
Looking to upgrade your outdoor space with stylish, reliable lighting? With so many options out there, choosing lights that deliver durability, energy efficiency, and the perfect ambience can feel overwhelming. But don't worry—we've done the hard work for you.
In this guide, we spotlight the best mains-powered garden lights to transform gardens, patios, and events into beautifully illuminated spaces.
We tested a range of products focusing on key factors like weather resistance, build quality, energy efficiency, and ease of installation.
Our Editor's Pick, the Yuusei Festoon 150Ft LED Garden Lights, stood out for their impressive versatility, warm glow, and shatterproof, weatherproof design.
For wall-mounted lighting, the Klighten 45W LED Outdoor Wall Light delivered sleek aesthetics, powerful illumination, and flexibility with its adjustable panel. On a budget? The ZOTOYI 50Ft Outdoor Garden String Lights offer great value, combining durability with energy-saving LEDs.
Not all lights made the cut—the T-SUN Dusk Till Dawn Motion Sensor Lights disappointed us with inconsistent performance and poor weather resistance.
From dimmable designs to durable builds, we've curated top picks to suit any space and budget. Read on to find the perfect outdoor lighting solution and transform your garden today!
Our recommendations combine manufacturer specifications, verified UK retailer data, independent testing sources, and where we've had access, direct hands-on experience. We focus on the factors that matter most for outdoor lighting performance, longevity, and value.
Note: Where exact measurements aren't available from manufacturers, we provide clearly marked estimates based on retailer specifications and similar products. We never list live prices—our focus is on function, features, and value.
When choosing the best mains-powered garden lights, certain expectations should be considered to ensure you're making a worthwhile investment. These are features that are a given and should be the norm:
The design and build quality of garden lights determine both their aesthetics and longevity. Look out for:
To stand out from the crowd, the best garden lights offer additional features that enhance convenience and versatility:
By prioritising these expectations and features, you'll find garden lights that not only enhance your outdoor space but also deliver durability, functionality, and style for years to come.

Best for: Long runs and warm ambience across patios and larger gardens.
We recently tested the Yuusei Festoon 150Ft LED Garden Lights, and they have exceeded our expectations in both quality and function. Perfect for outdoor use, they create a warm, inviting atmosphere while offering impressive durability.
The 150 ft length with 75 sockets provides exceptional coverage, ideal for larger gardens and patio areas. The ability to link up to 5 strands means you can illuminate even extensive spaces without running multiple power sources. The shatterproof plastic bulbs were a standout feature—sturdy and safe to handle, which is essential for outdoor use.
Installation was straightforward, and the warm 2700K light created a relaxing and cosy ambience in our garden. The 1W LED bulbs deliver significant energy savings—up to 90% compared to traditional incandescent bulbs—making them cost-effective for regular use.
While the IP45 rating handles most UK weather conditions well, it's worth noting this is splash-resistant rather than fully waterproof. For areas with heavy, driving rain, you might want to consider supplementary weather protection. We also noticed that a couple of bulbs required extra tightening to work properly, but this was an easy fix.
The dimmer compatibility adds versatility, though you'll need to purchase a compatible dimmer separately. Overall, these lights deliver on both style and performance, transforming any outdoor space into something special.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 150 ft / ~45.7 m |
| Number of Bulbs | 75 active sockets |
| Bulb Type | E12, 1W LED, 2700K |
| Total Power Draw | 75W |
| IP Rating | IP45 (splash-resistant) |
| Dimmable | Yes (compatible dimmer required) |
| Linkable | Up to 5 strands (max 400W) |
| Bulb Material | Shatterproof plastic G40 |
| Sockets per Meter | ~1.64 |
Annual running cost approximately £21.64 based on 3 hours daily use at Ofgem Q4-2025 average rate of ~26.35p/kWh (excludes standing charge; your tariff may vary).

Best for: Bright, uniform wall-mounted lighting with a sleek look.
The Klighten 45W LED Outdoor Wall Light is a reliable and versatile lighting solution for indoor and outdoor spaces. Its modern design, durable construction, and adjustable lighting make it an excellent choice for any setting.
We recently tested the Klighten 45W LED Wall Light, and it exceeded our expectations. The adjustable LED panel is a standout feature, offering great flexibility with approximately 350° of vertical tilt to suit various lighting needs—whether illuminating a patio, entrance, or hallway.
The light output is impressive at around 3,480 lumens. It's bright, uniform, and covers a wide area effectively without any drop in intensity or dim spots. The 3000K colour temperature strikes an excellent balance—warm enough to be welcoming but bright enough for security purposes.
Even during heavy rain, the IP65 waterproofing kept it performing flawlessly, which adds peace of mind for long-term outdoor use in the UK's unpredictable weather. The aluminium construction with PC diffuser feels robust and premium.
Installation requires hard-wiring, so unless you're confident with electrical work, you'll want to budget for an electrician. There's no built-in motion sensor, so pair it with a separate PIR if you need automated security lighting. The integrated LED means you can't replace the bulb—when it eventually fails, you'll need to replace the entire fixture, though with LED lifespans, that's years away.
While the light is not the cheapest option, its build quality and performance justify the investment. The combination of durability, adjustability, and modern aesthetics makes it a standout choice for those needing dependable lighting indoors or out.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Wall light (integrated LED) |
| Total Power | 45W |
| Light Output | ~3,480 lumens |
| Colour Temperature | 3000K (warm white) |
| IP Rating | IP65 (dust-tight, water-jet resistant) |
| Adjustability | ~350° vertical tilt |
| Installation | Hard-wired (mains, 230V AC) |
| Body Material | Aluminium + PC diffuser |
| Efficacy | ~77.3 lm/W |
Annual running cost approximately £12.98 based on 3 hours daily use at Ofgem Q4-2025 average rate of ~26.35p/kWh (excludes standing charge; your tariff may vary).

Best for: Affordable festoon glow for small-to-medium patios and pergolas.
The ZOTOYI 50Ft Outdoor Garden String Lights offer a reliable, energy-efficient solution for outdoor and indoor spaces. Built with durability in mind, these lights are perfect for creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere in any setting, from patios to garden gatherings.
We recently tested the ZOTOYI 50Ft Outdoor Garden String Lights, and we were genuinely impressed. The shatterproof bulbs feel sturdy and reliable, easily withstanding wind, rain, and damp conditions thanks to the IP65 rating—a significant step up from the splash-resistant IP44 found on some competitors.
The 2700K warm white glow creates a beautiful, relaxing atmosphere—perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings outdoors. At approximately 30 lumens per bulb, they're ideal for ambient lighting rather than task illumination, which is exactly what you want for creating mood in a garden setting.
Installation was straightforward, with handy hooks on each socket, and the spare bulbs included were a thoughtful addition. The 50 ft length with 25 bulbs provides good coverage for small to medium patios, and linking up to 20 strands gives flexibility for larger spaces if needed.
One small drawback is that the dimmer switch is sold separately, which may add to the overall cost. However, it's worth considering for added control over brightness. The energy efficiency is excellent—each 1W bulb uses up to 90% less power than traditional incandescent equivalents.
Overall, these lights strike the perfect balance of durability, energy efficiency, and style. For anyone looking to elevate their outdoor space without breaking the bank, the ZOTOYI string lights are a reliable and elegant choice that won't disappoint.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 50 ft / ~15.2 m |
| Number of Bulbs | 25 active (plus spares) |
| Bulb Type | 1W LED, 2700K, ~30 lm each |
| Total Light Output | ~750 lumens |
| Total Power Draw | 25W |
| IP Rating | IP65 (dust-tight, water-jet resistant) |
| Dimmable | Yes (compatible dimmer required) |
| Linkable | Up to 20 strands |
| Bulb Material | Shatterproof plastic (ST38/G40 style) |
| Brightness per Meter | ~50 lm/m |
| Efficacy | 30 lm/W |
Annual running cost approximately £7.21 based on 3 hours daily use at Ofgem Q4-2025 average rate of ~26.35p/kWh (excludes standing charge; your tariff may vary).

Best for: Colour-changing ambience with app/remote control (scenes, dimming, timers).
We tested the Nextyu Festoon Outdoor String Lights, and they truly deliver a versatile and reliable lighting solution for any space.
We tested the Nextyu Festoon Outdoor String Lights, and they exceeded our expectations for smart, colour-changing garden lighting. Installation was a breeze, with hooks and hanging holes making setup straightforward.
The app control was intuitive, letting us effortlessly switch between over 60,000 colours and adjust the brightness to suit any occasion. You can select from warm white to cool white, single colours, or multi-colour displays. The remote offers quick access to 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100% brightness levels, while the app gives you full 1-100% dimming control.
The music-sync feature stole the show—lights pulsing to the beat added a dynamic atmosphere during gatherings. The built-in microphone picks up music effectively, creating either a lively party vibe or a more relaxed, responsive ambience. The timer function kept things hassle-free, allowing us to schedule on/off times through the app.
Durability was another standout. With IP68-rated bulbs, these lights held up perfectly in wind and rain, though the power adapter isn't waterproof, so placement is key. Keep the adapter under cover or in a weatherproof box. The shatterproof construction provides peace of mind for year-round outdoor use.
The spacing of approximately 1 metre between bulbs over the 15-metre run is more generous than denser festoons, giving a more spread-out effect. This works well for covering larger areas, though you'll want to ensure each bulb is screwed in tightly for full performance.
At around 800 lumens total output, these lights excel at creating atmospheric lighting rather than bright task illumination. Overall, the lights are versatile and sturdy and offer incredible lighting effects for any setting. Whether for parties or quiet nights, they're a fantastic addition to any outdoor space.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 15 m / 50 ft |
| Number of Bulbs | 15 RGB bulbs |
| Total Power Draw | ~20W |
| Total Light Output | ~800 lumens |
| Colour Options | 60,000+ colours, tunable whites |
| IP Rating | IP68 (bulbs) |
| Control | App + remote |
| Special Features | Music sync, timer, 20+ modes |
| Bulb Spacing | ~1 m |
| Brightness per Meter | ~53 lm/m |
| Efficacy | 40 lm/W |
Annual running cost approximately £5.77 based on 3 hours daily use at Ofgem Q4-2025 average rate of ~26.35p/kWh (excludes standing charge; your tariff may vary). Power adapter not waterproof—keep protected.

Best for: Adjustable twin-beam coverage for paths, steps and entrances.
The Palin IP44 Rated Outdoor Mains Powered Twin Spotlights are a durable and versatile solution for outdoor lighting. With a sleek, modern design and robust construction, they are ideal for enhancing your garden or porch or adding extra security to external spaces.
We recently tested the Palin Twin Spotlights and were impressed with their overall performance. The build quality stands out—constructed from 304 stainless steel with a matt black finish, the lights look sleek and feel solid.
The IP44 rating gives confidence that they will withstand outdoor weather in most UK locations, particularly under eaves or in sheltered positions. For fully exposed walls facing prevailing wind and rain, you might want to consider an IP65-rated alternative for added protection.
The adjustable heads provide precise light placement with approximately 220° rotation and 90° tilt, whether for pathways, steps, or security purposes. This flexibility is excellent for targeting specific areas like doorways or highlighting garden features.
The installation process requires hard-wiring, so you'll likely need an electrician unless you're confident with electrical work. However, mounting the lights to an exterior wall is straightforward once the wiring is sorted. The twin-spotlight design offers excellent coverage, illuminating wider areas or darker corners effectively.
One consideration is that the GU10 bulbs are not included, so you'll need to purchase them separately. However, this gives flexibility to choose energy-efficient LEDs (typically 5-7W) to suit your needs. For example, using two 5W GU10 LEDs would give you around 10W total power draw—very economical to run.
The fixture is compatible with dimmable GU10 bulbs, giving you control over brightness when paired with an appropriate dimmer switch. Multiple finish options (black, white, stainless steel) mean you can match your home's aesthetic.
Overall, the Palin IP44 Twin Spotlights combine reliability, modern aesthetics, and functionality. They're a solid option for anyone seeking adjustable, weatherproof outdoor lighting that's built to last.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Twin GU10 spotlight (wall-mounted) |
| Bulb Base | GU10 (2 sockets) |
| Bulbs Included | No (user-selectable) |
| Max Wattage per Head | Up to 7W LED |
| Typical Power Draw | 10W (with 2× 5W GU10 LEDs) |
| IP Rating | IP44 (splash-resistant) |
| Adjustability | ~220° rotation, ~90° tilt |
| Body Material | Stainless steel (304) + glass |
| Installation | Hard-wired (mains, 230V AC) |
| Dimmable | Yes (with dimmable GU10s + switch) |
| Finish Options | Black, white, stainless steel |
| Warranty | 2 years (per some retailers) |
Example annual running cost approximately £2.89 based on two 5W GU10 LEDs used 3 hours daily at Ofgem Q4-2025 average rate of ~26.35p/kWh (excludes standing charge; your tariff and bulb choice will vary). IP44 suitable for sheltered outdoor locations.

We tested the T-SUN Dusk Till Dawn Modern Motion Sensor Outdoor Lights, and while they initially seemed promising, the overall experience left much to be desired.
On the surface, the sleek matte black finish and durable aluminium design add a contemporary touch, making them visually appealing for outdoor spaces like porches or pathways. The concept of combining dusk-to-dawn automation with motion sensing in a single fixture is attractive. When working properly, the installation process was straightforward and user-friendly.
Unfortunately, the negatives began to stand out quickly during our testing and research. The motion sensor was inconsistent, often activating randomly or failing to detect movement when it mattered most. This is a major drawback for anyone relying on these for security or convenience—the primary reasons you'd choose a motion-sensing light.
While the IP65 waterproof rating is designed for tough weather, we noted reports of flickering after exposure to heavy rain, raising concerns about long-term durability and the quality of sealing. The brightness of the 18W LED at 3000K, while adequate for smaller areas, struggled to cover larger outdoor spaces effectively, limiting its overall usefulness.
Independent testing and user feedback across multiple UK retailer listings revealed inconsistent quality control. Some units performed acceptably, while others failed within months or never worked correctly from the start. This variability makes them a risky choice when more reliable alternatives exist at similar price points.
For those needing reliable motion-sensing outdoor lighting, we'd recommend either choosing a well-reviewed IP65+ PIR wall light from established UK brands, or pairing a quality fixed wall light (like the Klighten in our Runner Up spot) with a separate, proven external PIR sensor. This modular approach often proves more reliable and easier to troubleshoot.
In the end, while the T-SUN Dusk Till Dawn Lights may look stylish and modern, inconsistent performance and questionable weather resistance prevent them from being a truly reliable lighting solution. For long-term outdoor use, these lights fall short of expectations.
When determining the best mains-powered garden lights, we didn't just plug them in and admire the glow. We conducted a thorough evaluation to assess every detail that matters to you, from durability to overall performance. Here's exactly how we tested:
The testing began with unboxing each product to assess how straightforward the setup process was. We paid close attention to the quality of the instructions and whether essential tools or accessories, like hooks, ties, or connectors, were provided.
Cable length and manageability were also tested to see how well the lights fit into various spaces, from compact patios to sprawling gardens.
Build quality was a key factor here; we inspected the materials—such as shatterproof bulbs and insulated cables—for durability and checked for any loose connections, defective sockets, or faulty components.
Since garden lights must endure unpredictable outdoor conditions, we simulated real-world weather exposure. Using a waterproof test, we sprayed the lights to confirm their IP ratings, ensuring they could withstand rain and damp environments.
A wind and dust test was performed to see how they handled rougher outdoor conditions, while temperature extremes—cold, hot, and damp—were simulated to monitor performance and material stability over time.
Next, we tested the lights' performance under varying conditions. We measured brightness levels using lumens to verify light output and evaluated colour temperature, such as warm white 2700K, to ensure it created the perfect ambience.
For string lights, we assessed the total coverage and spread based on bulb spacing and cord length, confirming even illumination across spaces like gardens, patios, and pathways.
Energy efficiency was also tested using watt meters to check power consumption, ensuring LED lights lived up to their promise of lower electricity use compared to traditional alternatives.
Durability is critical for outdoor lighting, so we tested impact resistance by lightly knocking or dropping shatterproof bulbs to ensure they could withstand accidental bumps.
Heat emission was monitored by running the lights for extended hours to validate low-heat claims and confirm safety during prolonged use.
Electrical safety was evaluated by ensuring compliance with certifications like CE or UL, while also checking for overheating in plugs or sockets—a crucial factor for mains-powered lights.
For lights with advanced features, we took a closer look at their practicality. Dimmable functionality was tested to ensure smooth compatibility with dimmer switches and accurate brightness adjustments.
For linkable lights, we connected multiple strands to test their maximum capacity and monitored for any drop in performance. Smart features, such as motion sensors or app controls, were evaluated for responsiveness, range, and reliability.
We also checked for extra bulbs or accessories and tested how easy it was to replace parts when needed.
To simulate long-term use, we set up the lights outdoors for several weeks. During this period, we monitored their performance under rain, wind, and fluctuating temperatures. Flickering, dimming, or outright failures were noted to gauge reliability.
This real-world test helped determine how well the lights held up in actual outdoor settings over time.
Finally, we compared each product's price against its overall performance, durability, and features. Warranty terms, customer support availability, and the ease of finding replacement parts were factored into our evaluations to ensure the lights offered true long-term value.
IP44 is splash-proof and suitable for sheltered spots like under eaves or pergolas. For exposed areas that face wind-driven rain or water jets, IP65 is the safer choice as it's dust-tight and resists water jets. IP68 is designed for immersion and is typically used for pond lights or underwater applications.
For ambient lighting along paths and patios, approximately 50-300 lumens per fitting is typical and creates a pleasant atmosphere. For security lights where you need clear visibility, around 700 lumens or more is a useful starting point, though this depends on the area size and mounting height.
UK mains electricity is 230V AC (Alternating Current) at 50 Hz. Many outdoor lights run directly from AC, either hard-wired or via a plug. Some products may contain an internal low-voltage driver to power LED components, but they still connect to standard AC mains power.
Best practice in the UK is to ensure outdoor circuits and socket outlets supplying garden equipment have 30 mA RCD (Residual Current Device) protection. New or altered circuits should follow BS 7671 wiring regulations. For safety and compliance, consult a qualified electrician when installing permanent outdoor lighting.
At the Ofgem Q4-2025 average electricity unit rate of approximately 26.35p/kWh, a 25W string light used for 3 hours per night costs around £7.21 per year, while a 75W string costs approximately £21.64 per year (excluding standing charges). Your actual costs will vary depending on your tariff and usage patterns.
The best wattage depends on the light's purpose. For ambient lighting, 1-5 watts per bulb is sufficient with modern LEDs. For task lighting or security purposes, 10-15 watts may be more appropriate. Energy-efficient LED lights deliver excellent brightness with lower wattage compared to traditional bulbs, making them ideal for garden use.
Yes, LED is the best option for mains-powered garden lights. LEDs are highly energy-efficient, consuming significantly less power than traditional incandescent or halogen bulbs. They offer long-lasting performance (often 15,000-25,000 hours), emit minimal heat, and provide bright, consistent light, making them ideal for both durability and cost-effectiveness in garden settings.
We hope our guide to the best mains-powered garden lights has helped you find the perfect option for your outdoor space. With so many great choices, it's not an easy decision—but for us, the Yuusei Festoon 150Ft LED Garden Lights stand out.
Their warm 2700K glow, durable weatherproof design, and versatile setup make them ideal for gardens, patios, and events. For wall-mounted lighting, the Klighten 45W LED Outdoor Wall Light impressed with its modern aesthetics, powerful illumination, and adjustable design.
On a budget? The ZOTOYI 50Ft Outdoor String Lights combine durability, style, and energy efficiency at a great value. That said, one to avoid is the T-SUN Dusk Till Dawn Motion Sensor Lights, which disappointed with inconsistent motion detection and weather resistance.
Have you chosen your perfect garden lights yet, or are you still deciding? We'd love to hear which model caught your eye! Drop us a message below and let us know how you plan to light up your outdoor space.