What is the average cost of landscaping a garden in the UK? What is the average cost of landscaping a garden in the UK?

What is the Average Cost of
Landscaping a Garden in the UK?

Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn your garden into the outdoor sanctuary of your dreams?
Landscaping can breathe new life into your garden, but understanding the associated costs is vital for effective budgeting. In this blog, we’ll break down the key aspects of landscaping costs in the UK, helping you make informed decisions as you plan your outdoor transformation.

What does Garden Landscaping Involve?

Landscaping isn’t just about planting flowers or installing a patio. It’s the art of designing an outdoor space that blends beauty with practicality. Typically, landscaping consists of two key components:

Hard Landscaping

This focuses on structural elements that provide the backbone of your garden, including:

Paving slabs and tiles
Retaining walls
Pathways and driveways
Water features
Edging and kerbs

Soft Landscaping

The proportion of hard and soft landscaping will depend on your vision and how you intend to use your garden.

Planting flowers, shrubs, and trees
Establishing lawns or laying artificial grass
Creating garden beds and borders

The proportion of hard and soft landscaping will depend on your vision and how you intend to use your garden.

Average Cost of Landscaping in the UK

¡The cost of landscaping can vary significantly depending on the size of the project, materials used, and the complexity of the design. Here’s a general overview:

Key Factors That Influence Landscaping Costs

Several elements determine how much you’ll spend on landscaping. Understanding these can help you budget more accurately

Type of Work - Simple tasks like planting are more affordable than structural changes such as terracing or installing bespoke water features.
Garden Size - The bigger your garden, the higher the costs due to increased materials and labour.
Material Choices - Premium materials such as natural stone are more expensive than alternatives like gravel or concrete but offer greater longevity and visual appeal
Labour Costs - Rates for professional landscapers vary across the UK, with higher prices in cities like London.
Existing Garden - Condition Clearing overgrown gardens or fixing drainage issues can add significant costs at the outset.

Cost per Square Metre: A Useful Metric

A quick way to estimate landscaping costs is to calculate the price per square metre:

Basic landscaping: £200–£300 per square metre
Complex designs: £450+ per square metre

These estimates typically include groundwork, labour, and materials.

Ways to Save Money on Landscaping

Plan Meticulously

Tools like garden design apps can help you visualise your layout, reducing the chance of costly mistakes.

DIY Where Possible

Tasks such as clearing debris or planting are great for cutting down labour costs.

Choose Budget-Friendly Materials

Gravel, crushed stone, and hardy shrubs are excellent, cost-effective options.

Repurpose Existing Materials

Old bricks can be turned into charming borders, while wooden pallets make great planters.

Common Landscaping Features and Their Costs

Enhancing your garden with specific features can improve functionality and aesthetics. Here’s what to expect for popular additions:

Feature

Pond installation

Artificial grass (10m²)

Fencing (36 ft)

Cost (Materials & Labour)

£800–£1,500

£900–£2,000

£700–£1,000

Hiring a Professional Landscaper

For larger or complex projects, hiring a professional landscaper is a wise choice. Here’s how to ensure you find the right expert:

Research and Recommendations

Seek professionals through reputable platforms or ask for referrals from friends.

Collaborate on Design

Clearly communicate your vision with examples or photos to align expectations.

Discuss Maintenance

Ask for advice on maintaining your landscaped garden. Many landscapers also offer warranties for their work.

Additional Costs to Keep in Mind

While planning your landscaping budget, don’t overlook potential extras:

Excavation and waste disposal: Clearing overgrown areas or levelling can cost £70 per hour, with skip hire starting at £265.
Lighting: LED lighting adds ambience but can increase costs significantly.
Storage Solutions: Garden sheds range from £700 for basic models to £1,100+ for high-end designs.

Creating a Low-Maintenance Garden

If you prefer a hassle-free outdoor space, consider these tips:

Mulching: Costs £12–£38 per square metre and helps retain soil moisture while reducing weeds.
Potted Plants: Large pots with evergreens are easy to manage and look stunning year-round.
Low-Maintenance Shrubs: Plants like lavender require minimal care but provide vibrant greenery.

Is Landscaping Worth the Investment?

A landscaped garden offers more than aesthetic value. It boosts your property’s appeal, creates functional spaces for relaxation and socialising, and can even increase resale value. While the upfront costs may seem high, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial investment.

Ready to Transform Your Garden?

Landscaping your garden is an exciting and rewarding project. By understanding the costs and planning carefully,
you can create an outdoor space that suits your lifestyle and budget.

For expert advice and tailored solutions, contact Aaron Robinson Landscape Gardeners. Let’s bring your vision to life!