Best Fire Pits for the Garden: Top 5 Picks for Outdoor Heating, Cooking and Ambience

The best fire pits for the garden can turn any outdoor space into a warm, inviting haven, perfect for unwinding, entertaining, or roasting marshmallows under the stars. Whether you're after fire pits built for heating, cooking, or ambience, there’s something to suit every garden style and fuel type at Garden Wildlife. 

We’ll guide you through the best types of fire pits for your space, the key features to look out for, essential safety tips, and handy accessories to help you control your fire with confidence.

From sleek stainless steel designs to rustic fire bowls, our outdoor firepit options offer everything you need to create a cosy yet functional space. Whichever style you choose, the right fire pit means more time outside, and more excuses to enjoy your garden!

5 Best Fire Pits for the Garden

Choosing the right fire pit for your outdoor space depends on how much heat you want, what fuel type you prefer, and how often you'll use it. Below, we break down the most popular types - from the classic wood burning fire pit to the modern smokeless fire pit options, so you can find the perfect one for year-round use.

1. Wood Burning Fire Pits

Still a favourite fire pit choice for many, wood burners bring the full sensory experience - real flames, the nostalgic crackle of burning wood, and plenty of warmth. This setup is ideal for medium to large garden spaces.

Tip: Many come in fire bowl designs and may include extra features like an ash pan or spark screen. Be sure to check local smoke restrictions before using traditional wood burning models.

2. Gas Fire Pits

A propane fire pit is ideal if you want quick ignition and low maintenance. It offers less smoke, easy flame control, and suits both small patios and larger setups.

Fuel type: Most fire pits in this category use liquid propane, though some connect to mains gas. Lava rocks often come as decorative fillers, sold separately.

3. Chimineas

Good to know: Chimineas come in smaller models for quaint garden setups and in bigger sizes for larger outdoor entertainment areas. They are great for subtle warmth without the fuss.

4. Cast Iron, Steel & Fire Bowl Fire Pits

If durability is high on your list, look to cast iron, steel, or stainless steel options. These are the best fire pit materials if you want strength, clean burn, and longevity.

Design options: These range from minimalist bowls to functional wood burners made from durable British steel, ideal for backyard and garden barbeques. 

5. Eco-Friendly Instant Fires

Perfect for smaller gardens or evenings where convenience is key, instant fire pits like those in the El Fuego range offer a clean, low-maintenance flame without the smoke, mess, or effort of traditional wood-burning setups.

Eco credentials: Developed by Crop Candle Company, the El Fuego fire pit burns cleanly with just 1.4kg of carbon per hour, making it one of the most environmentally friendly options available. It provides a consistent, mesmerising flame that requires no tending, ideal for relaxed evenings, picnics, or compact outdoor spaces.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Fire Pit

The right fire pit can transform your garden into a year-round retreat, offering warmth, light, and the perfect spot to gather as daylight fades. Whether you’re after a crackling traditional flame or a clean, modern design, a few key features will help you find the perfect fire pit for your outdoor space.

Size and Heat Output

Size matters, both for comfort and practicality. Large fire pits suit open patios where friends and family can gather, while compact models are ideal for courtyards and shared outdoors spaces, or tucked-away corners. Always measure your space to ensure safe clearance around the fire.

Heat output often comes down to how deep or wide the pit is. Bigger fire pits with a solid base tend to offer more heat and can burn more wood efficiently. Some advanced designs - like models with secondary combustion - make better use of fuel while reducing smoke.

Material and Durability

Steel, cast iron, clay, and stone are the main choices. Steel is light and easy to move, but if you’re looking for longevity, opt for powder-coated or stainless steel to help resist rust. Cast iron heats slowly but holds onto warmth, ideal for those lingering evenings. Clay brings rustic charm, though it’s prone to cracking in cold, wet conditions.

Many fire bowls and smokeless fire pits now use stainless finishes for durability and a cleaner burn. Covering your pit when not in use, or storing it away, helps preserve it through changing seasons.

Storage and Portability

If your pit isn’t staying in one spot, portability becomes key. Folding frames, handles, or a carrying bag make it easier to move and store. Our Firepit Accessories collection offers a wide range of helpful tools and add-ons. Lightweight designs suit balconies or smaller gardens, while heavier options are best kept in place.

Consider how much storage space you have and how often you’ll be setting up. For those who enjoy spontaneous garden gatherings, a portable fire pit that’s easy to light and tuck away could be just what you need.

Chilling and Grilling with Your Garden Fire Pit

Your garden fire pit can be used for heating, ambience and creating memorable feasts. Many fire pits double as barbeques, offering that rich, smoky flavour only real flames can deliver. Look for a specific fire pit with a built-in or adjustable grill rack to cook everything from sausages to charred veg. 

A removable ashtray or foil tray makes cleanup simpler, and some models include handy extras sold separately, like grill sets and cooking pans. These stylish centrepieces let you roast marshmallows, grill small bites, and keep things toasty.

Whether you're sizzling skewers over coals or hosting dinner around a smokeless fire, the right outdoor cooking setup brings both flavour and warmth to your garden space!

Using Your Garden Fire Pit Safely

When handling open flames, safety should always come first. While fire pits are permitted in the UK, there are strict guidelines to adhere to ensure protection for your home, loved ones and neighbours:

• Choose a safe spot: Place your fire pit on a stable, non-flammable surface like stone or gravel. We advise against placing it on grass or decking. Leave at least 2 metres clear in all directions, keeping away from fences, sheds, and overhanging trees.
  

• Mind the wind and seating: Position chairs upwind to avoid smoke drifting into faces or windows. This makes the fire pit experience more comfortable and helps prevent accidental sparks spreading.
  

• Light it safely: Stick to dry wood or wood pellets - never use petrol or flammable liquids. Stack fuel loosely to boost airflow and allow for a smokeless burn.
  

• Keep fire controls nearby: Always have water, sand, or a fire extinguisher on hand. For larger fires, consider a spark screen to contain flying embers.
  

• Let it cool completely: Allow the fire to burn out naturally, then stir in water or sand until all embers are fully out. Even warm ashes can reignite hours later.

• Clean up with care: Use a metal bucket for cooled ash and store it outside.

Fire Away

If you're unsure where to start, remember that most fire pits have their own perks. Whether it’s the charm of a fire bowl or the clean lines of stainless steel finish, there's a pit that’s just right for your setup.

Ready to find your favourite fire pit at Garden Wildlife? We’ll help you make the most of every chilly evening outdoors! From cosy nights and toasted marshmallows to weekend gatherings with friends, the right fire pit adds warmth, ambience, and endless reasons to enjoy your garden all year round.

Choosing the right fire pit doesn’t have to feel like a gamble - check our returns policy before you order for added peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What safety features should I look for in an outdoor fire pit?

Choose a sturdy base, spark screen, and heat-resistant parts. Keep flames away from fences or overhanging branches.

How do I maintain my garden fire pit?

Clear ash after each use, check for rust or damage, and cover when not in use. Inspect gas parts regularly.

Are there UK rules for using fire pits in gardens?

Yes, avoid smoke nuisance and don’t burn near buildings. Always check local fire and smoke regulations.

Which fire pit works best in all types of weather?

Steel models from Firepits UK, La Hacienda, El Fuego and Espegard outperform other fire pits, resisting rust and lasting longer year-round.

What are other ways to heat my outdoor space besides a fire pit?

Patio heaters offer instant warmth with no smoke and are great for covered areas. Hanging and standing heaters are also good options when fire pits aren't ideal.