I too thought necessary have fake grass. Before, anyone condems me, (and I don't work for a Artificial Grass company) after many years of, re - turfing, seeding, making our garden small by adding more flower beds, adding underground drainage. We gave up and got in professionals to redesigning the whole garden by extending the patio, adding decking for a second dining area, shingle down the area to the side of the house, which I don't like as it's like a shingle beach.
Our problem was due to the garden being under mature Oak trees, and they grown, so about every 3 years we had to apply to the local council for permission to have them trimmed.
Since having the grass we have never had any issues with our Pets, or Grandchildren in bare feet finding too hot, we also live in the South of England.
Over the years we spent a considerable amount of money in the garden just on trying to grass.
We still get loads of Birds, Hedgehogs, Moles (in the flower beds) Bats so the wild life is still active.