Understanding which direction a garden faces can help buyers choose a property that suits their lifestyle. Some people prefer sunny afternoons, while others like shaded spaces or morning light. Each garden orientation has its own benefits. It is useful to know what each one means before making a decision.
Garden orientation is a popular topic for home buyers. It can often influence property appeal and demand. In the United Kingdom, south-facing gardens are highly sought after because they receive more sunlight. This allows more time to be spent outdoors. Sunlight can also affect warmth, plant growth, and overall garden use.
What Does 'Garden Facing' Mean?
When people refer to the way a garden is facing, they usually mean the direction of the rear garden. This is normally North, South, East or West.
There are several ways to check your garden’s orientation. One simple method is to stand at the back of your house facing the end of the garden. Then use a smartphone compass app or a handheld compass. This will help you identify the direction your garden faces.
If homes have not yet been built on the development you are interested in, you can also look at the developer’s site layout or plan. If the plan is shown in north orientation, you can estimate which way the rear garden may face. However, this may be less accurate than checking in person.
South Facing Gardens
A south-facing garden is highly desirable because it usually enjoys sunlight throughout the day. This makes it ideal for outdoor living in spring and summer. It is also great for gardening, as many plants, flowers, fruit, and vegetables thrive in sunny conditions. South-facing rooms can feel brighter and warmer thanks to extra natural light.
However, peak summer heat can be intense. Surfaces such as furniture or decking may fade over time. Lawns and plants may also dry out faster, requiring more watering and upkeep. Adding shaded areas and thoughtful landscaping can help you enjoy a south-facing garden all year round.
North Facing Gardens
Although north-facing gardens are sometimes seen as less desirable, they offer several benefits. Their shade helps keep them cooler in summer. This creates a more comfortable outdoor space for those who prefer less direct sun. They can also be lower maintenance, as lawns and plants may need less watering.
With the right planting, many shade-tolerant plants can thrive and create an attractive garden. However, rear rooms of the house may feel cooler, particularly in winter, due to reduced natural sunlight.
East Facing Gardens
An east-facing garden enjoys sunlight in the morning and shade later in the day. This makes it ideal for those who like a bright start and cooler afternoons. It is often popular with families, as children can play outside later without prolonged direct sun. Many plants also thrive with gentle morning sunlight and cooler afternoon conditions.
However, it may be less suitable for those who prefer sun in the late afternoon or evening. In winter, limited direct sunlight can also make the garden feel cooler and damper.
West Facing Gardens
Like south-facing gardens, west-facing gardens are also highly desirable among many home buyers. They are typically shaded during the morning but receive sunlight from early afternoon through to the evening.
This orientation is ideal for those who enjoy evening sun. Homeowners can relax outdoors after work, enjoy summer BBQs, and dine outside in the warmer late-day sunshine. It often creates an inviting and sociable space for entertaining family and friends.
A west-facing garden can also benefit many plants that thrive in stronger afternoon sunlight. Rooms at the rear of the house may also feel brighter and warmer later in the day.
However, west-facing gardens can become very hot during the summer months. This may be a disadvantage depending on your lifestyle and preferences. Features such as parasols, pergolas, or planting can help create shade and keep the space comfortable.
Speak to a member of our Sales Team to find out the garden orientation of the home you are interested in.
