If your garden has a noticeable slope, you’re not alone. Across the UK – especially in hilly areas like Devon and the South West – sloping gardens are incredibly common. And while they can be a challenge to work with, the good news is that a sloping garden also offers unique design opportunities.
Whether your garden slopes steeply away from or towards your home, our expert team at Jacksons Landscape Designs can help you reclaim your outdoor space with creative, functional solutions.
Why Sloping Gardens Are Tricky – And How to Fix Them
A sloped garden can be difficult to maintain and use. Common issues include:
- Soil erosion, especially after heavy rain
- Difficult terrain for placing furniture or enjoying the space
- Limited usability for children, pets, or elderly visitors
- Hard-to-maintain lawns and borders
- Poor drainage or waterlogging at the base
But with the right design, a sloping plot can be transformed into a stunning multi-level garden with clear zones for dining, entertaining, relaxing, and planting.
Terracing: The Most Effective Sloping Garden Solution
Terracing is one of the most popular and practical ways to deal with a sloping garden. It involves reshaping the land into multiple flat levels supported by retaining walls, connected by steps or pathways. This not only stops soil erosion but also adds structure, accessibility, and visual interest to your outdoor space.
Benefits of Garden Terracing:
- Makes the garden easier and safer to use
- Adds value and versatility to your property
- Reduces long-term maintenance and erosion
- Allows for zoning: dining, play, relaxation, planting
- Creates an opportunity for elegant design features
Top Tip: Use premium materials for retaining walls and paving to ensure long-term durability and a high-end finish. For example, we often recommend Marshalls Fairstone Granite Eclipse for sleek, contemporary paving that performs brilliantly in UK conditions.
Designing with Style: Materials, Planting & Features
Smart Surfaces for Sloped Gardens
- Porcelain paving – Non-slip, low-maintenance, and sleek
- Composite decking – Great for seating and spa areas
- Artificial turf – Ideal for hard-to-mow spots and safe play zones
Softening with Curves and Greenery
Retaining walls and steps don’t have to be boxy or harsh. Using curved shapes can soften the overall look and help smaller gardens feel more spacious.
Adding greenery helps too – consider:
- Climbing plants to soften walls and fences
- Raised planters with ornamental grasses and hardy perennials
- Shrubs like viburnum, photinia, or hebe for year-round interest
Water Features That Work with Gravity
Sloped gardens are ideal for cascading water features like waterfalls or rills. These create a soothing focal point and can also aid drainage in heavy rain. According to the RHS, water features also support local biodiversity by attracting birds and pollinators.
A Real Example: What We Do at Jacksons Landscape Designs
We’ve worked on a wide variety of sloping gardens across Devon – from steep urban plots in Exeter to multi-tiered family gardens in Torquay. Our award-winning team has the skills and experience to:
- Assess and survey your landscape
- Design bespoke multi-level layouts
- Build safe, beautiful retaining walls
- Install lighting, drainage, and durable materials
- Recommend low-maintenance planting schemes
- Incorporate extras like garden rooms, swim spas, or play areas
We also take access limitations, weather exposure, and future maintenance into account at every stage.
Let’s Turn Your Sloped Garden Into a Standout Space
With over 30 years of hands-on experience, we’re trusted across Devon and the South West for delivering innovative, low-maintenance sloping garden solutions that are both beautiful and functional.
Call Jacksons Landscape Designs today on 01626 332533 to arrange your consultation.
Let’s transform your garden into a space you’ll love – every level of it.