Simple hacks to transform outdoor space into a cosy autumn setting

Simple hacks to transform outdoor space into a cosy autumn setting

Brits are being encouraged to turn their backyards into cosy havens to make the most of their outdoor spaces as the crisp Autumn weather draws near.

The experts at Gardening Express have outlined the best ways to create a relaxing ambience
and prepare outdoor spaces for the seasonal change.

It’s time to say goodbye to paddling pools and barbecues, which were well loved in the summer months.

If you still wish to use your outdoor space for hosting guests, having your meals al fresco or cosying up to a nice book on chilly autumn days, then you may consider giving your backyard a little seasonal update.

Chris Bonnett, the founder of Gardening Express said: “Just because the temperatures are dropping doesn’t mean you have to head inside, instead you can embrace the refreshing autumn breeze by making some cosy additions to your outdoor space.

“Some of the suggestions include brightening up the surroundings with outdoor lighting and adding more soft furnishings.

“By doing these few things you can enjoy your garden all year round.”

Here are the best tips for an autumn garden transformation from the experts at Gardening Express:

Add outdoor lighting
As the days are getting shorter, it’s important to brighten the surroundings with outdoor lights. Hanging up fairy lights and lanterns will bring a soft glow that will enhance the ambience. If you’re looking for an inexpensive option then solar powered lighting is a great choice that looks good around the garden too.

Create shelter
Create some shelter in the garden to prevent the unpredictable weather stopping you from enjoying your outdoor space this autumn. Some patio cover ideas are shade sails, pergolas, gazebos and covered swing benches.

Accessorise with soft furnishings
Outdoor rugs, cushions, and blankets help to create a cosy setting. You can also use the accessories to inject some colour and fun designs into your patio setup.

Add an outdoor rug
Outdoor rugs are a great way to make your garden feel cosy and warm. They’re designed to withstand any weather conditions meaning they are far more cost effective than purchasing a normal rug.

Opt for a warmer colour palette
Deeper reds and tartan prints are perfect for setting the cosy mood. Warmer and more neutral colour tones fit nicely with red and brown leaves falling on the ground, so incorporating this into furniture and décor choices is a great call.

Invest in weather-proof garden furniture
If you want to make the most of your garden over the autumn and winter months, then you may want to consider investing in patio furniture that is fit for all weather conditions. Some of the most durable and low maintenance material options are rattan and aluminium.

Include autumnal plants
Choose the right autumn plants to add colour to your garden. Some examples of cold-hardy plants that look great in autumn are aster, sedum, persicaria, autumn crocuses, winter aconite, trumpet honeysuckle and pansies.

Decorate with an autumn wreath
Give your outdoor space a seasonal touch with a fabulous autumn wreath centrepiece. You can make it yourself by using dried flowers, holly, berries and ivy garland, or opt for an artificial ready-made wreath.


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Merlin Entertainments is inviting families to step into a year of magical adventures with its Spring Sale on Merlin Annual Passes. Perfect for families looking to make the most of quality time together, the pass unlocks entry to over 20 top UK attractions, including the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Alton Towers Resort, Warwick Castle, Chessington World of Adventures Resort and more. With spellbinding savings available just in time for the Easter Holidays, from the 2nd to the 29th March, Merlin Annual Pass packs a year of family fun and adventure into incredible prices from as little as £99, which equates to just £1.90 per week. From thrilling theme parks like Thorpe Park, Alton Towers Resort and Chessington World of Adventures Resort, to fascinating aquariums, spooky dungeons and historic landmarks, the Pass offers something for everyone. Plus, with exclusive Passholder perks including discounts on food, souvenirs and short breaks, families can enjoy unforgettable days out for less. The limited time sale applies to all Merlin Annual Pass types including yearly passes and Platinum and Gold Monthly Memberships from just £16.99* per month. Adventurers can unlock a whole year’s worth of fun memories and epic moments saving up to £50** on unmissable days out. Spring Sale prices are as follows: Pass Type Usual Price Wizards Wanted Price Saving All-new Essential Merlin Annual Pass £139 £99 £40 Merlin Gold Pass £239 £189 £50 Merlin Gold Membership £19.99pm £16.99pm £3pm £36 per year total saving Merlin Platinum Pass £299 £249 £50 Merlin Platinum Membership £24.99pm £20.99pm £4pm £48 per year total saving 2026 promises to be one of the most exciting years yet for Merlin Annual Passholders. At Alton Towers Resort, the world’s first Bluey rollercoaster – Bluey The Ride: Here Come the Grannies, will open in the UK’s only CBeebies Land on 28th March. Designed for younger adventurers and their big imaginations, the first of its kind attraction whisks guests through Bluey’s backyard. Featuring Bluey’s House, selfie spots, and fun play activities, little fans can meet Bluey, Bingo and the whole Heeler family live in Big Fun Showtime. Over at Chessington World of Adventures Resort, pup-tastic fun awaits with the UK’s first and only PAW Patrol-themed land called the World of PAW Patrol, which debuts in Spring 2026. Adventure Bay comes to life with four brand new rides, including Chase’s Mountain Mission Ride, Skye’s Helicopter Heroes, Marshall’s Firetruck Rescue and Zuma’s Hovercraft Adventure, perfect for mini-thrill seekers who want to join the heroic pups on immersive rescue missions. For curious creators, the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort will mark its 30th birthday with a year-long calendar of awesome activities and celebrations. 2026 will see the park filled with cake, live shows, LEGO® fun, with nostalgic surprises for guests of all ages, all to celebrate the iconic attraction where imaginations run free.