As the calendar pages turn and that winter chill starts to become more noticeable, many of us may be tempted to retreat indoors, but we’ve got some winter patio ideas that will help you extend the enjoyment of your space.
Just because the leaves start to fall, it doesn’t mean the end of enjoying your patio and the investment you’ve poured into its creation. You’ve spent time and money carefully selecting furniture, choosing the right patio slabs, caring for your garden, and generally making that space perfect for entertaining – you deserve to enjoy that all year round.
By embracing these winter patio ideas, you not only extend the practical value of your investment but also get to enjoy some fantastic, cosy experiences that only the winter season can offer.
Let’s delve into what you can do to make the most of your patio investment all year round, looking at each idea by category.
Staying warm
Make a bonfire
From as far back as human history began, we have always loved gathering around the warmth of a fire, telling stories and building a sense of community as the dark nights draw in. Now, you may already be in the habit of attending Guy Fawkes Night celebrations here in the UK, but you can always host your own bonfire party at home, providing you have adequate safety measures in place.
Fire pit tables
In the UK, the majority of fire pit tables tend to be small coffee tables with a glass fire pit in the centre. This allows for room around the edge to put your glasses and snacks, while keeping cosy. They tend to be gas powered and are made especially for outdoor use, so they won’t harm your patio.
Fire pit
Fire pits are easy to maintain, generally built to withstand the elements, and can be brought out when you need them. However, the area under a traditional fire fit does get very hot; for example, when using the pit on grass, you may notice the grass becomes singed. It’s generally not a good idea to place the fire pit directly onto your lovely patio stones.
TIP: If you have a covered patio, such as a canopy pergola, please note that generally burning wood tends to produce thick, toxic smoke and if there’s not enough air flow, it can build up quickly and deplete the space of oxygen. Always ensure a wood burning fire pit is in a well-ventilated area. If you have a canopy pergola, you can fully retract the shade to allow for more ventilation.
Heat lamps
In the UK, the majority of fire pit tables tend to be small coffee tables with a glass fire pit in the centre. This allows for room around the edge to put your glasses and snacks, while keeping cosy. They tend to be gas powered and are made especially for outdoor use, so they won’t harm your patio.
Blankets, pillows and rugs, oh my!
If everyone is facing the heat source, it might be that their backs are exposed, so supplying loads of snuggly blankets and pillows will help everyone keep warm. You can also warm things up under foot with a weather-resistant outdoor rug. You’ll find these in most garden shops, and many supermarkets.
Lighting your patio
Lighting plays a crucial role in creating ambiance and showcasing the beauty of your outdoor space. Here are some enchanting winter patio ideas for lighting your space
String lights
If everyone is facing the heat source, it might be that their backs are exposed, so supplying loads of snuggly blankets and pillows will help everyone keep warm. You can also warm things up under foot with a weather-resistant outdoor rug. You’ll find these in most garden shops, and many supermarkets.
Drape fairy lights along the edges of your patio roof or weave them through nearby trees and shrubs. You can opt for warm white or soft amber bulbs to create a warming glow that turns your patio into a magical winter wonderland.
Lanterns and candles
Lanterns with flickering candles are a timeless winter favourite. Arrange lanterns of varying sizes on your patio’s surfaces (just remember to add a heat-proof coaster underneath if the candle has burned down quite a bit) or hang them from hooks. The gentle flicker of candlelight adds a touch of romance and a soft, inviting glow.LED lights or flameless candles
If you have small children or perhaps a pet with an over-enthusiastic tail, then it might be safer to look for LED candles and flameless lanterns. They mimic the warm, flickering glow of real flames without the worry of wind or fire hazards, making them perfect for winter nights.Get a light curtain
If your patio space is next to a plain wall, you could hang a curtain of string lights or icicle lights along the perimeter. The cascading light effect adds depth and dimension while creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.Protection from wind and rain
Here are some great ideas for sheltering your patio from the wind and rain, allowing you to relish the beauty of winter without feeling its bite.
Hang outdoor curtains or screens
Sometimes it gets a bit blowy here in the UK, and we are often asked about side screens for pergolas. Planning where your pergola or garden sail will go will help you to avoid drafty areas and create a windbreak.
Bamboo screens
Create a cosy nook with bamboo or reed screens and get some privacy. These natural materials not only offer protection but also provide a sense of rustic charm.Cover your outdoor area
Some people use awnings, but these can be a little on the flimsy side if they are not well made, so we would recommend using a canopy pergola, which can be fully retracted or pulled across for complete cover. Having a weather-resistant pergola canopy is also a must for keeping heat in and protecting your guests from any rain that might try to dampen spirits.
Winter patio ideas for entertaining guests
The colder months offer a chance to create unique outdoor entertainment experiences. Whether you’re dreaming of intimate gatherings with loved ones or seeking solo moments of relaxation, your patio has you covered. Here are a few winter patio ideas for entertaining.
Tropical hot tub party
Picture this: a bubbling hot tub set against a backdrop of twinkling fairy lights, lush tropical plants (they don’t need to be real), and some tiki torches providing a warm glow. Invite your friends to don their favourite swimsuits and indulge in some tropical-inspired cocktails in a hot tub. If you don’t have a hot tub, you can hire one from a local company for the weekend.
Create a patio bar
It’s easy to set up a self-serve bar, and you can even get the slow cooker out to add some extra warmth to drinks. Make a delicious winter warmer such as mulled apple juice, and leave out some alcohol, like spiced rum, so people can choose to add some if they wish. Here’s a tip: for an extra boost to that warm, snuggly feeling, add half a red chilli pepper into the liquid while mulling. This will add a slight spice to the liquid – just make sure it’s big enough for people to see; no one wants to neck half a chilli!
If mulled apple juice isn’t your thing, you can also set up everything your guests need to make their own hot chocolate concoctions, with vodka, Irish cream or whiskey.
Have an outdoor film festival
Your patio can transform into a charming outdoor theatre, perfect for hosting cosy film nights under the stars. Imagine snuggling up in warm blankets, sipping hot chocolate, crunching popcorn, and enjoying your favourite films with friends and family.
You could invest in a high-quality portable projector and a weather-resistant screen designed for outdoor use. Set up the screen in a central location on your patio, ensuring that everyone has a clear view of the film. You could really enhance the experience with outdoor speakers that can withstand winter conditions, just ensure you don’t turn it up too high and be sure to consider your neighbours!
Food-related winter patio ideas
Make your own pizza
For some reason, making your own pizza is just really satisfying, and it’s a fun activity to do with friends and family, especially if you have little ones. If you have an outdoor pizza oven, winter is the perfect time to put it to use. Invite guests to customise their pizzas with a variety of toppings and watch as they transform into mouthwatering masterpieces.
Tip: Some barbeques actually have a section in the grill that you can remove and replace with a pizza stone, transforming your barbeque into a pizza oven!
BBQ extravaganza
Fire up the grill and cook up a storm, with sizzling hot dogs and marinated kebabs cooked to perfection. The warmth from the barbeque will also be an added bonus.
Soup and stories
Arrange a cosy outdoor seating area with warm blankets and cushions. Set up the slow cooker to offer something like a hearty leek and potato soup or creamy butternut squash. Share soup and stories with friends and family.
Fireside baked potatoes
Wrap up fluffy baked potatoes in foil and nestle them in the glowing embers of a fire pit. You can add to the meal with a spicy chilli for added warmth. Baked potatoes on the fire pit don’t have to be limited to a Bonfire Night tradition!
