What trees/shrubs to get more privacy in front garden?

[Startingagainandagain]

I bought a terrace house about six months ago and I enjoy my back garden very much but dislike being in the front garden because it is currently too exposed for my taste.

I have one nosy neighbour opposite who likes nothing more than checking on what I do when I am there and although I don't mind the odd chat, I really want more privacy and to feel more secluded when I gardening there.

What could I plant that would grow reasonably quickly and give some more privacy?

At the moment the previous owners only had flowers and two small bushes that don't really go above the small wall and gate that enclose the front garden.

Suggestions for what to buy most appreciated!

I am on the Kent coast and have some decent garden soil that seems to allow things to grow well :) and the front garden gets a lot of sun all day when the weather is good.

Laurel.

its evergreen and grows like a weed so you'll get cover in months.

You could also try Japanese Privet trees, again, theyre evergreen but taller and you'd be able to plant flowers at the base.

I like Portuguese laurel - smaller leaf and looks like bay. Good as hedging and grows quite fast.

Thank you so much for the responses.

I had seen laurel mentioned when I did a bit of google research, so it is nice to have that confirmed :)

It seems reasonably priced as well which is a big positive too!

I thought laurel was toxic? Most birds like hiding in privet hedges and they seem to grow at a decent rate.

What size is your front garden? I think laurel would look out of place if it's not a big space tbh. Portuguese laurel is smaller-leaved and grows fairly fast but it's very dark (I have some at the end of my garden) so it could give your front garden a bit of a gloomy vibe.

I'd be more inclined to plant a smaller leaved hedge or a small tree (amelanchier, crab apple or winter flowering cherry). The tree wouldn't be evergreen but that means it will block the light less and it'll provide privacy when you want it most.

If it’s a small space, fence with trellis and grow evergreen clematis and jasmine

I am a bit worried about the mention of Laurel being toxic. I have pets and would not want them to chew on that...

Will research everyone's suggestions.

This has some great info and suggestions

www.themiddlesizedgarden.co.uk/the-8-best-perfect-for-privacy-garden-trees/

Weigela
Forsythia
Rhododendron
Camellia
Fatsia
Photinia
Cordyline
Ceanothus
Hebe
Buddleja
Lavatera
Hydrangea

That's what I'd buy 🙂

Buddleia hedge - very quick growing, can be readily propagated from free cuttings, easy to cut back and keep to the desired height, light canopy, roots won't cause issues with nearby buildings, flowers all summer.

Thank you so much everyone for the additional advice!!