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A garden is a real perk, but seclusion can be hard to come by. This tends to be the case in terraced or semi-detached houses, as well as in urban areas. And the feeling of being overlooked by neighbours or passersby? Not much fun. That’s what these garden privacy ideas are for!
Garden Privacy Ideas: Screening and Structures
Here are a few ways to create a private retreat in your outdoor space, while adding a bit of shade and style:
Start with good fencing
You can’t go far wrong with a tall fence when it comes to garden privacy ideas. Not only does it block the view, but it also gives a clear boundary around your property that tells your nosy neighbours to leave you alone.
The type of material can make a difference, too. Acoustic fencing, for one, can help with noise reduction. Closeboarding works as a windbreaker.
You can go up to 6’6” (2 metres) without needing planning permission. Taller than that, and you’ll have to get approval first.
Pair fences with fast-growing trees
(Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons)
Sometimes, a fence on its own isn’t tall enough to stop people on balconies from seeing into your garden. Trees can help with that. A thick row makes it much harder for nosy onlookers to look in, while the fence offers privacy at ground level.
We recommend fast growing trees UK, so you get the coverage as soon as possible.
Plant small shrubs as a living fence
A living shrub fence is another wonderful solution to mark those property lines. Grow hedges densely in a tight row or shape them into topiary for something a bit more unique.
Or, if you prefer something with movement, go for plants that grow tall and sway. Examples include Blue Cloak White Fir, Sunset Glow Bamboo, or ‘Moonglow’ Junipers.
The best part is they’re not expensive to maintain; just a trim with a bushcutter once or twice a year. And once it matures, it becomes a sustainable, long-lasting structure. It grows, repairs itself, and thrives—all with minimal effort from you!
Go all in with double wrapping
Got a large garden or backyard to screen off? Double wrapping is the way to go to get that greener and more natural approach. Instead of relying on a single row of trees, you add a second layer for better coverage.
Plant a row of trees along the far-end boundary with hedging, like yew, beech, or privet, for extra coverage. Next are a smaller group of trees, such as Japanese maple, further inside for added screening. This layout will help block views, add depth, and make a lower-level garden feel more private.
Turn garden screens into a design feature
Garden screenings are one of our favourites for achieving privacy without making gardens feel closed in. They look good, too, often with open designs that create a sense of separate ‘rooms’.
Unlike fences or hedges, they’re more flexible—you can place them exactly where you need coverage. For instance, use them to direct the view towards key focal points or garden features. Or, a common technique is to position them around seating areas and patios for a bit of extra privacy.
They come in a range of materials, patterns, and finishes. A popular choice is decorative laser-cut screens made from solid Corten steel because they’re built to last and look smart. For more options, these ‘10 Wonderful Screening Ideas’ are worth checking out.
Grow climbers on arbours and arches
Arbours and arches won’t give full coverage on their own. But once they’re covered in flowering vines or climbers, they do a good job of screening to obscure your space. They make a good alternative to solid screens, whether steel or bamboo.
As the plants grow, they fill out the structure, creating a leafy barrier that adds privacy and shade. They’re also great for dividing up different areas of the garden or marking an entrance to a more secluded spot.
Our personal favourites are Wisteria, Honeysuckle, and Roses. Climbing Hydrangea, Passionflower, or Virginia Creeper are worth considering, too. For year-round coverage, Clematis, Ivy, or Star Jasmine are the best bet.
Try this on a pergola, too, if you have one. Our guide on ‘How to Grow Plants and Vines on a Pergola’ can help you get started.
Put up trellises for subtle garden screening
Want a bit of privacy without a solid fence, hedge, or the effort of double wrapping? Trellises are for you! Lattice trellises, for one, give you some coverage while still keeping things open and airy, thanks to their patterned design.
This is also a great low-cost alternative to solid fencing, and you can do it yourself. Fix sturdy trellis panels in place, making sure they stand on their own or are secured with posts. Try arranging them in a row or at angles to break up views without making the space feel boxed in.
Consider a windowless shed
For our last two tips, we’re going with something a bit different—but trust us, they work. Let’s start with a windowless shed. Now, why this type of structure?
Without windows, there’s no chance of prying eyes peeking in. This also means keeping your tools, kids’ bikes, and other belongings out of sight. And since it’s an outdoor building, it naturally blocks views into certain areas of your garden.
Take a look at the BillyOh Switch Pressure Treated Tongue and Groove Apex Shed. It’s compact to fit in most gardens, yet spacious enough to store tools and furniture. Positioned well, it can block the view of seating areas or patios from passersby.
Going windowless also adds security and helps protect your belongings from UV damage. If you need light inside, battery-powered lamps can do the job without giving up privacy.
Invest in a summer house as a private retreat
You might already have fencing, trees, or screens in place. But if you still want a private spot to relax, a summer house could be the answer. You’ll love how it can give you a fully enclosed space where you can switch off and enjoy some peace.
While floor-to-ceiling windows are nice, opt for designs facing one or two directions. This controls sightlines, limiting views from certain angles while letting in natural light.
One option worth considering is the BillyOh Harper Tongue and Groove Apex Summerhouse. It features Georgian bar windows and wide double doors that face one direction. Even better, its T&G timber walls block external noise.
With one, you can invite friends over without worrying about the watchful eyes.
Round-up
With these garden privacy ideas, you can now have a private outdoor retreat where you can:
- Spend time gardening
- Entertain friends
- Relax and enjoy some me time away from unwanted attention
If you’re thinking about placing a shed near a fence, this guide can help: How Close Can Your Shed Be to a Fence
