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Best 5 Fire Pits For The Garden – 2024
When autumn approaches, many of us enjoy the beautiful colours that this season brings to the landscape.
Autumn brings cooler crisp evenings and that faint smell of smoke in the air, and I do not mean just around the 5th of November either.
If you enjoy being outdoors, then those cooler autumn and winter nights need not be a problem, no need to rush indoors once the weather turns cooler, How? Make a fire!
Fire Pits for the garden are becoming ever more popular in the UK, as a means of extending your time in the garden, especially with your family and friends.
Please Note: We independently selected all the products mentioned in this Buyer’s Guide. The guide includes amongst others, Amazon affiliate links, and we may earn a commission from any purchases made through these links. For more information, please refer to our affiliate’s FAQ page.
In a Hurry?
Best Fire Pits For The Garden
If you don’t have much time, use the link below to quickly find out my ‘Top Pick’ for the ‘Best Fire Pits For The Garden’ available for you on Amazon. You can be assured we only recommend products based on our research, product quality, usability, and value for money… ‘Best Overall’ Harbour Cast Iron Fire Pit
Fire Pits For The Garden: Garden Fire Pits Can Also Be Great Focal Points In Any Garden
Firepits For The Garden – Our Top 3 Fire Pits
Product Image
Best Overall 
Runner-Up 
Best Under £90 
Model/Make
Harbour Firepit
Teamsom Firepit
Vounot Fire Pit
Fuel
Wood
Wood
Wood
Construction
Cast Iron
Alloy Steel
Alloy Steel
Dimensions
40in - 100cm (D) x 16in - 42cm (H)
22in - 75cm (D) x 25in - 62cm (H)
18in - 45cm (H) x 32in - 81 cm (W)
Shape
Round
Round
Square
Colour
Black
Black
Black
More Information
Best Overall
Product Image
Model/Make
Harbour Firepit
Fuel
Wood
Construction
Cast Iron
Dimensions
40in - 100cm (D) x 16in - 42cm (H)
Shape
Round
Colour
Black
More Information
Runner-Up
Product Image
Model/Make
Teamsom Firepit
Fuel
Wood
Construction
Alloy Steel
Dimensions
22in - 75cm (D) x 25in - 62cm (H)
Shape
Round
Colour
Black
More Information
Best Under £90
Product Image
Model/Make
Vounot Fire Pit
Fuel
Wood
Construction
Alloy Steel
Dimensions
18in - 45cm (H) x 32in - 81 cm (W)
Shape
Square
Colour
Black
More Information
Last update on 2024-04-24
Fire Pits For The Garden – A Buyers Guide
Note: Where You See ‘Multi Fuel Mentioned’ = Logs/Charcoal/Coal/Gel/Ethanol
Teamson ‘Peaktop’ Gas Fire Pit
The Teamson ‘Peaktop’ Outdoor Fire Pit is a large garden fire pit that utilises propane gas as its fuel and, therefore smokeless.
The ‘Peaktop’ will provide a great focal point and thus a super addition to any home garden, particularly as the control panel and electronic ignition, are also concealed.
Easy to assemble in just a few minutes, and sturdily constructed from ‘Faux Stone’ (manufactured stone veneer) with a ‘slate’ finish.
This Peaktop fire pit measures 28cm (H) x 93cm (D) and is supplied with 6kg (13 lbs) of lava rock, a gas regulator, and 3m’s of hose with standard seller warranties.
Also included in the price is a PVC pit cover when you are not using your fire pit. However, customers advise that the fire pit cover is quite tight, and thus many customers have opted to buy a larger ‘separate’ cover like this Bottlewise Fire Pit Cover. This cover is ‘extra-large’ and is both water & dustproof, which is what is needed to protect your new fire pit.
One of the important things with fire pits is their ability to radiate heat, to keep those around them comfortably warm on that chilly evening. The ‘Peaktop’ gas fire pit has an efficient input-to-output ratio, with the Peaktop being ETL listed and tests rated at 40,000 Btu (12kw) which is super. This is a large amount of radiated heat from a gas fire even on a chilly evening.
Due to the design, the Peaktop fire pit also allows for drinks, for example, to be placed at the edge of the fire without the risk of the drinks ‘getting warm’ or the glass being damaged.
Another great bonus is the usability of the Peaktop. This fire pit can be placed on a patio or partially covered wooden deck without any ‘burning’ or ‘scorching’ fears to the patio or deck. I would however always recommend taking precautions by placing non-inflammable barriers below the fire pit just in case of potential accidents.
Pro’s
Con’s
Price
- Good Heat Output
- Large Size
- Use on a Patio or Deck
- ETL listed
- Quick Assembly
- Many Extra’s
- The Fire Pit Cover is Tight
- No Additional Warranties
Harbour Cast Iron Fire Pit
As far as fire pits for the garden go, the very large, extremely strong, and sturdy Harbour Houseware Cast Iron Fire Pit is a basic no-nonsense, cast iron, fire pit of excellent quality.
A ‘multi’ fuel fire pit, that provides incredible heat radiance when loaded with either logs, charcoal, or coal.
Standing at 42 cm (16in) (H) x 100 cm (40in) (D) and made from thick cast iron. The oversized bowl design provides the user with the maximum exposure of their fuel to oxygen. This means easier lighting and a longer, more sustained burn.
The Harbour fire pit does exactly ‘what is said on the tin’ and provides a large, solid fire pit. Shipped with all the necessary screws and handles, this cast iron pit is easy to put together and can be ready for use in a very short space of time.
It should be noted that the Harbour is not suitable for placing on covered patios and or decks, and will require a non-combustible surface for it to be placed upon, similar to concrete or paving slabs.
Also, I recommend as a safety precaution, especially if you are burning wood (logs) the use of a spark guard arrestor.
I, however, also recommend that prior to using your fire pit, you give the complete unit a couple of coats of heat-resistant paint, which should be able to withstand temperatures of several hundred degrees. This painting process will protect your fire pit by assisting in the ‘prevention’ of rust forming on your fire pit if left outside uncovered and open to the elements.
Lastly, in addition to painting, I would recommend the use of a pit cover when your fire pit is not being used, this will protect the fire pit from the elements if left outside and not stored away inside somewhere.
Pro’s
Con’s
Price
- Easy Assembly
- Strong & Sturdy
- Thick Cast Iron
- Multi-Fuel
- 2-Year Warranty
- No Cooking Grill
Teamsom Wood Burning Firepit
The Teamsom wood-burning firepit offers a beautiful ‘cut out’ decorative steel fire pit for the garden. Which in itself provides a great focal point.
The manufacturers provide a couple of additional items, which one would normally pay extra for, this includes a poker and spark guard.
The Teamsom fire pit is a strong and fairly sturdy alloy steel firepit with a black finish of ‘diamond’ cut out on the sides.
Due to its design, the Teamsom fire pit provides a full 360-degree fire view with good heat radiance. The sides are also ‘meshed’ to stop any stray sparks from flying out.
Another seemingly insignificant part of the design is the ‘safety ring’ for easy transport, both when hot and cold. This ring greatly aids the movement of the firepit as it stays cool at all times.
Measuring 62cm (24in) (H) with a 75cm (30in) (D) the Teamsom is suitable for burning larger logs.
Charcoal and or coal are not recommended to be used by the manufacturer. However, users say they have used such fuels without issue.
It should be noted also that the Teamsom fire pit is not suitable for placing on covered patios and or decks, and will require a non-combustible surface for it to be placed upon, similar to concrete or paving slabs.
Pro’s
Con’s
Price
- Good Size
- Focal Point Design
- Many Add On’s
- None For The Price
Fennek Hexagon Stainless Steel Fire Pit
With its lightweight, compact, and unique design, the Fennek Hexagon Stainless Steel Fire Pit.
This easy-to-transport stainless steel firepit is suitable for the home and many other outdoor uses.
The seven (7) carefully crafted parts come together effortlessly so you’re left with a beautiful hexagonal-shaped fire pit ready to use in no time.
Made from high-temperature-resistant stainless steel, this hexagonal design is sure to be an inspiring addition to your garden, camper van, fishing trip, or even a small backyard.
The Fennek Hexagon measures just 59cm (L) x 26cm (W) x 18.5cm (H) (23in x 10in x 7in) and weights a mere 4kg (8lbs)
The Fennek can be taken almost anywhere, as once disassembled it will fit in a backpack, a car’s glove compartment or even a bicycle pannier so truly a portable fire pit.
The Fennek Hexagon also has a few accessories that compliment the Hexagon fire pit (all purchased separately) and improve your fire pit experience even further.
For instance, The ‘Fennek 4 Fire’ grill grate, is a two-part barbecue tray – closed and open and is made of high-quality stainless steel.
The ‘Hexagon Stand Up‘ is the perfect heat protection for delicate ground. Made from 100% stainless steel, this ‘stand-up’ provides 4 securing brackets, which can also be ‘locked’ onto the Fennek Hexagon to prevent slipping.
A Fennek accessories bag, made from strong tarpaulin is available and sized to accept your Hexagon and all the accessories.
Pro’s
Con’s
Price
- High-Quality Stainless Steel
- Compact
- Lightweight
- Stylish
- Available Accessories
- No Warranty
Vounot Fire Pit
The Vounot Fire Pit is a stylish, square, multi-purpose table, fire pit, made from powder-coated steel to combat rust and a heat-resistant fire bowl able to withstand temperatures of over 930F (500c) according to the manufacturer.
The beautiful table design will give users multiple options for use, providing owners with a truly great garden experience.
With good heat radiance, the Vounot can be used as a regular fire pit in the traditional way. Load with logs on a cool autumn or winter evening and you have a beautiful central focal point for your garden, set in a cosy atmosphere as family and friends enjoy the pleasant crackle of burning wood.
Wanting to BBQ/grill food? BBQ/grill using either logs or charcoal will not be a problem for the Vounot fire pit, as it instantly turns into a BBQ grill when you add the 51cm x 51cm (21in x 21in) grill (supplied) to the top of the fire bowl providing 2601 cm2 (403 in2) of grilling space.
Cool drinks for that hot afternoon in the garden, relaxing? Simply fill the fire bowl with ‘ice’ for an instant large ice bucket, large enough for the whole family’s drinks.
The square ‘Vounot’ table measures 81 cm (32in) (W) x 81cm (32in) (L) x 45cm (18in) (H) (with a fireguard) around the central fire area allowing for easy access to drinks and food without fear of being burnt.
It should be noted also that the Vounot fire pit is not suitable for placing on covered patios and or wooden decks, and will require a non-combustible surface for it to be placed upon, similar to concrete or paving slabs.
The Vounot Fire Pit is simply designed and comes complete with all the instructions for easy assembly. Also included and shipped with the Vounot Fire Pit are a waterproof cover, spark guard, and poker which can be used to stoke the fire and remove the spark guard as required.
Pro’s
Con’s
Price
- Stylish
- Multi-Fuel
- Multi-Purpose
- Included Accessories
- Large BBQ Area
- Fire Bowl is Shallow When Using Logs/Spark Guard Combination
Can You Have a Fire Pit in Your Garden
In short, the answer is yes. UK outdoor fire laws, which govern the requirements, state, that unless you live in an area with ‘specific bylaws’ preventing fires, householders are generally free to have BBQs, build a bonfire, and have a fire pit in the garden on their own property.
If you have a fire pit in your garden or on your patio, just make sure it is positioned correctly so that the smoke potentially does not blow into a neighbour’s property.
For further information check out our FAQ’s page on Fire Pit Laws in the UK.
Fire Pits For The Garden – What to Look For And Consider
Firepits offer us a great way to recreate that outdoor campfire feeling, right there in your garden. However, buying the right fire pit can become a headache as there are so many styles, materials, fuel types, and other aspects to consider when buying a fire pit for the garden.
As with most large purchases, it is always best to do some research. I have carried out some of that research here in this guide, hopefully, you will find out all you need to know to be able to select a suitable fire pit for the garden or patio from our top recommendations and advice.
Location: Where are you going to place your fire pit? Bearing in mind the regulations above concerning UK fire laws, placement should be flexible. Location and the placement of your fire pit become especially important if you want to ‘burn wood’ as the fuel for your firepit though so take care and follow the guidelines set out.
Permanent or Portable: Another quite important factor when considering a fire pit. Will you want to move your fire pit or will it be a fixed part of your outdoor living space? If you prefer to optionally have your pit located in various parts of your garden on occasion, and stored away as and when required, then look for fire pits that will give you this flexibility.
Fuel Type: We have already mentioned ‘wood’ which is a popular medium for burning in a fire pit. Especially if you love the sound of the classic ‘crackling’ fire and that smoky aroma in the air.
Wood has its drawbacks, cleaning, storing, and supplying a constant supply of ‘dry’ wood can be challenging. Also, the size of your fire pit should be considered to accommodate decent-sized logs that will burn for a reasonable amount of time.
Other options include:
- Charcoal:- A controlled even heat, but a small flame.
- Propane Gas/LPG:- A propane bottle & hose, are attached to the firepit. Can initially be more expensive. Can be used on open decks/patios with overhead roofs.
- Natural Gas:- This is quite inexpensive to run compared to other fuels, but a gas line will need to be installed by a professional gas installer and an installation certificate provided. Natural gas fire pits are therefore usually a ‘fixed’ or built-in solution.
- Bio – Ethanol:- This is a very clean-burning, efficient, renewable fuel that emits no smoke, ash, or toxins.
- Gel:- A chemical fuel that does not emit either smoke or odours.
It should also be noted that each fuel type has its own ‘calorific value’
Calorific Value is the amount of energy/heat produced by a single unit of the fuel on its combustion and expressed in Kilojoules per Kilogram (kJ/kg) or British Thermal Units per Pound (Btu/lb).
Check out our FAQs for the calorific values of the fuels mentioned above.
Fire Pits For The Garden – Materials
Fire pits for the garden can be constructed from various materials. Below are the popular materials often used. Again, each has its pros and cons
Steel
Steel:- Steel fire pits come in various shapes because of the ease of moulding the metal. Steel pits can be just that, plain steel, some are painted and even powder-coated.
Plain steel can be and often is prone to ‘rusting’ through unless properly covered, when not in use. I suggest providing a coat or two of heat-resistant paint to the fire pit before use if you purchase a plain steel fire pit.
Often used in conjunction with stone or ceramic in the design of fire pits. With powder-coated steel and or ceramic or stone design, this type of fire pit, of course, will increase the cost.
Stainless Steel:- All the benefits of plain steel fire pits, but without rust issues. Stainless Steel can have a plain/shiny or brushed finish and can be placed above ground or sunken below ground in the designs available. Can be more expensive than plain steel.
Cast Iron
Cast Iron: The great workhorse of fire pits for the garden. Cast iron fire pits offer a great affordable option while providing a few plus points to owners.
One of the major plus points is the ability to provide great ‘thermal inertia’. This thermal property allows cast iron to absorb the heat from the fire in it and radiate that heat evenly over a large area and over many hours.
Great on a chilly autumn or winter evening. This of course also means it takes longer to ‘cool down’ once it is no longer being used.
On the downside, weight and rust can also be problematic. With a cast-iron fire pit, you really want to make sure you place it in one position and keep it there. Cast iron fire pits can be extremely difficult to move around.
Like plain steel, cast iron fire pits are susceptible to rust and will need to be covered over when not in use or preferably given a coat of ‘heat resistant’ paint.
Copper
Copper: Fire pits made from copper tend to be on the more luxurious expensive end of the fire pit market. Copper has similar properties to both stainless steel and cast iron.
As a material, copper can resist the elements extremely well. Only developing that green/blueish oxidisation colour over time, which can be quite pleasing to the eye for some. If this is not to your liking and you want to return it to its former glory, there are specific cleaners one can buy to bring it back to its original condition.
Like cast iron, copper also retains its heat but gets extremely hot, making it ideal for heating a larger area, but be careful! You are also at a far greater risk of burning yourself. The expense can also be on the downside.
Stone & Ceramic
Stone & Ceramic:- Firepits constructed from ceramic and stone offer a great authentic look, plus there are no corrosion or rust problems either. However, as hard brittle materials, there is a susceptibility to chipping or cracking and thus difficult to repair.
Depending on the firepit design stone and or ceramic does not transmit the heat away from the source unlike steel, cast iron and copper for instance. Therefore, it is possible to incorporate a table or shelve (surface) into the firepit design and people can be in closer direct ‘contact’ with the firepit.
Aluminium
Aluminium:- One of the most common materials, Aluminium firepits have some obvious advantages over some of the other materials.
Aluminium is a light metal, so it’s easy to move around if you are the type of person who likes to give your garden a new look now and again.
Being both weather and corrosion-resistant is ideal so will not rust, which for something generally being out in the open is a great plus point.
Like copper though, aluminium does oxidise and produces a white powdery substance which can assist in further protection of the metal. Aluminium does not reabsorb heat from the fire, making it safer to touch and handle.
Easy to care for, it is a great affordable, lightweight, and durable option material for a fire pit.
Fire Pit Shapes Styles
Unless you are only interested in digging a hole in the ground in your garden, a fire pit can and often is a ‘major’ focal point of your outdoor living space. Plan wisely and spend time thinking about what you are trying to achieve.
Fire Bowls: Fire pits come in many varieties of shapes and sizes, some with feet, and some with a base. Much depends on your own preferred style. Popular in the market are the ‘Fire Bowls’ which can be round or oval with a size dependant again, on your own preferred taste and your planned gatherings.
Fire Baskets: Often these pits are square, rectangular or round, fire baskets come in different heights and widths depending on the number of guests as with your fire bowls.
Fire baskets usually offer a 360° top to bottom complete view of the fire. These models do tend to lose embers through their holes or slats. Special care should be taken when setting up and placing fire baskets as these models must be set up on a non-flammable surface and should ideally be placed on an ‘ashtray’ to catch the ash from the fire.
Safety And Other Considerations
Common sense should prevail when dealing with a firepit. The safety of all those involved should be paramount this includes all family members, pets, and guests. I have detailed a few points (not in any particular order) here that you should adhere to when ‘lighting a fire’ in your garden.
- Never leave children and or pets alone with a fire. Ensure they are always kept at a safe distance.
- Ensure your fire pit is set up fully level, and stable, on a non-flammable surface which should also include the fire pit’s surrounding area.
- Never, leave your fire pit unattended or if you do, make sure your fire is fully extinguished before you leave.
- Fire pits should be positioned at least 3 meters (10ft) away from any buildings and fences, on level ground preferably in an open area without overhanging trees.
- I would also recommend that your firepit has a metal mesh cover known as a ‘spark arrestor’ screen (screen to catch sparks) over it when you are not adding fuel to the pit like logs or perhaps cooking over it. A spark arrestor will stop any dangerous embers from escaping and becoming a problem.
- Ensure you have a fire extinguisher handy or at least a bucket of water.
- Keep anything flammable away from your pit. This includes paper plates, clothing, paper napkins, and the like.
- Be aware of wind strength and direction, especially if you are burning wood.
FAQs
Can a Fire Pit Sit on Grass?
Yes, a fire pit can be placed on grass, but it is recommended to use a fire pit pad or heat shield to protect the grass from heat damage.
How Far Away From The House Should a Fire Pit Be?
A fire pit should be at least 3 meters away is the standard guideline (not law) from any combustible structures, such as houses, sheds, or fences, according to UK guidelines.
Can I Use Normal Bricks For a Fire Pit?
No, regular bricks may crack or explode when exposed to the high temperatures generated by a fire pit. Fire bricks or refractory bricks designed for high-temperature applications should be used instead, according to UK guidelines.
Should You Pour Water on a Fire Pit?
Yes, it is recommended to pour water on a fire pit to extinguish the flames completely before leaving it unattended. You should never leave the area until the fire has been completely put out.
However, remember to stand a good distance away from the flames, the heat from the fire will turn the water to scalding hot steam that can burn you or anyone else nearby.
Conclusion
So, in full summary, you are usually OK to build ‘contained’ fires on your own property if you watch what you burn and don’t annoy your neighbours. Hopefully, you will have plenty of food for thought after reading this guide and the rules around fire pits for the garden.
The domestic fire pits we see on the market today, offer the potential purchaser many different models, shapes, and materials. I have given you what I feel is a good overview of what’s available currently in the marketplace, based on use, budget, quality, and fuel type.
Whatever style or size of fire pit you choose, it should provide a great opportunity for casual conversation with friends and family around the urban ‘domestic’ campfire, toasting marshmallows, sipping hot chocolate, or something a little stronger.
Fire pits are especially good though for keeping warm on that chilly autumn or winter evening when you just want to be out under that starry sky. If you have any further questions on firepits, why not take a look at our FAQ page there may be more questions there concerning firepits for the garden or home. Above all be safe and enjoy yourselves.