25 Autumn Garden Ideas | UK Garden Ideas For Autumn
As the leaves start to change colour and the days grow shorter, you might wonder how to make a garden look good in autumn. The great news is there are plenty of autumn garden ideas to choose from to keep your space looking good all year.
A survey from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) showed that two-thirds of British gardeners don’t know that autumn is the most important season for planting. Over half weren’t aware that spring flowers like tulip and daffodil bulbs should be planted in autumn.
We have helpful planting tips, fun decorating suggestions and gorgeous garden furniture ideas like cosy garden sofa sets, creative outdoor lighting, and warm fire pits. Let’s explore ways to create an inviting outdoor space with these 25 UK autumn garden ideas.
25 autumn garden ideas to transform your outdoor space
With vibrant leaves, unique textures and a rich colour palette, this time of year can transform your outdoor space into a stunning display of colour and life. Whether you want to enhance your existing garden or prepare it for the colder months, there are plenty of creative autumn garden ideas to embrace the beauty of the season.
From incorporating seasonal plants and decorations to using lighting and accessories to update your space, there are plenty of ways to make a garden look good in autumn. These tips will inspire you to celebrate the season while ensuring your garden looks great and stays functional.
1. Install warm lighting 
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As the days grow shorter, you’ll want plenty of outdoor lighting that will encourage you to spend evenings outside on your patio or in the garden.
String lights are one option, and while those always add a romantic touch, wall sconces are a more permanent and durable choice. Wall lights add powerful ambient lighting that can illuminate a whole patio to make the space look warmer and create a glowing atmosphere in your garden during cold evenings.
2. Create a wildlife-friendly garden
Help local wildlife prepare for winter by leaving out bird feeders, bird baths, and insect-friendly plants. Not only will you attract wildlife to your garden, but you’ll also encourage biodiversity in your area.
For birds in particular, autumn is a crucial time to find food. Keep your bird feeder full of seeds in your autumn garden and you’ll get to enjoy the beauty of visiting winged friends throughout the season. Take a look at our winter garden ideas for even more inspiration for the end of the year.
3. LED Mood Light Pergolas
Light up the night with an LED mood light pergola. These modern pergolas provide gentle, customisable illumination and create a captivating atmosphere for evening gatherings. Set the mood with soft lighting in all different colours to complement the season's cosy vibe.
Some garden parasols also include LED lights to up the ambience of your space even further. It turns your space into something you can use throughout the day and night, maximising on your outdoor area. This is why it’s one of our favourite garden ideas for autumn.
4. Gather around a fire pit table
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One of our favourite autumn garden ideas is gathering around a fire pit. Roasting marshmallows, warming your hands, and telling stories with loved ones around the crackling fire is a classic way to embrace the cool weather and welcome the new season.
It’s a great way to keep your garden usable as the weather cools off and the nights get darker. That way, you can enjoy your space as often as you want throughout autumn.
5. Add late bloomers
Planting hardy perennials in full bloom can really brighten up your garden in autumn, and they’ll keep flowering year after year. Sedum, winter pansy, dogwood, snapdragons, lily of the valley, heather and dusty miller will keep flowering (or at least keep their colour) through the winter months.
This can be a great way to get the last bit of colour into your autumn garden. You can even plant them in pots so that you can shelter them from cold snaps or even bring them indoors to boost your interiors too.
6. Decorate with autumn colours
When it’s time to start setting out your autumn décor, incorporate rich, earthy tones like deep reds, warm oranges, and rustic browns into your garden. This colour palette embraces the spirit of autumn and complements the changing leaves.
This can be as simple as swapping out your scatter cushions and blankets for ones that feel more autumnal. Or, if you like a good DIY project, you can paint some ceramic pots and then plant potted foliage that adds even more autumn colours, like deep purples, to the mix.
7. Clear up leaves 
One of the most common associations with autumn is the way the leaves start to change colour and fall. While these autumnal leaves can look beautiful, they can damage areas of grass or borders, so it’s a good idea to clear them up to keep grass healthy and your garden looking great.
Use a rake or a leaf blower to clear leaves up and store them to make mulch for feeding next year’s plant. This can be done by putting them in bags or wire cages where they can break down - just remember to add holes to the bags at the base so air can circulate.
43% of UK adults who garden or grow plants outside put their fallen leaves in their council garden waste when it could be used in your garden. This saves resources and helps your garden throughout the year.
When it’s time to start setting out your autumn décor, incorporate rich, earthy tones like deep reds, warm oranges, and rustic browns into your garden. This colour palette embraces the spirit of autumn and complements the changing leaves.
This can be as simple as swapping out your scatter cushions and blankets for ones that feel more autumnal. Or, if you like a good DIY project, you can paint some ceramic pots and then plant potted foliage that adds even more autumn colours, like deep purples, to the mix.
8. Include cosy seating areas
When the temperature drops and summer turns to autumn, it can be the perfect time to invest in an ultra-cosy garden sofa set. One of these spacious, plush furniture pieces is sure to add a hint of luxury to your autumn garden.
Complete the space with patio heaters and lighting. Then, add plush cushions and throw blankets so the whole family can sit outside and enjoy extra comfort during cooler autumn evenings.
If you want to check out even more seating setups, check out our list of stylish garden seating ideas. Finding a seating arrangement you love can make a huge difference to your outdoor space, turning it into something you can enjoy throughout the year.
9. Mulch and prepare for winter
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As autumn progresses, you’ll need to clean up the fallen leaves and mulch your garden beds to protect your plants from the cold. This essential autumn task helps insulate roots, retain soil moisture, and prepare your garden for the challenges of the winter weather to come.
Autumn gardening is more about harvesting, maintenance and preparation than new growth and planting, so take the time to do some mindful gardening to help you feel relaxed and ready. It’s one of the best autumn garden ideas you’ll have this season.
10. Autumn foliage displays
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If you want to add larger plants to your garden that will look stunning in autumn, choose shrubs and trees known for their striking autumn leaves. Examples include Japanese maple, smoke bush and warm-coloured ornamental grasses. As your trees and shrubs grow, you can even use them to create table centrepiece displays with their colourful autumn leaves, branches, and berries.
Don’t underestimate how great the right finishing touches and garden accessories can make you feel on a chilly autumn day. These planting tips are great garden ideas for autumn and can really lift your space and bring it back to life.
11. Go for grasses
Grasses can be an underrated garden staple, especially through autumn and winter. They add texture and life through summer, then can add colour through the cooler months too. Plus, whatever garden space you have, you can usually find a space for grasses as they’re just as happy in a pot as in the ground.
Look for panicum frasses that change to violet, purple and red tones in autumn and winter. Miscanthus sinensis cultivars and Chinese fountain grass all look great throughout the year - the latter looks especially good in a pot.
12. Get warm under a heated pergola
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We’re big fans of modern pergola ideas, and a heated pergola is a wonderful addition to your autumn garden setup. These high-tech pergolas protect your seating or dining area from the rain and sun during the spring and summer months.
During autumn and winter, the addition of a pergola heater can extend the usability of your garden and let you sit outside in warmth. Because these structures provide both shelter and heat, they are ideal for hosting gatherings on chilly autumn nights.
13. Dine around the fire 
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Turn your garden into a cosy outdoor dining room with an outdoor dining table and built-in fire pit. You and your guests or family members will enjoy hearty autumn meals while basking in the warmth and ambience of the flames right in the centre of the table.
Your garden should be something you can enjoy all year round, and adding a heating source can completely change how you use your outdoor space in every season.
14. Plant autumn-flowering bulbs
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Late spring through summer is the time to get started on your autumn garden ideas. Plant autumn-flowering bulbs like daffodils, crocuses, snowdrops, and cyclamen for vibrant blooms that add colour and delight to your garden throughout the autumn season.
It’s also the perfect time to think of other garden ideas for autumn and plant bulbs that will burst into bloom during the following spring. Consider flowers like tulips to add vibrant, warm-weather colours to your garden once winter fades.
15. Snuggle up with outdoor throw blankets 
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Keep warm outside during chilly evenings by providing soft outdoor throw blankets for you and your guests. They add both comfort and style to your garden seating setup. Whether it’s a formal outdoor dining setor casual sofa set, your outdoor dining table and chairs or benches will benefit from some blankets to keep everyone comfortable.
Adding a cosy blanket is great for chilly days when you still want to snuggle up outdoors and enjoy a fresh, crisp autumnal day.
16. Enjoy a warm drink at a firepit bar
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Want to spend your autumn evenings in luxury? Consider a fire pit bar set for your patio, deck, or balcony. Sit at the bar, turn on the fire pit and watch the stars come out.
If you want to take your firepit experience to the next level, consider a modern firepit table. You and your family can gather around the table to dine and converse, watching the flames dance as you sit back on your outdoor sofa. A firepit table not only provides warmth but also serves as a place for cosy outdoor gatherings. For even more firepit inspiration, check out our list of garden firepit ideas.
17. Decorate with pumpkins and gourds
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Looking for autumn garden ideas you can easily change? Use pumpkins, gourds, and other seasonal vegetables as decorative pieces in your garden. They quickly add a festive touch and seasonal charm to your outdoor space.
Autumn wreaths, dried flowers and planters add some extra autumnal touches to your garden, helping you get into the season and have fun with your outdoor space too. Seasonal decor is one of the easiest and quickest ways to change the feel of your garden.
18. Add heaters
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Heaters are a must if you want to enjoy time outside in your autumn garden. Nights can get chilly as the evenings get darker and the weather moves towards winter.
Freestanding patio heaters provide consistent warmth, allowing you to make the most of your space well into winter. Other outdoor heaters, like ones you can install on an overhang ceiling, can also be great options. With heaters installed well ahead of autumn, you won’t have to worry about guests getting cold when sitting out on your patio.
19. Cover the outdoor kitchen 
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If you have an outdoor kitchen or outdoor cooking setup, autumn is the ideal time to protect it from the elements. Consider adding weatherproof garden furniture covers to shield your appliances, countertops and outdoor grill from rain and frost.
This simple step will extend the life of your outdoor kitchen and keep it in prime condition for next year's alfresco cooking adventures. Structures such as pergolas that act as shade in the summer can double as a shelter for your outdoor kitchen in the autumn too.
20. Grow autumn vegetables
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Want to make the most of your fall garden and harvest delicious veggies you can use in the kitchen? Consider cultivating an autumn vegetable plot. Look into vegetables such as kale, spinach, carrots, radishes, turnips, and mustard leaves. These cold-hardy vegetables thrive in the autumn and offer fresh, nutritious additions to your meals.
Not only will autumn gardening encourage you to spend more time outside, but it can also help you gain a new appreciation of your outdoor space in the colder seasons. It also helps keep your plate stocked up throughout the autumn season.
21. Place fall lanterns 
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Enhance the atmosphere of your autumn garden with decorative lanterns. The soft glow of unique outdoor lanterns can help light up the space and completely enhance your outdoor décor. Plus, they’re easily portable, so you can move them around whenever you please.
Candles can be great for adding outdoor ambience, but they aren’t always the safest option, especially if you’re going to move around or it’s a little windy. An outdoor lantern can look just as good and can be a safer choice, or you can try fire lanterns and solar lanterns to get the look.
22. Invest in all-weather fabric
As the weather turns cooler and wetter, it's important to choose outdoor furniture that’s comfortable and lasts. If you’re on the hunt for new seating, make sure to invest in all-weather fabric for your cushions and furniture.
These materials are designed to withstand autumn's occasional drizzles and chilly breezes, ensuring your outdoor seating remains flawless for a long time to come. To extend the life of your furniture even more, make sure to use furniture covers when there’s bad weather and consider placing your seating area under an overhang or a pergola.
23. DIY an autumn wreath
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Add even more seasonal charm to your garden by making your own autumn wreath. Gather a variety of dried leaves, pinecones and other natural materials from your outdoor space to create a customisable decoration that celebrates your autumn garden.
Hang your wreath on your gate or front door to welcome guests with a warm greeting. It’s a cute and cosy way to bring the autumn feeling to your home and celebrate the sentiment of the season.
24. Put your garden accessories into storage
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If you have any garden accessories, such as garden cushions, statues or outdoor rugs, that might not last a cold spell, it’s time to get them into storage to protect them.
Whether that’s putting them in the garage, a waterproof garden shed or some garden storage that also doubles up as furniture, storing your accessories properly keeps them looking good. This means that they’re protected and look great when the time comes to get them back out again.
25. Cover up your furniture
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Protect your garden furniture and parasols over autumn with a garden furniture cover or parasol cover. These help to keep your favourite garden pieces looking good-as-new season after season, especially if you don’t use them over the colder months.
They protect your garden furniture from harsh weather that can cause outdoor furniture to fade, tear or wear away, as well as dirt and damp. Sometimes just storing them in a shed or garage isn’t enough to keep them protected.
Tips for autumn gardens
As autumn rolls in, it's important to prepare your garden for the changes that come with cooler temperatures and shorter days. Autumn garden ideas aren’t just about how your garden looks.
By following a few simple tips, you can make sure that your outdoor space stays healthy and vibrant throughout autumn and winter.
Mulching and preparing for winter
Mulching is the practice of covering the soil with a protective layer of material to improve its health and productivity. It’s important when it comes to protecting your garden during the colder months.
By adding a layer of mulch around your plants, you can help regulate soil temperature, keeping it warmer and preventing frost from damaging roots. Organic mulches, like wood chips, straw, or even shredded leaves, are readily available and enrich the soil as they decompose, providing essential nutrients for your plants.
As you prepare for winter, it’s important to protect sensitive plants from the cold. Consider wrapping vulnerable shrubs and plants with horticultural fleece to shield them from frost. For perennials, cutting back dead leaves tidies up your garden and encourages healthy growth come spring.
Take the time to assess your garden layout and make any changes, like relocating tender plants indoors or moving them to a more sheltered location to ensure they survive the winter months.
Garden clean-up and organisation
Autumn is the perfect time for a thorough garden clean-up and getting organised to maintain your outdoor space. Start by raking up fallen leaves, which are easily shredded into mulch.
This not only keeps your garden tidy but also prevents the build-up of debris that can lead to pests and diseases, especially in damp UK weather. Compost any healthy plant material, and avoid adding diseased or pest-infested leaves to your compost heap.
Organising your gardening tools and supplies is important during this season too. Take the time to clean, sharpen and store tools properly to ensure they’re ready for use in the spring. Consider investing in a sturdy shed or an outdoor storage box to keep your gardening supplies easily accessible and protected from the elements.
Autumn garden ideas can transform your space
Don’t neglect your garden this autumn. With a bit of inspiration and some great autumn garden ideas, you’ll unlock the potential of your outdoor space as the air turns crisp and the leaves start falling.
These UK autumn garden ideas will help you prepare your garden for the cooler months. We truly believe your outdoor living space can be just as enchanting in fall as it is any other time of the year.
Harbour Lifestyle has your back when adding modern fire pits and luxurious seating areas to your space. We’re here to help you fall in love with your outdoor space all over again, no matter the season. Browse our collection of garden furniture, sofa sets, and more today.
FAQs
What can I plant in autumn in the UK?
Autumn is an excellent time for planting in the UK, as the cooler temperatures and increased rainfall create ideal conditions for root development. Consider planting spring-flowering bulbs such as daffodils, tulips and crocuses, which provide vibrant colour as they bloom in the spring.
Other garden ideas for autumn include planting perennials and sowing hardy annuals to give you a year-round display.
What grows fastest in autumn?
In autumn, certain plants thrive and establish quickly before winter arrives. Fast-growing leafy greens like spinach, kale, and rocket - and many other salad crops - are perfect for autumn planting, as they germinate rapidly and often tolerate cooler temperatures. These crops can be harvested well into winter or early spring, providing fresh produce even during the colder months.
