Planning Your 2026 Garden Transformation: Patios & Landscaping in Lancashire
The new year is the perfect time to start planning your dream garden makeover. Whether you’re in Blackpool, Preston, Wigan, or anywhere across Lancashire, transforming your outdoor space can dramatically improve your quality of life and add significant value to your property.
After 20 years of creating stunning gardens across the Fylde Coast and wider Lancashire, we’ve learned that successful projects start with proper planning. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your 2026 garden transformation.
Why Start Planning Now?
January and February might seem like odd months to think about gardens, but they’re actually ideal for planning:
Beat the Spring Rush – Quality landscaping companies get booked up quickly from March onwards. Planning now means you can secure your preferred installation dates for spring or early summer when weather conditions are perfect.
More Availability – Early bookings mean you have a wider choice of installation dates and aren’t competing with the peak season rush.
Better Planning – Starting early gives you several months to refine your ideas and make informed decisions about materials and design.
Design Refinement – Having months to refine your ideas means you’ll end up with a better final result. You can browse inspiration, visit showrooms, and really think through how you’ll use the space.
What’s Trending in Lancashire Gardens for 2026?
Based on enquiries we’re already receiving across Preston, Blackpool, and Wigan, here are the hot trends for 2026:
Low-Maintenance Solutions
Lancashire homeowners are increasingly choosing gardens that look stunning but don’t require constant upkeep:
- Artificial grass – Modern artificial turf looks incredibly realistic and eliminates mowing, especially popular for small Blackpool gardens
- Porcelain paving – Stain-resistant, frost-proof, and virtually maintenance-free patios
- Gravel gardens – Contemporary, drought-resistant, and perfect for Lancashire’s unpredictable weather
- Composite decking – No staining or sealing required, lasts for decades
Multi-Functional Outdoor Spaces
Post-pandemic, Lancashire families want gardens that serve multiple purposes:
- Combined patio and dining areas with built-in seating
- Fire pit zones for year-round use (particularly popular in Preston and Chorley)
- Outdoor kitchens and BBQ stations
- Separate zones for children’s play and adult relaxation
Natural and Sustainable Landscaping
Eco-conscious design is huge across Lancashire:
- Permeable paving that allows natural drainage
- Native planting that supports local wildlife
- Rain gardens that manage excess water naturally
- Recycled materials for retaining walls and borders
Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living
Making gardens feel like extensions of your home:
- Bi-fold or sliding door patios that connect directly to living spaces
- Matching materials between indoor and outdoor flooring
- Covered areas like pergolas for all-weather use
- Outdoor lighting to extend usability into evenings
Planning Your Lancashire Garden Project
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Before contacting any landscapers, get clear on what you want:
- How will you use the space? Entertaining, children’s play, quiet relaxation, growing vegetables?
- What’s your timeline? Do you need it finished for a specific event or season?
- What must stay? Existing trees, boundaries, access points
- What’s your priority? Low maintenance, aesthetics, functionality, or a combination?
Step 2: Consider Lancashire’s Climate
Our weather requires special consideration:
Drainage is Critical – Lancashire’s heavy rainfall means proper drainage isn’t optional. Whether you’re in coastal Blackpool or inland Preston, standing water can ruin landscaping. Plan for:
- Adequate slope away from buildings
- Permeable surfaces where possible
- Drainage channels or soakaways for larger areas
Wind Exposure – Fylde Coast properties face strong coastal winds. Consider:
- Sturdy fencing that allows some wind through (solid fences can blow down)
- Wind-tolerant plants
- Sheltered seating areas
Salt Air – If you’re near the Blackpool seafront or Lytham St Annes coast:
- Choose salt-resistant materials
- Opt for powder-coated metal fixtures
- Select plants that tolerate coastal conditions
Frost and Temperature Swings – Lancashire’s unpredictable weather means:
- Frost-resistant paving materials
- Proper foundation depth to prevent frost heave
- Hardy plant selections
Step 3: Choose Your Materials
Patio Materials for Lancashire:
Natural Stone (Sandstone, Limestone, Slate)
- Beautiful, authentic appearance
- Perfect for period properties in Preston
- Can be slippery when wet
- Requires sealing in coastal areas
Porcelain Paving
- Modern, sleek appearance
- Incredibly low maintenance
- Excellent for Fylde Coast properties
- Frost-proof and stain-resistant
Concrete Paving
- Wide variety of styles available
- Good durability
- May need re-sealing over time
- Versatile design options
Block Paving
- Traditional charm
- Easy to repair individual blocks
- Versatile design options
- Requires joint maintenance
Landscaping Features to Consider:
- Artificial Grass – Perfect for low-maintenance Lancashire gardens
- Composite Decking – Durable and weather-resistant
- Quality Fencing – Essential for privacy and wind protection
- Retaining Walls – Create levels and define spaces
- Garden Lighting – Extends usability and enhances ambience
Making Your Garden Work Year-Round
Lancashire gardens can be enjoyed in every season with smart planning:
Covered Areas – Pergolas, gazebos, or covered decking extend usability even in rain
Heating – Fire pits, chimeneas, or patio heaters make spring and autumn evenings comfortable
Lighting – Quality outdoor lighting transforms gardens after dark and extends winter evenings
All-Weather Surfaces – Non-slip paving and drainage mean you can use the space even after rainfall
Strategic Planting – Choose plants that offer interest across seasons, not just summer blooms
Ready to Transform Your Garden?
Contact us for a free survey and tailored quote for your coastal garden. We specialise in landscaping that looks great and holds up against the unique demands of seaside living.
