How to Choose the Perfect Fire Pit for Your Garden: A Complete Buying Guide
Picture this: a crisp autumn evening in your garden, the sky fading from amber to deep blue. Your family and friends gather around a flickering fire pit, hands outstretched towards the warmth, sharing stories and laughter as the temperature drops. This is what a fire pit brings to your outdoor space – not just heat, but a focal point that draws people together, extending your garden's usability well beyond the summer months.
If you're thinking about adding a fire pit to your garden, you're probably feeling a bit overwhelmed. The options seem endless, don't they? There are sleek gas models that ignite at the push of a button, traditional wood-burning designs that crackle and spark, compact bowls perfect for smaller patios, and complete dining sets with integrated fire features. Each promises to create the perfect atmosphere, but which one is actually right for your space?
That's exactly what this guide is here to help you figure out. We'll walk through everything you need to know about choosing the perfect outdoor fire pit for your garden. You'll learn about the different types available, how to decide between gas and wood-burning options, what size works for your space, where to safely place your fire pit, and how to create a stunning fire pit area that becomes the heart of your outdoor living space. Whether you're working with a small city patio or a sprawling country garden, there's a fire pit solution that'll work for you.
Let's start by looking at the different types of fire pits available, because understanding your options is the first step in making the right choice.
Understanding Different Types of Fire Pits
Wood Burning Fire Pits
There's something deeply satisfying about a traditional wood burning fire pit. The crackling sound, the smell of burning wood, the ritual of building the fire itself, it's an experience that takes you back to childhood camping trips or evenings around a bonfire.
Wood burning fire pits create that authentic campfire atmosphere that many people crave. They become a natural focal point in your garden, with the dancing flames and glowing embers creating an ambiance that's hard to replicate. If you've got a traditional or rustic garden aesthetic, a wood-burning firepit fits right in.
That said, they do require a bit more work. You'll need somewhere to store your logs, and you'll need to clean out the ash regularly. If you live in a residential area, you might want to check with your neighbours first, as wood smoke can drift. You'll also want to make sure you've got proper ventilation and clearance, especially if you're thinking about using one on a covered patio.
Wood-burning fire pits are brilliant if you enjoy the whole process of fire-building and don't mind the maintenance. They're perfect for larger gardens where smoke dispersal isn't an issue, and they don't require any gas connections or running costs beyond buying firewood.
Gas Fire Pits
Gas fire pits have become increasingly popular in UK gardens, and it's easy to see why. They offer instant warmth at the push of a button, with no smoke, no ash, and no waiting around for the fire to get going.
Most modern gas fire pits come with electronic ignition systems, so you can light them as easily as you'd turn on a hob. The flame is adjustable too, which means you can control the ambiance and heat output depending on the evening temperature and how many people you've got gathered around. This makes them particularly appealing for those cooler spring and autumn evenings when you want just a bit of warmth without a roaring fire.
The clean-burning nature of gas fire pits means you won't have smoke blowing into your face when the wind changes direction (we've all been there with wood fires, haven't we?). There's no ash to clean up the next morning, and you don't need to store logs anywhere in your garden.
Gas fire pits do require a propane gas bottle connection, but these are straightforward to set up and widely available. The running costs are predictable, and you'll get several evenings of use from a single gas bottle, depending on how high you run the flame.
They're ideal for modern gardens where convenience matters, for people who want the atmosphere of a fire without the effort, and for those who live in more densely populated areas where wood smoke might be inconsiderate to neighbours. We'll look at specific gas fire pit models later in this guide that showcase just how versatile and stylish these options can be.
Fire Pit Styles and Designs for Every Garden
Bowl and Basin Fire Pits
Bowl-style fire pits are incredibly popular, and for good reason. Their compact, rounded design creates a natural gathering point where everyone can sit in a circle, facing each other and the fire. It's that classic campfire arrangement that encourages conversation and connection.
These fire pits are typically quite portable, which is brilliant if you like to rearrange your garden furniture or want the flexibility to move things around. You can find bowl fire pits in various materials – concrete, steel, and ceramic are all common – each bringing its own aesthetic to your outdoor space.
For smaller gardens and patios, a bowl fire pit is often the perfect choice. It provides that cosy warmth and focal point without dominating the space. Contemporary designs in sleek grey or black finishes work beautifully in modern gardens, whilst more rustic finishes with natural stone effects suit traditional settings.
Small Square Grey Cocoon
The Small Square Grey Cocoon is a brilliant example of how contemporary bowl designs work in smaller spaces. This compact gas fire pit measures just 60cm square, making it perfect for balconies, small patios, or cosy corner spots. The durable concrete construction means it'll stand up to British weather brilliantly, whilst the electronic ignition gets your fire going instantly. What I particularly like about this one is the adjustable flame control, so you can dial it down to a gentle flicker or turn it up when you need more warmth on those chillier evenings.
Round Grey Cocoon
If you've got a bit more space to play with, the Round Grey Cocoon offers that classic circular design that works beautifully in both traditional and contemporary gardens. The cylindrical shape creates a substantial centrepiece without being overwhelming, and the natural logs and decorative stones on top add a lovely rustic warmth that balances the modern grey concrete finish. It's the kind of fire pit that looks equally at home hosting a summer evening gathering or providing warmth during an autumn barbecue.
Bowl Grey Cocoon
For medium to large gardens where you want to make more of a statement, the Bowl Grey Cocoon at 91cm gives you that impressive scale. UK-made with high-quality materials, this one's built to last. The larger size means more people can gather around comfortably, making it ideal if you regularly entertain or have family gatherings in your garden.
Fire Pit Tables
Now, if you're someone who loves the idea of outdoor dining and wants your fire pit to work a bit harder, fire pit tables are absolutely worth considering. These clever designs combine a functional dining or coffee table surface with an integrated fire feature, giving you the best of both worlds.
The genius of fire pit tables is how they maximise your outdoor space. Instead of needing separate areas for dining and a fire pit, you get both in one elegant piece. Most designs feature a central fire pit surrounded by a tempered glass barrier, which serves two purposes: it protects against direct contact with the flames and creates a stable surface for placing drinks and plates.
These work brilliantly on patios where space is at a premium, and they bring a lovely modern aesthetic to contemporary gardens. The rectangular and square configurations mean they fit naturally into most outdoor layouts, particularly if you already have a defined patio area.
Mayfair 150x90cm Grey Outdoor Fire Pit Rectangle Table
The Mayfair 150x90cm Grey Outdoor Fire Pit Rectangle Table is a stunning example of this style. The aluminium frame construction makes it lightweight enough to reposition when needed, yet sturdy enough to withstand our unpredictable British weather. The heat-resistant materials around the fire area mean you can safely use the table surface even whilst the fire is burning, perfect for evening dinner parties that extend into the cooler night hours.
Mayfair 120x120cm Grey Outdoor Fire Pit Square Table
If you've got a square patio or prefer more intimate gatherings, the Mayfair 120x120cm Grey Outdoor Fire Pit Square Table creates that cosy atmosphere whilst still providing ample surface space. The square design works particularly well when you've got four to six people, as everyone gets a good view of the fire and equal access to the table surface. The glass safety top lets you enjoy watching the flames whilst providing peace of mind, especially if you've got children or pets around.
Norfolk Leisure Rectangular Table Gas Fire Pit Cocoon
The Norfolk Leisure Rectangular Table Gas Fire Pit Cocoon offers brilliant value in this category. At 107x80cm, it's slightly more compact than the larger Mayfair, making it a great choice if you're working with a medium-sized patio. The tempered glass protection around the flames provides that crucial safety barrier, whilst the included lava rocks and logs create a beautiful natural display. The stable rectangular design means it won't wobble or tip, even on slightly uneven paving.
Complete Fire Pit Dining and Lounge Sets
Right, so if you're really serious about creating an outdoor living space and want everything sorted in one go, complete fire pit sets are where things get exciting. These are all-in-one solutions that include coordinated furniture with an integrated fire pit table, giving you an instant transformation of your garden or patio.
The beauty of these sets is that you don't need to worry about whether chairs will match the table, or whether you've got enough seating. Everything's designed to work together, from the weather-resistant materials to the cushion fabrics. And honestly, the comfort factor is significant – these come with plush, weatherproof cushions that make those cooler evenings around the fire genuinely cosy.
For British gardens, the weather-resistant construction is crucial. These sets are built specifically to cope with our damp climate, sudden rain showers, and harsh weather conditions. They're investment pieces, certainly, but they completely change how you use your outdoor space throughout the year.
Aspen 6 Seater Fire Pit Garden Dining Set
The Aspen 6 Seater Fire Pit Garden Dining Set is perfect for families or those who regularly entertain small groups. The 150x90cm table provides proper dining space whilst the integrated fire pit creates that lovely warmth and ambiance as the evening progresses. The six-seater configuration means you've got room for family meals outdoors, Sunday brunches, or evening gatherings with friends. The plush cushions make lingering over dinner comfortable even as temperatures drop, and the weather-resistant materials mean you can leave it outside year-round without worry.
Mayfair 10 Seater Corner Lounge Set with Fire Pit Table
The Mayfair 10 Seater Corner Lounge Set with Fire Pit Table creates a truly luxurious outdoor living room. The corner configuration makes brilliant use of space, tucking neatly into a corner of your patio whilst providing seating for ten people. The fire pit coffee table sits centrally, creating a natural focal point that everyone faces. This is the kind of set that genuinely extends your living space outdoors, giving you somewhere comfortable to relax from spring right through to late autumn.
Mayfair 8 Seat Corner Lounge Set with Fire Pit Table
The Mayfair 8 Seat Corner Lounge Set with Fire Pit Table offers a similar luxury feel in a slightly more compact configuration. Perfect for medium to large gardens where you want that outdoor living room feel without quite the footprint of the 10-seater. The high-quality construction and UK-made credentials mean this is a set that'll serve you well for many years, becoming the go-to spot for family gatherings, evening relaxation, and entertaining friends.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Outdoor Fire Pit
Garden Size and Available Space
This is honestly the most important consideration, and it's worth spending time getting right. A fire pit that's too large will overwhelm a small patio, whilst something too small in a sprawling garden will look lost and won't provide enough warmth for people gathered around.
Start by measuring your patio or the area where you're thinking of placing your fire pit. Don't just measure the spot for the fire pit itself – you need to think about the space around it too. For safety reasons (which we'll cover in detail later), you need a minimum of 2-3 metres of clearance on all sides, free from overhanging branches, buildings, fences, and other garden structures.
If you're working with a smaller patio, say 3x3 metres or 4x4 metres, you'll want a compact bowl fire pit or one of the smaller fire pit tables. These provide that lovely warmth and atmosphere without dominating the space. Remember, you'll also need room for seating, so factor that into your planning.
For medium-sized patios and gardens, fire pit tables work brilliantly because they combine two functions in one footprint. Instead of needing a separate dining table and fire pit area, you get both. This is particularly clever if you've got limited space but don't want to compromise on functionality.
Large gardens give you more freedom, obviously. Here you can consider the bigger bowl fire pits or those complete lounge sets with integrated fire pit tables. You might even create a dedicated fire pit area, perhaps with gravel or paving to define the space, with the fire pit as the centrepiece.
Think about whether you want a corner placement or a central focal point. Corner configurations can make efficient use of awkward spaces and create a cosy, enclosed feel. Central placements work well if you want the fire pit to be visible from different parts of your garden or house.
One last thing to consider: furniture arrangement. How much seating do you need around your fire pit? Will you use existing garden furniture or buy something specific? Make sure there's enough room for people to sit comfortably, move around safely, and feel the warmth without being too close to the flames.
Primary Use and Lifestyle
How you actually plan to use your fire pit makes a huge difference to which type you should choose. Be honest with yourself about this, because it'll guide your decision more than anything else.
If you're someone who loves entertaining and has friends over regularly, you'll want something that can handle groups – perhaps one of the complete dining or lounge sets, or at least a larger fire pit table where people can gather around comfortably. The integrated seating means everyone's sorted, and you're not scrambling to find extra chairs every time you have people over.
For those quieter, romantic evenings with just your partner and a glass of wine, a smaller bowl fire pit creates just the right amount of warmth and atmosphere. You don't need a massive fire pit for two people, and something more intimate actually feels better.
Think about seasonal use too. If you're planning to use your fire pit primarily in spring and autumn when evenings are cool but not freezing, a gas fire pit with adjustable flame control gives you flexibility. You can dial the warmth up or down depending on the temperature. If you're mainly thinking about those proper cold winter evenings, you might want something that produces more heat.
Some people want their fire pit to double as a cooking area. If you're keen on the idea of grilling over your fire pit, check whether your chosen model supports this. Many gas fire pits can accommodate optional grill attachments, turning your fire pit into an outdoor cooking station for those summer barbecues. This isn't standard on all models though, so it's worth checking if cooking matters to you.
Consider maintenance too. If you're busy and want something low-effort, gas fire pits are your friend – no ash to clear, no logs to store, just switch on and enjoy. If you actually enjoy the ritual of fire maintenance and don't mind the extra work, wood-burning options give you that more traditional experience.
Budget Considerations
Let's talk money, because there's quite a range when it comes to fire pit pricing, and understanding what you get at different price points helps you make a smart investment.
At the entry level – roughly £250 to £400 – you're looking at standalone bowl fire pits. These give you that fire pit experience without breaking the bank. They're perfect if you're testing the waters, so to speak, or if you've got a smaller garden where a compact fire pit is all you need. You'll typically get good quality at this price point, especially with gas models that include electronic ignition and adjustable flames.
The mid-range, around £400 to £900, opens up fire pit tables and larger bowl designs. Here you're getting more functionality, bigger sizes, and often more refined designs. The fire pit tables in this bracket typically include tempered glass protection, more substantial construction, and larger surface areas. This is the sweet spot for many people – you're getting proper quality and functionality without moving into premium pricing.
Premium investments, from £1,500 upwards to around £2,500 or more, bring you those complete dining and lounge sets. Yes, it's a significant outlay, but you're getting an entire outdoor living solution. Everything's included and coordinated, the quality is typically excellent, and you're making a long-term investment in how you use your outdoor space.
Material and Construction Quality
The materials your fire pit is made from directly affect how long it'll last and how well it'll cope with British weather – and let's be honest, our weather can be pretty brutal on outdoor furniture.
Concrete and composite materials are increasingly popular for bowl-style fire pits. They're heavy, which means excellent stability (you don't want your fire pit tipping over), and they handle temperature changes brilliantly. Concrete fire pits can sit outside year-round without deteriorating, coping with frost, rain, and those occasional summer heatwaves we get. The weight means they're not easily portable, so consider placement carefully, but that solidity is reassuring.
Steel fire pits are durable and can look stunning, especially with modern powder-coated finishes. The key thing with steel is ensuring it's properly treated for weather resistance. Look for steel fire pits with protective coatings that prevent rust. When well maintained, steel lasts for years and develops a lovely patina if you like that aged look. Steel is also quite versatile in terms of design, so you'll find contemporary and traditional styles.
Aluminium frames are brilliant for fire pit tables and furniture sets. Aluminium doesn't rust, which is a huge advantage in our damp climate. It's also lightweight compared to steel, making furniture easier to move around if you like to rearrange your patio layout. Despite being lighter, aluminium is plenty strong enough for outdoor furniture, and it requires minimal maintenance.
Tempered glass appears on many fire pit tables as the protective barrier around the flames. This isn't ordinary glass – it's heat-resistant and designed to withstand the temperature changes that come with outdoor use. It provides safety whilst letting you see the flames, and it's easy to clean with standard glass cleaner.
When you're assessing construction quality, look at how pieces are joined together, the finish quality, and whether there are any obvious weak points. Check reviews if you can – they'll often mention whether something has held up well through winter or shown signs of weather damage. Remember that your fire pit will face harsh weather conditions – rain, frost, strong winds, UV exposure in summer – so robust construction genuinely matters.
Fire Pit Safety Tips for UK Gardens
Safety deserves its own section because whilst fire pits are brilliant, they do require responsible use. Following these guidelines will keep you, your family, your guests, and your property safe whilst you enjoy your fire pit.
Never, ever leave your fire pit unattended whilst it's lit. This is the golden rule. It only takes a moment for conditions to change – the wind picks up, a spark lands somewhere unexpected, or a child or pet gets too close. If you need to pop inside, either extinguish the fire pit or have another responsible adult stay with it.
Speaking of children and pets, supervision is crucial. The flames are fascinating, especially to young children, and they may not understand the danger. Keep kids and pets at a safe distance, and teach children about fire safety from the beginning. Many fire pit tables with glass barriers provide an extra layer of protection, which can give you peace of mind.
Always extinguish your fire pit completely before you leave the area for the evening or go to bed. For gas fire pits, this means turning off the gas supply fully and ensuring the flames are completely out. Check the area around the fire pit too – make sure no embers have escaped and nothing is smouldering.
Gas fire pits need proper ventilation, so never use them in enclosed spaces like conservatories or covered areas without adequate airflow. Carbon monoxide is a serious risk with any gas appliance, and outdoor use in open air is essential. If you're using a fire pit under a pergola or gazebo, ensure there's plenty of open space around it for ventilation.
Creating the Perfect Fire Pit Area in Your Garden
Seating Arrangements Around the Fire
The seating around your fire pit fundamentally shapes how people will use the space and interact with each other. Circular arrangements are classic for a reason – they encourage conversation and create that inclusive campfire feeling where everyone's part of the group.
If you're using standalone fire pits, you'll need to think about bringing in outdoor furniture. Look for comfortable seating with weatherproof cushions – you want something people can actually relax in, not perch on uncomfortably. Garden sofas, armchairs, and benches all work well, depending on the formality of your space and how many people you typically host.
The distance from the fire matters for comfort. Position seating close enough that people feel the warmth – particularly appreciated on cooler evenings – but not so close that it's uncomfortable or feels hazardous. Roughly 1.5 to 2 metres works for most people, though this varies depending on how high you run the flames and individual comfort preferences.
Some people love built-in seating. If you're creating a permanent fire pit area, consider low walls around the space with wide caps that can double as seating. This creates a defined zone and provides flexible seating for larger groups. Alternatively, moveable furniture gives you more flexibility to rearrange for different occasions.
Complete fire pit sets solve the seating question entirely, which is one of their big advantages. Everything's designed to work together, positioned at the right distance, with cushions included. You get that cosy, cohesive look immediately without having to coordinate different pieces.
Lighting and Ambiance
The fire pit itself provides beautiful light, obviously, but thoughtful additional lighting makes your fire pit area usable before the fire's lit and creates lovely layered ambiance in the evening.
String lights are brilliant above or around a fire pit area. They provide gentle illumination for those early evening hours before you need the fire's warmth, and they create a magical atmosphere once darkness falls. Solar-powered string lights are particularly practical – no wiring needed, and they charge during the day ready for evening use.
Lanterns and garden candles add to the warmth without competing with the fire's glow. Place them on nearby surfaces or hang them from surrounding structures. The key is keeping additional lighting subtle – you want it to complement the fire, not overpower it. The fire pit should remain the focal point.
Styling Your Fire Pit Space
This is where your personal style comes through and you create a space that feels intentionally designed rather than just functional.
For rustic aesthetics, think natural materials and warm textures. Wooden furniture, perhaps with a weathered finish, works beautifully. Add chunky knit blankets draped over seating for those chillier evenings. Terracotta planters with hardy grasses or herbs, natural stone elements, and perhaps some vintage lanterns create that relaxed, countryside feel. A rustic fire pit style complements this approach perfectly.
Modern minimalist approaches work brilliantly with contemporary fire pit designs. Think clean lines, coordinated colour schemes (grey is particularly popular and works well in British gardens), and uncluttered spaces. Keep planting simple and architectural – ornamental grasses, sculptural evergreens, that sort of thing. The fire pit becomes a piece of outdoor sculpture in its own right.
Transform your garden into a space you'll use throughout the year, a place where warmth and atmosphere extend your outdoor season and create those special moments with the people you care about. Whether you choose a compact bowl design, a versatile fire pit table, or a complete lounge set, you're investing in more than just a garden accessory – you're creating a space for connection, relaxation, and memory-making.
Take the time to make the right choice for your garden and lifestyle. Measure your space, consider how you'll use it most often, and choose a fire pit that fits both practically and aesthetically. Your perfect fire pit is waiting to become the heart of your outdoor space.
Check out our Fire Pits & Bowls here and find the perfect option for you!
