On the lookout for fountain ideas for gardens and backyards? They're a failsafe way to elevate an outdoor space for more reasons than one. And, there are so many designs to choose from, meaning it's easy to find one that's just right for your theme.

Any water feature makes a brilliant addition to a plot, whether that's a small pond or a meandering stream. But, fountains have to be one of our favorites. The continuously moving water is an enchanting, almost meditative sight, especially as it captures the light. Plus, the soft, trickling sound will help anyone wind down at the end of a long day.

They offer a 'sense of serenity to your garden, adding a soothing atmosphere to any outdoor area,' says the team at Lights4fun. 'They also make the ultimate statement piece,' they continue, and 'there are options to suit every style and space.' So, if you're thinking about updating your yard, why not bring one into the mix? 

To help you get inspired, we've brought together plenty of stunning fountain ideas for you to peruse. 

BY HOLLY CROSSLEY

How about this set-up for a playful – yet definitely chic – addition to your patio? The clever design is bound to be a talking point amongst adults and kids alike, and as it's self contained it's super easy to install and move around as you wish.

We love the zinc planter below too, which suits all kinds of contemporary schemes. Paired with a cool black backdrop and soft ornamental grasses, this is a perfect look if you're after modern garden with a twist.

A textural feature like this one has an organic, intriguing appearance, and will create a captivating vista as water gently tumbles across its surface. Something so striking deserves to be centerstage, so it makes a lovely focal point for a tranquil courtyard space. 

Notice how the water trickles down into the circle of pebbles below. Here, it will be collected by a hidden underground reservoir before circulating back up in a soothingly seamless cycle. Surround with verdant greenery, and of course, one of the best garden benches to sit on and take in the view.

Good outdoor lighting will always give your yard an extra dose of drama. But combining them with trickling water will boost the ambience even further as the sun sets. Just take a look at this three-tiered, bronze-hued design, for instance.

'Light-up fountains are the ideal solution for channelling the peace and tranquillity of a Zen garden, with the warm white LEDs softly lighting the flowing water to add a truly cozy feel,' says Lights4fun.

Styles like this one also have the added bonus of being able to be displayed outdoors all year round, as continues the team. What's more, 'there is minimum maintenance required. Simply fill with plenty of water, plug in and position in the perfect spot in your garden.'

If you've already got a pond in your garden, then adding a fountain is an easy way to give it a lift. And a style like the one above will add vertical interest to the space too.

As far as homemade water feature ideas go, a set-up like this is one of the easiest to do – you just need to buy a pump and fountain kit, pop it in your pond, and plug it in to a nearby outdoor electrical socket. Electrical wires can be disguised by concealing them beneath gravel or plants.

Speaking of plants, we love how these architectural tufts of ornamental grasses mirror the fountain – it results in a beautifully harmonious scene. 

Want to try out some Mediterranean garden ideas to recreate the laid-back vibe of warmer climes? In terms of materials, you can't go far wrong with terracotta – whether that's with oversized containers filled with plants, or an urn-style fountain.

This gently babbling design would look stunning even in a tiny patio space, and the banded appearance adds a pleasingly tactile finish. Surround with silver-foliaged plants, such as fragrant lavender and rosemary, to enhance the theme further.

To give your fountain ideas for gardens and backyards an extra dose of character, try combining them with a sculpture or two (or in this case, a few). It will create a point of interest for your plot that can be enjoyed all year round – even in the midst of winter when there isn't much else to look at.

These bronze flamingos help to create a jungle-like theme, especially when surrounded with masses of lush, architectural foliage. However, even a smaller-scaled version can still have impressive results.

For a classical, romantic look, opt for a cast stone figure like this one, which pours a never-ending stream of water from a vessel. 

You could position it to the side of a small pond amongst soft planting, or at the center of a pool for a focal point – wherever it is, it will add plenty of charm to an outdoor space. And, it's old-world vibe will only be enhanced as it weathers over time.

With its pretty turquoise tone and weathered finish, this is a gorgeous style if you're after sophisticated fountain ideas for gardens and backyards. The shallow dish is good for attracting visiting birds too, who will be able to take a drink and wash their wings.

Tucking it amongst a border of billowing blooms softens the look further. It would complement both cottage gardens and more contemporary plots alike.

This glass fibre concrete sphere oozes with a cool industrial vibe due to its granite-effect finish and fuss-free design. 

The gentle stream of water softly circulates throughout the feature, and you can be sure that wherever it's positioned, it will offer a sense of serenity. Allow it to take the limelight in the center of a patio, or place one either side of a back door for a smart and orderly look.