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Category: Outdoor Lighting

How to hang outdoor lights: String lights edition
Summer evenings are upon us, and if you’re looking for ways to maximise the time you have outside, our garden light selection will give you an ideal burst of inspiration. However, some garden lights can be fiddly; if you’ve not hung them before, you risk getting tangled up in wires.

Imagine unwinding in the garden after a long day or hosting a summer BBQ in your outdoor space. Our outdoor summer lights can transform these dreams into reality, creating an inviting ambience that will leave your guests in awe. With the help of this guide, you’ll learn how to hang garden lights for a seamless installation and a stunning effect.

Table of contents:
What IP rating do I need for outdoor lights?

Before you purchase your garden lights, you need to consider the IP (Ingress Protection) rating to ensure they are suitable for the environmental conditions of your garden and what you intend to use them for.

The IP rating system classifies the degree of protection provided by the enclosure of the electrical equipment against solid objects, dust and water. Here is what you should look for when choosing your garden light IP rating.

The minimum IP rating requirement for outdoor lighting is IP44. This will protect the light against solid objects larger than 1mm and water splashes.

However, if you live in an area with more severe weather conditions, you can get higher-rated garden lights. For example, IP65 is good for areas exposed to heavy rain or jets of water. You also get complete protection from dust and water jets. These are great for garden lights near the ground.

IP66-rated garden lights are best for areas exposed to powerful water jets or heavy rainstorms, providing robust protection against dust and water.

If you want lights that you will be temporarily submerged in water (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes) near swimming pools or fountains, IP67-rated garden lights are best.

And for lights that you intend to continuously submerge in water, such as ponds or underwater fountains, IP68 offers the highest level of protection.

The appropriate IP rating depends on the specific conditions of your garden and what you want to use them for. IP44 is sufficient for general outdoor use, but consider higher ratings like IP65, IP66, IP67 and IP68 for more demanding environments.

Once you have the appropriate garden lights, it’s time to install them to create your dream garden lightscape. Follow our top tips below on how to hang outdoor lights from string to festoon lights on trees, fences and walls for the smoothest installation.

How to decorate outdoor trees with lights

If you have beautiful trees in your garden, decorating them with lights isn’t just for Christmas. Outdoor tree lights can create a cosy summer feel that subtly illuminates your garden and highlights your landscape. Here are our top tips for decorating your trees with garden lights effectively and safely.

You will need:
- Outdoor-rated string lights
- An outdoor-rated extension cord
- Ladder (if needed)
- Zip ties or twist ties
We recommend choosing LED lights as these are the most energy-efficient, long-lasting and cool to touch. Mini strip lights or C7/C9 bulbs are popular for outdoor trees.
Steps:

Plan your design. Decide where you want to wrap your strip lights: the trunk, the branches or both. Make sure you have enough for your plan. Measure the tree’s height and width to determine how many strip lights you need. A good rule of thumb is 100 lights per vertical foot.

Test the lights. Plug in the lights before hanging them to ensure they work.

Start with the trunk. Begin wrapping the lights around the trunk from the base upwards. Secure the lights every few loops with zip or twist ties, ensuring not to tie them too tight to avoid damaging the tree. Use the ladder to reach the higher trunk area.

Move to the branches. Extend the lights along the branches after you’re happy with the trunk. Focus on the main branches for larger trees, then move on to smaller ones if you have enough lights. Take a few steps back occasionally to assess the distribution of lights and make adjustments as necessary for a balanced look.

Use the extension cord. Use an outdoor-rated extension cord to connect the lights to a power source. Ensure the connection is secure and elevated off the ground to avoid water contact.

Secure the end. Once you’ve reached the end of the light strip, secure it with a zip or twist tie.
Creative ideas:
- Add other decorations to your illuminated tree, like ribbons, ornaments or themed embellishments for a magical effect or to complement a party theme.
- Use different colours to create different lighting effects or for different seasons.
- Choose string lights with twinkle effects or a flash setting for added sparkle. Combine with other lights, like hanging solar lanterns on the branches, to enhance your lightscape.
How to hang outdoor string lights

If you don’t have any trees in your garden, you can still use string lights to create a gorgeous and welcoming lightscape. Here are our top tips on hanging outdoor string lights in your garden.

You will need:
- Outdoor string lights
- An outdoor extension cord
- Hooks, wall anchors or nails for securing the lights
- Zip ties, twist ties or clips for additional securing
- Ladder if necessary
- Measuring tape
Steps:

Plan your layout: First, decide where you want your string lights to hang. There are multiple options, for example, along your fence, a canopy, or between trees or plants. Do you want them in straight lines, zigzags, V-pattern or canopy style? Every garden is different, so this is your opportunity to get creative.

Measuring. Once you’ve decided, measure the area to determine how many strip lights you need.

Test your lights. Always test your lights before you set them up to ensure they work and avoid disappointment.

Install anchor points. Identify where you will attach the lights, for example, walls, trees, poles or fence posts. Install the hooks, wall anchors or nails at these points, ensuring they are strong enough to hold the weight of the lights.

String the lights. Begin at the power source and work around so you don’t run out of lights before reaching the power outlet. Attach the lights to the hooks or anchors. Use zip or twist ties to secure the lights for added stability.

Adjust and secure. Adjust the lights so they are evenly spaced. Secure loose sections with additional ties or clips to prevent sagging.

Connect the power. Use your outdoor-rated extension cord to connect the lights to your power source and ensure it is elevated off the ground to avoid water contact.
Creative hanging light ideas:

You can hang string lights in your garden in many ways to create a cosy, inviting space. Here are some ways you can transform your garden with string lights.
1. Suspend lights along your fence. Attach lights along the top of your fence for a cosy glow around your garden perimeter.
2. Wrap around tree branches. Read the section above to discover how to make a whimsical effect using string lights on your trees.
3. Suspend lights on your patio cover. Hang string lights from a pergola or patio cover and get overhead lighting to brighten any evening in your garden.
Use DIY poles. Create DYI poles using sturdy wood or metal to suspend your lights. Set the poles in cement-filled buckets for portable lighting poles. Alternatively, you can buy shepherd crooks to hang your garden lights from.

How to attach outdoor lights to brick

If you don’t have many outdoor anchor points in your garden, you can use your house’s exterior wall as an anchor point. However, it can create a more permanent solution to hanging string lights by drilling into the brick, so bear this in mind.

Attaching outdoor lights to brick can be challenging. But with the right tools and technique, you can securely suspend your lights without damaging the brick.

You will need:
- Outdoor string lights or any other outdoor lights you can hang
- Masonry screws or anchors
- Drill with a masonry bit
- Hammer drill
- Measuring tape
- Hooks or clips designed for brick
- Screwdriver or drill driver
- Marker or pencil
- Outdoor extension cord
- Ladder if needed
Steps:
1. Plan your layout. If you want to use your wall as an anchor point, plan where you want to attach the lights.
2. Mark the attachment points. Use a marker or pencil to make where you will attach the hook or clip.
3. Drill holes. Attach the masonry bit to your drill. For hard bricks, we recommend using a hammer drill. Drill the marked holes. The depth of the holes should match the length of your masonry screws or anchors.
4. Insert anchors (if using). If you’re using wall anchors, insert them into the drilled holes and gently tap them with a hammer to ensure they are flush with the brick surface.
5. Install hooks and clips. Screw in the hooks or clips using masonry screws or into the anchors. Ensure they are securely fastened.
6. Hang your lights. Start at the power source and hang the lights on your installed hooks or clips. Work around the garden incorporating your brick hooks, ensuring the lights are evenly spaced. If you need extra security, use zip ties or additional clips.
7. Connect the power. Use your outdoor-rated extension cord to connect the lights to the power source. Elevate any connections off the ground to avoid contact with water.
8. Test the lights. Plug in the lights to ensure they work, and make adjustments as necessary to create the look you want.
Alternatively, you can use adhesive-backed hooks or clips for lightweight string lights for outdoor use or heavy-duty ones if you want a more temporary set-up. Ensure that the surface is clean and dry before you apply them.

You can also use brick clips that clip onto the brick without drilling a hole. They work well for bricks that protrude slightly from the mortar.

For heavier lights or permanent installation, use masonry screws and anchors.
Top tips for hanging outdoor lights

Safety should be your primary concern when hanging lights high up in trees or on fences. Always use a sturdy ladder or have someone assist you if possible. For very high trees, consider using a tree harness.

Avoid overloading the extension cord. Do not connect more than three strings of lights end-to-end unless specified by the manufacturer.

Ensure all your lights, extension cords, and connections are weather-resistant and rated for outdoor use.

Use LED lights to save energy costs and for long-erlasting illumination.
String lights at Castlegate Lights

Now that you know how to create the perfect ambience in your garden this summer using string lights. Whether you prefer fairy lights or festoons, create the perfect backdrop to relax or host guests in your garden this summer.

Shop our range of string lights at Castelgate Lights for the perfect way to enhance your garden and create an enchanting outdoor space this summer.

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July 2, 2024
Everything you need to know about solar lights
If you’re thinking about illuminating your garden with solar lights, you’re in the right place. Solar lights can offer an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to illuminate multiple sections of your garden, from practical path lights to guide you to your door safely to decorative lanterns to create a cosy and inviting seating area for relaxing or entertaining guests.

However, if you’re still unsure whether to choose solar lights rather than regular wired lighting, this blog is for you. In this guide, we’ll explain how solar lights work, their advantages and disadvantages, how long they last and how to maintain them to get the best light out of them.

Table of contents:
Suri 6.5M Kodos Solar LED String Lights With 10 Lights

How do garden solar lights work?

Garden solar lights function by harnessing the power of the sun. Solar panels absorb sunlight, which is then converted into energy and stored in rechargeable batteries. When the sun sets, the stored energy powers the light-emitting diodes (LEDs), providing a sustainable way to brighten your outdoor space.

Components that make up a garden solar light:
- Solar panel – converts sunlight into electrical energy.
- Rechargeable battery – stores the electrical energy generated by the solar panel.
- LED light – provides illumination using the stored electrical energy.
Photoreceptor (light sensor) – detects the absence of sunlight and turns the solar light on at dusk and off at dawn.

Konstsmide Solar LED Ground Light In Stainless Steel Finish

Working principals of solar lights

This section provides a more detailed explanation of how solar garden lights work.

Energy conversion

During daylight hours, the solar panel absorbs sunlight and converts it into electrical energy through the photovoltaic effect. This energy is used to charge the rechargeable battery.

Energy storage

The rechargeable battery stores the electrical energy generated by the solar panel throughout the day. Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) or lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are commonly used for their efficiency and longevity.

Light activation

As night falls, the photoreceptor detects the decreasing light levels. It triggers the LED light to turn on and use the stored electricity from the battery.

Illumination

LEDs are used because they are highly energy efficient and have a long lifespan. The LED light will remain on throughout the night unless the light has an off switch.

Cycle repeats

When the sun rises, the photoreceptor detects the light increase and automatically turns off the LED light. The solar panel begins generating and storing energy again, thus repeating the cycle.

Suri Banate Solar LED Outdoor Floor Lamp In Yellow Finish

In addition, solar garden lights are designed to withstand outdoor conditions, including rain, snow and heat. Consider the IP rating, which will indicate how protected it is against water and dirt based on the conditions of where you live and where you want to place your solar lights.

Solar lights come in various designs and styles, from simple path lights to decorative lanterns and string lights to suit your garden and needs.

Suri Damasque Pack of 4 Solar LED Stake Light In Bronze Finish

Advantages and disadvantages of solar lights

If you’re considering purchasing solar lights for your garden, weigh the advantages and disadvantages first.

Advantages
- Eco-friendly: Solar garden lights are eco-friendly. These lights won’t increase your carbon footprint as they use renewable solar energy.
- Lower energy costs: They also won’t add to your energy costs. Once installed, they will use the sun’s energy to illuminate rather than your electricity, making them a cost-efficient garden light solution.
- Easy to install: With no wiring required, you can install and relocate them easily.
Disadvantages
- Sun dependent: Solar lights are dependent on the sun. Their performance can be affected by the amount of sunlight they receive, meaning their light can vary depending on the weather conditions and seasons.
Rechargeable batteries: Additionally, their rechargeable batteries have a finite lifespan, which you may have to replace after a few years.

Suri Damasque Solar LED Outdoor Tripod Floor Lamp In Bronze Finish

Do solar lights need direct sunlight?

Solar lights don’t necessarily need direct sunlight, but you may get reduced light without it.

With direct sunlight, solar lights get the maximum energy from their solar panels. This leads to the most efficient battery charge, ensuring the light stays on longer and shines more brightly at night. Also, solar lights placed in direct sunlight will charge more quickly compared to those in shaded areas.

Solar lights can still charge in indirect sunlight or cloudy conditions, but the charging process is slower and less efficient. Solar lights under trees or next to buildings will receive less light, impacting their performance. It’s best to place them where they will receive the most sun throughout the day.

Tips for maximising your solar light performance
- Position your solar lights where they will receive the most direct sunlight throughout the day. Avoid shaded areas.
- Adjust the angle of the solar panel to face the sun directly. Some solar lights come with adjustable panels for this purpose.
- Keep your solar panels clean and free of debris, dust or snow to ensure they can absorb as much sunlight as possible.
- Periodically check and replace the battery if it’s not holding charge.
Suri Fawn Solar LED Lamp Post In Black Finish

Do solar lights work in winter?

Yes! Solar lights work in winter, but the season can affect their performance. Here are the main factors during winter that affect solar light performance and tips to help them function more effectively.

Reduced daylight hours

Winter days are shorter, meaning fewer hours of sunlight are available to charge the solar panels. Plus, longer nights require the solar lights to stay on for longer, which can lead to the battery never being fully charged.

Lower sun angle

The sun’s position is lower in the sky during winter, which can reduce the intensity of sunlight reaching the solar panels and reduce the battery charging rate.

Weather conditions

During winter, there is typically more cloud cover, which reduces the amount of sunlight, leading to less efficient charging. Snow and ice build-up can also cover the solar panels, blocking the sunlight from getting to them and preventing the battery from charging.

Suri Inti Solar LED Post Light with PIR Sensor In Stainless Steel Finish

Tips to help your solar light work better in winter

There are ways you can help to keep your solar light working through wither. Simply follow these tips:
1. Optimal placement. Maximise sun exposure by placing the solar light where it will receive the most direct sunlight, avoid shade and angle the solar panel towards the sun. You can also ensure the area around the solar lights is free of obstacles that might cast a shadow, like buildings or trees.
2. Regular maintenance. Regularly clean your solar panels to remove snow, ice, dirt and debris to prevent them from blocking the sunlight.
3. Battery care. Check the rechargeable batteries and replace them if they’re not holding charge well. If you notice the solar lights aren’t performing well in harsh conditions, consider storing them during the worst part of the winter.
4. Higher capacity batteries. Consider using higher-capacity batteries that can store more energy, giving you longer illumination even with reduced charging times.
Choose efficient models. Not all solar lights are equal. If you want them to work during winter, choose solar lights that have better efficiency and work better during low light conditions.

Suri Kenya 80 Cool White Solar LED Post Light with Motion Sensor In Black Finish

How long do solar lights last?

The lifespan of solar lights can depend on several factors, including the quality of the light, environmental conditions and how well you maintain them. Here is a rough breakdown of how long different components last in a solar garden light.

Solar panels

Solar panels on solar garden lights typically last between 10 and 20 years. Over time, they will degrade, and their efficiency in converting sunlight to energy will decrease.

Rechargeable batteries

Most rechargeable batteries in solar lights will last between 1 to 3 years. Their lifespan can be affected by the number of charge cycles, exposure to extreme temperatures, and overall usage patterns.

LED bulbs

LEDs are durable and can last between 10,000 and 50,000 hours (around 10-15 years of typical use). LEDs are highly efficient and do not consume much power, contributing to the overall longevity of the solar light system.

Housing, wiring and sensors

The housing, wiring and sensors usually last as long as the solar light is made from durable materials and properly maintained.

Overall, solar lights have varying lifespans depending on their components. A high-quality solar light can last between 5 to 10 years. Regular maintenance like cleaning, replacing batteries and protecting lights from harsh weather can extend their lifespan.

Suri Prima Set of 4 Solar Powered Integrated LED Spotlights In Black Finish

What influences the lifespan of solar lights?

Several factors influence the lifespan of solar lights; here are the main ones:
- Quality – higher quality solar lights with better materials and construction will last longer. Look at price and brand reputation to determine quality.
- Environment – solar lights exposed to harsh weather such as extreme heat, cold or moisture will have a shorter lifespan. Placing them in a location that maximises sunlight while minimising potential damage, e.g. falling branches or flooding, will prolong their life.
- Usage – Constant use without letting the batteries adequatly charge can strain the batteries and reduce lifespan.
- Storage – Storing them during the off-season or extreme weather conditions can help extend their life, like intense heat or winter storms.
- Regular cleaning – Regularly cleaning your solar lights to keep them free of dust, debris, and snow can extend their life.
- Battery replacement – Replace the batteries when you notice a drop in performance will ensure you can keep using your solar lights for longer.
Inspection – Periodically check for damage to housing, wiring and other componants to see if they need repairing or replacing.

Suri 1.8M Chinese Lantern Set of 8 Solar LED String Lights

Solar lights at Castlegate Lights

Now you know everything there is to know about solar lights, you can make an informed decision about whether they are the best lighting for you and your garden.

If solar lights are the right outdoor lights for you, look at our extensive collection of solar lights at Castlegate Lights to find the best style and design to illuminate your outdoor space.

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July 2, 2024
The Ultimate Garden Lighting Guide

Summer evenings are upon us, and if you’re looking for ways to maximise the time you have outside, our ultimate garden lighting guide will give you an ideal burst of inspiration. Whether we’re lounging after a long day of working, or spending evenings outdoors entertaining friends, having an ambient, inviting space to enjoy is more appealing than ever before — and outdoor summer lights are one of the quickest, easiest ways to achieve this!

Ready to spruce your space up with some outdoor lighting? Read on as we share some of our favourite, ultra-stylish options!

Minimalist lighting fixtures

If you enjoy the ever-popular scandi decor style, then some sleek, minimalist style outdoor lighting might just complement your existing decor perfectly.

When it comes to minimalist light, the positioning of the lights you choose is important. Position them cleverly around your porch to enjoy a cosy, ambient glow as the evening draws in, or if you’re revamping a small balcony area, add these types of fixtures to either end of your space.

For true minimalist allure, opt for matte black finishes — summer lights can be stylish and fit in with your existing decor! Alternatively, choose a finish that contrasts the area that the light will be fixed to, making a subtle focal point out of your minimalist outdoor summer lights.

If you are looking for a stand-out brand, then Astro Lighting is the ideal destination for enthusiasts of this particular style, crafting a selection of cylinder and cube-shaped fixtures, capturing the clean-cut, low key appeal that defines minimalist lighting styles.

Outdoor table lamps: Al-fresco centrepieces

Outdoor lamps are a must-have for any garden dining table, illuminating your space and keeping conversations flowing long after the sun has set.

Make your outdoor lamp the centrepiece of your garden dining area, or if you are working with a more enclosed area, why not create an inviting, cosy corner by adding it to a side table accompanied by outdoor plants.

Swedish lighting manufacturer Konstsmide designs beautifully distinctive outdoor lamps, so if you’re looking for sophisticated summer lights, take a look at this selection. Add an elegant, efficient accessory to your garden, and let your dinner party run late into the evening, or unwind in style in an inviting, perfectly illuminated corner of your yard — perhaps keep a cosy blanket or two within reach!

Create a cosy glow with ceiling lights

Adding outdoor ceiling lights to a balcony will not only keep the area lit up as the sun goes down, but it’ll also free up plenty of space, too. Inner-city living can feel like a haven if you turn your balcony into a bohemian paradise, so fill your space with practical furniture and adorn it with outdoor plants. Outdoor ceiling lights will give you the freedom to make the most out of a smaller area, but they’re also a practical addition to gardens of any size,

The selection from Edit Lighting captures a versatile range of styles with its outdoor ceiling lights, from traditional inspired fixtures to contemporary finishes in ultra-modern stainless steel.

Savvy-solar decor

Solar outdoor summer lights are one of the most versatile ways to light your garden. They are powered by sunlight, so they’ll create a warm glow in your garden. If you’re adding all-important final touches to your space, choose solar LED string lights or stake lights. Alternatively, add vintage-inspired solar lanterns to focal points around your garden, this will help you to light your garden or outdoor space effectively and draw attention to the more appealing areas of the space.

Take a look at the stunning solar collection from Suri; you’ll find everything from quirky colour changing egg lights, to chic lanterns and rustic-inspired stake lights. The beauty of solar outdoor summer lights are their ease and low maintenance design, so if you are looking for something that you won’t have to look after – this is the perfect choice for you.

Make your garden the hub of your home and add features that’ll enable you to enjoy your space for longer this summer, with some functional, stylish outdoor lighting from Castlegate Lights today.

Discover some of the world’s leading outdoor lighting designers and choose from a wide array of styles and functionalities specifically designed for your outdoor space.

May 20, 2022
Wall Lights

Wall lights have had a bad rap in recent years. Most people will consider them to be the sole preserve of stately homes or the 1970s, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Being able to supplement your room (or even garden) lighting with some beautiful, strategically placed wall lights gives you so many more options in how you light your favourite spaces.

Like many of the lights we stock, wall lights come in a multitude of styles, finishes and designs. There is so much more to wall lighting than you might think, so let’s take a look at how you can use them to great effect.

Whether you’re redesigning your garden, or wanting to redecorate that one room in your home that needs another lick of paint, wall lights are the perfect way of creating a whole new look. The trick to any successful redesign is picking the right wall light for you. You need one that, obviously, fits in with your own decor but one that gives off the most suitable amount of light.

For friends, family and even strangers visiting your home, a wall light is probably the first thing they see. Most of us will have a light at our front door which, by its very nature, is a wall light. If you’re wanting to redefine the first impression visitors have, then we would recommend a wall light that gives a strong image and can be a prominent feature that stands out, both during the day and at night. You don’t want to blind anyone with a bulb that’s so strong, but it should give a warm, welcoming glow. We stock many fantastic wall lights that come with a sensor that will illuminate when they sense a presence, giving you both piece of mind and a stunning lighting feature.

It might not feel like it right now, but summer is right around the corner. If you’re wanting to utilise your outdoor spaces more in the coming months, then wall lights are a fantastic way of creating a relaxing, yet practical space in the garden.

Being able to create the perfect environment comes down to lighting. Wall lights that can be useful, yet don’t draw the focus of attention onto themselves, will create some beautiful lighting schemes. There are some fantastic lanterns from Elstead and Dar that will look fabulous wherever you place them. If you’re looking to spotlight your decking, patio or pathway whilst creating very stylish lights, then you should take a look at our lights from Firstlight or Eglo for a very modern take on the quintessential wall light.

In recent years, our willingness and ability to embrace lighting has meant that we’ve grown more knowledgeable and appreciative about how it can serve us and enhance our homes. Whether we’re lighting our rooms, our gardens or walkways, wall lights can come together to create some incredible effects.

Spotlights especially are a fantastic way to highlight walkways, whether you want them to the focal point or blend into their surroundings, they can be both sensor or manually-controlled and can illuminate even the darkest of places giving you piece of mind where you need it most.

Wall lights have come a long way in recent years. If they are something you’ve never considered before, then maybe it’s time to think again at the multitude of styles, functionality and designs on offer. They give your home a fresh outlook and some stunning options wherever you choose to put them. Check out the best we have to offer right here.

March 27, 2017
Searchlight Lighting

Lighting has many uses. We can use it to illuminate the darkness, we can use it to create a sense of warmth on the coldest of days and we can use it for our own security and peace of mind. We’ve come a long way from Thomas Edison’s first lightbulb which debuted in 1879.

When most people hear the term ‘searchlight’, they might immediately think of 20th Century Fox’s iconic logo, or the quintessential lighthouse beam. When we hear it, we think about incredibly well-made lights from one of the longest-established lighting firms in the UK.

Searchlight grew from a small business founded in 1945 by Sir Sidney Hamburger, a great name if ever we’ve heard one! From humble beginnings, the company grew into one of the very best suppliers of decorative lighting across the world and we are delighted to be one of them.

Some of the Searchlight products we stock are designed exactly how you would expect them to look. Others belie the image the name conveys. They cover lights made specifically for the ceiling, the wall, the table and the floor. They also have a fantastic range of outdoor lighting. Their designs cover both traditional and modern classics, right through to contemporary and some incredible innovative lighting designs that look amazing wherever you place them.

If you’re looking for some very stylish outdoor lighting, then we have some fantastic styles that will make your outdoor spaces look and feel amazing as we head into summer. If you’re looking to highlight your decking, patio or pathway, then we have some very contemporary spotlights, fitted via a spike or stainless steel bracket. They both come with a single light LED and you can have them with either black finish or stainless steel.

As we mentioned, and despite their name, Searchlight products aren’t just confined to your outdoor spaces. They do some beautifully elegant wall, table and ceiling lights that will suit any room in your home.

If you prefer your lighting in a more traditional style, then we have some ageless table lamps with a wide range of wooden bases. They cover a multitude of colours, from grey to beige and from cream to washed wood, all with a twisted or spindle base. They would look fantastic on a coffee table, console table or sideboard and will give your room and beautiful warm feel.

For those of you with more contemporary tastes, Searchlight more than have you covered. In particular, the Bellis Single Light Touch Table lamp in floral glass and polished chrome will be both a beautiful way to illuminate your room, but also a stunning piece of design and a real talking point with family and friends alike. Similarly, their round opal white glass shade looks stylishly simple, but is also classically modern in its design.

Whatever style you choose to go for, our range of Searchlight products are sure to suit your style. From the very, very modern to the comfortably traditional, there will be something for you. If you’re already thinking about redecorating your home ready for the yearly spring clean, take a look at our range of Searchlight products on our website and be ready to shine a light on some amazing ways to illuminate any space you have.

March 20, 2017
Garden Party Lighting

As we’re in the midst of spring, it won’t be long before we’re dusting off the garden furniture and spending our spare time erecting gazebos and trimming the foliage. That’s right – it’s almost garden party season! Whilst us Brits certainly know how to throw a party at the slightest hint of sun breaking through the clouds, what happens when the night rolls in and you’re not ready to retire into the comfort of your home? Garden and outdoor lighting should never be overlooked, as they allow you to party the night away with family and friends in the space of your garden.

So what types of lighting will you need to ensure the lack of lights puts a dampener on your party plans? We’ve picked out some of our favourites from the latest collections of lights from Castlegate Lights.

Wall Lights

As far as outdoor lighting goes, wall lights are a great all rounder and should be considered first. This is because wall lights come in handy all-year-round, not just for the summer and your parties. Providing light on the perimeters of your home, wall lights can be installed anywhere from your porch to your garden shed. They not only add curb appeal to your home, they also act a security feature as they’ll deter thieves who can normally remain unnoticed in the darkness.

We’ve chosen this example by Konstsmide. Not only does it feature 2 lights to provide light both above and beneath the fitting, it’s finished in galvanised steel; which makes it suitable for both contemporary and traditional properties.

Post Lights

As with any garden party, there’ll be people making frequent trips to the house for use of the toilet, so it’s essential that all the footpaths and walkways are clear of debris and illuminated properly. A great way to achieve this is by using post lights – they take up a minimal amount of room and can be dotted around winding paths or placed on patios.

This post light by Franklite offers excellent value for money and, even better, it’s low energy! So it won’t send your electricity bills through the roof.

If you’re wanting to light up a larger area, such as decking or sitting areas with a post light, you could opt for a lamp post. They offer a good deal of light output and also add plenty of character to your outdoor space.

Make it fun!

Finally, it’s time to make your garden more fun; it is a party after all! In typical garden party fashion, we’ll first look at adding some festoon lighting. Festoon lights are used in beer gardens and outdoor events for their ease of installation and their ability to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This set of 20 will be more than enough to light up your gazebo or walkway.

Now it’s time to add a bit of colour. The last thing you want when placing lights around your garden are cables – they’re messy and make the whole installation process more time consuming. Instead, choose some good quality solar-powered lights to add around your garden. They don’t have any wires and they don’t require any batteries, so you can just put them in and forget about them! They’ll turn on automatically when the light diminishes – easy!

May 24, 2016
The Perfect Outdoor Lighting

It may be rare in Britain that we actually get the weather to enjoy our gardens, but on those small number of days that we do, it’s great to have an outdoor area that we can spend time in.

Placing outdoor lighting in and around your garden is a great way to update your outdoor space and knowing what designs work best and how you can utilise these styles is essential for those who want to create a garden to be proud of.

Modern Style

A contemporary style has never been more popular, with many opting for the clean and polished look. Certain designs instantly come to mind when you think modern style, including polished chrome and stainless steel.

Simplistic designs are an excellent way to portray a modern look, be it in the form of a spotlight or a wall light, both of which are great choices for adding to the exterior walls of your home.

Traditional Style

Unlike contemporary designs, traditional styles of lighting are much more extravagant and offer a classic look. Taking inspiration from eras such as the Victorian period, traditional style garden lights create a sophisticated look, and produce a homely rustic feel. Our copper and antique finishes are great choices for achieving a traditional outdoor space.

Typical Outdoor Lighting
If you’re looking forward to spending summer nights in the garden, our lamps and post lights are ideal for evening’s outdoors. We have a huge choice of affordable designs from some of the best brands in the lighting industry. If you are looking for lighting that blends in with rest of your outdoor area, our collection of neutral designs will fit in with your garden or landscaping.

Coastal Lighting

All of our lights come with an IP rating, so you can be certain that our designs are suitable for outdoor use. Rain, damp weather and salty air may rust certain types of lighting, so if you live in a coastal area and looking for some outdoor or garden lights, you will find a selection of coastal lighting for you to choose from on our online store.

February 26, 2016
Bonfire Night Safety & Top Tips

It’s finally that time of year again, the leaves have started falling, the temperature is dropping and the nights are getting longer. Bonfire night is now only around the corner, while as fun as it is, fireworks going off, sparklers to play with and a lot of food around you still need to remember safety! At Castlegate Lights we’ve put together safety guide and top tips on how to enjoy bonfire night sensibly and safely, especially when it comes to lighting fireworks and bonfires.

November 2, 2015
Summer Lighting Concepts

The lighter nights are (apparently!) just around the corner so what better time to dust off your garden furniture and start planning your summer lighting concept. There’s nothing better than kicking back in your garden, watching the sun slowly set and enjoying a BBQ with friends and family. With the right lighting you can stay up until the early hours and we’ve picked out our favourites from two must have brands in our outdoor lighting section. Take a look at our top picks and let us know which one you would prefer in your garden!

1. Elstead Lighting Feiss Baton Rouge Medium 2 Light

2. Elstead Lighting Caterbury Single Light

3. Elstead Lighting Feiss Chelsea Harbour Single Light

4. Forum Lighting Zeta Single Light

5. Forum Lighting Omega Single Light

6. Forum Lighting Ceres Single Light

April 16, 2014
Autumn Lighting: Work the New Season into Your Home

The days are getting shorter and darkness has started creeping in earlier, yes the summer is coming to an end making way for autumn/winter 2013. Just as the fashion trends change, so do home décor concepts. The bright and breezy look that worked well for the summer just will not cut it when you need your home to feel warm and cosy, this is why it is important to start planning how you will transform your home for the coming season.

Here are our expert tips to creating the perfect autumn lighting concept for your home;

Lamps
It is important to supplement your existing wall or ceiling lights with lamps placed around the home. Not only with floor and table lamps in your chosen colour scheme look great, they will help illuminate areas in your home that can look dark and dreary in the colder months. Choose complimenting designs and ensure that you place lamps in places that you wish to highlight.

Think outside of the box
One of the best things about this time of year is the fact that you can really get creative with your lighting. Christmas lights do not have to stay around the tree, instead using string fairy lights as quirky ways to highlight and illuminate your home. Placing clear lights in a fishbowl is a modern way to bring light to a dining area or brighten up a sideboard. Similarly a string of lights along a windowsill can create a magical look that will have you counting down the days till the holiday season.

Don’t forget the garden!
It may not be the weather for garden parties and BBQ’s however you can still create a welcoming effect with outdoor & garden lighting that will ensure that it is ready for any bonfire parties or impromptu gatherings over a cup of hot chocolate. Lanterns are a fantastic choice and give a homely look to any garden, string lights also look fantastic strewn through trees or attached to fences.

Experiment with different colours schemes and really give your home a transformation for the coming seasons. As the temperature drops and darkness falls, it is a great feeling knowing you are heading home to rooms that offer cosy, winter warmth.

September 23, 2013