Most people have a Christmas tree in the lounge, but why not get one for the garden too. A tree, simply decorated with a set of outside lights looks great and will make your house stand out from your neighbours! There are lights in a variety of colours including, red, purple, clear, pastille lilac, frosted clear and multicoloured. Most sets of lights are multifunctional which means they will constantly glow or flash at different speeds. Some sets of lights are operated with a control box and you will be able to push or twist a button to choose how your lights function. Whether it is a slow fade, alternate flashing or chasing, there is something to please all the family!

Make sure you position your external electricity point close to the tree or choose a set of lights, which have adequate length of cable to reach the tree. The packaging will detail the length of cable from the plug to the first bulb and the length of light chain as well. You will not be able to extend the cable, as it will damage the set.

Silhouettes are a bright and effective way to lighten up your garden this Christmas. A silhouette is a wire frame that has been specially moulded into the shape of a Christmas favourite and wrapped with lights enclosed in a plastic casing (known as rope lights). Outdoor silhouettes are usually mains voltage so doesn't forget to use an RCD.

If you're dreaming of a white Christmas, unfortunately the odds aren't likely to be in your favour. But snow, or no snow, you can go some way to creating that winter wonderland with icicle lights. Icicle lights can be hung from the eaves of your house, and you don't have to worry about knocking nails into the guttering. Gutter hooks are great for hanging lights and cable clips will ensure the wires stay out of the way! But if you're climbing up a ladder to get to your guttering make sure you take care, and get somebody to hold the ladder for you.

If you fancy braving the cold and sipping mulled wine on the patio this Christmas, you'll want to make sure it looks festive. Alternatively you could just admire it through the patio doors! There are a number of lights designed for use on the patio. If you've got a pillar why not try wrapping rope lights around it. Or, a Christmas tree made from hundreds of twinkling lights is a great feature on any patio.

If you fancy lighting up the trees in your garden this Christmas, you don't have to go to the trouble of stringing a set of lights carefully round each branch. Net lights are available which can be draped over bushes and trees.