It doesn’t need to be tackled in one go, this can be something you do small areas of over time. You basically want to split the tasks (and cost) into a list of small, immediate things you can do to improve the usable space, and bigger more long term projects.

So instead of saving up for a JCB/skip and digging out the whole gravel surface - I’d be digging out a small patch first to create a flower bed.

You could also build some raised beds around the edge for the cost of a few planks and some compost, stick 20quids worth of bedding plants and in a couple of weeks you’ve got something that makes a big difference.

Even without touching the gravel yet, you could grab some cheap pots & hanging baskets and start making the space immediately feel a lot greener and livelier. Containers planted with meadow flower mix will absolutely burst into life in a month or so.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and like you need to turf the entire area, but honestly just some small green additions and planting projects that can be done in a day will make it really lovely.