Best Festoon Lighting for Gardens & Patios: 2025 Expert Review
OR Electrics
18th Edition Qualified Electrician
Festoon lighting has exploded in popularity recently. It transforms a dark patio into a welcoming space instantly. But as an electrician, I often get called out when these lights fail—usually because water has got in where it shouldn't, tripping the main fuse board and leaving the whole house in darkness.
The market is flooded with cheap options that claim to be waterproof but crack after one frost. In Leeds, where we face plenty of rain and freezing temperatures, you need cabling that can handle the elements, not just look pretty for a week in July.
In this review, I'm comparing three mains-powered festoon sets I've analysed: a budget-friendly starter set, a professional-grade rubber cable option, and a smart system that solves the 'who turned the lights off' problem.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Solar vs Mains Power"
"Solar lights are free to run and easy to install anywhere."
In a UK winter (especially up North), solar panels rarely get enough charge to last past 5pm. If you want reliable light for entertaining or security, mains power is the only professional choice.
The Spec: "IP Ratings (Waterproof)"
"IP44 means it is weatherproof and can be left outside."
IP44 is splash-proof, not jet-proof. It's fine for rain if hung correctly, but heavy wind-driven rain can still penetrate cheaper seals. IP65 is far superior for exposed gardens.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
Yuusei Outdoor String Lights Mains Powered, 25FT/7.6M Festoon Lights
Yuusei
This is a classic 'starter' set. At this price point, you're getting a decent aesthetic for a very low cost. The G40 globe bulbs look the part, and because they are shatterproof plastic (PET) rather than glass, they are safer for windy days or if you have kids playing football int garden.
The Good
- Excellent value for money
- Shatterproof plastic bulbs are safe for family gardens
- Connectable (can add more strings later)
The Bad
- 7.6m is quite short (barely covers a standard terrace yard)
- IP45 is okay, but I'd recommend taking them down in severe winter storms
Installer Tip:
Always ensure the plug is indoors or in a proper IP66 rated outdoor socket. Don't just stick the plug in a plastic bag and tape it up—that's a fire hazard I see too often.
Priced at £11.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on Amazon4lite Festoon Outdoor String Lighting (Black) 20m Globe String Lights
4lite
This is the closest to what I would supply professionally. The key difference here is the rubber cable. Unlike cheaper PVC which goes brittle and cracks in the frost, rubber stays flexible and maintains its waterproof integrity. It uses standard E27 screw bulbs, which means you can easily replace them if one goes naturally.
The Good
- Rubber cable is far superior for UK winters
- Standard E27 sockets allow for easy bulb replacement
- Long 20m run covers most semi-detached gardens
The Bad
- Significantly higher price point
- Heavier cable requires stronger fixings/catenary wire
Installer Tip:
Because this cable is heavy rubber, don't just rely on the electrical cable to hold its own weight over long spans. Install a steel catenary wire first, then zip-tie the festoon to that. It stops the cable stretching and pulling connections apart.
Priced at £74.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonLepro ZB1 AI Christmas Outdoor String Lights 15m, Smart Festoon Lights
Lepro
The 'problem' this solves is functionality. Standard festoons are just 'on' or 'off'. These smart lights integrate with Alexa and Wifi, allowing you to set schedules (so you don't forget to turn them off) and change colours for parties or Christmas without buying a separate set. Plus, they boast an IP65 rating, which is excellent for exposed areas.
The Good
- High IP65 waterproof rating is impressive for the price
- RGB colour changing makes them versatile for events
- Smart scheduling saves energy
The Bad
- Requires 2.4GHz WiFi signal in the garden (can be tricky)
- Bulbs are integrated (not easily replaceable if one fails)
Installer Tip:
Check your WiFi signal in the garden before installing. If it's weak, the smart features won't work reliability. You might need a WiFi extender plug near the back door.
Priced at £33.98 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Can I leave festoon lights out all year round?
Why do my outdoor lights keep tripping the fuse box?
Do I need an electrician to install festoon lights?
What is the difference between IP44 and IP65?
How much electricity do LED festoon lights use?
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