What Is the Best Facing Garden for Sun in the UK?

Key takeaways:

• Garden orientation affects how much sunlight your outdoor space receives, with each aspect attracting its own light patterns and benefits.
• Your lifestyle should be your guide, whether you’re a morning person or enjoy a late evening, the garden should suit your routine.
• Each direction caters to various types of plants and garden use, helping to make smart planting decisions and designs.
• Thoughtful design can transform a space, with even partial sun spots offering vibrancy and relaxing features.

 

The direction in which a garden faces has always been a keen consideration for buyers. For many, a south-facing garden is at the top of their priority. But how much sun does each garden receive in the UK, and what are the benefits to east, west and north-facing gardens?

 

 

How to calculate the direction of a garden?

Understanding the aspect of a garden has never been easier. Typically, a south-facing garden will usually be listed as a highlight feature under a property listing. If this is not stated, then it’s perfectly fine to enquire with the estate agent about this information.

Assessing the orientation of a garden yourself is as simple as opening any variant of a compass and standing in the garden to understand which direction you’re facing. This can also be dictated based on the sun’s positioning in the day, understanding that the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. Online resources can also help, such as sun path analysis tools that will display how the sun projects light across different seasons.

 

North-facing gardens

Generally, north-facing gardens are often overlooked and are typically believed to be shrouded in constant shadow. However, this is not always the case, and while they do receive less direct sunlight, many plants can thrive even within shaded environments. In the summer months, the vast majority of the sun filters through in the morning and evenings, with higher midday sun also reaching the upper portions of the garden. Late sunshine is more than suitable for the vast majority of homeowners, with most coming back from work to unwind in the long summer evenings.

 

Standout features

• Cooler temperatures throughout the day, ideal during heatwaves.
• Consistent shade, which is beneficial for certain plants such as ferns, hostas, and hydrangeas, including many delicious vegetable varieties.
• Provides comfortable shade for outdoor use, while still providing evening sunshine.
• Can save significant savings compared to the value of a south-facing property.

 

 

East-facing gardens

An east-facing garden will benefit from warm morning sunlight, which will start to move around midday and provide a calm and cool space in the later hours. These gardens tend to be shaded from the harsher afternoon sun, making them especially appealing for people who enjoy gardening or relaxing outdoor activities earlier in the day or prefer to enjoy respite from the intense sun. This garden works well for delicate plants that may struggle under prolonged sunshine, and are often regarded as peaceful spaces, perfect for early risers and breakfast on the terrace.

 

Standout features

• Bright and uplifting mornings with soft and less intense sunlight.
• Afternoon shade to provide a comfortable break from the heat in summer months.
• Perfect for growing greenhouse vegetables, salad leaves, herbs and other leafy greens.
• Offers a balanced microclimate, reducing the risk of overheating.

 

West-facing gardens

West-facing gardens are an incredibly popular choice with families and individuals who love to spend time outdoors after work. Opposite to east-facing, these gardens will attract plenty of sunshine from mid-afternoon through to sunset, making them ideal for late-evening meals, entertaining guests, or sitting back with a cool drink.

The golden light of a late evening enhances the colours of flowers and garden features, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This aspect is particularly valuable in spring and autumn when daylight hours are shorter, but you still aim to maximise your time outdoors.

 

Standout features

• Afternoon and evening sunshine, ideal for BBQs, socialising, and late summer nights.
• Sunset views and ambient evening light.
• Suitable for plants that thrive on strong afternoon sun, such as roses, sunflowers, tomatoes, and peppers.
• Perfect for homeowners who like to enjoy the sunshine after work.

 

 

South-facing gardens

A south-facing garden is highly regarded as the most desirable orientation in the UK. This is because these gardens benefit from sunlight throughout the day, which can significantly increase their usability, particularly in the cooler months. With consistent exposure to light, they’re perfect for avid gardeners who aim to grow a variety of plants, including fruit and vegetables.

A south-facing garden can also create a warmer microclimate, extending the growing season and benefitting from additional features such as outdoor patios, furniture and terraces.

 

Standout features

• Sunlight for the majority of the day, from early morning until late evening.
• Ideal for growing sun-loving plants and vegetables.
• Perfect for hosting events in the sunshine all day long.
• Usually highly sought after by potential buyers.

 

Which garden orientation is the best?

Ultimately, the best garden aspect depends entirely on your personal needs, daily routine, and gardening ambitions, with each orientation having its own charm. A south-facing garden is perfect for those who love full sun, are passionate about gardening, or just enjoy basking in the light all day. West-facing gardens suit social households who love hosting and soaking in the sunshine during those long afternoons. East-facing gardens are perfect for people who love morning activities and retreating to cooler shade in the afternoon, while north-facing gardens offer calm and low-maintenance planting schemes, while still allowing homeowners to enjoy evenings in the sun.

It’s important to consider how you’ll use the space, whether it’s for entertaining, growing your own produce, playing with your children, or simply relaxing with a pot of tea. Whatever the orientation, with thoughtful planning, every garden can become a cherished and sacred space.

 

 

Discover Your Perfect Garden With Sky-House Co.

At Sky-House Co., we understand that a well-oriented garden can transform the way you live, bringing in natural light, supporting outdoor living, and fitting into your everyday needs. We design our beautiful gardens to provide respite, no matter the time of day, with many of our homes also featuring spacious roof terraces that bring the outdoors to you.

Whether you’re after a sunny gardening paradise or a peaceful zen retreat, our gardens and neighbourhoods are built to suit every lifestyle. Find a home that works for you, and get in touch with our friendly team today.