Garden Levels: Should You Step or Slope Your Garden?

The Dilemma

Many UK gardens naturally slope, and homeowners often feel unsure whether to level the space with steps or follow the terrain with gentle slopes. Each choice influences how the garden feels and how usable it becomes.

The dilemma is choosing the approach that works with your site, not against it.

The Options

Option 1: Step the Garden

Creates terraces or set levels.

Pros:

• structures the space

• good for entertaining zones

• makes steep gardens usable

Cons:

• requires more construction

• can feel formal

Option 2: Follow the Slope

Graded grass or planting beds.

Pros:

• natural feel

• less construction

• suitable for relaxed gardens

Cons:

• less usable for seating

• uneven surfaces for furniture

Option 3: Combination Approach

Small terraces with gentle transitions.

Pros:

• most flexible

• helps define zones

• avoids excessive retaining walls

Cons:

• needs careful planning

The Decision Criteria

1. Steepness of the site

Steep gardens need steps to be usable.
Gentle slopes can remain natural.

2. Garden purpose

Entertaining areas benefit from flat terraces.
Planting areas look best on gentle slopes.

3. Proportion and circulation

Steps should align with main paths.
Terraces should be deep enough for furniture.

4. Drainage

Slopes drain naturally; terraces need controlled water runs.

5. Aesthetic intent

Formal designs suit terracing.
Naturalistic gardens suit slopes.

The Recommendation

Use steps where necessary, but only where they serve function.
For most gardens, a combination of modest terracing with soft transitions provides structure without overwhelming the landscape.

Start by levelling the areas you’ll use most — dining, lounging — and let planting follow the natural slope.

A Quick Tip

Mark potential terrace edges with string. Stand back and view them from inside the house — this perspective often clarifies the best layout.