DIY Juliet balcony

That's kind of you, thanks. I'm currently trying ImgBB, but if that doesn't prove OK I'll certainly take up your offer.

That had occurred to me but for reasons I don't now recall I moved away from the idea. But it's definitely a possibility and I'll look at it again. Thanks.

Added expense aside, that's a very good thought. Thanks.

Sorry about that: mental confusion on my part between compression and capillary fittings.

Surely if the amount of land outside of the patio door is too narrow for steps then its also too narrow for a raised patio where you would normally place seating with which to overlook your neighbours?

The land is too narrow *now* yes. It didn't use to be, but once the patio was abandoned plans for the garden changed, and said plans now incorporate a slightly raised planting area which is already pretty much in place and which I don't want to change.

It's this which now restricts the space and prevents straight-out steps, hence the idea of the Juliet balcony. But - as has been suggested - it doesn't necessarily prevent a short narrow (600 - 700mm?) landing which would run alongside the house leading to steps descending in the same direction. This has become a distinct possibility.

Please explain the term 'Juliet Balcony'. It's obviously one that Romeo has to climb down from, but what other features does it have?

I had in mind a substantial input from scavenged pallets. But then I have exceedingly low standards ;)

The merest Google image search will provide you with the answer, but to save you the effort, try this:

just a guard rail