Why Outdoor Living Isn’t Just for Summer

Max Piggott

Rethinking outdoor living

Most of us treat the garden as a summer space for barbecues, long evenings and sunny weekends. Come October, the doors close and it barely gets used until May.

It doesn't have to be that way. With a bit of planning, you can use your outdoor space all year round and get a lot more out of it.

Why we only use the garden in summer

Outdoor spaces tend to sit empty outside the warmer months because of:

  • cold temperatures and shorter days
  • the idea that sitting outside needs sunshine
  • spaces that aren't set up for bad weather
  • the habit of staying in during winter

Most of these are habits rather than real obstacles.

The benefits of using your garden all year

Feeling better

Time outdoors, even in cooler weather, is good for your mood. Fresh air and a bit of daylight are hard to replicate indoors.

A break without going anywhere

Stepping outside, even for a few minutes, gives you a clear break from work and household routine.

Slowing down

Winter evenings outside are quiet. With fewer distractions, it is easier to slow down and simply enjoy being there.

Outdoor living through the seasons

Autumn and winter

The colder months have their own appeal: crisp air, peace and quiet, and early dark evenings that suit winding down.

A few simple changes make winter evenings outside much more comfortable:

  • warm lighting or lanterns
  • weather-resistant seating and cushions
  • a sheltered corner or pergola
  • a fire pit or patio heater

Spring and summer

In spring and summer the garden becomes a social space again for eating outside and having friends round. If you have been using it all winter, it is already set up and ready.

Comfort is what makes it work

Using the garden in winter isn't about toughing it out. It is about making it comfortable.

Spaces people actually use in winter usually have:

  • shelter from wind and rain
  • soft furnishings and blankets
  • good lighting for the evenings
  • a source of heat

Get the comfort right and the garden becomes part of your home rather than a summer extra.

Good for your wellbeing

Regular time outdoors can help you:

  • feel less stressed
  • sleep better
  • feel more settled day to day
  • feel more connected to the seasons

That matters most in winter, when it is easy to spend whole days indoors.

Why winter might be the best season

Winter evenings outside are quieter and more personal. There is less pressure to entertain and more time for yourself.

A quiet half hour, a hot drink on the patio or a clear night looking at the stars can feel especially restful when it's cold.

Making it a habit

You don't need big changes. Start small:

  • step outside every day, even briefly
  • create one comfortable spot to sit
  • add shelter and warmth over time
  • dress for the weather rather than waiting for better weather

Doing it regularly matters more than getting it perfect.

A garden for every season

Your outdoor space can be part of everyday life all year, not just in summer.

Use it in every season and you will get more rest, more fresh air and more enjoyment from your home, whatever the weather.

Year-round ideas, season by season

Season Ideas
Autumn Evening soaks as the light fades, a fire pit a safe distance from the cover, bulbs planted in pots for spring
Winter Stargazing on clear nights, short soaks in frosty air, hot drinks served in plastic mugs
Spring Breakfast outdoors, birdsong morning soaks, cleaning and resealing decking
Summer Lower water temperatures, long evenings, a shaded seating area

Lighting for dark evenings

  • Light the route from the back door to the tub with low path lights. Mains outdoor lighting should be installed by a qualified electrician.
  • Use warm white for seating areas and keep bright lights pointing down, not into neighbours' gardens.
  • Spa lights and a floating colour LED (£12) give a soft glow on the water. See our lighting accessories.

Staying warm

  • Keep the heat in the water: a well-fitting cover is the biggest saving. Our rolling covers make it quick to cover the tub between soaks.
  • Heat pumps: on suitable spas, a heat pump can cut heating costs. The Balboa Clim8zone II Mini is the 4kW model for hot tubs.
  • Keep yourself warm: dressing gowns, a warm towel and grippy shoes for the walk back. The NHS page on hypothermia is worth a read before very cold nights.
  • Running costs: heating water takes about 0.81 kWh per °C for 700 litres, roughly 21p at the current Ofgem cap of 26.32p per kWh. Holding a covered spa at a steady temperature is cheaper than heating from cold.

Shelter

A roof over the tub makes autumn and winter far more usable. Compare the options in our guide to pergolas, gazebos and canopies and browse our gazebos. Check the Planning Portal guidance on outbuildings before you build anything permanent.

Getting the garden ready for winter

Our autumn spa prep guide covers covers, seals and filters. Clear leaves from around the cabinet, check the cover straps and keep a path gritted in icy spells.

Choosing a hot tub?

Compare our hot tubs and swim spas, or visit our showroom near Gatwick.

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