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There’s something about soft outdoor lighting that instantly makes any space feel more inviting. Whether you have a sprawling garden, a compact patio or a tiny city balcony, adding a few lanterns is one of the quickest ways to create atmosphere once the sun goes down – and thanks to solar power, you won’t need trailing cables, batteries or a bigger energy bill.
The latest solar lanterns are a far cry from the utilitarian designs of the past. Today’s styles are every bit as beautiful as their indoor counterparts, with woven wicker, elegant glass, natural wood and sleek Scandinavian-inspired finishes all making an appearance. Better still, many switch on automatically at dusk, so all you have to do is leave them in a sunny spot during the day and enjoy the glow later on.
They’re also wonderfully versatile. Line them down the centre of an outdoor dining table for an alfresco dinner party, place one by your favourite chair for evening reading, cluster different sizes by the front door or use them to add warmth to a balcony that could use a little extra personality. Because they’re portable, it’s easy to move them around to suit the occasion.
And while there are some beautiful investment pieces on the market, you certainly don’t need to spend a fortune. One of our favourite finds is Ikea’s £11 Solvinden lamp, which has quietly become an interiors editor favourite thanks to its cheerful design, warm light and unbeatable price. It’s proof that a stylish outdoor setup doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag.
From timeless rattan designs to contemporary statement pieces, we’ve rounded up the best solar lanterns to suit every style and budget. Whether you’re refreshing your outdoor space for summer entertaining or simply want to make warm evenings feel a little more magical, these are the solar-powered buys worth adding to your basket.
The £11 buy that’s won over interiors editors. Cheerful, portable and surprisingly stylish, it’s an easy way to add a warm glow without stretching your budget.
A great-value find with timeless rattan styling, perfect for bringing a soft evening glow to any outdoor space.
Rustic wood and a warm solar glow make this charming lantern an easy way to add instant ambience.
Love the coastal look? This rattan-effect lantern delivers laid-back style at a brilliantly affordable price.
Simple, modern and only £12, this minimalist lantern proves stylish outdoor lighting doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
The woven wicker finish gives this lantern a relaxed, natural look that’s perfect for creating a cosy outdoor corner.
Complete with a flickering LED candle, this elegant wicker lantern creates all the charm of candlelight without the fuss.
With its soft curves and Scandinavian styling, this portable lantern looks effortlessly chic on everything from dining tables to balconies.
With woven rope detailing and a contemporary shape, this portable lamp brings designer style outdoors.
Textured cord detailing and a premium finish make this a sophisticated choice for outdoor entertaining.
A beautifully designed investment piece that doubles as sculpture by day and casts a soft, elegant glow after dark.
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