5 ways to enjoy your garden in autumn

Summer has come to an end which means it's time to make the most of autumn. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your outdoor spaces during the colder months

Beckoning warmth – a firepit

Whether it’s a designer model that doubles as a sculpture or a more rudimentary version, the flickering allure of a firepit is hard to beat. A backup heater is also a good idea in case it gets colder or your firepit goes out.

Part sculpture, part nurturing beacon of warmth, firepits are a great addition to any outdoor space as the seasons turn. Read our firepit story here

Outdoor cinema

Okay, maybe no drive-in option over your beautiful garden, but a home outdoor cinema is novel, entertaining and a good excuse to rug up by the fire or firepit and take in the action. Outdoor projectors are now widely available and affordable. All you need is a sheet or a white garden wall and you can let the good times roll.

The portable home projector of today is a lot less fiddly than those from the past and there are many to choose from. One projector plus one hanging sheet can create a fun and novel autumnal outdoor attraction that children and children at heart can enjoy.

Magical lighting

Invite your guests and family to enjoy autumn outdoors with an attractive outdoor lighting scene. Layering lights throughout your garden creates a magical effect. As a guide, think about how you layer lighting in your living spaces. Solar lights are available in all shapes and formats, while lanterns and fairy lights generally are as enchanting as they are economical. Read the label – make sure your lighting choices are suitable for outdoor use.

Lights glimpsed through trees or strung along fences and trellises make for an alluring sight whatever the season and bring cheer if the skies are dark. A group of lanterns on a tray also creates a magical outdoor table illumination.

Get comfortable

All weather seating, or even a colourful rug and an array of oversize cushions ensure your outdoor spaces are still being utilised as the seasons turn. Benches are another good option. Anything that you can easily move if the weather takes a turn for the worst. Low coffee tables are a good idea too, perfect for casual dining or as a good place for that outdoor projector.

The grass may be damp but all weather backyard, courtyard, furniture, garden, landscaping, outdoor furniture, outdoor structure, patio, real estate, table, yard, brown — The grass may be damp but all weather furniture or a picnic rug or thick blanket strewn with colourful cushions make for a great Autumnal landing pad. Read the outdoor living story here

Vegetable gardens aren't just for spring and summer!

An autumn vegetable garden is another great reason to get your family outside and interested through autumn and winter. Autumn is an ideal time to plant broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, beetroot, spinach and Chinese cabbages and some lettuce varieties. As well as a great activity for your family you can boast about your home-grown produce to guests.