Grilling

Charcoal BBQs and fire pits for outdoor cooking

Start by considering where the barbecue will stand and how many people you normally cook for. A compact portable BBQ takes up less room and is easier to transport. A larger garden model provides a wider cooking grate, a more convenient working height and additional space for utensils or ingredients.

The current category contains charcoal and briquette BBQs, fire pits with cooking grates, a folding campfire stand and related accessories. It does not currently include gas or electric barbecues.

Portable BBQ or full-size garden grill?

A compact charcoal BBQ is suitable when portability and straightforward storage matter most. It can be used in a garden, on an allotment or during permitted camping activities. Always check local fire regulations before lighting any barbecue away from home.

Full-size freestanding grills are better suited to a regular garden cooking area. Available designs may include side shelves, lower storage racks, wheels, wind guards and adjustable grates. Wheels assist with positioning, but the grill must be fully extinguished and cold before it is moved.

Lidded charcoal BBQ with thermometer

The most extensively equipped barbecue in the category has a main cooking grate measuring approximately 56 × 41 cm and a second rack measuring around 55 × 25 cm. The additional rack can be used to keep cooked food warm. A thermometer in the lid helps monitor the cooking chamber without repeatedly opening it.

Other features include adjustable air vents, a crank for changing the fire-bed height, a front access door and an ash tray. A folding side shelf, utensil hooks and a lower rack keep essential items within reach. The barbecue is supplied for self-assembly and must be checked for stability before use.

Open charcoal grills with work shelves

The range also includes open charcoal BBQs with large metal grates. One verified model measures approximately 94 cm across and has a fire bowl around 50 × 28 cm. Two side shelves and a lower rack provide space for utensils, empty dishes and fuel kept at a safe distance from heat.

The open layout gives direct access to the food. A rear shield reduces the effect of wind, while ventilation openings support airflow through the fire bowl. Two wheels make it easier to reposition the barbecue once it is completely cold.

Garden fire pits with cooking grates

A fire pit combines an open fire bowl with the option of cooking on a grate. The category includes a bowl-style model approximately 55 cm in diameter and a tripod structure with a suspended grill grate.

Fire pits require a stable, level and non-combustible surface with ample clearance from buildings, plants, furniture and flammable materials. Check local rules governing open fires and never leave a burning fire pit unattended.

Barbecue, smoking and storage accessories

An electric fire blower directs air towards the embers when lighting a barbecue, stove or fireplace. It must be used in accordance with its instructions and kept away from direct flames, sparks and hot surfaces.

The smoking accessories include a pack of 10 large steel hooks for hanging suitably prepared food in a compatible smoker. Wash them before first use and clean and dry them thoroughly after each smoking session.

A barbecue cover protects suitable equipment during storage. Check its dimensions against the complete grill, including the lid, handles and shelves. The barbecue must be fully extinguished, cold and dry before the cover is fitted.

Essential charcoal barbecue safety

Charcoal BBQs are designed for outdoor use only. Never light one inside a house, garage, tent, enclosed gazebo or another poorly ventilated space. Burning charcoal produces carbon monoxide, a gas that cannot be detected by colour or smell.

Place the barbecue on a stable, non-combustible surface and keep children and pets away. Use suitable long-handled tools and hand protection when handling hot components. Ash and fuel residue should only be removed after they have completely cooled.

Cleaning and storing your barbecue

After cooking, extinguish the fire and allow every component to cool. Remove the ash, clean the cooking grate and wipe the remaining surfaces. Applying water to a hot barbecue may produce hazardous steam or damage its parts.

Dry the equipment before storage. A covered location or properly fitted barbecue cover reduces exposure to moisture, but regular cleaning and inspection are still required.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

What types of BBQ are available?

The category includes compact charcoal grills, round portable models, wheeled barbecues with shelves and a larger lidded model with a thermometer and two cooking levels.

Are gas or electric barbecues available in this category?

No. The current cooking equipment uses charcoal or briquettes. The electric blower listed in the category is a fire-lighting accessory, not an electric barbecue.

Which barbecue is suitable for an allotment or small garden?

A portable model may be sufficient for occasional use. For regular cooking, consider a larger wheeled barbecue with shelves and a more spacious cooking grate.

What is the second rack used for?

It can hold cooked food away from the strongest direct heat or help keep it warm. The verified lidded model has a secondary rack measuring approximately 55 × 25 cm.

Can the distance between the charcoal and grate be adjusted?

The largest lidded model has a crank that changes the fire-bed height. Adjustment systems vary, so check the individual product specification before buying.

Can a wheeled barbecue be moved while it is hot?

No. It must be fully extinguished and allowed to cool before being repositioned.

Where can a charcoal BBQ be used?

Only outdoors on a stable, non-combustible surface with adequate clearance from flammable materials. Never use one inside a home, garage, tent or enclosed gazebo.

When can a barbecue cover be fitted?

Only after the barbecue has been extinguished completely and is cold, clean and dry.

What is included in the smoker hook pack?

The current product listing contains 10 large steel hooks intended for hanging sausages and other suitably prepared food in a compatible smoker.