Fire pits are an increasingly common sight in back gardens across the country, and there's plenty to love about them.
Like outdoor heaters, they allow you to prolong gatherings into the evening even if there's a chill in the air, but also offer the added benefit of providing a atmospheric focal point of dancing flames for you and your guests to enjoy.
From intricate, contemporary designs to simple, rustic bowls, we've selected our pick of the very best fire pits on the market, combining functionality and aesthetic appeal.
In our round-up, we've included both traditional fire pits suitable for burning logs, and smokeless fire pits powered by gas. Skip to the end for more information about what fuels you can burn in a fire pit.
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CLOSESJuly 23, 2023 11:59 PM
Best fire pits to buy in the UK
VonHaus Fire Pit
This sturdy fire pit from VonHaus is made of durable solid steel, with charming copper-patterned detailing that will glow beautifully when the fire is lit.
It's not just a great focal piece for your outdoor space, though - the removable grill cover lets you transform the pit into a barbecue for open-flame cooking.
As well as two-year manufacturer's warranty for peace of mind, the fire pit also comes with a removable mesh lid for extra protection and a poker to keep your fire burning long into the night.
Aldi Gardenline Oxidised Fire Globe
The Oxidised Fire Globe from Aldi's Gardenline range is durable as well as delicate: crafted from oxidised steel, the eye-catching globe design features an intricate laser-cut bird and leaves patterns which provides a captivating backdrop for the flames within.
This is a self-assembly item, with a fixing pack included for easy installation, and comes with a three-year warranty.
Dunelm Black Round Egg Open Fire Pit Bowl
Illuminate your outdoors with the incredible 100% steel fire pit bowl. Designed for convenience, we particularly like that the bowl of the fire pit is tilted so as to provide maximum benefit when you're sitting in front of it.
The steel bowl sits atop a tripod frame with a secure stand for added stability, all in an easy to assemble self-build kit. Note that this is a fire pit designed for use with wood and cannot be used with charcoal.
Aldi Gardenline Gas Firepit
Bask in the clean warmth of a smokeless fire pit with Aldi's Gardenline Gas Firepit, which lets you create a cosy atmosphere at the flick of a switch. Lava rocks act as a lifelike base for your butane or propane-powered flames within a sleek and contemporary rounded stainless steel bowl.
The set includes the firepit and accompanying lava rocks, as well as a gas hose and a UK regulator. Comes with a three- year warranty.
La Hacienda Idris Clay Fire Bowl
- Buy now from Homebase (£100)
Handmade and hand-decorated, the La Hacienda Idris traditional clay firebowl adds rustic charm to any outdoor space. Even better, the firebowl comes with a chrome-plated grill to transform it into a portable barbecue, as well as a steel safety guard for extra protection.
Suitable for use with untreated wood, La Hacienda heat logs and La Hacienda Easylogs, or charcoal when using as a grill. Before use, the clay will need to be cured to ensure longevity and optimal performance - the process for this is outlined in the instruction manual.
Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0
The Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 is a compact, portable fire pit that's ideal for camping trips or days at the beach. Made of stainless steel, it requires no assembly - just flip the ring and light a fire to create memorable moments effortlessly.
Although this is a wood-fuelled fire pit, the Bonfire's signature 360° Airflow and double wall design enables oxygen to fuel the fire from below, ensuring minimal smoke output - great if you hate that smoky smell on your clothes, or you need to consider sensitive airways.
The latest 2.0 version also comes with convenient features such as a removable base plate and ash pan, making cleaning and maintenance a breeze.
Pure Garden Steel Wood Burning Outdoor Fire Pit Table
Made of sturdy powder-coated steel with a bronzed finish, this wood-burning fire pit boasts a simple yet attractive design that complements both traditional and modern outdoor decor styles.
Included with the fire pit are a log grate, spark screen, fire poker, and cover - all the accessories you'll need for an enjoyable evening in front of the fire.
What do you burn in a fire pit?
Wood is the typical fuel for a garden fire pit. For the least harmful environmental impact, choose kiln-dried or seasoned logs. You can also look out for eco-logs, made from compressed sawdust which would otherwise end up in landfill. In either case, look for wood with a moisture level of 20% or less, as this not only produces less smoke but also burns at a higher heat, meaning you need to consume fewer logs to get your fire pit roaring.
Coffee logs are a newer innovation, but if they haven't yet reached your neck of the woods you can order them online. Made of discarded coffee grounds which are then compacted into logs, they not only cut down on waste but also burn 20% hotter than kiln-dried wood.
Coals and charcoal burn at a very high temperature that can damage your fire pit, so check the manufacturer's recommendations first. While smokeless coal is a popular choice for multi-fuel burners, be aware that it won't be suitable for most fire pits as it requires ventilation
There are also gas-powered smokeless fire pits available, albeit at a higher price point. Perfect for those who prefer a cleaner fire side experience, they offer the warmth and cosiness of open flames without making your clothes smoky or irritating sensitive throats.
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