What Is The Best Facing Garden For Sun in UK

The debate over which garden orientation receives the best sunlight has persisted for as long as people have been purchasing homes.

Property experts advocate buying a home with a south-facing garden due to the extra hours of sunlight. However, for those who prefer sitting in the shade, a south-facing garden may not be suitable for your needs.

Read below to see what each facing garden offers and the benefits they can each provide.

What to expect from a north-facing garden

North-facing gardens have often received a bad reputation, but they are one of the best orientations if you want sunlight in both the morning and the evening. Since many people are busy or away during the middle of the day, it often suits our lifestyles to have sun earlier and later. With a north-facing garden, you can enjoy your morning coffee in the sunshine and dine alfresco in the evening—it’s the best of both worlds!

North-facing gardens are also excellent for planting a variety of plants. Most plants appreciate some midday shade, as this is when the sun is at its hottest.

Advantages of a north-facing garden

• If you prefer a cooler, shadier garden, a house with a north-facing garden might be ideal for you.
• In long gardens, the upper parts may receive some sunlight, but the garden will mostly remain in the shade throughout the day.
• Your house will block much of the sunlight, which can be advantageous for those who aren’t fond of too much sun and prefer to stay cool during the summer months.

What to expect from an east-facing garden

East-facing gardens receive most of their sunlight in the morning, with shade starting to creep in around midday. While some areas may still get sun later in the day, this will depend on the surrounding buildings and the shape of your garden.

When designing an east-facing garden, it’s helpful to observe which areas get sun and shade at different times before deciding on zones for planting, relaxation, and other uses.

If you’re looking to grow salad greens and leafy vegetables, an east-facing garden is ideal. The gentle morning sun and cooler afternoon shade create a perfect environment for these plants to thrive.

Benefits of an east-facing garden

• They receive morning sun and afternoon shade, allowing you to enjoy your garden during the warmer hours without excessive sunlight.
• During a drought, your garden will be safer since it’s not exposed to the sun all day, resulting in lower water loss.
• The balance of sunlight and shade helps prevent mould growth in your garden.

What to expect from a west-facing garden

In contrast to east-facing gardens, west-facing gardens receive most of their sunlight from midday into the evening, while being shaded in the morning. It’s a good idea to observe which areas get sun at different times when planning how to best utilise the space.

For planting, west-facing gardens are ideal for sun-loving plants like sunflowers and fruits such as tomatoes and peppers.

Benefits of a west-facing garden

• They receive sun in the afternoon and early evening, making them perfect for sun lovers who enjoy the warmth.
• Your house will stay lighter for longer, allowing you to enjoy natural light and potentially save on energy bills.
• Ideal for those who like to sleep in. If your bedroom faces the garden, the sunlight will reach your room later, allowing you to enjoy those extra hours of sleep.

What to expect from a South-facing garden

Often considered the best garden orientation for sun in the UK, south-facing gardens are highly sought after. They typically receive full sun from morning until evening, making them perfect for those who want to soak up the sun at every opportunity. They also provide a great climate for sun-loving plants and most fruits and vegetables.

However, it’s important to consider the levels and surrounding structures that might block the sun, even in a south-facing garden. Before starting your garden design, try to observe your garden at different times of the day between April and October. This will give you a complete picture of which areas receive the most and least sun throughout the spring and summer.

The benefits of a south facing garden, include:

• Your garden will be warmer for longer periods, especially during the summer months.
• Clothes will dry faster.
• Patios or decking will be less likely to develop moss and algae.

What facing garden is best for me?

Your personality and nature may influence your garden preference. If you’re a morning person, enjoying the sunrise while having breakfast and catching up on the news can be very appealing. For those who intend to use their garden in the morning, an east-facing garden is ideal. Conversely, if you like the idea of relaxing on the patio or in a conservatory after work, a west-facing garden may suit you best.

The size and shape of your garden can also impact how you use it and what benefits you get from the weather. External factors like tall buildings or trees might limit your garden’s sun exposure.

Generally, properties with south-facing gardens are in higher demand. These gardens are perfect for BBQs and socialising in optimal conditions, which many people find desirable. However, different people have different preferences, both for their garden and their property. No matter the orientation of your garden, embrace it and make the most of it.

Enjoy the garden of your dreams with County Town Homes

One benefit of our new-build properties is that you have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of different facing gardens and discover the different properties we have today. 

Or contact our friendly team to find out more about which facing garden could benefit you the most.