind-blowing 16 million colour options, chunky reliable solar panel, USB charging backup Cons: Premium price point, remote control needs clear line of sight to solar panel Rating: 4.5/5 Smart solar lights were bound to happen eventually - and these SolarCentre beauties have absolutely nailed it! With a staggering 16 million colour combinations available (honestly, I'm still working my way through them), these app-controlled festoons bring serious tech credentials to your garden lighting. Available in 25 or 50 bulb configurations, the Hello Fairy app puts complete control at your fingertips. You can cycle through endless colour combinations, set different scenes, and - my absolute favourite feature - sync them to music! If there was ever a perfect excuse to throw a garden party, this is it. The solar panel itself is impressively chunky, suggesting serious power capacity. In my London garden, I can control the lights from our kitchen table (about five metres away) using the app without any issues. If you prefer the included remote control, just make sure the solar panel isn't tucked away too discretely as it needs line-of-sight. What really elevates these above regular solar lights is the USB charging option - perfect for keeping them brilliantly bright throughout those longer summer evenings when you're entertaining. No more garden lights fading just as the party gets going! If you're after something beyond standard garden illumination and fancy bringing a proper disco atmosphere to your outdoor space, these smart festoons deliver the wow factor. They're definitely an investment, but the flexibility and fun factor make them worth every penny. Size: 25 or 50 bulbs 6. SolarLiving Solar Powered LED Curtain 8 SolarLiving Solar Powered LED Curtain, £12 Pros: Incredible value, properly bright, impressive all-night performance Cons: Wires don't hang perfectly straight Rating: 4.5/5 For just £15, these B&M curtain lights are an absolute steal. I was a bit skeptical they'd match what was shown on the website, and while they definitely don't hang as poker-straight as their marketing images suggest, they still look fantastic once installed. The effect is genuinely impressive - what appears like hundreds of twinkling lights cascading downward creates a truly magical backdrop. The 266 LEDs spread across the generous 1.8m x 1.8m curtain give you plenty of coverage for transforming a fence, wall or garden feature. What's really blown me away is the battery life. These lights consistently shine through the entire night - I've literally gotten up at 5am for work and found them still twinkling away in the garden, only switching off when dawn breaks. That kind of longevity from solar lights at this price point is almost unheard of. I've got mine hanging down our back fence behind our garden sofa area, and they've completely transformed the space. If the not-quite-straight wires really bother you, you could probably add small weights to keep them perfectly aligned, but honestly, the slight randomness adds to the charm. 7. Forest Solar Mushroom Lights 8 Forest Solar Mushroom Lights, RRP £24.99 Rating: 4/5 These quirky little mushroom lights are pure joy in garden form - and they offer something completely different from your standard hanging string lights. Instead of draping from trees or pergolas, these beauties are designed to be staked directly into the ground, creating a truly enchanting woodland feel. What I particularly love is how you can completely bury the connecting wires in the soil between each light, so all you see are the glowing mushroom caps emerging from the ground. Plant them around the base of trees or dotted between flowers for a magical fairy garden effect that looks straight out of a storybook. At 6.14m long, the string gives you plenty of flexibility for creating your perfect mushroom pathway or magical corner. They're the perfect whimsical touch for adding character to your garden without spending a fortune. Size: 12 lights along 6.14m cable 8. Solar Maroc Lantern String Lights 8 BUY HERE Pros: Super stylish, properly weatherproof, gorgeous warm glow Cons: Not the brightest option Rating: 3.5/5 I had to include these beauties because let's be honest - solar lights can sometimes be more functional than fancy. These Moroccan-style mini-lanterns bring some serious style credentials to your outdoor space while still lasting well into the evening. They won't flood your garden with light like some of the other options I've tested, but that's not really the point. These are all about creating atmosphere - they look absolutely stunning strung from tree branches or as part of a wider Middle-Eastern inspired garden setup. What's particularly clever about the design is that they're fully weatherproof, but because of their shape, you'll never end up with those annoying puddles of rainwater collecting inside. The intricate cut-out patterns create a beautifully warm, cosy glow that adds a touch of magic to any outdoor space. Size: 10 lanterns on 2.7m string Solar Garden Lights FAQs Where can I buy solar garden lights in the UK? You can find solar lights both online and in high-street stores. During the summer you're also likely to find them in supermarkets, in the seasonal aisle, and don't forget to check out discount chains like B&M or Home Bargains. Garden centres and DIY stores often stock a selection in summer, while online Amazon always has a great choice. Other online options include department stores, such as John Lewis, chains such as Argos or M&S and furniture retailers, including Wayfair, Dunelm and The Range. We found the products reviewed in our feature at: How do solar lights work? After extensive testing, I can confidently say that solar string lights have come a LONG way in recent years. The technology has improved dramatically, and many now rival mains-powered alternatives in brightness and reliability. The secret is in their improved solar panels and battery storage capacity. The best options I've tested continue shining well into the early hours – I've literally gotten up at 5am to find some still twinkling away before dawn breaks. Of course, performance varies significantly between brands. Budget options (some as cheap as £4) can still deliver impressive results, while premium models offer features like app control and music synchronization. Position is crucial – most need 6-8 hours of decent daylight to fully charge. Even in winter, the best models will still perform, though typically with reduced runtime. How much do solar garden lights cost? You'll be pleased to know there are solar garden lights to match every budget - from pocket-friendly options that won't dent your wallet to luxury designer versions that could set you back hundreds (even thousands for the proper posh ones). For fairy lights, expect to pay between £5 and £15 per set depending on where you shop. Larger festoon lights cost a bit more, but you can still find great deals - I've spotted packs of 10 chunky bulbs for under £20 at Wayfair. The real investment pieces tend to be freestanding outdoor solar lamps, but these are essentially garden furniture rather than just decorative lighting. My top tip? Don't rush into buying the first solar lights you see. Browse several websites to compare options and get inspiration for your outdoor space - you'll be amazed at the variety available at every price point. Do solar-powered lights need direct sunlight? Solar lights DON'T need direct sunlight to work - but they definitely perform better with it. Modern solar lights have come a long way, with improved panels that can now capture energy from indirect light. I've had impressive results with lights placed in partially shaded areas that only receive morning sun but still illuminate reliably every evening. That said, positioning matters enormously. While direct sunlight delivers the best charging performance (6-8 hours of direct sun equals maximum brightness and runtime), most decent quality solar lights will still function with diffused light on cloudy days - just expect reduced brightness and shorter operation time. The yiyicas string lights I tested continued working faithfully through winter despite minimal direct sun, which speaks volumes about how far the technology has advanced. If you're planning to install solar lights in predominantly shaded areas, look for models with larger solar panels or those specifically designed for shade tolerance. Your lights will still work - just not at their full potential. Do solar lights need batteries? Despite the name 'solar-powered', most solar garden lights DO actually contain batteries - they're just rechargeable ones that get topped up by the sun rather than ones you'll need to keep replacing. Inside most solar lights you'll find rechargeable batteries (typically AA or AAA) that store the energy collected by the solar panels during daylight hours. This stored power is then used to illuminate the lights after dark. The brilliant thing is you never need to faff about changing these batteries - they're designed to charge and discharge thousands of times before eventually wearing out. I've had some solar lights running continuously for years without any battery maintenance. Some premium models (like those SolarCentre Smart Festoon Lights I reviewed) even include backup USB charging options for when you need guaranteed brightness for special occasions or during particularly gloomy winter periods. The only time you might need to replace batteries is after several years when they eventually lose their ability to hold a charge - but by then, most people are ready for new lights anyway! How many lumens is best for solar garden lights? When it comes to solar garden lights, the "right" number of lumens completely depends on what you're trying to achieve - and I've tested enough to know there's no one-size-fits-all answer! For gentle ambient lighting and decorative effects (like those charming mushroom lights or fairy strings), you're looking at anywhere between 5-50 lumens. These create a lovely atmosphere without being overpowering. Path lights need a bit more oomph - typically 100-200 lumens will properly illuminate walkways and garden edges without creating that harsh, spotlight effect that ruins the vibe. For statement lighting (like those gorgeous festoon bulbs), aim for 100-400 lumens to create proper impact that's visible even from indoors. Security and flood lights are a different story altogether - you'll want 700+ lumens to properly light up larger areas and deter any unwanted visitors. The beauty of today's solar lights is that many now offer multiple brightness settings, so you can adjust based on your needs or even the season (less sun in winter means conserving battery power with lower settings!).
