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.