There’s something about the first signs of spring that gets people thinking differently about their homes. A bit more light through the windows, the first daffodils appearing, and suddenly the garden becomes part of everyday life again.
March quietly marks the start of that shift, with National Plant a Flower Day encouraging people to get outside and plant something new. It might be a row of marigolds, a few pots on the patio, or simply tidying up borders ready for the months ahead. Whatever it looks like, it’s often the moment when gardens move from being an afterthought in winter to a real extension of the home.
Here in Lancaster and Morecambe, we’re lucky. Outdoor space is a big part of what makes living here so appealing. Whether it’s a traditional terraced garden in Lancaster, a family-friendly lawn in Bowerham, or a coastal plot in Morecambe catching the sea air, gardens play a bigger role in daily life than many people realise.
And the numbers back that up. Across Great Britain, around 88% of households have access to a private or shared garden. That’s a significant majority, and it’s something we often see reflected in buyer demand locally. When people are searching for a home, outdoor space is rarely a “nice to have” – it’s often high on the list.
It’s interesting to compare that with cities like London, where only around 79% of households have access to a garden. Space is tighter there, and even when gardens are available, they tend to be smaller. The average garden size in London is around 140 square metres, which is just over half the size of a tennis court.
Compare that to the wider UK average of 188 square metres, and it becomes clear how much more room people have outside of the capital. In areas like Lancaster and Morecambe, gardens often feel even more generous, particularly in suburban areas where family homes come with larger plots.
From a property perspective, this matters more than ever. Over the past few years, we’ve seen a clear shift in what buyers value. Gardens are no longer just about summer barbecues; they’re places to relax, work, entertain, and spend time with family. Even a small, well-presented outdoor space can make a real difference when it comes to how a home is perceived.
This is where spring becomes such an important window. A garden that’s been given a bit of attention in March and April can completely change the feel of a property. Fresh planting, a tidy lawn, and a few thoughtful touches help buyers picture themselves living there. It’s not about creating something perfect, but about showing the potential.
For homeowners in Lancaster and Morecambe who are thinking about moving this year, now is a great time to take a fresh look at your outside space. Simple improvements often go further than people expect. Clearing pathways, adding colour with seasonal flowers, and making sure the space feels usable can all have an impact.
What we often say to clients is this: buyers don’t just buy a house, they buy a lifestyle. And at this time of year, that lifestyle naturally extends outdoors.
So as the daffodils start to appear and the days get longer, it’s worth asking a simple question – if someone walked into your garden today, could they imagine enjoying it this summer?
If the answer is yes, you’re already one step ahead!
If you want to chat about moving in Lancaster and Morecambe, please get in touch. At JDG we are here to help
Thanks for reading
James