Lidl is dropping a three-in-one smoker and grill that will cook your food low and slow this summer for the ultimate BBQ flavours - I couldn’t believe it’s £34.99.

By now, we all know the best BBQs can enhance your al fresco dining experience. I’m not just talking about a few burgers and sausages bunged on a disposable BBQ. The best grills allow you to produce a range of elevated, flavorful dishes that will wow your guests.

From the best pizza ovens becoming increasingly popular to brands consistently duping the chef-favoured Big Green Egg, barbequing has become something we all take quite seriously. Landing in stores tomorrow (11 June), Lidl’s Grillmeister 3-in-1 Smoker Grill is an affordable way to elevate your outdoor kitchen ideas. But, is it the best choice for beginners? I asked the experts to find out.

What are smokers?

Before we get into the pros and cons of the Lidl Grillmeister 3-in-1 Smoker Grill, we must understand what a smoker is, especially as it can come across as a more intimidating technique for beginners.

‘A smoker is an outdoor cooker that cooks food low and slow using heat and smoke. Rather than placing food directly over a fierce flame, you control the temperature and let smoke from charcoal or wood gently flavour the food as it cooks. That’s what gives authentic barbecue its tenderness and distinctive smoky flavour,’ explains Ben Forte, barbecue expert, TV chef and podcast host.

You might recognise smokers such as Kamado BBQs (we like Habitat’s tabletop BBQ), and the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker (was £299.99, now £229.99 at Argos), which was awarded 5 stars in our review, and are both solid choices if you’re looking for an authentic smoky BBQ flavour.

What sort of smoker is best for beginners?

‘Pellet smokers are often the easiest option for newcomers. They use compressed wood pellets and electronic controls to automatically maintain cooking temperatures. This allows beginners to focus on learning flavour profiles and cooking techniques rather than fire management. A good pellet smoker can be an expensive investment even at the cheaper end of the range,’ explains Bill Whelan, BBQ Expert with Make it Scotch.

‘Water smokers, such as bullet-style smokers, are another excellent entry point. They are affordable, relatively simple to operate, and capable of producing outstanding results. The water pan helps stabilise temperatures and creates a forgiving cooking environment.

‘Kamado-style ceramic cookers are also popular with beginners who want versatility. They can smoke, grill, roast, and bake while offering excellent fuel efficiency. Although they require more practice than pellet smokers, they are highly capable all-round barbecue cookers.’

Smart grills and smokers, such as the Ninja Woodfire, are also great for beginners, as they have digital temperature control, which aids precision.

‘Smokers such as the Masterbuilt Gravity Series give you the flavour of charcoal, and you can smoke in it with wood, but it's effortless to use. On the Gravity Series models, charcoal sits in a vertical hopper and feeds down as it burns, while a fan helps control the temperature. It means you can get real barbecue flavour without constantly tending the fire,’ adds Ben.

Is the Lidl Grillmeister 3 in 1 Smoker Grill worth it?

At just £34.99, Lidl’s smoker and grill is an unbelievable price. It offers smoking, cooking and barbequing with indirect, gentle cooking on two levels. It comes with a thermometer gauge so you can check the internal temperature.

You can also use charcoal to use it like a regular BBQ, and it also comes with six smoking hooks and a removable water tray for juicy food. But is this all good to be true? Probably. At this price, it’s unlikely that the Lidl smoker will match the quality of higher-end models.

‘From looking over the specs and images, the Lidl 3‑in‑1 looks like a unit where the build quality aligns with the price point. The metal appears fairly thin, and the body doesn’t look especially well sealed, which can make it harder to maintain a steady low-and-slow temperature and can allow smoke to leak - both of which matter for consistent smoking results,’ explains Bill.

‘That said, it’s a bullet-smoker style, which is popular with beginners, and with some practice it should still produce decent barbecue, particularly with forgiving, premium cuts like Scotch Beef and Prime Scottish Pork, for example. Overall, it’s a sensible, low-cost way to get started and see if you enjoy smoking before investing in a more premium smoker.’

Ben agrees, stating: ‘This smoker will need much more hands-on management, making it less useful for a beginner. You’ll have to control the fire and vents yourself, so there’s more trial and error. If you want to learn the basics, that can be a good thing.’

The Lidl Grillmeister 3-in-1 Smoker Grill is an affordable entryway into smokers, but you shouldn’t expect miracles from it. If you can afford it, it's worth investing in a quality smoker, such as the following options.

Can you see yourself adding a smoker to your BBQ set-up?

BBQ season is upon us, and as a result, I've been indulging in so much social media content of mega outdoor kitchen set-ups and gigantic gardens, but sadly, that's not my reality. Faced with a small garden and a modest budget, I was thrilled to stumble upon this £40 tabletop gas griddle in Aldi's middle aisle.

It often feels like the weather for alfresco cooking and dining creeps up on us, and if you don't already have your BBQ or outdoor kitchen set-up down to a tee, spending lots of money on a whim (especially pre-holiday season) can feel daunting. The good news is that you don't have to spend a lot to benefit from the joy of cooking outdoors this summer.

Here's why you should jump at the chance to grab this Aldi tabletop grill before it goes.

I've landed on a somewhat niche side of the internet - Blackstone grill content. These flat grills are huge in the US where people are grilling all sorts outside - from breakfast spreads (pancakes included) to quesadillas and typical BBQ food.

While they offer a similar premise to a standard gas BBQ, the flat plate is so much more versatile for cooking all kinds of different foods. So when I saw Aldi's tabletop gas griddle, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to try out this cooking style for less.

Originally priced at £49.99, it has been reduced to £39.99 which makes it a little more palatable as an affordable and (slightly impulsive) buy.

It's also a genius outdoor cooking alternative if you have a small garden or even a balcony. You'll need the most amount of space for a gas cannister, but you can choose a smaller cannister if space is at a premium.

While it's not replacing a standard gas BBQ in my garden, it heats up in a mere few minutes, so it's already proved useful for off the cuff dinners for two and breakfasts that are better spent alfresco.

The speed of how long it took to heat up is really what has wowed me with this tabletop gas griddle. It would be perfect for taking on camping trips or down to the beach with a portable gas cannister as the speed ensures you won't be waiting for your dinner for hours.

The beauty of the size of this Aldi tabletop gas grill is that you can easily store in a cupboard during the winter months. Having a BBQ in a small garden or balcony means that it needs to sit outside when not in use, whereas this style is no issue to find storage space for.

For just £39.99, I couldn't be more thrilled with the investment. What started as a middle-aisle whim purchase is turning out to be the most used appliance in my garden this summer.

Shop more tabletop gas grills

If you're looking to expand your outdoor cooking set-up this summer, the best pizza ovens will be the perfect accompaniment to a tabletop gas grill.

Recently, we’ve had the best BBQ weather, and if the heatwave has resulted in you looking to upgrade your outdoor cooking capabilities, pay attention as IKEA has just dropped a new cast iron BBQ for just £45.

The best BBQs can be a pricey investment. And while the pro chefs amongst us might be happy to part with a large chunk of cash to curate their outdoor kitchen ideas, I’d rather find something that cooks well, without costing an arm and a leg.

IKEA’s SOLUPPGÅNG BBQ does just that. Here’s why it's a great, affordable choice this summer.

Cast iron cookware often remains unmatched due to its high heat retention, even heat distribution and natural non-stick. So it’s not really much of a surprise that it’s a great BBQ material, too.

While you may associate the best charcoal BBQs with Kamado grills, which are ceramic, these tend to be more expensive - a Big Green Egg will cost you well over a grand. However, Habitat’s Mini Tabletop Kamado Charcoal BBQ is a more affordable option at £120. But, at £45, IKEA’s new cast-iron BBQ is one of the most affordable alternatives I’ve seen.

Not only is IKEA’s SOLUPPGÅNG BBQ made from quality cast iron, but it’s also portable, making it a great option for taking to the beach, park or camping. It’s super easy to move thanks to its practical handles.

Its cast iron material allows heat to spread evenly across the grill, while vents increase the air flow in the bowl, allowing for higher grilling temperatures and quicker cooking.

It’s even been designed for grilling porous and small food items such as fish and vegetables. This is because the BBQ's grate is designed to prevent pieces from falling into hot coals.

The cast iron has already been pre-treated with vegetable soybean oil. IKEA says that if corrosion or food stains tarnish the BBQ, or if food burns and sticks to it, you can clean it with steel wool or an abrasive sponge and then reseason it.

It may be new to IKEA, but this BBQ already has a few reviews praising its quality.

‘Great for taking on camping trips, small backyard bbqs, etc. Easy to fit a few skewers on the grill. As it’s full cast iron, it takes a long time to cool - so not ideal for the beach or short trips out if you want to put it back in the car,’ says one.

‘Stunning little BBQ! Portable and easy to use. Stays HOT for a long time. Great for Steaks. Well made and with care will last forever,’ says another.

IKEA’s SOLUPPGÅNG BBQ is already selling fast and has been limited to large orders online. Alternatively, here are a few more affordable, yet well-reviewed BBQs you can pick up online.

If you love delicious BBQ food, it’s important to invest in a decent outdoor grill. IKEA’s BBQ is both affordable and well-rated, making it a good choice.

If you've found yourself wondering what BBQ Jamie Oliver is cooking on in his new Channel 4 show Jamie's Ultimate BBQ, you're not alone. The chef's latest show is packed with sizzling skewers, giant feasts and perfectly charred steaks, all cooked on a seriously impressive Weber model.

In fact, Jamie has repeatedly referred to the Genesis as his 'go-to barbecue for big feasts', praising its multiple cooking zones and powerful sear burner.

So, what barbecue does Jamie Oliver use, you ask? Well, the specific model featured throughout much of the series is the Weber Genesis EP-435W gas barbecue (£1799 at John Lewis), a four-burner gas BBQ built for outdoor entertaining.

And if you're shopping for the best BBQ ahead of summer entertaining season, Jamie's latest cooking setup is well worth a closer look.

Jamie's partnership with Weber has become a huge part of the new series, with the chef using the Genesis to cook everything from sizzling lamb chops to a veggie mezze. Weber describes the Genesis as ideal for 'feeding the crowd', thanks to its multiple burners, sear zone and spacious cooking area.

However, eagle-eyed viewers may also have spotted the Weber Lumin electric BBQ, £369 at Argos, in the series too. The compact electric BBQ appears in several scenes and offers a space-saving alternative to the large Genesis setup. In fact, our Digital Editor, Rebecca Knight, tested the Weber Lumin and described it as a 'game-changer for renters', thanks to its small footprint and electric design, making it ideal for small patios, balconies and speedy mid-week grilling sessions.

What makes the Genesis range so appealing is how versatile it is. It heats up quickly, and there are plenty of different cooking zones. It's essentially designed to function as an outdoor kitchen, rather than a standard barbecue.

But while Jamie may be cooking on the top-spec EP-435W, we're currently testing its sister model, the Weber Genesis EPX-335W gas barbecue, £1649, which is also loved by Jamie, and it's already well on its way to becoming one of our favourite smart gas BBQs of the summer.

So far during testing, what stood out for our reviewer is just how evenly it cooks, whether grilling burgers, veggies or larger cuts of meat. While the smart cooking technology helps monitor temperatures while cooking, making it easier to keep track of meat without hovering over it constantly. Everything feels sturdy, substantial and well-built, which means it's designed to last for years to come. Pair that with the chunky grates and generous prep shelves, and it's a winner.

However, it’s obvious that any BBQ from the Weber Genesis range is an investment buy, but they’re very much a ‘buy once, buy properly’ kind of barbecue. From the build quality to the cooking performance and smart design features, I think they’re well worth the additional spend if you grill regularly throughout the summer.

Shop our favourite BBQs

While we rate the Weber Genesis range as much as Jamie Oliver, we are somewhat BBQ experts here at Ideal Home. So, here are some of our other favourite BBQs that we've tested to suit whatever your needs may be.

So, for anyone looking to recreate a little of Jamie's Ultimate BBQ magic at home this summer, it's easy to see why this chef keeps returning to Weber's Genesis and Lumin ranges.

As the bank holiday is about to begin, I bring with me some very good news. Habitat’s five-star-rated Kamado BBQ is currently on sale, making it cheaper than both Aldi and Lidl right now.

It’s true that while Kamado BBQs are some of the best BBQs you can buy, they can also be the most expensive you can buy. Luckily for us, our favourite high street retailers have taken it upon themselves to make reliable alternatives, and based on their affordability and stellar reviews, it would seem Habitat is doing it best.

Recently, the Lidl egg BBQ and Aldi egg BBQ boasted extremely competitive prices, but with the Habitat Tabletop Kamado BBQ currently on sale, it’s cheaper than both budget supermarkets. Here’s why I think it’s a good choice for your summer barbecues.

Habitat has three Kamado BBQs on sale, however right now, its 16" Ceramic Kamado BBQ is sold out, so if you’re looking for a large BBQ, why not check out B&Q’s Big Orange Egg or even Habitat’s £600 54cm Kamado Charcoal BBQ?

Currently £96, down from £120, Habitat’s Mini Tabletop Kamado Charcoal BBQ is one of the cheapest I’ve seen this year. This is especially true when you consider that a table-top Big Green Egg (which, of course, a lot of high street egg BBQs take inspiration from) costs £925.

Habitat’s bargain tabletop Kamado BBQ is perfect for grilling for four people. Its small size means that you can even take it on the go with you, be that camping or beach trips. This BBQ uses charcoal fuel to smoke, bake, grill or sear with ease. Its statement egg shape and ceramic material ensure enhanced flavour every time.

One thing you need to know about egg BBQs is that they’re favoured by chefs on account of their ability to lock in flavour and moisture to ensure perfectly cooked food that wows your guests every time. The BBQ has adjustable air vents to allow you to control the temperature and adjust it for different meals.

It’s also excellently reviewed, confirming for me that it is one of the better high street egg BBQs you can buy.

‘We bought this BBQ for summer as we wanted more of a wood-tasting BBQ. This BBQ did not disappoint! It is easy to use; once going, it keeps the heat very well. We are a family of 4, and it maintains its heat well until the very end of the day. I like that it is small enough to store and easy to clean out, too! Looking forward to using it again in the summer!’ said one.

‘This mini Kamado BBQ, although it is small, does just about fit a whole spatchcock chicken in and cooks to perfection. Temperature control is simple yet effective. Well worth paying that little bit extra for the quality over other cheaper metal BBQ’s, and with it being made from clay, it will not rust. I would highly recommend this to anyone from a novice to a BBQ pro,’ said another.

Plate up in style

Now you have the right BBQ, this stunning outdoor servingware will help your plate up in style at your next garden party.

If you want to break into the world of Kamado BBQs but don’t want to spend a fortune, I would definitely recommend the Habitat Tabletop BBQ as a starting point.

This is not a drill! Aldi’s cult Kamado BBQ is returning to stores, and this year it’s even cheaper than Lidl’s.

Landing in stores next Sunday (3 May), Aldi’s Kamado Egg BBQ is now retailing at its lowest price yet: £244.99, and is more than £1,200 cheaper than the cult Big Green Egg’s large egg model (£1,494). While Big Green Egg is one of the best BBQs you can buy, and favoured by celebrity chefs, it is undeniably expensive.

If you adore Big Green Egg BBQs but are less keen on the price, the Aldi Kamado BBQ is one of the most affordable alternatives I’ve seen. It’s even beating the Lidl Egg BBQ on price this year! If you’re looking to up your grilling game, here’s why the Aldi Kamado BBQ is a worthy choice.

At £249, I thought Lidl’s was the most affordable egg BBQ I’d spotted this year. But Aldi seems determined to pip them on price, offering their Kamado for just £244.99. And to really up the supermarket stakes, Habitat’s 16” Ceramic Kamado BBQ is currently reduced from £275 to £220. But sadly, this won’t be on sale forever, so I’d snap this up now if you like the look of the well-reviewed model.

Back to Aldi, and it is worth your attention. The budget BBQ has been making waves since its launch over five years ago, with shoppers keen to snap one up every time it returns to the middle aisle.

The grill is a solid choice for newbies and seasoned barbecue enthusiasts. It’s fully equipped to smoke, chargrill and sear, featuring a durable stainless-steel grill rack and built-in temperature gauge. It also comes with built-in folding side tables for extra serving space and a food prep area.

Aldi’s Kamado BBQ has many of the same features as higher-end models, such as Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe. While I can imagine the quality won’t be as good as these top-of-the-range products, this is not to say Aldi’s version isn’t worth it. I swear by a lot of Aldi Specialbuys in my own home, from their Everyways pans to their candles. While you shouldn’t expect an exact replica of Big Green Egg, you will have an affordable entry point into the world of egg BBQs, plus tasty food to impress your guests this summer.

You should note that this BBQ is charcoal, so if you’d prefer one of the best gas BBQs, I’d suggest giving this Specialbuy a miss. At £244.99, Aldi’s BBQ isn’t exactly cheap either, but it is considerably less expensive than most egg BBQs.

However, I have done some digging, and here are a few more affordable options to shop now.

Kamado egg BBQs are expensive. Period. But if you’re looking for superior flavour and cooking capabilities, they are an amazing choice, and Aldi is providing an affordable entry point to this world.

It’s finally starting to warm up, but it’s not the beginning of balmy weather that has me excited for BBQ season; it is, in fact, the launch of Lidl’s new Medium Ceramic Egg Grill, which, as a dead ringer for the cult Big Green Egg (£1,495), is just £249.

While a Big Green Egg may be one of the best BBQs available to buy, they are undeniably expensive and an aspirational item for most of us. Luckily for us, however, plenty of retailers dish up affordable alternatives every year, including B&Q’s Big Orange Egg and Aldi’s annual take on the Kamado BBQ.

While Lidl has dropped a miniature version of an egg BBQ last year, this is their first medium-sized grill. This is everything you need to know, plus how to get your hands on one.

Shoppers who want to get their hands on the Lidl Medium Ceramic Egg Grill (£249) will need to reserve the BBQ via Lidl’s Click, Reserve, Collect service, via the Lidl Plus App, from Thursday 23 April. It is then available to pick up from 30 April, when the range arrives in store.

It would be easy to mistake Lidl’s egg BBQ for the celebrity-favoured Big Green Egg. Designed for Al Fresco dining, Lidl’s BBQ consists of a durable, enamel-coated ceramic shell with bamboo handles and side tables.

The bamboo handles and side tables are ideal for food preparation, which is especially handy if you don’t have an outdoor kitchen, while the ceramic shell helps create the perfect conditions for grilling, smoking, baking and barbequing.

If you’ve been toying with the idea of picking up an egg BBQ, then there are a few things to know before you buy. While they are incredibly versatile, handling most high-heat cooking, they can be a little fiddly to get to grips with. Because of this, I’d argue that if you’re new to the world of egg BBQs, investing in a budget version like Lidl’s is a far better idea than diving straight into the deep end with an expensive (and very heavy) Big Green Egg.

BBQ’s like B&Q’s Orange Egg (£500), and Habitat’s Ceramic Kamado BBQ (reduced to £220) are great entry points to the world of egg BBQs if you’re working to a budget, or haven’t used one before.

Alternatively, I’ve found a few more highly rated egg BBQs online that are not as expensive as a classic Big Green Egg.

I do not doubt that the Lidl egg BBQ will sell fast, so if you want to snap one up, ensure you head to your Lidl Plus App to reserve one. Or, risk disappointment.

B&Q has just launched their own egg barbecue, and at £500, it’s £995 cheaper than the cult Big Green Egg.

A kamado-style BBQ is one of the best BBQs you can buy. They’re beloved by chefs due to the superior flavour they create compared to a typical charcoal barbecue. If you’re the sort of person who takes barbecuing seriously, you don’t need me to explain why these styles of grill are so popular.

Yet there’s no denying that these BBQs can be pricey. So, I’m always looking for affordable kamado-style BBQs so you can up your cooking skills without breaking the bank. B&Q’s GoodHome Sagami Orange Charcoal Egg BBQ is the latest to impress us. Here’s why.

Over the past few years, we’ve seen several brands try to replicate the success of the Big Green Egg BBQ. From Aldi’s budget kamado BBQ that cost just £299.99 when it landed in the middle aisle last summer to Habitat’s tiny table-top kamado BBQ, which is a great starter BBQ at just £120.

If you need something larger, B&Q’s orange egg is an excellent alternative. With the power to grill, smoke, bake or sear, it’s the perfect addition to any outdoor kitchen, even promising consistent cooking results in cold and windy weather (so you can use it all year round).

It has an integrated thermometer and cast-iron vent to allow for temperature control, while its stainless steel air vents and cooking grid help ensure even cooking. On each side of the orange egg, you will find two foldable bamboo side tables for prep space, bamboo handles and four easy-roll castors to help move it into place.

It comes with a five-year warranty, and B&Q states it has been built to last for summers to come. While we haven’t tested the B&Q orange egg ourselves, this style of BBQ has received a big thumbs up from Ideal Home’s expert reviewers. The main things to know about egg BBQs are that they’re incredibly versatile and worth the investment if you take cooking seriously.

I've also rounded up the egg BBQs we have tested and can vouch for.

However, I do think the B&Q orange egg is worth seriously looking at. It’s an excellent size, affordable compared to other models and has many of the same features as our best-rated kamado-style BBQs.

Ninja just dropped its first ever gas BBQ in the UK, the 5-in-1 FlexFlame Cooking System (£999.99 via Ninja), which is sure to be a hit with outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

This propane fuelled BBQ, which was released this time a year ago in the US to rave reviews, has launched with the promise that it 'combines up to five unique cooking methods all under one lid, with no compromises'. So do the best BBQ makers on the market have some serious competition?

Well, that functionality includes grilling, smoking, roasting, griddling, and pizza making, so from a first look it seems a very capable buy. Here's what else the FlexFlame can do.

So what's different about the FlexFlame compared to Ninja's other BBQs? Well thus far the brand has only designed electric BBQs, with the flagship Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ & Grill being the biggest success. We awarded it 5 stars in our review back in 2023.

The FlexFlame is a different beast altogether. It has the undeniable power of gas, with the ability to preheat up to 315°C in 10 minutes, combined with precision burner control via a digital control panel. It's also kitted out with a cyclonic fan, which can evenly circulate air (much like one of the best Ninja air fryers) in order to bring 'surround crisping and browning'.

If you need to cater to a crowd this summer (World Cup BBQ anyone?), this BBQ is suitably huge. Across three burners, it easily has space for at least 8 burgers at a time.

Plus, popular elements of the electric Woodfire BBQ have been integrated into the FlexFlame. As well as the gas element, you can use this buy as a Woodfire BBQ Smoker with pellets to get those coveted infused smoky flavours.

The catch to the other functions (pizza-making and griddling) is that you'll need to add on extra attachments to your FlexFlame. These are available to buy separately or as part of the FlexFlame Ultimate Bundle (£1,249 via Ninja), which additionally features a Propane Grill Cover​, Full Flat Plate​, 16'' Perforated Pizza Peel​, 16'' Artisan Pizza Stone ​& Storage Caddy.

If you already own one of the best pizza ovens (which can be awfully pricey in and of themselves) then the idea of having to purchase another pizza stone additionally might not necessarily appeal. But if you're more of a BBQ fan, it's nice to have the option to add in other functions.

Of course, with a purchase this expensive, you'll want to know it's built to last. This BBQ is, according to Ninja, 'built to withstand the Great British weather over years of use' with porcelain-enamelled cast-iron grill grates as well as a double-walled heavy-duty lid. The side tables are another very useful addition.

The FlexFlame undoubtedly looks like a very capable outdoor living buy, but at £999.99 it's certainly a pricey one. Could you see yourself installing one in your garden?

If you packed your barbecue away the moment the clocks went back, Tom Kerridge is here to say you’re missing out, as it's the ultimate cosy season cooking tool. The celebrity chef is a devoted year-round griller and, yes, he's even tackled a full roast turkey on the barbecue at Christmas.

'Barbecuing isn’t just for the summer months,' he says. 'I’m a huge fan of cooking outside all year round whenever it’s possible.'

However, if you want to be a master of the best BBQs like Tom, there's a few things you need to know (and items you might want to change)...

'A really helpful way to approach cooking on a barbecue is to think of it like using the grill in your kitchen oven, but the heat is coming from the bottom rather than the top,' he explains in Tom Kerridge: The BBQ Book, was £25 now £10.99 on Amazon.

In fact, if you have an egg-style barbecue (like a Big Green Egg or any ceramic kamado model), Tom says you can treat it 'almost exactly like a domestic oven at home.'

These barbecues heat evenly, hold temperature beautifully, and respond quickly when you open or close the vents. That’s how he pulled off the outdoor Christmas turkey as it’s surprisingly hands-off once you hit the right heat.

Tom is adamant you don’t need a shed full of gadgets to nail a barbecue, 'You don't need loads of equipment to get some seriously tasty results,' he says.

But a couple of clever pieces do make it easier, especially when you don’t want to linger in the cold.

Tom's BBQ essentials

So grab your coat, spark up the coals and embrace your inner winter BBQ-er. Tom would absolutely approve.

When the weather is hot and you’ve just finished cooking outdoors, it can be tempting to kick back and relax. But what happens if you don’t clean a BBQ?

Well, a few things, according to warnings from BBQ experts. Food hygiene is one of the primary concerns, but you could also affect grilling performance if you don’t learn how to clean a BBQ properly (even if you’ve got one of the best BBQs on the market).

To find out more about what happens if you don’t clean a BBQ, I spoke to the experts.

1. Risk of food poisoning

The main consequence of not cleaning your BBQ is, of course, the risk of food poisoning from leftover food particles – and the heat from a BBQ alone won’t sort them.

‘The belief that fire sterilises everything on a grill is a dangerous myth,’ says Professor Elliott, one of the UK’s top food safety experts and founder of the Institute for Global Food Security at Queen’s University Belfast, in partnership with Oven Pride.

‘Some bacteria – like E. coli or Salmonella – can survive on cooking surfaces if not cleaned properly.’

The Oven Pride Cleaning Kit, now £9.79 at Amazon, is a brilliant option for degreasing BBQs (it’s Amazon’s Choice!).

Food particles aren’t the only leftovers that can cause a safety hazard, though. Rust can form on an unmaintained grill, which can affect the taste and safety of the food you cook on it. Try cleaning your BBQ with beer or a similar homemade solution to help keep rust at bay.

2. Fire hazards

Even the best gas BBQs out there need regular cleaning to keep them in safe working order – and if you have this type of grill, or you’re wondering what you need to know before buying a gas BBQ, not cleaning one could be dangerous.

‘With gas BBQs, grease that builds up could potentially ignite during cooking, which could cause nasty flare-ups and burns,’ says Rebecca Smith, buyer at VonHaus.

Grease and food debris can also block the gas tubes, according to Rebecca, which could pose a fire risk as well as affect the BBQ’s performance. Speaking of which…

3. Decreased performance

Gas BBQs aren’t the only type of grill that can suffer when left uncleaned – whether you’ve got your hands on one of the best charcoal BBQs or a budget charcoal grill, regular cleaning is essential if you want the top cooking performance.

‘With charcoal BBQs, ash and debris that builds up over time on the grill can limit the airflow going through the racking, which makes it more difficult to reach and maintain the right temperatures,’ explains Rebecca.

A dedicated BBQ cleaner like the Weber Grate Cleaner from Amazon can do a nice job of cleaning grill grates.

4. Uneven cooking

Not cleaning your BBQ can make it difficult to maintain the right cooking temperatures, and it can also result in uneven cooking – not just because of the limited airflow around the racks, but because of food debris, too.

‘Food is more likely to stick during grilling on unclean grates due to the buildup of residue,’ says Rebecca.

Rust can affect cooking performance, too, as well as the longevity of the grill itself.

‘A rusty surface can make food stick and cook unevenly, and rust can flake off into food,’ Rebecca adds.

5. Spoiled flavour

Safety isn’t the only thing at stake when it comes to an unclean BBQ – skipping cleaning could ruin the taste of your food, too.

‘Old grease also attracts bacteria, while built-up soot and ash can spoil the flavours of your food,’ warns Katie Lilywhite, barbecue expert at AO.com.

BBQ cleaning essentials

Whether you go for a gas BBQ or a charcoal BBQ, regular cleaning is crucial to keep on top of safety, cooking performance and food flavour.

Heatwaves are few and far between in the UK, and if, like me, you’re not convinced it’s going to happen until the hot weather hits, then you might be a few essentials short this weekend. But don’t worry, because Argos Home’s Drum Charcoal BBQ With Cover & Utensils is just what you need to make your summer sizzle - and it has over 7,000 five-star reviews to back it.

You wouldn’t be alone waiting until the heatwave arrives to get the BBQ ready. Argos has reported a 43% increase in clicks to this BBQ in the past week alone. And it’s easy to see why. At just £50, this charcoal BBQ beats many of the best BBQs on price alone.

Plus, with thousands of happy customers, this bargain buy can cater to garden gatherings of up to 10 people, making it the perfect accompaniment to your summer parties.

Unlike some of the other best charcoal BBQs, it comes in a bundle with a waterproof cover and utensils. It includes tongs, a fork and a spatula; everything you need to get cooking (meat aside).

It also has an adjustable height for the grill so you can control the distance between the grill and the charcoal to achieve desired cooking conditions. The BBQ also handily comes on two wheels, so you can move it easily to store it or around your garden patio as you seek shade or sun.

Charcoal BBQs are famed for their classic chargrilled, smoky taste, which is why they’ll always be a top choice amongst grillers. If you’re looking for an authentic taste then look no further. And the reviews agree, too.

‘We are honestly so delighted with this BBQ. It is a great purchase and we highly recommend it. ( I love being able to order from Argos, then collecting from our village store the very next day!) The truth is that the BBQ assembly was a very easy task, and it certainly is a winner for our family. I also really appreciate the waterproof cover too. It looks very smart. Thank you Argos!’ said one.

‘I bought this last month and I was amazed by the quality and capacity of the barbecue in this price range.. Highly recommended..’ said another.

Alternatives

If this BBQ isn't quite right for you, check these alternatives from Argos.

For just £50, I’m inclined to agree with the reviewers and say this is an excellent buy for summer.

Lidl has launched a new Kamado BBQ, and at £79.99, it’s the cheapest one I’ve seen this year - it even beats Aldi on price.

It’s a well-known fact that Kamado BBQs are some of the best BBQs around due to their superior temperature control and range of cooking techniques available. But it’s another well-known fact that these types of BBQs can also come with a hefty price tag.

Landing in the Lidl middle aisle today (12 June), the Grillmeister Ceramic Barbecue is not only the cheapest model I’ve seen this year, but also shares many of the features of the cult Big Green Egg MiniMax (£850 at John Lewis). This is everything you need to know.

A Kamado BBQ has been on my wish list for quite some time, which is why my ears prick when I hear about affordable alternatives popping up. The Aldi Kamado BBQ is a popular and affordable choice, while the Tower Kamado Maxi BBQ is a lesser-known Amazon buy, but that is even cheaper than Aldi’s version. Now Lidl is trumping them both, and I’m pleased to say the Lidl Grillmeister Ceramic Barbecue doesn’t scrimp on features.

The compact BBQ is designed for smoking, searing, baking, grilling and high-temperature cooking, with its ceramic shell carefully designed to retain temperatures up to 450 degrees. It also comes with an integrated thermometer, so you can ensure your food is cooked at the perfect temperature.

The BBQ is 26.5cm or 10.4” inches in diameter, making it slightly smaller in diameter than The Big Green Egg MiniMax, which is 33cm or 13” in diameter. This is a great size for couples looking to grill this summer, or groups of two to four. Because of this, if you’re looking to host larger groups of people, I’d suggest investing in one of the best gas BBQs, such as the Char-Broil Gas BBQ (£629.99 at Amazon), which has an enormous amount of cooking space, making it an excellent addition to any garden party.

If you’ve been weighing up whether you should invest in a Kamado grill, the Lidl ceramic BBQ is an excellent way to test it out before investing in a pricer model. At £79.99 it is a great accessible starting point.

But if you haven’t been quite convinced, or your local middle aisle has already run out, I’ve rounded up some more affordable alternatives.

If a kamado grill has been on your wishlist, then have any of these affordable BBQs tempted you?

Aldi’s cult Kamado BBQ is returning to stores. This time, it will cost £299.99, which is £100 cheaper than in the past

Aldi’s offering is a worthy alternative for the celebrity-favoured Big Green Egg BBQ, which might be one of the best BBQS on the market but also costs over £500 just for the small version.

You may remember the Aldi Kamado BBQ making waves when it first launched a few years ago. Well, it is back and landing in stores on 8 May, the Kamado BBQ is perfect for any upcoming bank holidays (weather permitting, of course!). But like with all middle aisle bargains, you’ll have to act fast if you want to get your hands on one.

Aldi states the Kamado BBQ ‘has it all’ and is well-suited to seasoned grillers and novices alike. Like its last release, the BBQ has a stainless steel grill rack, built-in temperature gauge and a fold to prevent smoke from escaping. But this time, the Kamado BBQ has a few new updates, too. It now has removable folding wooden boards, meaning you have more space to prep food and serve it.

It also has a number of cooking functions. You can smoke, chargrill, sear, as well as your standard barbequing functions, giving Aldi’s BBQ many of the same features as premium brands.

The Kamado BBQ is one of the best charcoal BBQS so if you’re looking for one of the best gas BBQS, I’d suggest giving this Specialbuy a miss and instead look at Aldi’s Four Burner Gas BBQ (£199.99) which lands in stores on 27 April this year.

By contrast, the Big Green Egg BBQ is generally considered to be the cream of the crop when it comes to BBQS and they’re favoured by many professional chefs due to their versatility. However, there is no denying that they are an expensive investment. Even the smaller-sized MiniMax Big Green Egg costs £850.

At £299.99, Aldi’s Kamado BBQ isn’t exactly cheap either, but there is a huge saving compared to the Big Green Egg BBQ. And if you’re looking for a BBQ that can do it all Aldi’s BBQ could be a good place to start.

Alternatives

As the Aldi BBQ will only be available in-store, we've rounded up a couple of other worthy alternatives to the Green Egg BBQ.

What do you think about the Aldi Kamado BBQ? Do you think it will be cooking up a storm in your garden this summer?

Aldi’s sell-out pizza oven is returning just in time for barbecue season—and with £10 shaved off last year's price tag, it’s now even more affordable.

I can’t be the only one who gets excited to roll out the best BBQ when the sun comes out, and with pizza ovens becoming a modern outdoor staple, I can’t help but think about the prospect of fresh dough, too. Luckily, the Aldi pizza oven is hitting the middle aisle tomorrow (27 March), costing just £29.99.

If you’ve been on the hunt for the best pizza oven, I’d urge you to consider Aldi’s purse-friendly oven, which promises to serve up restaurant-quality pizzas in just 10 minutes. This is everything you need to know about this bargain buy.

Aldi states their pizza oven is half the prize of a George Foreman pizza oven, it’s one of the cheapest pizza ovens I’ve seen on the market. In fact, the closest in price I’ve found is the VonHaus BBQ Pizza Oven Outdoor, which is £44.99 on Amazon.

The VonHaus oven's 90-second cooking time sets it ahead of the Aldi pizza oven for me. But this doesn't mean Aldi's oven isn't a great budget option.

The Aldi pizza oven promises a 10-minute cook time and can handle up to 12” pizzas, making it great for whipping up any crispy and delicious al fresco meals this summer. What’s more, the pizza oven is designed to work with both gas and charcoal BBQ.

The Aldi pizza oven is a compact 40 x 35 x 15cm and comes with a high-quality ceramic pizza stone and integrated thermometer to ensure every slice is cooked to perfection, and comes with a three-year warranty.

Compact and affordable, I think the Aldi pizza oven is a great option if you’re looking for an affordable option or don’t have the time to build a pizza oven. And it’s tabletop function means you no longer have to choose between a BBQ or a pizza oven.

Pizza oven accessories

Now you've chosen your pizza oven, you'll need some accessories to elevate your pizza making station.

It may not feel like summer has arrived yet, but the Aldi pizza oven is one of the first signposts. But like all Specialbuys, when it’s gone it’s gone - and we think the Aldi pizza oven will sell out fast.

Will you be treating yourself?

HexClad is a relatively new cookware brand, but one that seems to be shaking up the market. Its hybrid cookware is taking social media by storm, and is now even endorsed by Gordon Ramsay. The pans cleverly combine the robustness of stainless steel with hexagonal non-stick valleys for a premium cooking experience.

I’m very intrigued by the HexClad BBQ Grill Pan. It promises all the robust, non-stick properties of other HexClad pans, but with holes in the base to let all the smoke and BBQ flavours infuse into your food.

Even if you own one of the best BBQs and you’ve nailed your BBQ technique, it can be a pain to cook delicate or small foods. In my experience threading everything onto skewers is tedious. Then moving said skewers using unwieldy BBQ tongs is often comically difficult. I’m so ready for this pan to allow me to easily BBQ otherwise tricky foods. Here’s how I got on.

Hexclad BBQ pan specs

• Materials: Cooking surface is stainless steel combined with non-stick. Aluminium core. Steel base.
• Metal utensil safe? yes
• Dishwasher safe? yes
• Diameter: 30cm
• Warranty: lifetime
• RRP: £159

Unboxing and first impressions

My first impression of the HexClad BBQ Grill Pan was that it’s robust and great quality. And while it’s super sturdy, it doesn’t feel too heavy. I popped it on my kitchen scales and it weighed in at around 1.25kg.

There are numerous big holes in the base that I anticipate will be great at letting the BBQ smoke through to whatever is being cooked inside. The holes are about the size of an average ballpoint pen, so unless you’re attempting to cook sweetcorn kernels, nothing will fall through them.

The two generous side handles should make it easy to lift on and off the BBQ, but they’re metal so they will get hot and you’ll need some thick and trusty oven gloves.

Before the first use, the pan has to be seasoned. The instructions advise heating it to a medium-low heat and spreading a teaspoon of oil around the inside, before continuing to heat for a further 1-2 minutes. I did this on my hob, but because of all the holes in the bottom, I had to use a silicone pastry brush to move and distribute the oil around the inside of the pan.

Because the pan is a hybrid style pan, in that it’s both stainless steel and non-stick, it will continue to season the more it’s used. And the way it’s made means it can stand up to the use of metal utensils, which is particularly helpful for BBQ cooking where plastic utensils are no-no.

What is it like to use?

I used it on this Weber Kettle BBQ, so while I had the joy of smoky charcoal flavours, I didn’t have the temperature control that you would inevitably have if using it on one of the best gas BBQ’s.

The first thing I cooked in the pan was asparagus, it’s such a great vegetable on the BBQ but is notorious for falling down between the bars. Before adding to the pan I lightly coated the asparagus spears in oil and seasonings.

Once my BBQ was fired up and ready to cook on, I placed the pan on top and allowed it to heat up for just a couple of minutes. I used metal tongs, which admittedly felt wrong in a brand new non-stick pan, but as promised by HexClad, they didn’t mark or scratch it all.

The asparagus cooked really well. It was lightly charred and so much easier than doing it directly on the bars. And since asparagus is an expensive vegetable, I was pleased not to lose any into the coals during cooking.

Once the asparagus was done, I removed it and added two sea bass fillets skin side down. Again, I had lightly oiled the skin before placing it in the pan. It took 4 minutes for the skin to crisp up, at which point I flipped the fillets and cooked them on the other side for one minute.

It was as easy as cooking the fish in a frying pan on my hob and took roughly the same amount of time too. I love BBQ fish, but it always feels tricky to get right on a BBQ, it either sticks and breaks apart, or you have to put it in a foil parcel and miss out on the smoky essence of the BBQ. So this a great solution and I’m excited about all the other fish I could potentially BBQ.

The flavour was good, the holes allowed some of the smokiness through to the fish, but it’s more subtle than if the fish was directly on the bars. The only downside is that because of the holes you can’t add a knob of butter at the end to baste it like you might if cooking on the hob. But this is a minor complaint!

The next time I fired up the BBQ I used the pan to cook up some mushrooms and chunks of courgette. Mushrooms always seem to fall off my skewers so they’re the perfect vegetable to try in this pan.

Just like with the asparagus I lightly oiled the vegetables before adding to the hot pan. I stirred them frequently and the high sides of the pan meant everything stayed inside. I cooked them over very hot coals for around 10 minutes.

When they were nearly cooked I used a silicone brush to coat them in garlic butter for the last couple of minutes of cooking. This worked really well, and it’s a bit of a workaround for not being able to add a knob of butter to the pan.

Both the courgette and mushrooms were beautifully cooked and tasted delicious. The outsides were charred and there was a subtle smokiness in the flavour. I would absolutely choose cook them in this pan over threading onto skewers. They cooked far more evenly and it’s an easier process, so it’s a win-win.

Finally I tried cooking raw prawns in the pan. I added the seasoned pawns to the hot pan and kept moving them around so they’d cook evenly without overcooking and becoming tough or chewy.

They were done in just a couple of minutes and I was really pleased with the result. They were so easy to cook and were perfectly succulent, easily the best prawns I’ve ever cooked on a BBQ.

What's it like to clean?

This pan is both dishwasher safe and scrubbable, the website suggests you can even use steel wool if you need to. The first time I used it, I allowed it to cool on the BBQ and didn’t rescue it until the next morning. This was a bit of a mistake because it allowed the oily residues to bake on, so I had to scrub it hard with a scourer.

It took a bit of elbow grease but it was reassuring to know that the pan was resilient enough to take the scrubbing. And the next time I used it, I removed it from the BBQ and allowed it to cool on top of my hob before putting it in the dishwasher.

It cleaned up well in the dishwasher, but not as well as when I washed it by hand. And it’s important to remember that since it’s being used on the BBQ it’s unlikely to stay looking as pristine as pans you use indoors.

Should you buy the HexClad BBQ Grill Pan?

The HexClad BBQ Grill Pan is a great addition to any outdoor kitchen setup. It makes it really easy to cook fish and vegetables to perfection, so broadens the scope of what can be cooked al fresco.

One of the biggest drawbacks is the price. To put it in perspective, it costs almost as much as the Weber BBQ I was using it on. That said, given that it significantly increases the options of what can be cooked on my BBQ, it means I’d be more inclined to cook outdoors than I might otherwise be without it.

It’s also worth pointing out that while you can get more cheap and cheerful BBQ pans, they’re often much flimsier and unlikely to stand the test of time. Whereas the HexClad version is excellent quality, super sturdy, and comes with a lifetime warranty. If you’re a big BBQ fan, it’s worth the investment.

About this review, and the reviewer:

After completing a Home Economics degree, Helen went on to work for the Good Housekeeping Institute and has been reviewing home appliances ever since. She lives in a small village in Buckinghamshire in the UK, where she reviews all sorts of home and garden appliances using her wealth of experience.

Helen used the HexClad BBQ Grill Pan on her charcoal BBQ at home to cook a variety of different foods. As a big fish eater, she was delighted to find something that can finally enable her to cook BBQ fish to perfection with minimal hassle.

If you’re in the market for a new BBQ, there’s a high chance that you’ll come across both Everdure and Weber during your search. Both of these BBQ brands confidently stand their ground in the UK market, offering novices and hobby grillers alike the chance to ‘que up a storm.

In fact, both Everdure and Weber have made their way into the Ideal Home best BBQs guide, as well as our best gas BBQ and best charcoal BBQ guides, impressing our testers and winning over the team. But with different features, fuel types, price points, and very different designs, it can be hard to choose between Everdure and Weber.

On the one hand, you have Everdure, an innovative Australian brand that’s teamed up with English Michelin star chef Heston Blumenthal to push the boundaries of BBQ cooking. On the other hand, you have Weber, a classic American brand focusing on traditional grilling and that tell-tale barbecued taste. But when it comes down to it, which one is better? Well, we’ve delved into the Everdure vs Weber debate below.

Everdure vs Weber: Design

If you’ve come across the Everdure brand while searching for a new BBQ, you’ll already have seen that this brand is all about design and aesthetics. The Everdure website tells us as such, stating that it offers ‘Innovative, designer barbeques.’

This is seen by the unique shapes and colours within the range, giving customers the chance to choose from BBQs with baby blue, orange, or classic black lids. In fact, this is something that our Kitchens Editor, Molly Cleary, loved when she tested the Everdure Force (and gave it a glowing 5-star review).

She said, ‘The striking look of the Everdure made it an instant favourite during Ideal Home's BBQ testing trip, and that was before we started grilling. The overall design is simple in its execution with the bright hood and clean lines, but everyone warmed to it, regardless of different tastes.’

‘The stylish, laidback design here feels far away from the usual BBQ look that we have in the UK, which usually features copious amounts of stainless steel or shiny black,’ she added.

But while Everdure nails the design side of things, it’s fair to say that the Weber brand is a little more laid-back. While they’re not unattractive BBQs, you probably couldn’t pick one out of a line-up of other BBQs out there. They’re classic, making them perfect for BBQ purists who don’t want anything flashy.

This laid-back nature might be a negative for some, though. When Ideal Home’s very own Amy Lockwood tested the Weber Q3200, she knocked a star off her 4-star review due to the lack of style.

She said, ‘The £600+ Q3200 BBQ is competing with models that offer a lot more style for that price point, and it feels a little disappointing in build quality for that investment.’

So, for this round, we have to say that Everdure wins.

Everdure vs Weber: Fuel types

In the BBQ world, gas and charcoal BBQs tend to reign supreme. But it’s fair to say that times are changing - and so are the fuel types. You just need to look at the success of the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker to see that.

If you’re looking for a gas BBQ, both Everdure and Weber have got you covered. Weber has countless gas BBQs to choose from, and so has Everdure. But it’s important to know what you’re getting into when you buy a gas BBQ.

It may be that charcoal BBQs suit you better. In which case, both Everdure and Weber have once again got you covered.

The Weber Original Kettle is a legend in the charcoal BBQ world, and the Everdure Cube is the brand’s most iconic foray into this fuel type. Once again, there are certain things you should know before buying a charcoal BBQ, though.

However, it’s fair to say that Weber has one-up on Everdure when it comes to fuel types, as this brand also offers an affordable electric BBQ in the form of the Weber Lumin Electric. This was a huge hit with our Deputy Digital Editor, Rebecca Knight, and she gave it a 5-star review as a renter without proper garden space.

Everdure does have a couple of charcoal BBQs with electric starts, but some could argue that they’re not everyday BBQs. They’re the brand’s top-of-the-range (AKA most expensive) BBQs that are designed for large gatherings, commercial cooking, or hardcore grillers.

So, if you want fuel variety, Weber has to take the cake for this round.

Everdure vs Weber: Ease of use

If you’re new to BBQs, getting the hang of them will always be tricky - especially if you’re trying to light a charcoal BBQ. But a good BBQ won’t take long to master, and ease of use is something you should definitely consider when debating Everdure vs Weber.

Naturally, gas and electric BBQs are considered the easiest to light and use, and our testers found this while reviewing these two brands. When Amy gave the Weber Spirit II E-310 a run for its money, she was amazed by how easy it was to use.

She said, ‘Operating each of the burners on the Weber Spirit II E-310 is super simple thanks to the electric ignition which lights the gas grill at the press of a button.’

‘This BBQ also felt both simple and safe to cook on. The lid is lightweight and easy to lift up and down – unlike the Everdure Force 2 Burner BBQ that felt quite heavy – the heatproof handle is very effective, and the insulated body meant neither the lid nor sides felt too hot to the touch,’ she added.

And when Molly tested the Everdure Force BBQ, she was equally as impressed by the quick set-up time and the ease of use.

Molly gushed, ‘Getting the Everdure ready to cook is actually as easy as the brand makes out on the website. Hooking up the gas took just a few moments, and from there all we needed to do was turn the taps to set the burners alight and set the temperature.’

‘Remarkably, you actually can get the BBQ going in less than five minutes with the Everdure Force - 3 minutes and 14 seconds by our watch until the temperature hit 250 degrees celsius and we were ready for our first test. It felt like turning on a supercharged (and super stylish) gas hob, one that would be excellent for quickly searing or roasting.’

It isn’t surprising that our testers found both brands to be relatively easy to use, though. Even with charcoal BBQs now, ease of use is a hugely important factor that these brands consider when designing and building any new product. So, it’s hard to come by a gas, charcoal, or electric BBQ that is especially hard to use.

Because of this, ease of use is fairly evenly matched in this round. But it’s also important to consider your own abilities before choosing a winner.

Everdure vs Weber: Sizes

Size is definitely something you need to research before buying a new BBQ. After all, if you have a large family and regularly host garden parties for your extended family, you’ll need a BBQ big enough for the whole clan. If you only plan on grilling a few sausages on the beach every now and then, one of the best portable BBQs might suit you better instead.

Coincidentally, the Everdure Cube has been crowned our ‘best premium’ portable BBQ on our list thanks to its small but perfectly formed size. When our reviewer Annie Collyer tested this BBQ out for herself, she was certainly surprised.

‘When it comes to first impressions of the Everdure Cube BBQ, I was pretty amazed with how compact yet practical this BBQ was. You can fit 6 small burgers or 4 larger burgers on this BBQ, or 2 - 3 large pieces of meat,’ she said.

‘We think that its cooking surface is sizeable enough to host 4-5 people. You could cook an entire joint on there, just bear in mind that it doesn't come with a lid that you can use when it's hot, so ensuring even cooking will be hard.’

But on the other side of the Everdure spectrum, you have the Force 2, which is much larger offering with space for around 24 small burgers, 10 medium steaks, or two large chickens at one time.

What of Weber, though? Like Everdure, this brand also offers a range of sizes. Its smallest BBQ is the Lumin, but Becky found that there was more than enough space to cook a wide range of food. She cooked five sausages with room to spare and even a small pork loin roast that only took up half of the grill. So, it’s perfect for those in small spaces.

Weber offers some big guns too, though. One of its largest is the Weber Spirit II E-310, which was more like Mary Poppins’ handbag than anything else.

Amy said, ‘Considering that overall the Weber Spirit II E-310 build feels fairly compact – especially if you lower the side arms – there felt to be a generous amount of grilling space on this model, with a grill area of W60 x D46cm available to cook up a storm. We found it could easily fit 10 burgers and 20 sausages on at once.’

So, for this round, we have to call it a tie.

Everdure vs Weber: Affordability

It’s always a good idea to set a budget before looking at BBQs and then compare your favourites against the money you have to spend. And when it comes to Everdure vs. Weber, there’s no doubt about the fact that the prices vary dramatically.

The most expensive Everdure on the market is the 4K Electric Ignition Charcoal Outdoor BBQ, which comes in at £1,799 when it’s not on sale for less. The cheapest Everdure BBQ, however, is the Everdure Cube, which retails for £149.

The most expensive Weber on the market is significantly more expensive than the most expensive Everdure. In fact, the Summit S-670 GBS Gas Barbecue comes in at a whopping £4,099. Despite this, the cheapest Weber is also cheaper than the cheapest Everdure, as the Smokey Joe Charcoal Barbecue is just £83.99.

Ultimately, there should be a BBQ from both brands that suit your budget.

Final verdict: Which one should you choose?

When deciding between Everdure vs Weber, it’s important to weigh up all of the above - as well as your own gut feeling. But if you’re asking us, it’s hard to pick a real winner.

That’s why we asked the Ideal Home BBQ queen, Molly, to see which one she would pick. She said, ‘I've tested Everdure and Weber in my time testing BBQs for Ideal Home, and think that they are both top of the pile when it comes to quality.'

'I've ranked the Weber Spirit II as the #1 BBQ in our guide, as I think it's the kind of do-it-all gas BBQ that people are looking for when they start on their search, closely followed by the OG Weber Kettle, which just never lets you down.’

‘All of that being said, if I had an endless pot of money, I'd opt for an Everdure BBQ because I just love the designs. During our BBQ testing day, it was the Everdure Force in a duck egg blue shade that stole everyone's hearts, but seeing as I live in a flat, I'd probably buy the Cube for myself, which is just so perfectly portable. Whichever brand you pick, you're in for a treat!'

FAQs

Where are Everdure products made?

Everdure is an Australian brand, and so the products are made in Australia. However, it's possible to buy Everdure in Europe, America, and more.

In recent years, the brand has also teamed up with English chef Heston Blumenthal to design innovative cooking products that will elevate barbecued food to the next level. So, it still has that English edge.

Who is Weber grills competitor?

The BBQ world is quite extensive, and so Weber has to face numerous competitors. Some of these include:

• Everdure.
• Char-Broil.
• Napoleon.
• Outback.
• Big Green Egg.
• Kamado Joe.
• Outback.

So, which one will you choose?

Barbecue season is upon us! Summer is that time of year when delicious smokey smells waft through the air from alfresco garden grills and sizzling outdoor BBQ banquets. 

If you've already integrated the best BBQ area ideas into your plot, and invested in one of the best BBQs your budget can buy, then you are ready to adorn your apron and spark up the firebox to cook outdoors with friends and family. 

When spending time and money creating your ultimate outdoor kitchen with BBQ, make sure it stays in tip-top condition all summer long and beyond by following our tips.

Knowing how and where to store a BBQ when not in use will ensure it remains in prime condition for as long as possible and is always ready to use whenever your mouth starts watering for delicious grilled food. 

'When investing in a high-quality BBQ, the last thing you want is for it to pick up mould or dust, which is why it'sessential you store it correctly to avoid this,' says Jessica Mount, Garden and Seasonal Assistant Buyer at Homebase.

Charcoal, gas or built-in grill we've brought in outdoor experts to offer their advice on best practices for BBQ storage. 

How to store a BBQ during summer months

During warmer months, when BBQ season is in full swing, it's not necessary to move your BBQ into heavy-duty storage after each use.

These are the things you should do to store your BBQ during the summer months.

1. Clean after use every time

To ensure your BBQ is ready to use all summer long it should be thoroughly cleaned after every alfresco meal before storing. 

How to clean a BBQ thoroughly depends on its material and cooking style, but generally, when in constant use, soap and water work well.

For safety reasons, ensure the BBQ components have cooled before cleaning. Although a little heat (not too hot to touch) will help lift grease as it won't have fully set. 

'Start by cleansing it with a simple soap and water solution to remove any food residue and grease, then use a wire brush to clean the grill,' continues Jessica Mount.

Wash up BBQ utensils and wipe down the framework and if applicable the gas bottle to remove any grease that may have spit out during cooking. 

2. Cover the BBQ up

Instead invest in a good quality, weather-proof BBQ cover. If it is manoeuvrable, wheel it to a sheltered spot when not in use for extra protection.

'Once you’ve given it a good clean, check it’s dry and cover the grill with a protective cover, preferably something that is high-quality and weather-resistant to protect it from dust and oxidation,' says Jessica Mount.

'A good quality, enamelled barbecue can be left outside but it is preferable to use a cover if you are not planning to cook for a few weeks to keep muck and grime at bay,' says BBQ cooking expert and food writer, John Finch who teamed up with Wren Kitchens.

3. Give cooking utensils a home

For an ultimate outdoor kitchen experience during summer keep clean cooking utensils stored safely outside within reach. 

BBQ sets can be purchased with a protective storage case. This can then be stored underneath the BBQ fire bowl, so everything is protected under the cover. 

Alternatively, why not give your BBQ area an update by investing in metal storage furniture to hide away BBQ cooking utensils and cooking condiments? It will avoid lots of trips back and forth to the kitchen and add an outdoor room vibe to your patio or terrace.

How to store a BBQ during winter months

As days get shorter and summer comes to a close, it's time to consider moving your BBQ to somewhere more protected. 

1. Deep clean for the last time

Once your BBQ embers go out for the last time during summer, it's wise to give them a deep clean before transferring them to storage.

'Before storing your barbecue, make sure to clean it as thoroughly as you can, as this will reduce the chances of mould and mildew growing on any remnants of food left inside on the grill,' explains BBQ cooking expert and food writer, John Finch.

First, use a wire grill brush to get rid of remaining food particles. A screwed-up ball of aluminium foil makes a DIY substitute. A porcelain-coated BBQ racks will need a more gentle brush, as wire bristles will damage surfaces. Remove parts if possible and using warm soapy water and a cloth, clean the grill.

For stubborn dirt use a specifically designed BBQ cleaner.

When all BBQ parts are clean and dry put back together and cover.

2. Move to a safe and dry spot

If your BBQ is portable, ideally it should spend the winter protected from the elements. 

'Where you can, you should store your BBQ indoors, in either a garage or garden shed,' suggests Craig Wilson, Co-founder, director & in-house gardening expert at Gardeners Dream.

'Doing this will keep it sheltered from the elements, reducing the chance of rust, which in turn will extend the lifespan of your barbeque.'

If your BBQ grill is built-in, deep clean as above and cover and secure with a high-quality BBQ cover.

FAQs

How do I store store BBQ fuel?

As BBQs are powered by flammable fuels, it's vital to store them safely.

Charcoal is best kept in a metal bin with a lid away from direct sunlight. A shed or garage will keep it cool and prevent moisture.

If your BBQ is fuelled by gas do not store it inside. a house, garage or shed. If your gas tank were to leak, a buildup of gas in a house, garage or shed could be extremely dangerous even lethal. Instead, store them outside in a sheltered spot upright and on a level surface. Keep gas bottles away from doors, windows and direct heat.

'If your barbeque runs off propane, make sure to remove the tank from your BBQ before moving it into an indoor location, as you should never store propane tanks indoors,' agrees Craig Wilson from Gardeners Dream.

A clean and well stored BBQ will be ready to use every time. But, did you know there are some areas of your outdoor space where you shouldn't cook? Before you spark up be sure to check out the worst places to put a BBQ in a garden.

Is it okay to store a BBQ outside all year?

'If you don’t have the option to store your BBQ inside, then leaving it outside is ok too. Where you can, move it to somewhere that will shelter it as much as possible from the elements, such as an alley to the side of the house, or beneath a pergola,' advises Craig Wilson, gardening expert at Gardeners Dream.

'I would also highly recommend purchasing a BBQ cover, for some extra protection from rain and direct sunlight.'

Is it okay to store a BBQ outside all year?

“If you don’t have the option to store your BBQ inside, then leaving it outside is ok too. Where you can, move it to somewhere that will shelter it as much as possible from the elements, such as an alley to the side of the house, or beneath a pergola," advises Craig Wilson from Gardeners Dream.

'I would also highly recommend purchasing a BBQ cover, for some extra protection from rain and direct sunlight.'

Let’s be honest; egg BBQs are having a real moment. All you have to do is scroll through social media to see professional chefs, influencers, and celebrities firing up their egg-shaped grills. But if you want to join the club, there are some things the experts want you to know before buying an egg BBQ.

Yes, while the best BBQs come in so many different shapes and forms, egg BBQs are becoming increasingly popular. And while it’s worth your time to weigh up the Big Green Egg vs Kamado Joe debate (i.e. the two biggest names in the egg BBQ world), it’s also worth understanding the pros and cons of these grills.

After all, egg BBQs don’t suit everyone. And when you’re paying a premium price for a premium product, you must choose something that will suit you, your needs, and your budget. So, this is everything you should know before buying an egg BBQ.

1. They’re very versatile

While there are some definite downsides you need to consider before buying an egg BBQ, we thought we’d start with a positive - and that’s the fact that egg BBQs are extremely versatile. In fact, that’s the reason why so many professional chefs use them.

Dennis Littley, a fine-dining chef and owner of askchefdennis.com, says, ‘I personally love the versatility of egg BBQs, like the Big Green Egg. These grills can do it all: grill, smoke, bake, and even act as an oven. Whether you’re searing steaks, smoking brisket, baking pizza, or roasting vegetables, an egg BBQ can handle it. It’s like having an entire outdoor kitchen in one unit.’

This can definitely work in your favour if you’re looking to build an outdoor kitchen but can’t quite afford a BBQ and one of the best pizza ovens at the same time. With an egg BBQ on its own, you can cook it all.

Of course, if you’re someone who wants to cook up the odd sausage and leave it at that, an egg BBQ may be a bit too much of a BBQ for you. But that’s for you to decide.

2. They can be fiddly

Thanks to their ceramic construction, egg BBQs are famed for their heat retention, heat distribution, and overall cooking quality. This is largely due to the BBQ's overall design but also because of the various air vents that can be opened and closed depending on your cooking requirements.

And while you can certainly take advantage of that when you’ve mastered the art of using an egg BBQ, you first need to that point - which can take a while.

Dennis says, ‘Just be prepared for a bit of a learning curve as you get the hang of adjusting the vents to regulate airflow and temperature.’

So, if you choose to buy an egg BBQ, give it a few tries before making up your mind about your product, and always use a meat thermometer to ensure everything is fully cooked before eating.

3. They can be expensive

Egg BBQs are considered to be the cream of the crop, which is why they’re also some of the most expensive options on the market.

Brian George, AKA The GrillMaster, in association with National BBQ Week, echoes this. He says, ‘Probably the biggest barrier to purchase is that cost. Pretty much without exception, they are expensive, normally starting at a minimum of £500+ and rising to over £2.5k.’

In fact, the Big Green Egg Large from John Lewis (which is generally considered to be the best Big Green Egg on the market) comes in at just under £2,000.

However, it’s fair to say that this isn’t always the case - and there are always deals to be had if you look hard enough. Personally, I purchased the Ceramic Carbon Oven from Wilko when Thea Babbington-Sitt, the Ideal Home Managing Editor, spotted that it was heavily discounted. And that set me back just £74.99, which was an absolute steal.

While I'm sure it's not as good as the bigger and more expensive brands out there, it does the job for me and my veggie burgers. And it's pretty fun to use.

4. The cooking space can be limited

Although some people love the egg shape of an egg BBQ, it’s fair to say that the shape also has the potential to be a nuisance. After all, round shapes typically mean less space, especially compared to square or rectangular BBQs.

Of course, there are larger options on the market, and Dennis says, ‘Make sure you choose a size that fits your cooking needs. If you often cook for large groups, you might want to opt for a larger model.’

Just remember that the larger you go, the more expensive the egg BBQ will be. Because of this, you might want to consider one of the best gas BBQs or one of the best charcoal BBQs instead.

5. They need quality fuel

One of the perks of an egg BBQ is that you can play around with the fuel. You could use it like a charcoal BBQ, or you could use it as a wood-fired BBQ if you really wanted to. But whatever you choose, you need to make sure that it’s quality fuel.

I found this out the hard way when my husband tried to use old (and cheap) charcoal briquettes we’d bought from the supermarket on our egg BBQ. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t get them to catch, so we eventually had to head off to the garden centre and buy good-quality (and slightly more expensive) lump charcoal instead to cook our dinner.

Thankfully, we’re not alone in this, and many people have the same problem when trying to light their egg BBQ. That’s why Dennis says, ‘I’d recommend using lump charcoal with these grills. It burns hotter and cleaner than briquettes, which means better flavour and easier cleanup.’

You should also avoid using chemical fire lighters or lighter fluid for this process, too. Opt for natural firelighters instead.

6. They’re pretty heavy

Although the ceramic material and impressive construction of egg BBQs are what makes them so popular, this can also be a nightmare for those with dexterity issues. After all, egg BBQs are pretty heavy - which makes them difficult to manoeuvre.

This is echoed by Dennis, who says, ‘They can be quite heavy and fragile in terms of handling, so make sure you have a sturdy spot for it and handle with care during setup.’

In some cases, an egg BBQ may just be way too heavy to be a practical addition to your garden space. However, there are accessories you can buy to combat this. For example, you could buy this Quantfire Rolling Nest for Large Big Green Egg from Amazon - but be prepared to shell out some extra cash for these kinds of extras.

Our favourite egg BBQs

FAQs

Is an egg barbecue worth it?

If you’re a keen griller and want a high-quality product, an egg BBQ is definitely worth it. These BBQs are considered to be the best of the best, thanks to their impressive cooking qualities and versatility.

However, these grills are expensive, which is why you shouldn’t discount other non-egg BBQs on the market.

Ultimately, it all comes down to your own needs, requirements, and budget. If you’re confident that you’ll use all of the features and have wriggle room in your budget to splash the cash, we’d say that an egg BBQ is the way to go.

How long does an egg BBQ take to heat up?

Although egg BBQs aren’t as rapid as gas BBQs, they don’t take too long to heat up. First, light the charcoal (or wood chips) and keep the lid open for around 10 minutes while the flames burn.

When the flames die down, but the charcoal has caught fire, you can then close the lid and wait for the internal temperature of the BBQ to rise. This will normally take another 15 minutes.

Just remember that the quality of the fuel matters, and using poor-quality charcoal or wood can make this process even longer.

So, now you know everything you should know before buying an egg BBQ… what’s the verdict?

Quick and easy to ignite, it’s not hard to understand why gas BBQs are so popular. But before you whip out your credit card, there are a few things the experts want you to know before buying a gas BBQ.

Yes, the best BBQs come in so many different shapes and forms, but there’s no doubt that the best gas BBQs are a firm favourite among those who want to cook up their sausages or veggie burgers in record time. When you have a gas BBQ, there’s no need to wait around for the charcoal to light or battle with the wind. You can grill up a storm with the push of a button, no matter the weather.

But just as there are things you should know before buying a charcoal BBQ, there are also things you should consider before buying a gas BBQ. After all, you need to ensure it’s truly the right option for you and your family.

1. Size matters

BBQs are an investment, which is why it’s so important to choose the right one for your needs. One thing you should know before buying a gas BBQ is that size matters - especially if you have a large family and plan on using your new BBQ regularly.

The experts at Napoleon Grills suggest, ‘Choose a grill size that fits your cooking needs and available space. Consider how many guests you typically cook for. Larger grills offer more cooking area and are ideal for bigger groups, while smaller grills are sufficient for fewer people.’

But one of the perks of buying a gas BBQ is that you can often buy a bigger BBQ and localise each burner. This is echoed by the team at Napoleon Grills, who say, ‘If you have a larger grill, you can just light half of the area if grilling for fewer people.’

So, we'd say that bigger is always better.

2. There are different gas options

Dennis Littley, a fine-dining chef and owner of askchefdennis.com explains, ‘Most gas grills use propane tanks, but some can be connected to a natural gas line. You need to decide which fuel source is more convenient for you. Natural gas can be more cost-effective in the long run, but it requires a fixed location for the grill.’

Because of this, most people buy propane for their gas BBQs - like this Flogas Leisure Propane Gas Cylinder from B&Q. However, there are many things you need to consider when buying these gas canisters:

Weight: It’s important to consider the weight of the gas canister before buying a gas BBQ. These canisters often weigh anything from 6kg to 13kg, which isn’t always practical for the elderly, those with dexterity issues, and those who don’t have access to a car.

Storage: Gas canisters need to be stored upright in a safe, well-ventilated location. This can be difficult if you have limited garden storage - but shouldn’t be a problem if you have a shed or garage with a corner to spare.

The price: Gas canisters aren’t cheap, but one thing you might not realise is that you don’t necessarily need to buy new ones each time. In fact, B&Q offers a discounted refill service. But in the charcoal BBQ vs gas BBQ debate, gas is still more expensive than charcoal.

Availability: Unlike charcoal (which you can buy from supermarkets and garden centres), propane for gas BBQs is harder to come by. In some cases, this may mean that you have to have the gas for your gas BBQ delivered to your home.

3. Heat distribution is key

Gas BBQs are famed for being able to heat up quickly and efficiently, but experts urge you to consider heat distribution when buying a gas BBQ.

Dennis says, ‘BTUs (British Thermal Units) measure the heat output of the grill. While a higher BTU rating generally means more cooking power, efficient heat distribution and retention are just as important. Look for models with good reviews on even heat distribution.’

By doing this, you can maintain an even cook every time and also protect your investment. In fact, maintaining an even heat distribution can actually extend the life of your burners, prevent damage and rust, and improve the whole cooking experience.

4. You can be flexible

Many assume buying a new BBQ involves choosing one fuel type over another. But we now live in a world where fuel types are becoming more and more flexible - as seen with the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker (which our tester gave five stars in her review).

So, if you want to buy a gas BBQ but don’t want to miss out on the smoky flavour of a charcoal or wood-fired BBQ, you could opt for a more flexible option instead.

Brian George, AKA The GrillMaster, in association with National BBQ Week, says, ‘Gas grills with lava-rock beds are perfect as you can even get a charcoal smoke effect by placing wet wood chips or herb branches in a tray above the burners.’

These features will normally add a bit of money to the price tag, so it’s best to assess your budget before whipping out the credit card and decide whether gas vs pellet is best for you.

5. They require maintenance

Knowing how to clean a BBQ is key to keeping it in full working order, and how you do this differs depending on your fuel type. And while it’s important to clean a gas BBQ on a regular basis, these BBQs also require other forms of maintenance. After all, you can’t play around with gas.

Dennis says, ‘Consider the long-term maintenance required, like replacing burners and ensure that replacement parts are readily available.’

You also need to check the gas pipes and connections before every use to ensure you don’t spring a leak. If you notice something that doesn’t look quite right, it’s best to avoid lighting the gas BBQ until you’ve found and fixed the problem.

6. The materials matter

You know what they say; if you buy cheap, you buy twice. And while it’s always important to buy a gas BBQ that suits your budget, you should also avoid cheap gas BBQs that are made from poor-quality materials.

The team at Napoleon Grills say, ‘Opt for high-quality materials like stainless steel, which is durable, long-lasting, and resists ageing.’

Choosing stainless steel over a lower-quality material - like plastic, for example - can also help to maintain an even heat distribution and prevent damage. So, while the initial outlay may cost you a bit more than a cheaper gas BBQ, it’ll ultimately save you money in the long run, as it should be more durable.

7. Extra features can help

While the gas BBQ itself can provide hours of entertainment (and plate-loads of food), it’s fair to say that choosing a gas BBQ with extra features can make a huge difference. These features can not only enhance the cooking experience but also make cooking way more convenient. This is something we found during our Everdure vs Weber debate.

Brian says, ‘Modern gas grills are now so much easier and user-friendly and are perfect for both impromptu or after-work barby’s as well as for more sophisticated alfresco eating and outdoor dinner parties.’

‘They also get up to cooking speed quicker and are so much more controllable, especially the multi-burner grills or those with a hood or smoker attachment. Many gas grills now come with a rotisserie, hobs, griddle plates, or woks and warming plates.’

So, before you buy a gas BBQ, make sure you research which attachments or features you’d like to use and whether you’ll need to buy them separately. Sometimes, you can buy BBQs and accessories as part of a bundle, which should bring the price down.

Our top picks of the best gas BBQs

FAQs

What do I need for a gas barbecue?

The idea of buying a gas BBQ may seem simple enough, but there are things you need for a gas BBQ to get the most out of it:

• The BBQ itself.
• A gas canister.
• Stainless steel utensils.
• Meat thermometer.
• Fire extinguisher (just in case).
• Scrubbing brush.

Do you need to clean a gas BBQ?

Yes! It’s important to clean any BBQ, and this includes a gas BBQ. Failure to do so could damage the BBQ or lead to rust or permanent staining. Before cleaning a gas BBQ, however, you must always disconnect the gas pipe.

Then, wipe over the burners after every use, clean the grease trays, scrub any grill grates, and then give the outside a clean.

Ideally, you should then cover your gas BBQ with a specialised cover and store it in a shed or garage to maintain its cleanliness.

Now you know everything you should know before buying a gas BBQ, what’s the verdict?

When it comes to barbecuing, Masterbuilt has a name synonymous with innovation and its latest offering, the AutoIgnite Series 545, is full of fancy automated features to make cooking outdoors easier.

As someone whose other half follows the latest trends in grilling technology very closely, I couldn’t wait to review this new release in our garden.

From its auto-ignition system to the robust build quality, each of its features is designed to make outdoor culinary adventures hassle-free, whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a weekend griller.

Without further ado, I’ll take you through the features and performance of the AutoIgnite Series 545, exploring how it stands out from some of the best BBQs around.

Masterbuilt AutoIgnite Series 545 product specs

• Type: Charcoal
• Dimensions: W118cm x H111cm x D61cm
• Cooking Dimensions: 3516 cm2
• Weight: 59kg
• Colours: Black body
• Temperature Indicators: LCD
• Temperature Range: from 120 - 345°C
• Features: QuickStart Automatic Ignition, Internal charcoal MiniHopper, WiFi technology, DigitalFan™, Masterbuilt App, Enclosed bottom cabinet for storage, Removable ash pan, 2 side shelves
• Accessories Included: Warming rack, Removable QuickSear™ griddle

How I tested

Unboxing, assembly and first impressions 

The barbecue was delivered in a large cardboard box on a wooden pallet. The box was bulky and heavy and needed 2 people to carry. The packaging was robust with internal cardboard boxes and polystyrene to prevent damage. There were lots of small parts in different packages, which needed to be sorted and organised before assembly.

The set-up was in a word; complicated. I’d say altogether it took me about 3 hours to assemble fully. The body of the grill unit is completely separate, so you need to attach legs, handles grill rack, firebox control unit and shelves, however, I will say the assembly instructions were excellent, with step-by-step images for each stage.

One problem I did find was that the location of some of the bolts made it awkward to place the screw, then position the screwdriver to tighten it up. I built this barbecue by myself, but if doing it again I would make sure I had a helper for some of the more awkward steps.

The setup and seasoning were pretty straightforward. Once the assembly was completed the initial heat up and seasoning of the grills was easy, and it was ready to cook the same day. Setting up the Wi-Fi and installing the app was simple too.

What is it like to use?

This grill is not a traditional charcoal grill layout, with grate and coals below the grill. There is a firebox to the right of the grill and this is loaded with charcoal and smoke wood chunks (if desired).

The firebox is lit from below by the igniter function, then the onboard fan moves air over the coals to circulate heat (and smoke) and uses changing airflow to control the temperature.

I was really impressed with how quickly the grill reached the smoking temperature and how accurately the control system maintained the set temperature. We did several long smokes of ribs, brisket and pork shoulder and they all turned out great.

They needed very little checking, and I was able to monitor grill and meat probe temperature remotely using the Masterbuilt app on my phone.

The smoked meats turned out great, and you really noticed the benefit of a well-controlled constant temperature compared to other smokers in the tenderness and moistness of the meat.

Another plus is that this is a very efficient smoker and it only requires a few kilograms of charcoal for a four to five-hour smoke, as well as a few large chunks of smoke wood.

When operating as a grill for steaks, chicken or burgers it performed well too. Because the coals aren’t directly below the grill you need to wait to get the cast iron grill up to temperature and you will get really nice grill marks on your meat.

Just remember to close the grill lid.

On the downside this grill requires a mains connection to operate, so if you haven’t got an outdoor socket you will need to trail an extension lead out the door or window.

Also, I had some problems with the Wi-Fi connection dropping in and out. It doesn’t come supplied with a cover, so unless you are storing it indoors, you will definitely need one.

Due to the shape of the grill and shelves you need to get the Masterbuilt cover, available at places like Appliances Direct, which are specifically designed for these grills.

What's it like to clean?

Cleaning is easy. The fix box method makes sure almost all coals are burnt down to ash, so you just need to remove the ash drawer once cooled and dump the ashes.

The cast iron grills can be scraped with a wire brush after cooks, and if desired are small and light enough to be removed and washed in the sink or dishwasher.

How does it compare to similar BBQs?

Compared to other smokers the Masterbuilt is so simple to use and gets up to temperature super fast. You might notice slightly less smoke flavour compared to using a Kamado or offset smoker like the CharBroil Professional 3400.

As a grill, it is as good as most charcoal barbecues. Its reliable temperature control and the offset firebox mean there is less risk of burning when grilling.

Should you buy the Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545?

Overall, the Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 is a great smoker and functions well as a grill too.

It is easy to use and clean and the automated temperature control, meat probes and remote monitoring are great for managing long cooks without having to constantly check the grill.

On the downside, the initial assembly and set-up was a project in itself, and the Wi-Fi was unreliable with connections dropping in and out. And if you are storing outdoors you really need to buy the Masterbuilt cover to go with it as it sadly doesn't come included.

We've all been a bit slow to get started with summer this year thanks, in no small part, to the uncooperative weather, so it wouldn't be a surprise if you haven't yet got your BBQ sorted.

If you're ready to go and find the best BBQ for you, then it would be well worth your time to bear in mind that the Ceramic Carbon Oven from Wilko is currently reduced to £74.99. Since it typically retails at £159.99, that means you'll get a hefty £85 off if you buy while this deal is live and kicking.

Even without the discount, this BBQ would have no doubt jumped out at us, as this might well be the cheapest egg BBQ we've seen and it's got serious Big Green Egg vibes.

The Wilko Kamado BBQ deal

This steal of a BBQ is a budget-friendly dupe of the Minimax Big Green Egg, which currently goes for £820. That means this option is an incredible £745 cheaper right now.

The Wilko Kamado BBQ is the ideal solution for adding this icon style of the best charcoal BBQs to your space, especially if you're working with a small garden thanks to its compact dimensions.

It's got a built-in thermometer to help you control the temperature within as well as check on what you're cooking, whether you're using it to grill, sear, roast or even slow cook. Plus, you don't have to use charcoal, as it can also run on other fuels including wood chops and pellets.

The versatility of how the BBQ can cook means that this is unlikely to be put away after the summer. The cult Kamados are known for being used year-round and favoured by chefs and celebs alike, with names such as Tom Kerridge and David Beckham all known for their love of the Big Green Egg.

Plus, as it can take such a wide variety of fuels (which can all help imbue your dishes with different flavours, dontcha know), it'll be a lot harder to be stuck with no options, unlike when you've run out of canisters for your best gas BBQ. Not to mention that if budget's on your mind, you can use whichever compatible fuel is currently going for cheapest. That's a big win.

While we haven't tested it ourselves, the Wilko Kamado BBQ has specs and visuals match up pretty closely with the LANDMANN GillChef Mini Kamado that we loved.

The LANDMANN was tested by our BBQ expert, Molly Cleary. 'This BBQ is a total bargain and for the price, I'd recommend anyone looking for a smaller Kamado-style BBQ on a budget to invest,' she said. And that was with it being £10 more expensive than the Wilko option would be at full price.

If you had been swayed by the LANDMANN then you wouldn't be in luck as it's currently sold out with no return date announced, so a trip to Wilko will be your best bet for the season ahead. And if it is a soggy summer? Pfft, when has that stopped Brits from a good ol' BBQ anyway?!

The Great British Summer is never a sure bet, which is why a certain buy, Tower's Indoor Outdoor BBQ, is causing quite the commotion among shoppers. This electric design is not only pretty chic in its design but it rivals some of the best BBQs out there with its versatility, and it's getting snapped up online left, right and centre.

While the offering from Tower functions as an outdoor BBQ in its full form, you can also remove the legs, meaning that you can also use the top part as an indoor grill to cook up a gorgeous spread without relying on the weather.

We've delved into the rise in popularity of balcony-friendly BBQs of late, particularly looking at the Ninja Woodfire vs the Weber Lumin, both of which we've tested, but the Tower Indoor Outdoor BBQ bests them both by miles when looking solely at the affordability category. But is it worth your cash?

Tower Electric Indoor & Outdoor Health BBQ

The design of this Tower BBQ is the opposite of what you envision when it comes to a standalone outdoor cooking unit. It weighs in at 11kg, and you can dismantle and reassemble it easily, according to the brand, so could be a good option for camping trips.

Though we haven't tested the Tower Indoor Outdoor BBQ just yet, the non-stick top plate does remind us of a tried and tested favourite indoor grill of ours, the Ninja Sizzle. Like the Sizzle, this BBQ is sure to be an option for health-conscious people, as excess fat runs away from the food as it grills. As an extra bonus, this allows you to grill up chicken or a protein alternative indoors without the risk of setting off your fire alarm.

Another element of this BBQ which makes it seem pretty user-friendly is the obvious fact that it runs on electricity. It makes setting up for a garden party foolproof, as long as you have an extension cord long enough to run outside.

We've tested other Tower BBQs, including one that we rated as one of the best charcoal BBQs, which is detailed in our Tower Kamado Maxi Charcoal BBQ review and sometimes referred to as a more affordable alternative to the famed Big Green Egg BBQ.

This electric grill seems to be just the latest in Tower's range of affordable alternatives to big-name BBQs, which means that we can't wait to test it for ourselves and see how it performs. After all, you always need a rain-proof backup during a British summer!

David Beckham's Cotswolds farmhouse has become somewhat of an obsession for the Ideal Home team.

But it's not just his beautiful garden and timely gardening hacks we've fallen in love with in the sneak peeks we've had on his Instagram. We're all over the latest addition Beckham has been showing off in his garden - the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker.

We think that this particular version of the best BBQs, which we awarded 5 stars in our Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker review, is set to be the buy of the summer. And now it's got the David Beckham seal of approval too. The best bit? It's also currently on sale with a whopping 45% off.

David Beckham Ninja ambassador

Beckham's endorsement of the BBQ came as he was announced as the new Global Brand Ambassador for Ninja , which has accumulated a huge following in the last few years due to the popularity of the best Ninja air fryers.

Known as a keen chef, in the role Beckham will be showcasing all of the user-friendly elements of Ninja's product range, starting with the Ninja Woodfire. He used the BBQ over the weekend on his Instagram stories to grill up a lunch of Italian sausages, mushrooms, tomatoes and asparagus.

During our review of the Ninja Woodfire, our reviewer found that the BBQ 'makes delicious barbecued vegetables quickly', as well as being a speedy way to grill meat. That's something that David Beckham could only agree with as he remarked on the quick heat up and impressive '10 minute' cooking time of this electric grill.

There are a few different models in the Ninja Woodfire range, but all of them incorporate air frying, making this a world first garden air fryer, and therfore perfect for when you need to cater to a crowd in a pinch.

The exact model Beckham is using is the Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect (available for £449.99 from Ninja) which even allows users to sync the use of this grill with their phones, a handy feature for those who want to do more precise cooking.

Whether you're a Ninja obsessive already or if you fancy trying out the Woodfire off the back of David Beckham's recommendation, one thing we know after testing pretty much every Ninja product on the market is that once you've got one, you'll want the whole collection. All that's left to do now is decide what you'll be grilling up.

There’s something about grilling sausages and burgers over lumps of flaming charcoal that makes people happy. But whether you want to revert to your primitive roots or you’re just hungry for a flame-grilled burger (with all of the trimmings, of course), there are some things you need to know before buying a charcoal BBQ.

Yes, the best BBQs come in so many shapes and forms, but we’d be lying if we said that the best charcoal BBQs didn’t have a special place in our hearts. The flavours from cooking over charcoal are unmatched, and these BBQs can cook everything from beef burgers to vegetable kebabs with ease.

And while you could simply buy a charcoal BBQ and fire things up as soon as possible, doing your research and choosing the right charcoal BBQ will make a huge difference to your barbecuing experience. Plus, knowing how to properly use it will make your food taste even better.

5 things you should know before buying a charcoal BBQ

The best gas BBQs are all worthwhile additions to a garden, but there’s nothing quite like the flame-grilled taste of barbecued food. The best charcoal BBQs can obviously help with that, but there are some things you should consider before splashing the cash and investing in this outdoor kitchen essential.

And if you're leaning more towards an egg-style charcoal BBQ, you can also check out our guide on the 6 things experts want you to know before buying an egg BBQ.

1. Size matters

With so many charcoal BBQs on the market, it can be easy to choose a charcoal BBQ based on looks alone. And while aesthetics is certainly important to some people, looks should be fairly low down on your priority list. Instead, you should focus your attention on choosing the right size - as this can help you determine the type of charcoal BBQ you need.

Hilary Anderson, BBQ expert at @BBQlads and Char-Broil BBQ’s brand ambassador, explains, ‘For small spaces, a kettle-style BBQ is a clear winner.'

'Light and portable, a kettle will support most of your BBQ styles and are easy to clean. Look for a style that has an ash basket, temperature gauge, ways to arrange the charcoal for direct and indirect cooking - and most importantly, a quality lid to close whilst cooking.’

‘For families, choose a barrel or cart style that has a good cooking area large enough to cook for family and friends. Look for models with two tiers to allow you to remove food from direct contact with the heat but will keep warm. A temperature gauge and lid is a must to produce the best results.’

Of course, you should also consider the size of your garden or outdoor kitchen when buying a charcoal BBQ. It’s essential to place your charcoal BBQ on a flat surface that’s well away from your house, any nearby trees or greenery, and fences. After all, you don’t want to (quite literally) play with fire.

2. The key is cooking to temperature

When you cook food in the oven or air fryer, you typically cook the food according to the timings on the packaging. However, cooking is a little different on a charcoal BBQ.

As Lawrie Chandler of Bison Hill explains, ‘The key to barbecuing is cooking to temperature, not time.’ Because of this, you need to make sure that you buy a charcoal BBQ that is equipped to reach these temperatures.

Lawrie says, ‘Ensure you get a BBQ with a lid. This will allow you to use more cooking styles, such as indirect or using the BBQ as an oven. No one wants food that is burnt on the outside and raw in the middle.’

But that’s not all. Although a lid is essential, there are also other features of a charcoal BBQ that are non-negotiables.

‘Ensure there are air vents on the top and bottom,’ Lawrie adds. ‘This allows for heat convection, and you can close the vents to reduce the amount of air getting through the bottom to create a lower temperature.’

‘An open-air vent at the top creates an air current for smoke to infuse the food. If cooking on indirect heat (not directly over the heat), then having the lid air vent open on the side above the food allows for smoke to be directed to come over and out above the food. That creates awesome taste and the killer difference to a gas BBQ.’

3. Don’t underestimate the power of charcoal

Although you may need a helping hand to light a charcoal BBQ, you need to buy the charcoal before you do that - and this is something you shouldn’t take lightly.

Speaking as part of National BBQ Week, Brian George, President of the National BBQ Association, explains, ‘BBQ purists would argue that you can only get true BBQ taste from charcoal which adds flavour and depth to food, whereas gas simply cooks. Certainly, charcoal offers a smoky style, which can be enhanced by adding wood chips.’

Choosing the right charcoal won’t just improve the taste of your food, though. It’s also considered to be healthier, safer, and much more ethical.

In fact, Chef Mark Hartstone from La Fosse at Cranborne explains, ‘We are exceedingly lucky that La Fosse at Cranborne has many traditionally managed coppice woods close by. They’re managed for conservation and offer a constant supply of wood for our heating and charcoal for us to cook on. Ethically, it is the best, but it also imbues a delicious flavour into our cooking.’

He adds, ‘So, the long and short is to ensure you have a great local source of charcoal. It’s fun to make your own, but this is obviously not always feasible!’

But even if you can’t make your own, you should always try to buy sustainably-produced charcoal that’s Forestry Commission-approved and free from accelerants.

4. Look out for added extras

A charcoal BBQ on its own is a great addition to your outside space, but if you want to make the most out of sunny summer evenings, you might want to look out for added extras - such as specific features and BBQ accessories.

Liam Glennon, Senior Buyer at VonHaus, suggests, ‘If you plan on taking your charcoal BBQ on the go, consider the portability of the grill. Look for a lightweight and compact design that is easy to transport and set up. Some models even come with wheels for added mobility.’

Of course, you should also consider cleaning when choosing a charcoal BBQ and look to see if your desired charcoal BBQ comes with any features to help with that. ‘Some models come with removable ash pans or trays for easy cleaning,’ Liam adds.

But that’s not all. After years of cooking on open flames, Lawrie from Bison Hill also swears by BBQ accessories. He says, ‘Most BBQs come with a grate only. Get a cast iron pan or flat cooking plate to allow for cooking vegetables and smash burgers that do better cooking on a flat surface.’

5. The price will reflect the quality

At Ideal Home, we’re all about getting the most bang for your buck - and we never want anyone to pay more than they have to. But there’s a difference between paying more than you have to and shelling out a little more for a high-quality product. And when it comes to charcoal BBQs, the price really will reflect the quality.

As Louise Perry-Warnes from Flames & Feasts explains, ‘Buy cheap, buy twice. A BBQ is an investment, and the supermarket or online knockoffs are definitely something to steer away from as they are not designed to last or keep heat in well.’

In fact, this is something that Marcus Bawdon, owner of UK BBQ School, knows for himself. He says, ‘A good quality charcoal BBQ such as a Weber 57 kettle will last you many years, I have a portable go-anywhere BBQ from 1981 that I still regularly cook on.’

This doesn’t mean that you have to overspend and take out a second mortgage when buying a charcoal BBQ, though. Liam says, ‘Prices can vary greatly depending on the size, material, and features of the grill. Set a budget and stick to it while shopping around for the perfect charcoal BBQ.’

The best charcoal BBQs - our top picks

FAQs

How to choose a charcoal barbecue?

Although looks can certainly play a part in your buying decision, you should also choose a charcoal BBQ by its size and features.

You want to make sure that the charcoal BBQ suits your family and your garden and is equipped with all of the vents and lids needed to cook your food perfectly. After all, charcoal barbecuing is all about cooking to temperature rather than abiding by cooking times.

You should also consider the price. Although charcoal BBQs can be cheaper than gas alternatives, you should avoid products that look too cheap. Do your research, come up with an affordable but appropriate budget, and opt for a high-quality charcoal BBQ when you can.

What is the best charcoal to buy for BBQ?

Opt for high-quality, natural, ethical options when buying charcoal for a BBQ, like this Marienburg Organic restaurant-grade charcoal from Amazon. This will provide a wonderful taste while also being quick to light.

You should also avoid any charcoal that has added accelerants or chemicals, as you don’t want this stuff around your home, your family, or your food.

Now you’ve considered what the experts want you to know before buying a charcoal BBQ, are you ready to buy one?

If you're choosing between the Ninja Woodfire Oven vs the Ninja Woodfire BBQ, we'd say you've got a tough call on your hands.

These Ninja versions of the best BBQ and best pizza oven have proved just as popular as the brand's air fryers, and each has features that make cooking outside a breeze.

If you're struggling to decide, the good news is this: we've tried both in our Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven review and our Ninja Woodfire BBQ review, and we can tell you exactly which one you should buy.

Yep, we'll be breaking down the functions and the need-to-know information of these new releases so that you can work out which will suit your garden best. Or you could even go the whole hog and get both...

Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven vs Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ & Smoker 

Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven vs Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ: The basics

The first thing to know is these are both electric appliances kitted out for the outdoors. Both feature RCD plugs (to prevent electric shocks), are protected from the elements and can be kept outside. You can buy covers for both if you want to keep them looking pristine.

The Ninja Woodfire BBQ was the first of these two products released in the UK, hitting the shelves in the spring of last year. It was a sell-out success, with John Lewis reporting in April 2023 that the number of people searching for this particular BBQ was up +136% following the month it was first available.

Ninja now claims it is the UK's best-selling electric BBQ, a factor we covered when we delved into the differences between the Ninja Woodfire and the Weber Lumin.

The Ninja Woodfire is an electric BBQ with a difference, thanks to its ability to air fry. It also features a smoker element that users can fill with pellets to create an artificial smokiness.

The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven came later, with a release date at the end of 2023 and caters to a different outdoor activity entirely: pizza making.

With a maximum temperature of 370°C, it's capable of crisping pizzas to perfection but also has settings and space to allow you to roast large joints of meat and even bake cakes or brownies inside, which our reviewer tried to great effect.

Price-wise, you'll find another similarity between these two Ninjas, with a shared RRP of £349.99. At the time of writing, both are part of Ninja's spring sale, with the Woodfire Oven now available for £299.99 and the Woodfire BBQ now available for £279.99. Bargain prices, just in time for the bank holiday weekend.

Ninja Woodfire BBQ vs Oven: Design

The Woodfire BBQ is an interesting-looking appliance, with a large domed lid. Inside the lid is the air fryer cooking element that makes it unique for outdoor use, a feature I haven't seen on any other BBQ. You also receive a dedicated air fry basket, so you can use the Woodfire just as you would one of the best Ninja air fryers.

The standard Woodfire has a good sized grill plate (28cm x 38cm), which can fit 8 burgers, 16 sausages or a 2kg pork shoulder. If that doesn't sound large enough, you can size up to the Ninja Woodfire XL, a product we're currently reviewing, which has an RRP of £399.99.

As with all Ninja appliances, this BBQ has easy-to-use controls, so you can easily switch between functions and set the temperature. The LED panel lets you know when the appliance is at the optimal temperature to start cooking.

Another genius feature of the Woodfire BBQ is the integrated smoke box attached to the side. Simply feed flavoured wood pellets into the box and the convection fan inside the BBQ will then circulate the aromas and flavour you know and love from cooking on a charcoal BBQ.

Not only did our reviewer find the smoky flavour impressive when she tried it, but she was also impressed at how this process can cut down the time needed to smoke a joint of meat, taking it from her usual time of 10 hours down to just five.

Happily, the smoker element from the Woodfire BBQ is something it has in common with the Woodfire Oven. Using the same smoker box design, Ninja has engineered it so that you can inject wood-fired flavour into the pizzas you can create with this oven, for that authentic flame grilled taste.

Our expert reviewer and home economist Helen McCue was seriously impressed by the pellet system with the Ninja oven and was amazed by how few pellets you need to create a smoky taste. She also loved how the pellets were fired automatically.

She found using the Woodfire Oven and the pellet system to be straightforward, producing a great result, even on her first try.

Largely, that's where the design similarities with these appliances end. The Woodfire Oven lacks the air fryer feature that the BBQ has, but most certainly makes up for it with its ability to function as an outdoor oven.

Our reviewer Helen loved using the bake function to cook salmon fillets to perfection and even roasted an entire chicken in the oven thanks to the spacious design.

Both are fairly large appliances, and heavy too, weighing in at 12kg each. Thanks to the electric designs, however, they are both balcony-friendly, so even if you're lacking a garden, you can enjoy what the Ninja Woodfire range has to offer.

Ninja Woodfire BBQ vs Oven: Cooking

Now for the important part - what kind of cooking results can you achieve with these appliances? Let's start with the air frying function on the Ninja Woodfire BBQ, which sets it apart from competitors.

Our reviewer found that the Woodfire BBQ took just two minutes to preheat to 200°C on the air fryer setting, and reported that the cooking time for her cheddar and chive scones was cut down from 15 minutes to just 6 minutes on the air frying mode.

The resulting scones were 'fluffy and moist on the inside but also extra crispy on the outside', with our reviewer saying the results were far better than she had previously achieved in a normal oven.

The quick air frying times of the Ninja Woodfire means that it's perfect for entertaining in the summer, especially if you're catering to a crowd and want chips or a side of potatoes to accompany your BBQ selection.

Our expert reviewer also found the results using the grill function on the Woodfire BBQ impressive, saying that the appliance 'provides all of the crispy skin and flavour benefits of a traditional gas BBQ without the long preheating time and cook time or temperature guesswork.'

The Ninja Woodfire Oven similarly impressed during our testing process, this time with its pizza-making prowess. Our reviewer Helen trialled an array of pizzas, finding that the oven took just 16 minutes to preheat and stayed at optimal temperature between different cooking sessions.

Not only was our reviewer blown away by the quality of the pizza function, but she also tried making brownies using the bake setting to great effect, saying that the results had the perfect 'chewy, fudgy texture'.

All in all then, our reviewers were maximally impressed by the cooking results of the Ninja Woodfire BBQ and Oven.

If the outdoor air frying function is what appeals to you, then the Woodfire BBQ won't disappoint, but if pizza making is higher on your agenda, then it might be worth sacrificing it for the functionality of the Woodfire Oven.

Ninja Woodfire BBQ vs Oven: Which should you buy?

Either of these appliances is perfect for entry-level use, so even if you're starting out with outdoor cooking, you'll have success.

The dealbreaker here is whether you'd prefer to stick with a traditional BBQ and gain the fantastic air fryer function, or whether you want to branch out with the oven and try your hand at making pizzas.

As Ideal Home's Kitchen Appliances Editor, I'm most tempted by the Ninja Woodfire BBQ for the outdoor air frying function alone. As the chef in my family, it would help to have the air frying function to speed up the last bits of a BBQ and get everything plated on the table.

Ultimately, until they combine the functionality of these appliances into one do-it-all Woodfire (please, Ninja?), it's certainly a tough choice to make. Whichever you decide on, there's no doubt your garden is about to get one hell of an upgrade.

Nothing beats the flavour of food grilled on a charcoal BBQ – it's the surest way to cook authentic flame-grilled dishes. If you're looking for the best charcoal BBQ for maximum taste and versatility, you've come to the right place.

When we're searching for the best BBQ for our gardens, it comes down to two choices: the best gas BBQs offer speedy grilling, while charcoal BBQs are well-loved for the signature smoked flavour they bring to meals.

Our expert reviewer and home economist, Helen McCue, has tried and tested the best charcoal BBQs from leading brands like Weber and Char-Broil to help you choose the best BBQ for your space. We've covered our favourite budget options, tabletop models and more to narrow down the top performers for every garden size, with notes on performance, ease of use and cooking ability.

Best charcoal BBQ - the quick list

Best charcoal BBQ overall

When we think of charcoal BBQs here at Ideal Home, our minds go straight to the Weber Original Kettle, which is as much an affordable product as it is a quality one. The type of kettle grill style was made popular by Weber way back in 1952, and quickly became a staple in the US.

But this classic grill would be equally at home here in a UK garden, with a practical design that has a space to store everything neatly onboard, as well as a big enough grate to cater to a family. And if the Original Kettle E4710 isn't big enough, you can always size up in the range.

Our expert tester, Helen, thinks that this is simply the ideal choice for 2 to 4 people, and an elite entry-level option if you're new to charcoal grilling outside of disposable BBQs. The set-up couldn't be easier, and our reviewer had great success cooking vegetable skewers, halloumi, sausages, veg, and roasting an entire chicken with plenty of room to spare. The process for removing ash is also made easy thanks to the design, and if you've ever encountered someone who owns a Weber Kettle, you'll know they last in a garden for an absolute age.

Our Weber Original Kettle review has the full details.

Best charcoal bbq under £100

A BBQ under £100 can save you from the perils (and the environmental impacts) of disposable BBQs for good, and we can't think of a better one than the Weber Smokey Joe. It's a more compact version of the Original Kettle, and certain models come equipped with carry handles too, to allow you to take this grill to the beach or the park on a day trip.

Even though it's super compact, the size of the cooking grate with this BBQ might surprise you, with enough space for Helen to grill up plenty of sausages on it, as well as ample skewers and chicken thighs. As with the Original Kettle, the cooking capability of this BBQ is excellent, and you can cook with direct and indirect heat easily.

Our Weber Smokey Joe BBQ review has the full details.

Best large charcoal BBQ

This BBQ is not only a great large charcoal grill choice, but can also double up as the best charcoal BBQ and smoker if that's what you're looking for, with the option to add an attachment.

Helen thinks this is the charcoal BBQ to get your hands on if you want to host big outdoor soirees this summer, thanks to the huge grill size and the extra space for food prep, as well as storage. Though it's a little unwieldy, Helen found it was actually pretty straightforward to fit together, and she completed the assembly by herself in 50 minutes.

The small features, such as the built-in thermometer and the adjustable chimney go a long way into making this feel like a quality BBQ, and the charcoal grate itself can be adjusted for precise cooking. During one test, Helen cooked four corn on the cobs, four vegetable skewers, four chicken breasts and a whole block of halloumi at once, and found there was still plenty of space left over. It's also an easy BBQ to clean, and therefore will do just the trick if you want to entertain a crowd this summer.

Our Char-Broil Charcoal L BBQ review has the full details.

Best tabletop charcoal BBQ

The Everdure Cube, much like its sister BBQ the Everdure Force, has a design which will wow you, with every tiny detail thought out wonderfully. This compact tabletop BBQ is an all-in-one delight, with a bamboo prep board, a food storage tray and a grate that can fit up to 6 small burgers at a time.

During testing, we found that the Cube retained heat exceptionally well and can be used for quite a few hours at a time, meaning that even though it's a tabletop design, it can cater to a fair few people. Every time Helen used it, she found that it was still hot three hours after lighting it. If you're sitting outside for the evening, that makes it a great ad-hoc heat source!

You can't smoke with the Cube, and there isn't a lid that you can pop on the BBQ while it's hot, which some might find limiting. You also can't store it outside, and in the rainy British weather, this did pose some problems for Helen. On the whole, though, this is a solidly stylish, reliable little BBQ that will make tabletop grilling easy.

Our Everdure Cube review has the full details.

Best charcoal BBQ and fire pit

Those who love camping and caravaning, or are simply looking to double up on a BBQ and fire pit combo, will love the functionality of the Wave, which has a slim design to make it easy to travel with and space for two people to enjoy an outdoor meal. It features a large cooking grate and is the perfect height for those who want to warm themselves in their camping chairs around a fire pit.

Helen found it could fit four burgers comfortably and tried lamb chops, halloumi and a range of chargrilled veg on the surface too. She thought the results were great and loved the added extra of the built-in bottle opener.

On the whole, this is a space-saving wonder if you usually spend your summers on the go. It's a great extra to cram into your car or caravan, and the fire pit element makes it a worthwhile buy, too. Though it's not ideal for the park or the beach, you'll definitely be grateful for giving it a spot in your car when you pack for your holidays.

Our Wave Hex BBQ review has the full details.

How we tested these charcoal BBQs

We tested all of these charcoal BBQs following our in-house testing protocol to make sure we're giving you the most reliable notes on each grill.

We follow guidelines for testing BBQs and standardise the foods we use, applying the same methodology across tests. For example, we've cooked sausages, skewers and chicken on the grills we've tested.

Plus, each of the above grills was tested by our expert freelancer and home economist, Helen McCue, to ensure that they've been tried out fairly, and in comparison to each other.

How to choose the best charcoal BBQ for you

There are a few things you need to know before you buy a charcoal BBQ, and part of the process is finding the best charcoal BBQ for your space and grilling requirements.

Here are the key considerations you'll need to keep in mind.

• Size and capacity: Charcoal BBQs vary in size and capacity, so before you buy one, you'll need to work out how many people you'll be cooking for. A kettle grill is suitable for smaller families and spaces, for example, whereas a barrel or cart charcoal BBQ is usually larger, perfect for catering to bigger groups. A portable tabletop model, on the other hand, is ideal for balconies, smaller courtyards or even a camping trip.
• Features: Some charcoal BBQs come with a lid or hood with air vents, which allow you to control the temperature of the food you're cooking. Better still, many models include a built-in temperature gauge, which allows you to monitor your cooking with precision. A lot of grills come with cooking grates, too, and an ash collection system, which makes the unit easier to clean after cooking.
• Material and durability: Charcoal BBQs are made from a range of materials, but among the most common are steel, vitreous enamel, cast iron, ceramic and porcelain. The best combination of materials tends to be stainless steel cooking grates for durability and rust resistance, and a ceramic bowl for heat retention, longevity and ease of cleaning. A lot of the best pizza ovens are designed that way, too.

Types of charcoal BBQ

• Kettle grills: The classic charcoal grill shape, rounded and great at direct and indirect cooking. Kettle grills are usually portable and easy to clean, too.
• Barrel/cart grills: Larger and often rectangular, perfect for families, thanks to a larger cooking area. A lot of models come with shelves to aid food preparation.
• Kamado grills (ceramic smokers): Egg-shaped with a thick ceramic construction for top-notch heat retention and precise temperature control. These grills are usually more expensive, but they're really versatile; they're perfect for smoking, baking and high-heat searing.
• Portable/tabletop grills: Ideal if you'll be cooking on the go or on a balcony, owing to their compact and lightweight design.

Charcoal BBQ fuel types

There are a few different types of charcoal BBQ fuel, and knowing when your charcoal is ready to cook on will depend on the one you're using. Lump charcoal and briquettes are the two top contenders.

'Lump charcoal is a solid choice for those in the pursuit of flavour,' says Liam Glennon, senior buyer at Vonhaus. 'It imparts a distinct, smoky flavour to your food when cooking on a charcoal grill, which enhances the natural taste of your grilled goods.'

It can be more expensive, though, and more difficult to control the temperature and cook food through consistently. If you'll be cooking for longer periods of time, briquettes are a great alternative.

'Briquettes burn far more consistently than lump charcoal and for a longer duration, making them ideal for slow cooking and smoking,' says Liam. 'While they may not offer the same smoky depth of flavour as lump charcoal, their ease-of-use makes them a summer-long staple for casual grillers and BBQ aficionados alike.'

Of course, you'll need to know how to light a charcoal BBQ properly for the best results.

Charcoal BBQ sorted? If you'll be eating outdoors on chillier evenings, it's worth investing in one of the best patio heaters on the market, too.

When it comes to charcoal barbecues, it’s easy to assume that apart from obvious differences like size and shape, they’re all pretty much the same. But investing in one of the best BBQs is worth considering if you regularly like to cook outdoors. Particularly if you want to produce something better than a burnt sausage.

The Char-Broil Charcoal L isn’t exactly cheap, but then again, it’s nowhere near as pricey as some BBQs on the market. It’s a big spacious BBQ that’s capable of cooking for upwards of six people. It’s got serious features like an adjustable height charcoal grate, as well as more playful elements like the built-in bottle opener.

Give me a charcoal BBQ over a gas BBQ any day, I much prefer to cook on charcoal if I’m going to make the effort to cook outdoors. And while this big entertaining size BBQ is a tad too big for my own two person household, I was more than happy to invite some friends over and give it a good try.

Char-Broil Charcoal L BBQ product specs

• Fuel type: charcoal
• Materials: porcelain enamelled cast iron cooking grate
• Dimensions: 130.9 x 132.8 x 77.4cm 
• Cooking area dimensions: 70 x 49.5cm 
• Weight: 44.5kg

Unboxing, setting up and first impressions

I wasn’t expecting the BBQ to turn up on a pallet and naively thought I’d be able to lift the box from the pallet and into my garden alone. But this thing is heavy! In the end I unpacked the box on my driveway and then took all the bits into the garden.

It took me 15 minutes to unpack everything from the box and I was dreading putting it together as there were a lot of bits! But in comparison to some other large BBQs I’ve assembled, it was pretty straightforward. Be aware you’ll need a screwdriver and an adjustable spanner, as these aren’t supplied.

The instructions say it’s a two person job, but I managed to assemble it alone in 50 minutes. I didn’t find it difficult and the assembly instructions are easy to follow, so it was just a case of going through all the steps.

My first impression is that this is a strong, sturdy BBQ that’s built for feeding a crowd. It’s huge, and there’s plenty of cooking space including a warming rack above. I really like the two large side tables, plus there’s a smaller shelf at the front, so there’s no shortage of places to put things when you’re loading it up with raw food or getting ready to dish up.

The cooking area is split into four separate grates, making it easier to remove a section should you need to tend to the coals below. The grates are really thick and sturdy, so I doubt there’s any chance of them warping over time. 

There’s a thermometer built into the lid. And an adjustable chimney so you can control the smoke level and air flow. Furthermore, the height of the charcoal grate can be adjusted, with three levels to choose from. So depending on what you’re cooking, you can set it up with the coals closer or further away from the food.

There are three hooks for your BBQ tools below the left shelf. It’s even got a built-in bottle opener, so you can open a cold beer while you BBQ. Everything I’d expect to see on a BBQ of this calibre is included. 

Char-Broil also sent me a cover for the BBQ, it’s their extra wide grill cover. It’s an optional extra that’ll set you back just under £73 from the Char-Broil website. But it’s a great quality cover that stayed in place when we had a storm with winds in excess of 40mph.

What is it like to use?

To get started with how to light this charcoal BBQ, I loaded up the grate, and since it’s about half the size of the cooking grate above it, it didn’t require as much charcoal as I expected for a BBQ of this stature. You do have to place the charcoal carefully onto the grate though, or the smaller pieces end up falling off the edge and into the ash area below.

After lighting the charcoal and waiting for it to get hot enough, I added four corn on the cobs, four vegetable kebabs, four butterfly chicken breasts, and later a block of halloumi sliced up. There was plenty of space for all this food, in fact, I could easily have added more. 

When I tried to turn the chicken, it had stuck quite badly to the cooking grate. This could be because the grate is new and needs time to become seasoned. Or it could be because I didn’t oil the chicken. It’s worth noting though that nothing else stuck to it on this or any other time I used it.

The cooking grate is thick, so it creates very well defined bar marks. And when a couple of vegetable pieces fell off the end of my kebab skewers, they didn’t fall down into the hot coals because the gaps between the bars are quite narrow.

I tried to cook with the lid closed as much as possible, to keep in all the smokey BBQ flavours. Initially I expected the whole grate to get very hot, so I spread the food out. But during cooking, I discovered that the grate was hottest directly above the coals, and significantly cooler around the edges.

Consequently, my chicken in the centre of the grate, cooked very fast, meanwhile the corn on the cob at the side struggled to cook. Eventually though, I got the hang of it and once I started rotating everything around, it all cooked really nicely. 

Having hot and cool spots on a BBQ is actually great because you can rotate foods around to make use of the cooler areas for a more even cook and to ensure everything is ready to dish up at the same time. It reduces the possibility of that classic British burnt BBQ result that we’re all so familiar with. 

Once my chicken and vegetable kebabs were cooked I popped them on the warming rack while I finished off the corn and halloumi. The warming rack is handy to have but you do need to be careful to not leave things on there for too long, or they’ll start to dry out. I certainly noticed my chicken was starting to go a bit dry at the edges, so I removed it before it got worse.

The shelves either side and in front of the BBQ provide loads of space for dishes and seasonings. They’re really useful, but they do add to its size, which is certainly something to keep in mind if you don’t have a huge patio.

The second time I lit it was a chilly breezy day but I got it burning okay. What I would say though is that the charcoal grate doesn’t allow you to pile up the charcoal into a big heap. It’s naturally in a thinner layer due to the shape of the grate. As a result of this, I noticed that I wasn't able to get it to hold the heat as well, or for as long as I would like. 

It might be that I need to experiment with different types of charcoal that burn hotter or are easier to pile up higher on this style of charcoal grate. I was using very good quality premium lumpwood charcoal, but it had been in the shed all winter so may not have been as dry as it appeared to be. That said,  for best results I still think this charcoal grate requires a bit of a considered approach to piling up the charcoal for best results.

However I did make use of the option to lift the grate during cooking. This meant the charcoal was closer to the food, which made the most of the heat. The side handles were hot, so I had to use oven gloves, but it wasn’t difficult to move it up a level, even with the cooking grates in situ.

I loaded up the cooking grate with twelve meat sausages and eight veggie sausages. This was plenty to feed a crowd of people tasty hotdogs, yet there was so much space left, I could have added double the number of sausages.

The sausages cooked beautifully, they were thoroughly cooked with lovely defined bar marks and no burning. They took longer to cook than I expected, but I didn’t mind because I’d rather wait a bit longer for a perfectly barbecued sausage than end up with one that’s burnt on the outside and raw in the middle.

All in all I was pleased with the results I got when cooking on this BBQ. But I still think I need to have a few more BBQs to perfect the way I load up the charcoal grate, to ensure it gets hot enough and that it can hold the heat for as long as possible.

What's it like to clean?

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not really one to put much effort into cleaning a charcoal BBQ. I take the approach that any residues left on the grate will burn off next time. My chicken stuck to the grate, so there were some dried meaty residues after my first BBQ, but they easily scraped off the next time I lit it.

The charcoal grate can be lifted and tipped into the base of the BBQ. And at the bottom there’s a drawer that collects any ash and bits of charcoal that fall from the grate. This is simple to remove and empty, plus it has ample capacity, so I didn’t feel the need to empty it until after my second BBQ.

How does it compare to similar charcoal BBQs?

If all this talk of charcoal has you thinking a gas BBQ might be more your style, our current favourite is the Weber Spirit II E-310. It’s a very good three burner gas barbecue from one of the leading BBQ brands. The main catch is that it’s double the price of the Char-Broil. That said, being gas means it offers a higher level of temperature control, so there’s not so much guesswork involved.

Or, if you’re still keen on charcoal but want something more suited to a smaller household, you can't go wrong with the Weber Original Kettle. It’s a classic BBQ that's ideal for feeding 2-4 people. I tested it last spring and found that despite being much more compact, it’s still a versatile BBQ.

Should you buy the Char-Broil Charcoal L?

Spending in excess of £300 on a charcoal BBQ might make you think twice, especially in a cost of living crisis. But in comparison to some other big brand BBQ’s it’s pretty reasonably priced. Plus, you get a lot of BBQ for your money and it’s very sturdy with good quality components so I think the price stacks up. 

As with any charcoal BBQ you have to have a few BBQ’s before you’re able to get the best from it. It’ll take time to figure out how to properly stack the charcoal grate and what’s the best charcoal to suit the BBQ. But when all is said and done, it’s a proper big boy BBQ with plenty of capacity to feed a family.

Picking up tips on how to light a charcoal BBQ ahead of your next garden party is essential if you want to avoid stressing out over hot coals in front of your hungry guests.

Especially since charcoal BBQs are often considered to be the best BBQ type of foodies everywhere, this is the skill to pick up if you've got alfresco entertaining on your agenda. 

With these easy methods lighting a charcoal BBQ like the Weber Original Kettle is about to get a whole lot easier, and once you know how, you'll earn the respect of everyone at the grilling station forever. Here are our essential charcoal BBQ lighting tips, including foolproof methods to turn back to time and time again. 

How to light a charcoal BBQ

If you're here, then you likely need a way of getting your BBQ lit and fast. But even if you're in a rush, think about your safety first.

Home and lifestyle insurance expert Matthew Harwood from Confused.com advises checking the following before you take your sausages out of the fridge.

'Use a flat surface. Make sure the BBQ placed on a flat, flame-retardant surface, so that embers or coals cannot spill out onto grass and plants, which could be a risk. Also, always barbecue at least 10 feet from your property.'

Matthew goes onto say 'Never leave the barbecue unattended. And be prepared. Always make sure the fire is fully extinguished, as even the smallest of embers can allow it to grow again.'

With that said and done, let's get all up in that grill and start lighting.

How to light a charcoal BBQ without fire starters

There is one method that is often relied on for lighting charcoal BBQs quickly: fire starters or firelighters. While most definitely effective, traditional fire lighters are not necessarily the most environmentally friendly choice out there. 

Instead, why not use newspaper instead for a quick way to get your fire started? Hilary Anderson, BBQ expert and Char-Broil UK ambassador, advocates for the newspaper method.

'“The traditional method is to scrunch up some old newspaper into loosely packed balls and place them underneath a neat stack of fuel, whether it is wood or quality charcoal, then light away with matches or a BBQ lighter.

Within ten to fifteen minutes your charcoal should be burning with hints of red or amber glow and will begin to naturally light up the surrounding coals. Wait for any smoke to pass, check with your hand about 4 to 6 inches away from the fuel that it is warm enough to cook and, voila, you are ready to BBQ!'

And if you're still keen to use firefighters, then why not look into eco-friendly alternatives? This pack of 200 from Amazon should keep you stocked up for a good while.

How to light a charcoal BBQ using a chimney starter

What's a chimney starter, I hear you ask? These canisters, like this very popular one made by Weber, provide a vessel for you to light your charcoal in a quicker time. 

Thanks to the cone-shaped bottom, which encourages tour charcoal briquettes to take flame rapidly, investing in a chimney starter makes for foolproof fire lighting.

You can then take the handles on the top of the chimney and deposit your already hot coals into your BBQ and voilà, you're good to go. Hilary Anderson is also a signed-up fan of using a chimney starter. 

'A handy addition to your BBQ toolkit is a chimney starter where you add the charcoal in the top, firelighters underneath and when it is lit then pour the fuel into your BBQ – a worthwhile investment that is safer, more efficient and will keep your hands cleaner.'

Another popular gadget for lighting without using firefighters is the Looftlighter Hot Air Barbecue Lighter, which is available for £74.99 at Lakeland. This tool uses a stream of 600°C air to light your coals with no firefighters or lighter fluid needed. And it's not just BBQs it's good for, it also works wonders with the best fire pits, or with fireplaces or wood burners. 

Though the initial cost is quite pricey, it comes highly recommended for all sorts of fire lighting, and once you've cashed out once, you'll be able to use it for years. It'll be especially cost-effective if you're planning on spending a lot of time outdoors this summer too. 

FAQs

Do you light a charcoal BBQ with the lid on or off?

In order to start your charcoal BBQ up, you need to leave the lid off during the lighting process in order to promote air flow. Once the coals are adequately heated you can then pop the lid on if necessary to preheat your grill if you need to achieve a certain temperature. 

Why won't my charcoal light?

If your charcoal is failing to light in your BBQ, then it might be the case that there's not enough air flow to sustain a flame. To solve this, check your air vents on your BBQ and make sure to open them to promote more oxygen inside your BBQ. 

The Ninja Woodfire electric BBQ and grill is the ultimate multi-tasking appliance to jazz up your next garden party. It can be used to grill, air fry, smoke and best of all it's currently on offer in the Amazon Spring Deal Days. 

Usually priced at £429.99, the electric BBQ has had its price cut by 33% to £290 on both the red and grey colourways of the electric grills. It is Ninja's first BBQ, and it won 4 and a half-star rating in our Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ review. 

• Ninja Woodfire Electric Outdoor BBQ & Grill, Was £429.99 Now £290 at Amazon

Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Amazon Spring Deal

Like anything Ninja does it took the classic electric BBQ and gave it a serious multi-tasking twist. The Ninja Woodfire electric BBQ and grill is essentially a plug-and-play BBQ with the addition of wooden pellets to help you mimic that true BBQ flavour. 

It has 7 outdoor cooking functions including grill, smoke, air fry, roast, bake, reheat and dehydrate. In short, it is the best BBQ if you're looking to master a range of cooking styles in one compact package. 

The size of the Ninja Woodfire is deceivingly small, but it can easily fit 8 burgers, 16 sausages or 2 racks of ribs. So while it might not cater a big ole' shindig, it is more than capable of whipping up enough grub for a family get-together this easter. 

However, the biggest perk of the electric BBQ is how easy it is to use and set up. 'Outdoor barbecues and smokers can be intimidating, but The Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker is easy to cook with and even easier to set up,' raved our reviewer Alyssa Leanne Owens.  

'Without fiddly gas connections and clunky coal starter chimneys, the Ninja electric grill produces food with all of the flavour of traditional barbecues but with an easy, plug-in set up.'

The original Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ is currently sold out at Ninja, which makes the deal on Amazon even more enticing. It comes with a digital cooking probe so you never have to guess when the food is done, and a wooden pellet starter pack for getting those smokey flavours in.

However, Amazon isn't the only place with a great deal on the Ninja Woodfire at the moment. Argos has also lowered its price permanently to £290, it has also dropped the price of the Ninja Woodfire Pro XL Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker by £50 to £350 if you fancy a little more grilling space. 

The Amazon deal is only on until the end of today, so if you're planning to snap this up with your Prime delivery you better act fast. 

Aldi is selling a portable barbecue that will be the perfect companion for camping, travelling, and all sorts of outdoor fun this spring and summer. Coming to stores this Sunday the 24th of March at under £50, take our word for it when we say that this is a launch you don't want to miss out on.

Do you want to know what the promise of warm weather calls for? Finally bringing out your best BBQ after having it tucked away during these dreary winter months. While a larger grill makes for the ideal addition to a garden for al fresco dining all season, having one of the best portable BBQs is a must if you want to continue serving up delicious food even away from home.

Whether you're camping in the woods or are on a beach day out (we know it might seem a little early to be thinking about that, but let a girl dream), we think Aldi's new portable barbecue is the missing piece to the puzzle. Or, maybe you just have a really small garden and want to use it at home – rest assured that works, too.

Aldi portable barbecue

We're calling it now: the sellout Gardenline Portable Barbecue with Fan is sure to earn a spot in your on-the-go outdoor kitchen setup. Seeing as a gorgeous, sunny day isn't quite complete without the smell of food cooking on the barbecue, this charcoal barbecue is perfect for a fast and easy grill.

Battery-powered and complete with an integrated fan, this barbecue features a stainless steel grill rack, a dishwasher-safe reflector bowl, removable charcoal basket and silicone feet. What's more, it even comes with batteries included so you can instantly use it out of the box. Simply add charcoal and proceed as usual.

Measuring approximately 35cm and sporting a dark green and cream colourway, it's also a treat to the eyes that looks sleek and stylish. We'll be accepting no clunky eyesores at our BBQs, that's for sure.

Better yet, it even comes with a handy storage bag with two handles, making it easy to transport and keeping it in tip-top shape between uses, which is certainly a win-win in our books.

Aldi's portable barbecue will be available to shop in stores this Sunday the 24th of March onwards, while stocks last. 

However, if you don't have the privilege of living near an Aldi store or are just in the market for similar options, we've popped a couple of our top portable BBQ picks below for you to shop.

Shop portable BBQs

Seeing as the new Aldi BBQ pizza oven also hit shelves today (21st of March), it's clear that they're already well ahead of the game in terms of prepping us for the sun. With its space-saving design and affordable price, we wouldn't be surprised if Aldi's portable barbecue sold out quickly yet another time. That being said, we'd suggest acting fast to avoid disappointment.

Is anyone else itching for a BBQ in the sun now, too?

Aldi's sellout BBQ pizza oven is making its much-anticipated return, allowing you to serve up delicious restaurant-style pizzas all from the comfort of your own home. Hitting shelves on the 21st of March, the return of this sellout outdoor can only mean one thing: the promise of warmer spring weather is finally on our doorstep.

We don't know about you, but the weather warming up is pretty much synonymous with dusting off your best pizza oven. Spring calls for days spent out in the sun and al fresco dining – and what better supplement to your spring dinner parties than a freshly cooked pizza?

Simply place the pizza oven on top of your best BBQ – whether it be gas or charcoal – and get cooking. Better yet, coming in at a low price point of just £39.99, it's a must for springtime get-togethers.

Aldi BBQ pizza oven

Slightly smaller than the traditionally large Aldi gas pizza oven that graced stores this time last year, this smaller BBQ pizza oven counterpart is perfect for turning any small garden into a pizzeria.

Practical and compact, this pizza oven features a high-quality ceramic pizza stone and integrated thermometer to ensure budget-friendly dishes that don't scrimp on quality or taste.

Equipped with the ability to cook a 12-inch pizza in just 10 minutes, no longer will you be faced with having to choose between a BBQ or a pizza oven as you can indulge in the benefits of both in any outdoor kitchen.

Aldi's BBQ pizza oven will be available in stores from the 21st of March, while stocks last. However, given its low price of £39.99 and versatility for outdoor dining this spring, we suspect they won't last on shelves for long.

Alternatively, if you don't live near an Aldi or are looking to browse other BBQ pizza oven options, we've pulled together some options that won't break the bank but still promise a delicious result.

Shop BBQ pizza ovens

While you're at it, don't forget to purchase some essentials for your pizza oven, too, including the likes of a pizza peel and a turning pizza peel to help you better use your new investment.

Although the weather might not be quite up to scratch just yet, we'll be running to Aldi on Thursday to get our hands on this outdoor living must-have in good faith. After all, we'd rather be safe than sorry when the sun finally makes its long-anticipated appearance.

Summer is synonymous with delicious al fresco meals and freshly-barbecued treats, but you can't just wheel your grill out and pop it wherever you want. In fact, experts have warned there are five places to never put a BBQ in a garden.

That's right: there's more to cooking up a storm in the great outdoors than sourcing one of the best BBQs around, no matter which of the three kinds of barbecue you prefer: electric, charcoal and gas (although the former is usually safer).  And no, we're not talking about marinades and seasonings, either – rather, it's all about knowing where not to put them to ensure the safety of your family and home. 

Whether you're considering a built-in grill, then, or more into purchasing one of the best portable BBQs, here's everything you need to know about where to position yours in your garden for a brilliant (and safe) outdoor kitchen.

5 places to never put a BBQ in a garden

It might not be at the top of your list when deciding how to plan an outdoor kitchen, but you should absolutely spend some time researching all the places you should never put a BBQ in a garden.

'When situating a BBQ or any cookware in the garden, it's really important to make sure it's safe and well away from causing anything or anyone any damage,' says Morris Hankinson, director of Hopes Grove Nurseries.

With that in mind, then, here are the worst places to put a BBQ in a garden.

1. On a balcony

It's sad news for anyone with a balcony garden, as the London Fire Brigade have urged people to never use a BBQ on a balcony.

'Flames, sparks and hot embers can cause a fire and spread quickly to other parts of the building,' they stress, noting that most leases for apartments will prohibit the use of BBQs on balconies for this very reason.

The only exception would be an electric BBQ like the Weber Lumin that uses a heating element not flames to cook the food.

2. Under a roof

Now, if you have your own BBQ, there are no rules to prevent you from using it at your home – although Morris insists that you must take care to never place it under a roof of any kind.

'Never put a BBQ directly under a roof, including a garage, shed, tent, pergola, or any outdoor awning' he says, noting that 'sparks and flames could easily catch materials above where they could catch light'. 

The London Fire Brigade agrees, noting that a roof acts as an enclosed space, which is incredibly dangerous due to the heightened possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning.

3. Under an overhanging tree

If your outdoor space is filled with trees (and, hey, it likely is – especially as there are even so many excellent trees for small gardens nowadays), be sure to take them into consideration when deciding where to put a BBQ in your garden.

'Placing a BBQ under a hanging tree, near a large bush or by hedging plants could be a recipe for disaster,' says Morris. 

'Instead, set yours a good distance away from woody plants and sheds so they can’t catch light or get burnt by the BBQ.'

4. Too close to a door or window

One of the more surprising places to never put a BBQ in a garden, many experts advise that you keep yours away from doors and windows (if you can).

'If you have a BBQ too close to a house door or a window, the smoke will blow inside,' notes Morris. 

'Keeping your grill away from the home by at least ten feet can be helpful if you hope to avoid this – and of course make sure that doors and windows are closed when you're grilling up a storm!'

5 On decking

The London Fire Brigade stresses that you should never place a BBQ on your garden decking, or indeed any uneven ground – something which Morris wholeheartedly agrees with.

'It’s important to keep your BBQ stable,' he says, noting that standing your grill 'on uneven ground could be dangerous when you are cooking hot food'.

If the only space you have for your BBQ is on the decking then it might be worth building a dedicated smooth surface to stand it on for safe cooking.

FAQs

Is it illegal to have a BBQ in your garden?

While there are laws against using barbecues in public spaces, it's absolutely fine to fire a BBQ up in a private garden – so long as you adhere to safety guidelines.

It's also important to keep an eye on the smoke levels, as this can cause problems with your neighbours and potentially lead to an 'abatement notice' from your local council.

Finally, ensure that you do not have a BBQ near a main road, as the smoke that drifts across the road could pose a visibility risk to drivers and can result in a hefty fine.

Can you have a BBQ next to a fence?

The London Fire Brigade urges you to keep your BBQ well away from anything that may catch fire – and, yes, this includes fences.

Sheds, trees, and other woody plants are also important to be mindful of when deciding where to put a BBQ in your garden.

How close can a grill be next to house?

As mentioned already, it's advisable to keep BBQs at least 10 feet away from your home (or any other buildings). You should also make sure it's a good distance away from any flammable objects or materials, too.

'Having a BBQ in the garden is all about enjoying it with friends and family,' adds Morris. 'So, it’s important to ensure the BBQ is a safe distance away from pets, children, and garden games at all times to ensure no one gets hurt.'

Have a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergency use.

Now that you know the places to never put a BBQ in a garden, you can set to grilling in earnest. 

Just be sure to – if you're the one wearing that novelty 'Kiss The Cook' apron, that is – avoid distractions from people around you, refrain from drinking alcohol until you're done, and never leave the BBQ unattended until it's fully cooled and properly out.

Personally, we think we'll take the easier job of bringing the potato salad to our next big barbecue...

It's officially BBQ season, and whether you're looking for a compact cooking machine for a smaller back garden, or perhaps you'd prefer a multi-purpose design that lets you grill from the comfort of your patio and out and about while on a UK staycation? Well, I've been hard at work, heating, grilling and cleaning some of the best portable barbecue designs out there, to give them a real run for their money. Spoiler: less is definitely more when it comes to these best BBQs.

Whether you're a gas BBQ person and won't ever be convinced otherwise, or it always has to be a charcoal BBQ for authenticity — perhaps you're open to the thought of a portable electric barbecue? I've got something for everyone, in all colours, budgets and sizes. So, whether it's for a family cookup at the beach or taking to a camping site, you know you're armed with the best of the best — all the gear and the idea.

Here, the team at Ideal Home has tested 6 portable barbecues, all of which are easily portable via a car. They're easy to carry, convenient to empty or designed with a lockable lid for mess-free car journeys home, and some of them even arrive with a carry bag or strap, oozing both convenience and cool at a picnic. Personally, I've tested 3 of these barbecues in my own back garden, to cook everything from burgers to kebabs and sausages — and here's how I rate them. JSYK: I use one of these portable BBQ models in my small garden year-round for convenient cooking for my family.

Best portable BBQs - the quick list

• Best portable charcoal BBQ: Weber Go Anywhere
• Best portable electric BBQ: Weber Lumin Compact
• Best portable gas BBQ: Cadac Citi Chef 40 Table Top Gas BBQ
• Best budget portable BBQ: Everdure CUBE Portable Charcoal Grill
• Best lightweight portable BBQ: Lotus Grill BBQ
• Best disposable alternative: BergHOFF Leo BBQ

The best portable BBQs

Best portable BBQ

There are several reasons I rate the Weber Go Anywhere as the best portable BBQ you can buy, but its design and price tag are the main factors. Offering a spacious cooking space for 4-6 people, its portable design is lightweight at 6kg and easy to carry, wherever you're going. It retails at only £115, but it can usually be found on sale, too. Whether for taking on the go or using as a tabletop barbecue in a smaller garden, the Weber Go Anywhere is proof that good things do come in small packages. It also arrives mostly assembled, and you only need to attach its handle and feet.

Design-wise, it's arguably one of the most portable on our list as the legs fold in to lock the BBQ in place while you carry it around, and you can even store tools inside while you're moving it from place to place. Its cooking area is spacious and is enough for 4-6 burgers. It has a hinge on its lid to protect the flames from the wind while cooking.

I first used this barbecue on my tiny London terrace in 2022, and it was my main BBQ for years. It's been used to cook pretty much everything, from burgers to wings, corn on the cobs and even a joint of beef. I loved the fact that although it's charcoal, there are dampers on the lid which you can use to control the temperature while you're grilling, in case it gets too hot.

Like most charcoal barbecues, cleanup is never simple. But once you have disposed of the ash, this portable barbecue is easier than most to clean since it fits in a sink. Its grates are also dishwasher-safe, as is the tray that sits underneath the coals.

The Weber Go Anywhere also comes as a gas BBQ.

Best electric portable BBQ

If you're considering investing in an electric barbecue, then I am here to convert you to the dark — or should I say, convenient — side. This portable barbecue lives in my garden year-round, and has done so for over a year now. Many BBQs have come and gone, and none have compared — it even has a seal of approval from Jamie Oliver. At 12kg, it's not the most portable, and it requires power to work, but there is the fact that you needn't worry about sourcing or lugging about gas or charcoal. If you want something for a campsite, this fuss-free BBQ is a no-brainer, and it can be used to cook anything, from basic burgers to an entire Tomahawk steak.

Only available in the classic Weber black, this barbecue oozes quirky design features that give it top points for convenience. Firstly, it can be left outside year-round; just be sure to bring the electrical part inside after use. There's also the fact that it has a temperature gauge on its lid, so you know when it's ready for cooking. It offers temperature control, while it comes with two pans so that you can sear, steam and smoke all on one platform. Unfortunately, this barbecue doesn't lock to close its lid, but the mess inside will be minimal, so this shouldn't be an issue if transported in a car after use.

This powerhouse preheats impressively fast. It's seriously impressive when it comes to grilling, and everything I've ever cooked on it, from burgers to kebabs and veggies, all has an authentic barbecue taste. It even smells like the real deal. Its grill doesn't have any weak spots, while it has an impressive 6 settings to choose from.

After cooking, this barbecue will be cool within an hour. Its handle never gets hot, too. Unfortunately, it's admittedly not the easiest to cart about at 12kg, so you wouldn't want to take it anywhere it will require a lot of carrying. Its design features a handy replaceable drip tray, which can easily be switched after each cooking session. The star of the show has to be the dishwasher-safe grates, which are crafted from porcelain-enamelled cast iron for longevity.

Best portable gas BBQ

We're big fans of the Cadac Citi brand here at Ideal Home, which meant we had high expectations for the portable version of one of our favourite BBQs, the Cadac Citi Chef 40 FS BBQ. The Cadac Citi Tabletop BBQ was reviewed by our Ecommerce Editor, Molly, who found it super convenient to get up and running during testing — purely because it's fuelled by gas instead of charcoal, so there's less faff required (and mess!). This portable BBQ is only compatible with Butane gas (196 grams/hour), which you can buy in small cans for travelling. Molly raved about its wide grilling area, which is 36cm in diameter, as it meant she could cook for her entire family. You also get a storage bag thrown in, which makes carrying it a convenient task. For a BBQ with such a large grilling space, she was also impressed at the fact that it's surprisingly light.

Design-wise, it comes in 3 colourways, and it sits on rubber feet to prevent slipping around a surface. Its lid is hinged to protect the cooking grate from wind, while it also has an integrated thermometer for easy checking.

Molly used this barbecue to cook everything from burgers to veggie skewers. She noted that heat distribution across the grill was good, and the setup was painless too. As with all gas BBQs, one of the crowning features of this BBQ is that temperature control is so easy. With a turn of the dial at the centre of the grill, you can make cooking different types of meat much easier. The only downside while cooking? Its non-stick grill grates aren't compatible with metal utensils to avoid possible scratching.

When it came to cleaning, this was pretty easy and mess-free. Its grate is easily removable and washable in your sink. The rest can be wiped down, should it get super messy inside.

Best budget portable BBQ

I reviewed this portable barbecue in 2022, on my London terrace, and it was the perfect size — even still, after moving to the countryside, I rave about it. Currently, it lives with my sister, who uses it frequently to cook for her family of 3 in her small garden — plus she takes it on UK staycations. For its £150 price tag, there is no denying that this is a great portable grill, but it's definitely one for cooking only the basics — burgers, sausages and buns. Because of its lack of lid (there is one, but this cannot be used while the BBQ is hot), your food will take longer to cook through. Saying that, it is lockable after use (and after it has cooled down), which makes for spill-free transportation, whether that's a walk down the road or an hour car journey.

Let's talk about the elephant in the room: its design. Aptly named the cube, this barbecue receives top marks for its design. It may be compact enough to fit in a footwell, but it can still feed several mouths at a time. Choose from 4 colourways, including a vibrant orange that ought to bring a pop of colour to your garden. It also boasts a bamboo lid, which doubles as a chopping board for when you're cooking on the go.

Boasting a square cooking area that's roughly 25 cm x 25 cm (this might vary by model), I managed to fit 6 supermarket burgers on this grill at one time. The manual explains how to place your charcoal depending on whether you want to cook your food indirectly or directly. You can also use this method to create a "keep cool" zone. I'd avoid cooking large joints of meat on this grill, as you might struggle to get these fully cooked through because of the lack of a lid.

As with most charcoal barbecues, cleaning is never straightforward. Since this one does have a smaller grill, it is easier to soak in your sink. It isn't the lightest, at 8.1kg, but it is easy enough to carry on your own. Its steel handles also stay cool for easy carrying to your car or sink.

Read our full Everdure Cube BBQ review for more information.

Best lightweight portable BBQ

All tabletop BBQs are portable and easy to move around, but not all of them are as well-suited to taking on adventures as the LotusGrill. Our freelance reviewer Helen was greatly impressed with the mini Lotus Grill, which weighs less than 4kg. It's a total game-changer for those who don't want anything heavy, whether they're thinking about the weight inside their car or the 5-mile hike ahead of them. What’s more, the fully zipped carry case will also keep all the mess contained until you get home.

Available in 6 stunning colourways, this mini barbecue has built-in battery-operated ventilation inside to minimise the amount of smoke that comes from your grill while cooking. This also means that the heat can be continuously regulated during grilling thanks to these fans. It also boasts a double-walled trim; the outer shell of the grill stays cool while cooking. Yes, these stay-cool sides mean you won't need to sit in the park or at the beach for hours to wait for your BBQ to cool down. Its round cooking surface is 32cm and can feed 5.

Very hungry picnickers will be delighted by how fast this BBQ heats up, and Helen recommends that smaller foods yield the best results with this BBQ, like foods, like sausages, burgers and chicken portions. That's because the difference in the heat across the grill becomes really apparent when you try to cook long kebabs or bigger pieces of meat, plus there's no lid that you can use while it's hot, so a lot of the heat is lost.

When it comes to maintenance, this is minimal. Both the cooking grate and the inner shell can be cleaned in a dishwasher, making it a lot more convenient to clean than most other charcoal BBQs.

Read our full Lotus Grill BBQ review for more information.

Best disposable alternative

I first reviewed the BergHOFF Leo when it was released, but since then, our freelancer Helen has also tested it — meaning it has a double seal of approval. While admittedly expensive for its size, you can't deny its convenient design, with its carry strap being the star of the show. Unfortunately, though, its grilling space is 32cm in diameter and serves only 4. Sitting at £200, this grill is expensive for its size, but it can often be found on sale if you know when to shop and which retailer to shop at. Though it is expensive, Helen thinks that despite the price, this BBQ performs well enough to offer plenty of value for money. Do note that its exterior and handles get hot during cooking, though.

Available in white or black, this portable grill benefits from a cork lid, which can double as a base, plus a carry strap — both included in the box. The lid cannot be used while cooking, but if placed in the right spot and used as a trivet, it can allow for adjustable airflow while cooking to control the temperature of your barbecue. Its sturdy carry strap also proves itself to be convenient.

While cooking, Helen really enjoyed testing this BBQ at home for two people and found it to be less of a hassle than having to light her family-sized grill. She used it to cook corn, burgers, chicken, sausages and halloumi. I used it for much the same, plus some kebabs. It's worth noting that this barbecue is best for cooling smaller pieces of food, because of its lack of a lid, you may struggle to cook large joints on its cooking surface. Its exterior does get hot while cooking, which is something to consider if you'll be using it near children or pets.

You'll need to wait for this BBQ to fully cool before moving it, as even its handles get hot while cooking. After this, you can empty its leftover charcoal, as its lid isn't secure enough to prevent it from possibly spilling in your car. Not worth the risk, IMO. Once you're home, its cooking grate can be washed by hand as it's not dishwasher safe.

Read our full BergHOFF Tabletop BBQ review for more information.

Best portable BBQ and firepit combo

Our reviewer Helen was very impressed with the performance and versatility of the Wave Hex 2-in-1 BBQ and Firepit. So much so that she would recommend it to any keen camper or caravaner as a great value space-saving buy.

During her cookup, Helen found that the height of this portable BBQ was perfect for grilling and sitting on a camp chair, and she loved that there was no chance of leaving scorch marks on grass once she was finished, too. It's not the most portable, as it is on the heavier side (at over 8kg), but it did deliver absolutely excellent results with a range of foods, from cheese to steaks. There's also a large grate for cramming everything on that you need too, which is great for family camping trips.

Read our full Wave Hex Portable BBQ and Fire Pit review for more information.

How we test portable BBQs

As per our testing protocol, we try all BBQs hands-on. We've tested all of the portable BBQs in this guide, by in-house team members and trusted freelancers.

When testing a portable BBQ, we follow the same rigorous process as when we review full-sized models, but we also look at the following factors:

• Manoeuvrability: How easy is it to transport? Does its lid lock to secure the contents inside? Does it have handles? Does it come with a bag or carry strap? How heavy is it?
• Assembly: Does it arrive mostly assembled or is there a lot of work required from you?
• Cooking: How many burgers can it cook at one time? Can you control the heat or flames? Is there a lid that you can use while it's hot?
• Quality: How stable is it on a surface? How durable is the BBQ if it were to be dropped? What are its grill plates made from?
• Price: Is it worth over £150 or under £150? Does the price vs cooking area seem reasonable?

Our expert testing panel

How to choose a portable BBQ

If you're new to portable BBQs, it can be tricky to know where to start. Here are some of the most important considerations you'll need to make before you buy.

• Fuel type: The gas vs charcoal BBQ debate is an ongoing one amongst keen grilling enthusiasts, but they both have their perks. Gas BBQs can be easier to use and offer speedier cooking because you don't have to wait for charcoal to be hot enough to get started, but you'll need to source the gas to fuel it, which can be pricier long-term. And sometimes heavy when taking it on the go. Charcoal, on the other hand, is cheaper to source, and it gives food that authentic smoky BBQ flavour. You'll just need to be a little more patient! There are also electric barbecues, which are super convenient when it comes to heat-up time and cleaning, but you do need a socket to power them.
• Portability: If you're after one of the best portable BBQs for camping trips and other outings, it's worth going for a lightweight grill. Features like handles can make transportation easier, and a compact model is easier to store and move from place to place. If you'll just be moving the BBQ around the garden, you can go for a larger tabletop grill. Some of these models come with a carry bag, which has been noted in the reviews. Do note whether the portable BBQ has a lockable lid, which will avoid any car mess.
• Cooking area: It's a given that the more compact portable BBQs out there offer less cooking space, but there's usually enough for a few burgers at a time — so if you'll just be cooking for a small family or group of friends, a lot of the best portable BBQs fit the bill. It's worth looking at the size of the cooking grate to make sure you have space for everything you want to cook. We've noted how many people you can cook for on each BBQ, so you needn't guess.
• Temperature control: Dampers are a handy feature, as they can be opened and closed to control the temperature inside the BBQ. For electric and gas models, temperature control is on offer, which offers another slice of convenience when cooking outside.
• Cleaning: Some BBQs are easier to clean than others, with charcoal being the most time-consuming type, as you'll need to dispose of the ash once completely cool. Selected barbecues feature dishwasher-safe parts, like grates, for ease of cleaning after cooking.
• Extra features: Some portable BBQs have lids, which can be really handy for conserving heat and cooking food more evenly (think of it like an oven!). A lid also means you can cook thicker meat, like joints, and it will do so fast. Without a lid, you may struggle or wait a while to be fed.

FAQs

Refer to gov.uk for more barbecue guidance when safely cooking outdoors.

Those really balmy nights are few and far between here in the UK, so when you want to stay sitting outside, a fire pit can keep you cosy. But it’s not always convenient to take one of the best portable BBQs as well as one of the best fire pits on a trip, or even to have both if you’ve only got a small garden.

Personally, I’ve ruined many a small BBQ over the years by throwing logs on them at the end of cooking, to create a makeshift fire pit when they really weren't up to the job. But the Wave BBQ and Fire Pit is designed to be dual purpose, so after cooking you can sit back, relax and toast some marshmallows over the roaring fire.

I love BBQs, fire pits, and camping, and since the Wave BBQ and Fire Pit is so suited to all three, I couldn’t wait to try it out. I wasn’t disappointed, it’s a great bit of kit and I was happy that it works well as a fire pit and BBQ in equal measure. But I couldn’t give it 5 stars because the sides warped after just a couple of uses and it’s hard to say whether this will get worse after prolonged use.

Product specs

• Fuel type: charcoal or wood
• Materials: 3mm zinc coated stainless steel sides and stainless steel grill
• Assembled dimensions: assembled: 49 x 49 x 47cm high
• Packed dimensions: 57 x 42 x 1.2cm
• Cooking area dimensions: 36 x 36cm
• Weight: 8.7kg
• Colours: steel or matte black

Who tested this BBQ?

Unboxing, setting up and first impressions

Considering it’s collapsible, I wasn’t surprised that the Wave BBQ and Fire Pit came in a very thin box, but I was surprised that it was almost 10kg. When I removed the cardboard packaging, everything was neatly packed into padded envelopes within the carry case.

The base comes in three flat pieces and there’s a triangular bottom grate as well as a large triangular cooking grate. Three simple slide-on clips secure the three base pieces to each other, and it’s supplied with a spare clip in case you lose one. 

The first time I put it together it took me a minute to figure out, but after you’ve done it once, it’s straightforward the next time, although it's easier if you’ve got a second pair of hands to help out. The three pieces slot together at angles and the clips lock them in position, then you just drop in the small grate, followed by your wood or charcoal, and the big grate goes on top.

You’ll want to assemble it roughly where you plan to use it because it’s awkward to move around. And although the pieces are locked together with the clips, they will still move slightly if you try and lift it up. I’d also recommend placing it on flat ground, because its strength comes from the three pieces evenly locking together and taking the weight. So if the ground is very uneven it’s tricky to keep all the parts well aligned.

Everything slots comfortably into the canvas carry case and velcro at the top keeps all the parts inside. It’s a long bag though,  I’m 5ft 3in and I found the bag too long for me to carry with my arm straight, so I had to either bend my arm to lift it high enough off the ground, or carry it on my shoulder. And even though the straps have lightly padded leather-effect handles, it’s weighty, and I wouldn’t want to carry it on my shoulder for too long.

I was sent the leaf design in the stainless steel finish, but it’s also available in matte black, or there’s a hex design. Each of the three base pieces has a bottle opener at the top, so no matter where you sit, you can easily open a beer. My first impression is that it’s incredibly sturdy and the 3mm thick stainless steel pieces feel virtually indestructible. The only thing I’d say is that some of the edges are quite blunt.

Using the Wave BBQ

The cooking grill on the Wave is pretty big so I didn’t hold back. I got my hands on a big chicken shawarma kebab from the supermarket and barbecued it alongside chunks of pepper and halloumi - all of it to be plated up with hummus, tzatziki and breads.

For this first barbecue I used lumpwood charcoal which I lit using three natural firelighters. It got going without any interference from me. But it was an hour before the heat of the coals had died down enough for me to cook on it without burning the food. I think the triangular shape means the charcoal is quite densely packed and so stays very hot.

I added the big shawarma kebab, but after about 15 minutes I decided that six tightly packed chicken thighs was going to take a long time to cook thoroughly. So I removed them from the kebab sticks and cooked them individually - which turned out to be a good call.

After the chicken had been cooking for 20 minutes I added the seasoned and oiled peppers, and after 30 minutes I popped the halloumi on too. It was all ready to eat after 40 minutes. But since I’d waited an hour for the coals to reach the right temperature, it’s a good job I had some nibbles to hand! 

Having said that, everything was cooked beautifully, the chicken had just the right amount of charring on the gnarly bits and retained a good succulent texture. The peppers and halloumi were also deliciously smoky and well cooked. The BBQ has plenty of space and this was enough food for four people, but if you’re cooking small food like burgers or sausages you could easily feed six with this size grill.

A small amount of ash fell out of the bottom, but nothing major, and the feet stay cool, so it won’t scorch grass. It’s worth pointing out though that some oil from the food ran down the leg and pooled on the patio, so you’ll want to watch out for this if it’s on a surface you’re precious about.

After the barbecue it was time to put my feet up, add some logs and sip on a nice cold beverage. Despite initially being concerned about removing the hot grill grate, I managed it easily with my long BBQ tongs. But if you don’t want to scorch the grass, you’ll have to think carefully about where you put it if it’s still very hot.

What can I say about its performance as a fire pit other than it did the job, had space for 2-3 logs at a time and kept most of the ash contained. We sat around it on camping chairs and toasted marshmallows and the fire was at the perfect height.

Next time I used it, I tried an instant light charcoal bag. I was only cooking two meat and two veggie burgers, so didn’t need a huge amount of coal. And quite unusually for one of these instant light bags, it got so hot that it was 50 minutes before I could add the burgers. And even then, I had to place them right at the edge because the middle was far too hot to cook on.

The result was great, within just eight minutes all four burgers were on our plates, including toasted buns that I'd quickly popped on the grill at the end. After the BBQ, I once again loaded it up with logs and - all in the name of research - enjoyed tasty toasted marshmallows.

The first time I tried the bottle opener, I was slightly hesitant because I was worried about destabilising it while coals were burning. But actually, it was fine and you can easily open bottles whilst barbecuing or having a fire.

For my final BBQ it was lamb chops and halloumi to go with a greek salad and tzatziki. I used another instant light bag, and this time I knew to light it at least an hour before I wanted to BBQ. There’s something about the triangular shape of the BBQ that means the coals get very hot and stay very hot.

The results were great, by this point I’d really got the hang of cooking on this BBQ - it’s best to start your food off at the edges of the grate. The fatty strip down the edge of the lamb chops cooked beautifully and they were ready in under 10 minutes.

Cleaning and storage

The heavy steel grate can be cleaned by hand and it may need a good scrub to remove stuck on residues. Though to be honest, unless you’re packing it away in the bag I’d be inclined to leave it dirty and let the heat from the next BBQ burn the residues off instead. 

Removing the ash can be a messy job. I found the simplest way was to upend the whole BBQ as best you can. It is a bit awkward, but it does the job. The BBQ disassembles and packs away very neatly. The canvas bag is as much a neat storage solution as it is a bag.  

The pieces can all get quite greasy and covered in ash, so I’d recommend keeping hold of the padded envelopes it arrives in. This way, if you need to pack it away, and you’re somewhere without access to a hose to blast the dirt off, at least you won’t ruin the canvas bag.  And since the bag has a velcro top, any remaining ash should be contained and not escape into your car. 

One other point worth noting, is that when I disassembled mine after the first BBQ and fire pit evening, the three base pieces had all slightly warped. So instead of being completely flat, they now had a slight curve to them. This didn’t in any way affect how they fit into the bag or stop them slotting back together when I reassembled it, and they didn’t seem to warp further after the next couple of uses. But it’s tricky to say whether this would get worse over time.

Comparisons

If you’re not really a fire pit person, then the BergHOFF BBQ is a portable BBQ I’d highly recommend. It’s a great compact table top BBQ that’s roomy enough to cook for 2-4 people and it won’t scorch the grass at your campsite. It takes a while to cool down though and it’s a touch more expensive. On the plus side, there’s no assembly needed.

For BBQs in the park or at the beach, you’ll need a BBQ that can cool down quickly, so you can pack it up and take it home, without having to hang around for hours. In this instance, I’d recommend the LotusGrill. Although expensive - at around £165 - this clever fan assisted charcoal BBQ heats up in just 5 minutes and only takes around an hour or so to cool down. What’s more, the sides stay cool even during cooking. The only drawback is the heat on the grill is uneven so you need to rotate foods frequently.

Should you buy the Wave BBQ and Fire Pit?

I would absolutely recommend the Wave for camping and caravanning trips. Not only is the space saving design helpful when the car is crammed with other gear, but having a 2-in-1 BBQ and fire pit makes a lot of sense. Plus the height is perfect for sitting around on camp chairs and you can enjoy a fire late into the night without worrying about burning the grass at the campsite.

At full price it’s £110 but at the time of writing it was reduced to £70, which I think is fantastic value for money given that it’s a 2-in-1 BBQ.  Keep in mind that this isn’t the best portable BBQ for taking to the park, it’s heavy and will take too long to cool down. And it’s most sturdy when on stable, even ground. As I mentioned above, I did see some warping, but it didn’t affect the use. Otherwise, the large grate offers plenty of cooking space and I really like it.

Kamado grills are cropping up in all the most stylish gardens, including plenty of the displays at this year's Chelsea Flower Show. The LANDMANN Mini Charcoal BBQ Kamado is a certified dupe of more expensive egg-shaped alternatives, meaning that for an RRP of £169.00, you can get the look for a fraction of the price.

But how does it actually perform in outdoor cooking? I put it to the test to see if it can rival the best BBQs out there in terms of quality as well as value - namely to see if it stands up against the original Big Green Egg Minimax BBQ, which our expert reviewer Helen was obsessed with. 

The LANDMANN Kamado is pint-sized compared to the original absolutely mammoth Big Green Egg models, with dimensions of 48.5 x 44 x 57 centimetres. Though it's small, it's still marketed as able to be used as a BBQ, slow cooker and smoker. If you're still unsure on the merits of a Kamado grill as opposed to one of the best gas BBQs, you can read our explainer on what a kamado grill is for the lowdown. 

LANDMANN GrillChef Mini Kamado BBQ specs

• Fuel type: charcoal
• Materials: ceramic
• Dimensions: ‎48.5 x 44 x 57 cm
• Cooking area dimensions: 27cm diameter
• Weight: 20.26kg

Who tested this BBQ?

Unboxing, setting up and first impressions 

The Landmann Mini Kamado is the perfect size for small households - even its box has a small footprint. Arriving in a compact cardboard box, it was a breeze to set up this BBQ, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. 

In the box, you'll find the egg element of the GrillChef already assembled and wrapped in plastic to ensure its safe journey. On top of that, there's the element for the stand (which you just need to bolt together) and the handle that you need to secure on. 

All that's left to do then is to place the ceramic pot inside and the metal grill. Though I wouldn't say that this Kamado is the most portable choice for beach trips or park BBQs, it is a lot lighter (20.26kg) than the smallest Big Green Egg offering the Minimax, which weighs a huge 40kg. 

I was incredibly impressed by the look of the GrillChef Mini Kamado once I had it assembled. The main body feels high-quality, alongside the inner parts and finishing touches (the wooden handle and temperature gauge). I liked the stand too, which suited where I wanted to set it up just fine.

If you're hosting a big BBQ or family occasion, however, I've got a feeling that this mini Landmann offering isn't quite going to cut it. The brand does sell an alternative large version, available on Amazon for £699.99, which is still a relative bargain considering the RRP of pricier similarly-sized models. 

Cooking on the LANDMANN GrillChef Mini Kamado BBQ

It can be a nightmare sometimes to get a charcoal BBQ going, which is why I went for the easy option of an Instant Light bag, which meant that all I needed to do was chuck in the bag, light the corners and let the rest happen without a fuss. Once the fire was lit I opened both vents on the BBQ (there's one on the top and another on the bottom) in order to promote airflow. 

The temperature rose really quickly inside the BBQ. The thermometer reads both Fahrenheit and degrees Celsius and enables you to know how the pre-heating process is going without disrupting what's going on inside. 

Once the preheating was done I began cooking with one of the ultimate BBQ foods, beef burgers. I started off with two patties, thinking that the grill could only hold that many. It became clear soon after that I could fit more on (even if they took a little longer to cook), so I squeezed four onto the space. 

I closed the lid for five minutes on each side and added cheese right at the end, which took just a couple of minutes to melt. They were cooked fantastically, and the grill was still piping hot for the next test after they were done. 

Next, I moved on to cooking halloumi skewers and pesto-filled mushrooms. I overfilled the area at first as I've been used to testing BBQs a little bigger than this.

I decided to re-strategize and cooked the halloumi skewers on their own which took a few minutes. I had to be careful not to let these stick, as the grill was so hot that there was a tendency for them to come away from the bamboo sticks. 

Under a careful eye, they came out excellently, and I moved on to the portobello mushrooms. I grilled them without the foil to begin with, and then added pesto, garlic and olive oil, wrapped them up in foil and set them on the BBQ for 10 minutes.

The last thing I cooked was chicken wing skewers. I let these cook for 10 minutes on each side with the lid down before adding a drizzle and seasoning mix and letting that settle for another 5 minutes. I used an infrared thermometer to be doubly sure that the chicken was cooked through for this test.

These were by far the most delicious thing I've ever cooked on a BBQ (and I've tested a fair few at this point), with the smokiness from the Kamado adding so much to the flavour. Even after this quite lengthy cooking process, the Kamado was still smoking hot. That's good news for outdoor dinner parties, or if you're keen to get back to the BBQ for an after-dinner snack - you could even get inventive with a BBQ dessert if you were feeling adventurous.

Cleaning and maintenance 

I left the LANDMANN GrillChef Mini Kamado BBQ to cool down overnight, as even when it was time to go to bed there was still some heat coming off of the grill - one thing I've learnt when it comes to how to clean a BBQ is that you need to have patience. 

As with all charcoal barbecues, there wasn't too much maintenance to be done with this grill, but the next time it's in use you should rake over the coals so that they fall into the lower part of the Kamado, and you can remove them and start afresh. 

How does it compare to similar BBQs?

This is by far the least expensive Kamado we've found or tested at Ideal Home so far, but if you want the real deal, you'll have to shell out up to £795 for the Big Green Egg MiniMax. When our expert reviewer Helen tried it, she said it was 'a great gateway into the world of egg cooking' and she loved the high-quality feel.

If you are looking for a bigger, higher-end egg-shaped BBQ, then the MiniMax is 'big enough to cook joints of meat and get to grips with this style of cooking for 2-4 people', meaning it might be more of a comfortable fit than this LANDMANN option.

The other more budget Kamado-style grill that we've tried is the Tower Kamado Maxi Charcoal BBQ, which comes in at around £400. Our reviewer found it to be a 'great buy for anyone searching for a smart egg-style barbecue to fit in their smaller outdoor space.' It comes with a waterproof cover too. If you're looking for a mid-range mini egg, it's also a great choice.

Should you buy the LANDMANN GrillChef Mini Kamado BBQ?

This BBQ is a total bargain and for the price, I'd recommend anyone looking for a smaller Kamado-style BBQ on a budget to invest. It is pretty small, with 4 burgers max at a time, but if you only have a few people to cater to then it'll suffice. The setup time is minimal and the cooking on this BBQ is great, with the vents making it really versatile for all different types of foods.

If you have a little more to spend, or enough to spend on a Big Green Egg, then you might want to opt for one of those, as you'll get more space and potentially a little more style for your money. But if it's an affordable option you're after, you won't be disappointed with this LANDMANN version.

Barbecuing in places other than your own back garden is an expedition fraught with challenges. We all know that disposable barbecues are not the best solution. So finding the best BBQ barbecue with a portable design to take to your favourite picnic spot, that’s easy to use, and packs away neatly, is worth getting right.

The LotusGrill is one of the more expensive portable barbecues. But it offers several design upgrades and features that you won’t see on the cheaper models. Don’t underestimate the brilliance of the integrated, battery powered fan. It heats up the coals quickly as well as allowing a surprising degree of temperature control. Plus, the stay-cool sides limit the time you’ll have to wait before packing it up.

It comes in three sizes and I was sent the standard size, which is the middle of the three. I enjoyed using this barbecue, it’s very thoughtfully designed and is a winning choice on many levels. I stopped short of giving it five stars as the heat on the grill isn’t as even as I’d like - which makes cooking some foods a bit of a challenge, but otherwise, it’s pretty faultless. 

Lotus Grill BBQ product specs: 

• Fuel type: charcoal
• Materials: Steel and shock-resistant plastics. Stainless steel grid, inner bowl, charcoal container and latches
• Dimensions: top diameter: 35cm, bottom diameter: 26cm, height: 23.4cm
• Cooking area dimensions: 35cm diameter
• Weight: 3.7kg
• Colours: anthracite, green, purple, red, blue (colour options vary if you choose a different size)

Who tested the LotusGrill BBQ?

Unboxing, setting up and first impressions 

Inside the outer brown cardboard box, there was the box containing the LotusGrill but also some LotusGrill charcoal and lighter gel. Depending on where you buy the LotusGrill, you often get some fuel bundled in for free to get you started.

I was delighted that when I opened the box, there was no other packaging to contend with. The fully assembled barbecue is packed in its carry case and that’s all it needs. I did however immediately disassemble it so I could get to grips with how it works and what goes where.

The top grill grid is held in place with two sturdy side clips, once this is removed you can access the small central charcoal container. It’s lidded and has a little tray underneath for lighter gel. It sits inside a full size stainless steel inner bowl that’s removable for cleaning.

The combination of the lidded charcoal container and the grill grid being clipped safely in place, means that everything is firmly contained. So when it’s in the bag and you’re transporting it, there are no concerns about things moving around - especially useful if you haven’t yet emptied out the (cold) ash.

The bag is a robust canvas style with two handles and zipped top, it does the job perfectly. And while it’s bulkier than some portable barbecues, it’s no bigger than carrying a medium size cool bag to a picnic. And I think if you’re taking it to the park you could definitely prefill the charcoal container so you just need to take the small lighter gel with you.

One of the unique design features incorporated into this barbecue is the fan system. It serves several purposes, it supplies the charcoal with air for speedy ignition. It also acts as a temperature regulator and it helps to keep the outside cool.

The fan is controlled via a knob on the front of the barbecue. Lowering the fan speed is like turning down the grill temperature and vice versa. It’s powered either by batteries in the base or via a USB cable and power bank. Mine arrived with four AA batteries pre-installed and I’d say this is the easiest option, but it’s great to have the choice between batteries or the USB cable.

The charcoal supplied is LotusGrill branded beech wood charcoal and it’s been specifically designed to burn cleanly. So if you use other charcoal, it might not be smoke-free. It costs £14.50 for a 2.5kg bag which is probably enough for around 15 barbecues, so it’s not too expensive.

What’s it like to use: 

I followed the instructions in the manual and added a small ring of the lighter gel to the ignition plate. I turned the fan onto max, lit the lighter gel and placed the filled charcoal container on top, then clipped the grill grid into place. And hey presto, four minutes later it was ready to cook on. It’s like magic, I’ve never known a charcoal BBQ heat up so fast.

Because this barbecue only uses a small amount of coal I didn’t know how long it would stay hot for, so I played it safe with my food choice and cooked sausages. At first I wasn’t sure if I should cook on the central solid metal part of the grill, so I placed the sausages around the edge. Side note - you can cook on that part but it’s much hotter so great for speedy charring.

Even on the wire grill I noticed it was hotter towards the centre than the outside, but as soon as I realised this, I simply rotated the sausages accordingly so that they cooked evenly. They took about 12 minutes and when I removed them there was still plenty of heat left in the BBQ.

To make the most of the remaining heat I improvised, grabbed a couple of bananas, cut them down the middle and filled them with peanut butter and dark chocolate chunks. I wrapped them in foil and placed on the barbecue with the fan turned to low. I left them for 25 minutes. This was the perfect amount of time to soften the banana, melt the chocolate and make a delicious dessert. By this point the coals were almost all burnt, although there was still heat coming up.

It’s advertised as a smokeless BBQ and aside from the unavoidable smoke created as the fat from the sausages burnt, there was no other smoke, certainly no clouds of charcoal smoke blowing over the fence into nextdoor's garden. What’s more, the sides stay cool enough to touch, although it was slightly warmer near the top when the fan was on max. But happily, the grass beneath it was unaffected - no unsightly scorch marks to worry about.

The next time I lit it was to cook some vegetable and halloumi kebabs as well as some lamb kofta kebabs. Knowing that the outsides stay completely cool, I was happy to pop it on a wooden table this time. Once again, it was quick to set up and light and I put the food on four minutes after lighting it. There was only just enough space for everything on the grill, because my vegetable kebab skewers were really long.

I turned the fan down to about ¾ so that the heat wasn’t quite so intense. But I really noticed the temperature difference across the grill and my vegetable kebabs cooked much faster in the middle with the pieces on both ends struggling to cook. This meant I had to do a lot of juggling everything around to make sure all parts of the kebab had a turn near the middle of the barbecue.

I let the meat kebabs cook gently around the edge, occasionally switching the ones at the outer edge closer to the middle when they needed more browning. Everything was ready in about 20 minutes. But I’d say this BBQ isn’t that well suited to larger foods, the hotter temperature in the centre makes it tricky to manage and you’re better off with smaller foods.

Next up I barbecued chicken thighs alongside some courgette strips. This time I avoided the hotter central area, and I also turned the fan to about halfway. Initially it was on high and the chicken started charring fast, but when I dropped the fan speed, the change in temperature was immediately obvious.

I really enjoyed the ability to drop the temperature, especially for something like chicken which can be a challenge on a charcoal BBQ. It was great to be able to get it thoroughly cooked through without burning the outside.

Cleaning and storage:

The LotusGrill took around 1 - 1.5 hours to cool down enough for me to handle the charcoal container. And once it’s cool you can pack it straight into the bag since all the mess will stay contained until you get home. The coal is contained in the small container, which means emptying out the ash is virtually mess free, simply upend the container into a bin.

The grill grid and the inner bowl are dishwasher safe, so cleaning is a joy if you’re at home. If you’re camping or caravanning you’ll have to give them a scrub by hand. Fat collects at the base of the inner bowl, so that has to be scraped out before washing, but the grill is no trickier to clean than other BBQ grills.

Storage is simple because it comes with the carry/ storage bag included and it’s not too big, so it really can be stored anywhere.

How does it compare to other BBQs?

If you want a similar size portable barbecue, but your budget can’t stretch to the LotusGrill, consider the BergHOFF BBQ. At £125 it’s a bit cheaper, but you still get a great quality portable barbecue. The difference is that without the integrated fan, it takes longer to heat up, requires more coal and the outside gets hot. Plus it takes a while to cool down, so it’s less ideal for picnics when you might not want to hang around waiting for it to be cold enough to pack away. But for camping, caravanning and using at home, it’s a cracking small BBQ.

The Everdure Cube BBQ is another small portable barbecue that’s made it onto our list of best BBQ’s. It’s a great looking cube BBQ with a lid that doubles as a handy chopping board. This charcoal BBQ is compact, but it’s arguably less portable since it doesn’t come with a bag or carry strap, but instead has two side handles. Like the BergHOFF it also stays hot long after use so the LotusGrill trumps it on that front.

Should you buy the LotusGrill BBQ? 

All tabletop BBQ’s are portable and easy to move around, but not all of them are as well suited to taking on adventures as the LotusGrill. Its stay-cool sides mean you don’t need to sit in the park for hours waiting for it to cool down. It won’t scorch the grass and what’s more, the fully zipped carry case will keep all the mess contained until you get home.

The smokeless design means you won’t bother anyone around you and impatient, or very hungry picnickers will be delighted by how fast it heats up. The catch is that it’s an expensive choice, but if you’ve got the budget it’s a great BBQ. Once you get used to the central hot spot and rotate foods, it’ll cook evenly and it’s a dream to have the fan to control the heat level. But I’d recommend smaller foods, like sausages, burgers and chicken portions. The difference in the heat across the grill becomes really apparent when you try to cook long kebabs or bigger pieces of meat.

Firing up the barbecue and entertaining friends is what summer is all about. We all love the idea of it, but sometimes the reality can involve frantic dashes between the kitchen and the BBQ, and even if you’ve got one of the best BBQs, it’s common to feel a huge sigh of relief when all the food is on the table - and not too burnt.

I recently discovered the joys of a side burner on one of the best gas BBQs. Yes, it’s a hob ring on your BBQ and for some people, it will be pointless. But there are many reasons why I think they’re a great idea and can not only alleviate some of the stress of a BBQ, but elevate the experience, opening up more opportunities to get creative.

So if you’re not sure, read on as I dive into the advantages as well as the disadvantages to this extra BBQ feature. To provide some added inspiration I’ll tell you what I used the side burner for when I tried one out for a recent BBQ review, and you might be surprised.

Advantages and uses of side burners

One of the big plus points is having the opportunity to heat up a side dish or a sauce while you barbecue. I found that searing a tasty steak while a peppercorn sauce simmered alongside it, allowed me to coordinate the timings so the sauce was ready as I plated up the steak alongside some tasty seared BBQ greens.

Even if you’re not making anything adventurous, the side burner can still be used to soften onions for your burgers and hotdogs. Or to fry eggs to pop on top of a barbecued gammon steak. All these little added extras elevate a meal, but if you had to run between the barbecue and the kitchen, you probably wouldn’t bother. Or you’d just stress yourself out.

When I recently reviewed a gas BBQ with side burners I made a BBQ fry up, and I used the side burner to heat the beans as well as fry the eggs, which meant I could do the whole meal outside. I never would have attempted this meal on a BBQ if I had to make half of it in the kitchen.

And then there’s the opportunity to use it even when you’re not barbecuing. I’m envisioning a pan full of winter mulled wine bubbling away while you sit around a fire pit. Or a pan of hot chocolate keeping warm as you have fun with sparklers on bonfire night. If you’ve got an outdoor projector, you could even use it to make the popcorn. The level of versatility a simple gas side burner can add to your outdoor kitchen is actually quite surprising, and impressive.

Disadvantages of side burners

Usually a side burner is set into one of the side tables, so when you’re cooking on it, you lose out on a side table, which is a minor inconvenience. But most have a lid that closes on top of the burner so you still get to use the space as a table if you’re not cooking on the burner.

The other point to note, is that if you like a barbecue with fold-down side tables for space-saving storage, the side with the burner will usually be fixed. This means the barbecue is bigger and bulkier to store.

While I do think a side burner can lessen the stress of cooking, by reducing the amount of trips between the barbecue and the kitchen. The flip side is that when you try to do too much on the barbecue it can become a bit of a juggling act. I certainly found that when I made the aforementioned fry-up, I did start to get a bit overwhelmed by all the different elements I was cooking at once. That said, when I kept things simple, it was super helpful. So it depends on what you're cooking.

Lastly, no matter how many uses a side burner has, it’s a pointless addition if you never use it. So it is worth thinking very carefully about what you usually cook on a barbecue and whether the addition of a side burner would come in handy for side dishes and sauces. Depending on the BBQ brand, a side burner can increase the price of the barbecue, so if you know you’ll never use it, save some money and choose a more pared-back model instead.

Are side burners worth it?

To sum up, in my opinion a side burner will be invaluable for budding BBQ chefs and keen cooks, and definitely adds an extra dimension to your al fresco cooking experience. But if you simply want to grill a chicken breast and walk away, then it’s probably not for you. And when deciding, consider the size and cost implications of this extra feature to see if the maths stack up for you.

Many of us need a pressure washer to keep on top of external property cleaning and maintenance tasks. A corded pressure washer, like the Bosch Aquatak 135, is a power tool that connects to your outdoor water tap and plugs into a standard electricity power point. It directs water under high pressure to revitalise dirty pavers and patios and other surfaces such as fences and walls, sheds and outdoor buildings as well as cleaning cars, bikes, bins and gutters. 

I’d tested a couple of the best pressure washers for Ideal Home earlier this year so I was interested to see how the Bosch Aquatak 135 compared to the mighty corded Karcher K4 Premium and the clever cordless Worx 20V Hydroshot. I have a small back garden that has a number of stone patios and walkways, plus wooden sleeper paths  but I also need a multi-functional product that can hose down bins, gutters and patio furniture as well as keep my car spick and span. All of these need regular maintenance. As I’ve mentioned before, I like to buy electrical products that are well-designed, robust and will stand the test of time. 

It was a cool May day when I put the Bosch Aquatak to the test…

 Bosch Aquatak 135 pressure washer product specs

• Power type: 1900w
• Max pressure: 135 bar
• Best for: Outdoor surfaces and car cleaning
• Hose length: 7m
• Power cord length: 5m
• Weight: 7.9 kg

 Who tested this pressure washer? 

Bosch Aquatak 135 pressure washer: Unboxing and delivery 

The Bosch Aquatak 135 arrived in a box 44 (H) x 36 (W) x 36cm (D).  The packaging was made of good quality cardboard, which is widely recycled. It was printed with the name of the product and clearly pictured what was waiting inside. 

In there you'll find the main unit, the high pressure hose, the water filter, the trigger handle, the lance, the trio nozzle (with fan, rotary, and pencil jet settings) and the high pressure detergent nozzle. 

Plus, there's also the pressure washer’s vital statistics, such as power type, maximum pressure, the water flow rate and the fact that it has a three year guarantee. 

Bosch Aquatak 135 pressure washer: First impressions 

On opening the box, all the contents were neatly arranged and held in place by more cardboard. Detailed paper instructions are included and the box illustrates the simple six-step set up.

I laid out all the components before putting the pressure washer together. Unlike the Karcher K4 (which is significantly bigger), I loved the fact that there was no assembly of the main unit.

The high pressure hose inserted easily into the back of the main unit and then into the trigger handle. The water filter attached to the front of the unit. My household hosepipe clicked into the water filter and in turn the household external tap. Then I just plugged into the electricity supply and turned on the mains tap. I attached the lance to the gun handle and three-in-one nozzle with a click. 

Finally, I twisted the main switch dial to ‘On’ on the main unit, released the safety lock and pressed the trigger to release a constant flow of water. It took about 5 minutes to do all this.  

 Bosch Aquatak 135 pressure washer: Performance 

Wooden sleeper pathway

The wood of my oak sleeper was discoloured and slippery after the winter weather and really needed a good clean.

I selected the rotary jet setting on the nozzle to remove the heavy dirt - I could clearly see the black and ingrained debris being removed. I switched to the fine pencil jet setting for particularly stubborn sections along the edges.

Stone patio

Next I moved onto the paved stone patio. Again, the pavers were looking a bit worse for wear with mildewed patches and moss growing in the crevices. I gave it a quick brush to remove pebbles and leaves. Then used the fan setting to clean. This worked very effectively. 

I worked carefully from one paver to the next in order to make sure that I evenly cleaned the whole surface. This was quite time consuming but worth it for seeing the difference. I noticed that you can buy an additional Bosch patio cleaning attachment (similar to the Karcher) to cover a larger area more efficiently and to stop water and debris flying up.

Painted exterior wall

The painted walls close to our garage needed a wash down so I used the same setting to hose them down, including the glass balustrade above. I started at the top and worked downwards; dirty water quickly appeared showing the removal of winter weathering. Paintwork looked as good as new after a 10-minute wash down.

Car

Next I decided to use the high pressure detergent nozzle accessory. I filled it with car cleaning detergent topped up with water (a total of 450ml) and then carefully attached it to the lance. 

Pressing the trigger, the soap quickly covered the paintwork. It was good for getting detergent into the wheel rims. Then I switched back to the trio nozzle to rinse off with the softest setting. Job brilliantly done! 

Final verdict: Is the Bosch Aquatak 135 pressure washer High Pressure Washer worth the money? 

The Bosch Aquatak 135 pressure washer is a well-built and relatively powerful machine with good cleaning effectiveness. It was efficient at removing dirt and grime on any given surface. It's a good mid-range machine and the three pressure settings mean you select the right pressure for the job at hand.

In terms of user friendliness, the push fit connections made it simple to assemble and the large wheels and the extendable handle make it easily maneoevrable. The gun handle is light and simple to use. As with all corded pressure washers, you do need to be careful not to trip over the electrical cable and the hose. I like the way that it is designed to neatly store – the handle pushes down and folds back; both electrical cable and high pressure hose have housing and both the gun handle and the accessories had nicely designed storage on the main unit too.

The RRP is £184.99 (including Bosch high-pressure gun, lance, 3-in-1 nozzle, High pressure detergent nozzle, 450 ml, 7m high-pressure hose, water filter), making it a good-allrounder that’s not going to break the bank. The quality is good and it will get all those seasonal and weekend maintenance jobs done without a fuss.

About this review, and the reviewer 

In line with our guidelines on how we test products that we recommend at Ideal Home, our reviewer Rhoda tested this pressure washer in several different environments in her home before coming to the conclusions in this review. 

It’s BBQ season! The sun is out, which means that many of us are reaching once more for our grills and best BBQ’s, in the hopes that we can enjoy plenty of al fresco meals before the winter returns.

But our one, main bug-bear with our beloved BBQ’s is that they can feel exceedingly difficult to clean (whether you have a portable or freestanding BBQ), with lots of hidden nooks and crannies, delicate grates, and stuck-on dirt and stains from burgers, hot dogs and the like.

Luckily, there are a few super simple hacks out there for how to clean a BBQ which require minimal effort – and one very easy method involves using just a few sheets of your old Sunday newspaper, and almost nothing else. 

How to clean your BBQ using newspaper

So you’ve just pulled your BBQ out of the shed for the first time in months. It’s full of dirt, dust and stuck-on grime – so what should your first step be for getting yours gleaming once more?

'First things first, you should never attempt to clean a BBQ (be it a gas or a charcoal BBQ) when it is cool,' Andrew Lovell, product manager at LANDMANN explained. 'Instead strike whilst the irons are hot - literally. Ensure it is safe for you to do so (meaning you aren't going to burn your hands) and clean your grill whilst it is still warm - but not hot enough to burn you.'

Fire up your grill and allow it to get hot, before turning it off and leaving it to cool down for around 10 minutes. This should be long enough for it to be hot when you return, and cool enough that there's less risk that you'll hurt yourself – as long as you're being careful!

At this point though, you may still want to put on some thick, heat-resistant gloves, to properly protect your hands. 

Next, grab a couple of sheets of an old newspaper, ready for cleaning. 

Make sure that the newspaper is thoroughly wet before placing it on the grill, Andrew told Ideal Home. He explained, 'spritz each newspaper sheet with enough water that it still holds its shape and doesn’t fall apart when you apply it to the barbecue. That way, you can make sure that you’re maximising your chances of getting the best clean.'

And how much newspaper should you need for the job? 'Four or five sheets of newspaper will work perfectly for this – just make sure you have covered the entirety of your grill,' Andrew said.

After doing this, close the lid of your BBQ and leave it for an hour. Andrew said, 'Once you have shut the lid of the barbecue, the residual heat will combine with the water on the newspaper to create enough steam to melt away the grease and grime. It’s the perfect low-maintenance way to keep your barbecue clean.'

After an hour, wipe the newspaper up along with all of the dirt of the BBQ, and there you have it – a perfectly clean BBQ ready for summer meals!

You shouldn’t need to apply any other cleaning products to your BBQ after using this trick, but Andrew explains that it may be necessary if yours is particularly greasy. 

'A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth will do just fine, but if your barbecue is in need of more deep cleaning, you can also grab some trusty BBQ cleaning wipes, or a specialised cleaning solution, to get it totally spick and span,' he said.

Summer is just around the corner and if you want one of the best BBQs to cook up a feast in your garden, but want to avoid sending smoke billowing across all your neighbours gardens, you’ll need one of the best gas barbecues. And while gas barbecues don’t produce those intense smokey flavours that you get from charcoal, they make up for it by heating up fast, giving you more control, and producing consistent and predictable results.

A family size gas barbecue can set you back several hundred pounds, a figure that's only rising in the cost-of-living crisis, but this 4+1 burner Vonhaus gas barbecue is under £250, making it more wallet-friendly than some of the bigger brands. It offers four main burners under the grill plates, as well as a side burner which is essentially a built-in gas hob ring.

I was excited to try out this barbecue as I’ve never used a barbecue with a side burner and I wanted to see what all the fuss is about. And given that Vonhaus is not one of the big BBQ brands, I was keen to test it out and see whether it’s up to the job of cooking delicious meals for al-fresco dining.

Vonhaus 4+1 Burner Gas BBQ specifications

• Fuel type: gas
• Burners: four 2.8kW burners and one 3.2kW side burner
• Materials: non stick porcelain coated grill
• Dimensions: 101 x 48 x 125cm 
• Cooking area dimensions: 62 x 35cm plus a 57 x 14cm warming rack above
• Weight: 21kg

Who tested this BBQ?

Unboxing, setting up and first impressions 

This barbecue arrived in a huge box weighing almost 25kg, so it needs two people to lift it from where the courier leaves it, to wherever you plan to assemble it. The box could be sturdier - a couple of the barbecue parts arrived with small dents or bends - nothing that affected assembly and use though.

However, assembling it was a mission, the whole process from the initial unboxing to the finished assembled barbecue took me two hours. I did it by myself and it would be easier with two people, though I’m not sure it’d be much faster. You’ll need to supply your own screwdriver and a wrench as well. Some aspects such as fixing the gas pipe into place, were particularly tough and needed some muscle. Whereas you’ll need a more delicate touch for some of the other parts or you risk bending them.

The main cooking area is solid, but I found some of the other components for the frame beneath to be flimsier than I would have hoped for. That said, once it was all assembled it gained some strength. Plus, for a gas barbecue of this size, it’s a bit of a bargain, so you do have to set your expectations accordingly.

Once it was set up, I wheeled it into position, but you won’t want to move it around too often since there’s no handle to pull it with, I had to grip onto the side shelf instead. Once in position, it looked pretty impressive. 

The side burner is to the left of the main grilling area and is covered by a flip-up lid, so when not in use it acts as a second side table. But if you’re cooking on it you’ll have to make do with just the side table on the right, which is sturdy and roomy enough for a dish full of food or for your marinades and utensils. I think it would benefit from a hook or two though, to hang tongs and other BBQ tools.

Underneath the barbecue there are two cupboard doors, it’s not an enclosed cupboard, in fact both sides as well as the back are open. So there’s a limit to what you can leave in there, furthermore, the shelf isn’t strong enough to hold a gas bottle, so that has to go on the ground next to the barbecue.

The lid has a decent size handle and is light to lift. It has a built-in thermometer, but the larger circle of numbers are the Fahrenheit figures which is a bit annoying for most of us, because for Celsius you have to look at the smaller numbers. Plus they’re marked at weird intervals like 206C and 262C.

The three heavy non-stick grill plates look good quality and they’re easily removable for cleaning. Only one of the four burner controls has an automatic ignition. So you have to light this one first, then as you switch on the rest, they naturally light from the first. In general, it’s all pretty straightforward to get to grips with.

What’s it like to use

After the long set up process, I breathed a sigh of relief when I switched it on and it all worked as expected. It’s a big family-size barbecue so I tried it out when we had friends over. I switched it on and allowed the grill plates to heat up for a few minutes, then I loaded it up with six burgers, eight sausages, and two blocks of halloumi sliced up. There was more than enough space, in fact, I could easily have cooked more.

At the same time, I used the side burner to fry onions for the burgers, which was actually really convenient because I didn’t have to keep running between the kitchen and the barbecue. And they softened nicely while everything else cooked.

Some of the fat from the burgers caught fire as it dripped down, which gave them a nice flame-grilled flavour. And everything cooked with defined bar marks. Having four burners meant I had plenty of control and could cook the sausages easily without burning them, whilst also cooking the halloumi and burgers fast.

I made use of the warming rack to keep the burgers warm while I finished cooking the sausages and halloumi. Then, once everything was ready, I turned off all the burners and closed the lid to keep the heat in while I popped to the kitchen to grab the plates and salads. I was impressed with the results and having such a spacious barbecue made the job far less stressful than juggling all this food on a smaller barbecue.

For my next feast I splashed out on a big, thick, sharing-size ribeye steak that I grilled alongside tenderstem broccoli and asparagus. On the side burner I gently warmed a pan of peppercorn sauce. I had two burners on high to cook the steak, but for the greens I started on high and then reduced the heat when they were nicely charred.

Everything cooked in about 10 minutes and the steak was seared and charred on the outside but still pink and succulent inside. When it was time to plate up, it was super easy since I had the pan of peppercorn sauce warming on the side burner. All-in-all this meal was effortless to cook, but super impressive on the plate and very tasty.

Now, I’ve been reviewing a lot of barbecues recently and I’m getting a bit bored of barbecue food, so I decided to get a bit inventive with my next meal. Don’t judge me - I thought it would be a good idea to make a fry up, or a grill up if you prefer.

I skewered mushrooms and brushed them with garlic butter as they cooked, added tomato halves, and sausages. On the side burner I heated a pan of baked beans and when that was hot I popped a lid on it and swapped it for a frying pan to fry eggs. At this point I added the bacon and some buttered bread, which toasted up a treat.

I was surprised at how successful my BBQ fry up experiment was. The side burner worked well for the beans and fried eggs and everything else cooked as I’d hoped. I knew the sausages and bacon would be fine, but the tomatoes softened nicely and charred on the outside and the garlic mushrooms worked well too. It pays to experiment!

Cleaning and storage

I scoured the instruction manual for the go-ahead to clean the grill plates in the dishwasher, but sadly the advice with how to clean this BBQ is to wash by hand. The grill area splits into three sections so the plates are simple to remove and they all fit in my kitchen sink. I left them soaking to reduce the amount of scrubbing needed, because they get quite caked in burnt on food.

There’s a huge full-width stainless steel drip tray under the burners, it pulls out from the back of the barbecue. It’s long and a bit unwieldy but I found cleaning it wasn’t too much of a drama. I scraped off as much solidified fat as possible before washing the rest of the residues off in my sink. The exterior of the barbecue just needs a wipe with a damp cloth.

For storage Vonhaus sells a universal waterproof BBQ cover for £45, which is probably going to be money well spent if you plan to leave it outside year round. Otherwise I’d say it’s advisable to store it in a garage or shed over winter.

Comparisons 

If on reflection you don’t think you’ll use the side burner, it’s worth taking a look at the Weber Spirit II E-310 gas barbecue. This three burner BBQ is smaller and it’s pricier too. But it offers fantastic build quality from a big name BBQ brand. Plus, the two side arms can be lowered so it’s a more compact option, if space is at a premium.

Another option to consider is a hybrid gas and charcoal BBQ like the Outback Meteor 4-Burner Hybrid Gas & Charcoal BB. This is the one to choose if you can’t decide between gas and charcoal. It offers the best of both worlds. Like the Vonhaus it comes with four gas burners and a side burner, or you can convert it so that half of the grill space turns into a charcoal BBQ. And surprisingly it’s only slightly more expensive.

Should you buy the Vonhaus 4+1 Burner Gas BBQ? 

My main gripe with this BBQ is that some of the parts are less robust than I would like. But, once it was assembled and in position, this didn’t have any bearing on the quality of food I was able to cook on it. It’s a great choice if you often feed a crowd of people, or if you're putting together an outdoor kitchen. The roomy grill means you’ll have all the space you need to cram on the required number of burgers and sausages to feed several hungry mouths. What’s more, the side burner is certainly a useful addition that saves you running between the kitchen and BBQ quite so much.

I’m usually a charcoal BBQ fan, but there’s a lot to be said for the ease of a gas BBQ as well as the control when it comes to gas vs charcoal BBQs. It’s great to be able to create hot and cold zones and move the food around as needed, especially when you’re cooking a lot of food in one go. And let’s not forget the price, this big BBQ is an affordable option which gets it a big thumbs up. But do note that the price doesn’t include the gas connection hose and regulator - this will set you back a further £20.

About this review, and the reviewer:  

As part of our commitment to how we test products that we recommend at Ideal Home, Helen tested this BBQ at home with a variety of different foods to check its credentials.

This year I’ve spent spring in my garden dodging rain showers to review some of the best BBQs including models from Big Green Egg and Weber. I tried out the smallest of the Big Green Egg family; the Big Green Egg Minimax and also the Original Weber Kettle.

Both of these well known BBQ brands hail from the US, but Big Green Egg barbecues are inspired by Japanese kamado grills, whereas Weber’s first BBQ’s were made from marine buoys. In many ways, these two BBQ’s are like chalk and cheese, but they also share similarities and if nothing else, their stark differences should make it easier for you to figure out which is right for you.

So if you’re looking for a new premium charcoal BBQ to elevate your outdoor cooking experience this summer, read on to discover which of these two top scoring BBQ’s you should buy and why.

Big Green Egg vs Weber: Range

The Big Green Egg range is limited in comparison to what Weber has to offer. You can buy a Big Green Egg in one of three sizes, the Minimax is the small entry-level model but it still has a decent 33cm diameter cooking surface. The large Egg offers a family sized 46cm and the XL Egg has a whopping 61cm diameter cooking surface.

However, it's worth taking a look at the 6 things experts want you to know before buying an egg BBQ.

The Weber Original Kettle comes in two sizes, 47cm or 57cm. But the Original Kettle is just the tip of the iceberg, there are various other kettle BBQ’s including the Master-Touch Kettle and the Bar-B Kettle. Weber even makes a kamado style BBQ which is closest in style to a Big Green Egg.

In fact, size is where weber shined during the Everdure vs Weber debate, too.

Or, if you’re not totally sold on charcoal, they do a stellar range of the best gas BBQs too, we recently tried the Weber Spirit II E-310 and it's currently in the top spot having earned the title of best gas BBQ on our best BBQ round up.

Big Green Egg vs Weber: Cost

Okay, so depending on your budget, cost might well be the deciding factor in which you choose. There’s a big difference between the two brands when it comes to pricing. Let’s compare the 47cm Weber Original Kettle to the 46cm Large Big Green Egg since they both offer a similar sized cooking surface.

The 47cm Weber Original Kettle costs £215, there are some accessories you can add on but really they’re optional. The 46cm Large Big Green Egg will, on the other hand, set you back a staggering £1375. Then if you want legs or a table for it, you can spend anything from £335 to £2000 on top. Plus you can easily spend several hundred pounds on additional accessories if you want to. Even if you opt for the smallest Minimax Big Green Egg with no accessories, you’re still looking at £795.

Big Green Egg vs Weber: Cooking

So if you’re still in shock about the price of a Big Green Egg you might be wondering what all the fuss is about. But don’t stop reading just yet, if your budget will stretch to it, this really is an impressive outdoor cooker. And I say that because it’s so much more than just a BBQ. A Big Green Egg is designed for closed lid cooking, which means you can use it year round no matter what the weather - so you’ll be able to get your money’s worth!

When I reviewed the Minimax Big Green Egg earlier this year I was impressed with how quickly and easily it lights as well as the length of time it can retain heat for. And it’s this heat retention that means it can be used like an outdoor oven.

Depending on the accessories you’ve got and the size of Egg you go for, you can use it to cook anything from a whole turkey at Christmas to baking breads, pizzas and even rotisserie meats. It’s as versatile as you want it to be - making it great for adventurous cooks as well as meat lovers.

I roasted a whole chicken in a Big Green Egg and it’s one of the best chickens I’ve ever cooked. Even as an Egg cooking novice, I was able to regulate the temperature from the get-go for impressive and tasty results.

Now, a standard Weber Kettle won’t offer the same level of versatility in comparison to a Big Green Egg. It’s more of your traditional summer BBQ. But that being said, I also roasted a whole, albeit spatchcock, chicken in the Weber Original Kettle, using their indirect cooking method and it worked a treat. Plus there are accessories such as a pizza stone and rotisserie that you can buy if you want more options.

A Weber Kettle works well for both lid-on and lid-off cooking, so if you’re someone who likes to watch over your BBQ food, this’ll suit you better than egg style cooking that’s primarily done with the lid closed. I think for a standard summer BBQ you can’t go wrong with a Weber Kettle, they retain heat well and it’s easy to regulate the air flow to control the heat level. Quite simply it’s a classic.

Whichever BBQ you choose, my advice is to invest in really good charcoal and natural firelighters. It’s amazing the difference this makes. Both brands offer their own charcoal and I’d suggest buying a bag when you buy the BBQ - that sad, wet bag from your local petrol station just won’t cut it.

Broil King barbecues tend to stand out from the crowd. Designed and manufactured in Canada and the U.S., these beefy BBQs are famed for their high-quality components and their superb grilling and smoking capabilities. 

Naturally, we were keen to sample one of Broil King’s long-standing best-sellers, the Monarch 320, to see if it could contend with the best gas BBQs out there. This model offers an eye-catching set of features at a sensible (but considerable) price, including a pair of reversible, cast-iron grills, three gas burners, and a system for infusing food with smoke and vapour from cooking oils and fats. 

To find out whether the Monarch 320 lives up to its broilliant reputation as one of the best BBQs, our reviewer assembled a sample unit of the barbecue, set it up in his yard, and then used the barbecue to cook a variety of foods, including burgers, sausages, vegetables and burger buns. 

Spoiler alert: it was a sumptuously smoky success. 

Broil King Monarch 320 BBQ product specs 

• Fuel type: propane/butane
• Dimensions: D56 x H119 x W132 cm
• Cooking area dimensions: 55cm x 38 cm
• Weight: 46.4 kg
• Number of burners: 3 
• BTU output: 30,000 (10,000 per burner) 

Who tested this BBQ?

Unboxing and setting up the Broil King Monarch 320 

The Monarch 320 arrives flat-packed, and there’s a significant amount of assembly required to get the BBQ ready. If you enjoy this sort of thing, then you’re in for a fun few hours. On the other hand, if following assembly instructions gives you a headache, consider hiring an expert installer – or ask a kindly friend or family member to help. Our reviewer spent about three-and-a-half hours setting the Monarch 320 up, which is similar to one of their American competitors Char-Broil - the Char Broil Professional 2400 S BBQ took the Ideal Home a good few hours to set up too. 

Most of the materials needed for assembly come packaged with the BBQ, including screws, washers, and a double-ended ‘Robertson’ screwdriver head – a sure sign that this BBQ has Canadian roots. However, you’ll also need a hammer, cross-head screwdriver and a multi-bit screwdriver handle/tool, none of which are included. 

There are many steps to assembling the Monarch 320, from the casters and the base to the grill assembly and hood. We recommend you look very carefully at the diagrams in the instruction manual before screwing one part of the BBQ to another, as you could easily make mistakes with the configuration, e.g. attaching the base the wrong way around. 

Setting up the Monarch 320 may be fairly involved, but as you work, you’ll come to appreciate the elegant design and high-quality construction of the appliance. The parts fit together in snug, satisfying fashion – and you’ll soon find yourself daydreaming of the barbecued meals to come.

A note to your future self: remember that the Monarch 320’s ignition requires a AAA battery, which will need to be replaced from time-to-time. We can imagine some users forgetting this, over the winter.

The barbecue runs on gas, and you’ll need to buy a compatible gas product which connects to the Monarch 320’s regulator hose, in order to cook with the appliance. Fitting the regulator hose (included with the BBQ) is a little fiddly, but you’ll be able to feel when you’ve got it properly connected to your compatible gas bottle.

We fuelled the Monarch 320 with a refillable Flogas 6kg Leisure Gas Propane cylinder, purchased from B&Q. The information on which type of gas to use with the Monarch 320 is quite technical, so don’t be afraid to ask the maker or seller for advice – especially if you’re unfamiliar with propane/butane canisters.

Cooking with the Broil King Monarch 320 

We were blown away by the Monarch 320’s cooking performance during testing.

Using the BBQ is delightfully simple, and requires little explanation. We found that the best approach for achieving the right cooking temperature was to start with a high heat setting – and then, as the BBQ approaches the desired temperature, reduce the setting to medium or low.

Before you set your food on the grill, Broil King recommends applying a high-smoke-point oil to the cooking surface, as this will help to ensure minimal sticking and optimal grill condition. For our test sessions, we brushed the grills with avocado oil.

After about 5-10 minutes of warming up (depending on the weather and desired cooking temperature), the grill was ready to cook. There’s loads of space to set out items on the bottom grills (for cooking with direct heat) and on the upper rack (for convection cooking). We reckon there’s space for about 16-20 medium-sized burgers on the bottom grills alone. 

Once you get the lid shut, you’ll soon hear your food start to sizzle, and the temperature will rise, as you can see by looking at the nicely finished thermometer on the front of the lid. The thermometer is a really useful guide during cooking.

You will notice that the barbecue starts to smoke more as it gets hot, and oil from the cooking food is released. This is intentional, and key to the Monarch 320’s success. Oil and juices from the food are vaporised as they hit a zigzag-shaped component beneath the grill, called the Flav-R-Wave. This causes smoke and vapour to circulate through the cookbox, infusing the food with delicious, smoky flavours. 

The released oil sometimes also causes flames to leap up, which can create a nice searing effect. However, this should be kept in check by tweaking the temperature at times, in order to avoid a full-blown grease fire.

Every component of the Monarch 320 seems to do its job brilliantly. For example, all three burners light really easily, using the battery-powered electric ignition. And the two tables that fold out on either side of the grill create useful, flat surfaces for storing whatever you need to cook with – foodstuffs, utensils, oil, and so on, great for if you're setting up an outdoor kitchen.

We were satisfied with the low level of heat that escaped from the grill itself. Surrounding components, including the side tables and the door below the grill, remained quite cool during cooking. However, the grill hood does become hot during use – so be sure to use the handle when you open it.

Every piece of food we tried barbecuing on the Monarch 320 came out beautifully cooked. Burgers were thoroughly cooked through, juicy on the inside and with a nice bit of charring and some griddle marks on the outside. Sausages come out with the skin lovely and crisp, and tender and cooked-through on the inside, while thicker meats such as pork steaks are cooked evenly, without losing their tenderness.

Meanwhile, veg such as peppers and sweetcorn were also thoroughly cooked through, again with some charring. Once food was sufficiently charred, we found it handy to lift those items onto the upper rack, so that they could continue cooking more gently while we grilled other ingredients.

Cleaning and maintaining the Broil King Monarch 320 

Opinions vary on how often you should clean (and deep clean) a barbecue grill. In the Broil King Monarch’s 320’s case, we’d be inclined to do a light clean after every use, to keep this fine appliance in tip-top condition. 

Cleaning the Monarch 320 is not exactly a pleasure. Clearing the components of detritus from cooking takes a fair bit of effort – especially when it comes to deep cleaning inside the barbecue. Also, some of the parts are tricky to handle, especially the heavy grills and the sharp-edged Flav-R-Wave system. In fairness, these are all common gripes with cleaning gas barbecues. 

On a more positive note, the Monarch 320’s drip tray is a really handy, simple and well-designed solution for removing cooking oil from the machine. Just be sure to scrape it clean after every use, as this will avoid any potential spillage into other parts of the barbecue. 

Another important question to consider is storage. The Monarch 320 is a big appliance, and many buyers will find that they don’t have room to keep it in their garden shed. Fortunately, the BBQ can be kept outside – in which case we advise using a compatible grill cover, such as the snow- and rain-resistant Broil King Grill Cover 68470 (sold separately). 

Is the Broil King Monarch 320 the right barbecue for me?  

There are several very good reasons why the Broil King Monarch 320 would be an excellent pick for many households. 

Despite being a large piece of kit, the Monarch 320 is simple to operate after initial setup. It looks really smart too – adding a touch of class to the garden or yard. 

But above all, the Monarch 320 gives you gas barbecuing at its best. The BBQ’s cast iron grills give you that classic, coveted griddle pattern on your food, which looks especially good on vegetables and burgers. And perhaps the true star of the show is the Flav-R-Wave system, which does an amazing job of circulating smoke and vapour through the cookbox, providing an authentic BBQ taste. 

Really, the Monarch 320 is a whole new cooking appliance for your home. It will broaden the scope of your cookery, enabling precise, effective grilling and convection cooking outdoors. 

It’s worth noting that there are other, similar models in the Broil King range which might suit your requirements better than the Monarch 320. For instance, the similar Monarch 390 adds a rotisserie setup and an inset 2.7 kW side burner to the Monarch 320’s features, providing greater versatility at a higher price. And we’d recommend the Weber Spirit II E-310 Gas Barbecue as a comparable alternative, which also offers outstanding three-burner grilling. 

Online customer reviews of the Broil King Monarch 320 appear to be just as positive as our reviewer’s findings. At the time of writing, the average customer rating of the barbecue on the Broil King website is 4.4 out of 5 stars. Customers have praised the barbecue’s useful features, good value-for-money and versatile cooking capabilities. Others criticised the tendency of the barbecue’s cast iron grills to go rusty – although this risk should be manageable through careful treatment of the grills, including the use of high-smoke-point cooking oils. 

About this review and the reviewer  

As part of our commitment to how we test products that we recommend at Ideal Home, Pete tested this BBQ at home over the course of a few weeks, using it to grill up a variety of different foods.

Whether you’re brilliant at barbecuing or you’re a master of burnt bangers, there’s nothing that signifies summer more than the smoky aroma of charcoal barbecues wafting up and down the streets of the UK. But, let’s face it, barbecuing can also be a bit of a faff, even with one of the best BBQ models. Big, bulky barbecues need loads of coal and the alternative is wrestling a pathetic disposable BBQ that only has heat for approximately 3 minutes.

Enter the BergHOFF tabletop BBQ, the middle ground between a huge family-size barbecue and the rubbish single-use tin foil option. It’s portable, compact, and looks good too. But at £125 it’s not the cheap and cheerful choice, especially given its size.

I tried this little barbecue expecting it to be good, I mean you can’t go too far wrong with a charcoal barbecue. But I was surprised by how much I enjoyed using a smaller tabletop barbecue and it didn’t actually feel like the cooking grid was too small. There are plenty of positives, but it does have a few drawbacks, so read on to discover the good and the bad.

BergHOFF Leo Carbon Steel Outdoor Tabletop BBQ  product specs 

• Fuel type: charcoal
• Materials: heat resistant carbon steel, enamelled charcoal basket
• Dimensions: 22 x 35 x 35cm 
• Cooking area dimensions: 32cm diameter
• Weight: 5.5kg

Who tested this BBQ?

Unboxing, setting up and first impressions 

At the risk of getting a reputation for how much I bang on about polystyrene, I must say I was disappointed that this little BBQ came sandwiched between two huge chunks of the stuff. I’m sure the packaging could be reworked to incorporate protective cardboard inserts instead.

But on a positive note, having recently spent a lot of time assembling complicated barbecues, I was thankful that this one doesn’t need any assembly. Simply slot all the component parts into position and it’s ready to use. The two side handles have a nice rubbery grip and the carry strap has plastic hooks that attach easily onto the handles..

Once tightened, the carry strap holds the thick cork lid firmly in place so nothing falls out when you’re on the go. Plus, it’s made of seatbelt material, so it’s super robust - and being black means it’s never going to look grubby. It’s relatively comfortable to carry over your shoulder as long as you’re not walking miles. And despite everything I saw online saying it weighs 8kg, I stuck it on my scales and it weighed in at 5.5kg, which is easy enough to carry on a walk.

Inside, there’s a metal charcoal basket and a small rack that the charcoal sits on. The main cooking rack sits at the very top and it comes with a useful grill-pan-style handle in case you need to lift it off to tend to the coals. I was sent the white BBQ for this review (it also comes in black) and it has a lovely sleek matte finish, although I’m intrigued to see whether it’ll mark easily.

When barbecuing, the thick dual purpose cork lid flips upside down and acts as the base of the barbecue. It’s been cleverly designed as an airflow regulator, so by twisting the BBQ on the base, you can open or close vents to control the airflow and therefore how much the coals burn.

The instruction manual does say not to place it on wooden surfaces which surprises me as I would assume the thick cork base would provide plenty of heat insulation. But this might be something they have to say for health and safety reasons.

Overall first impressions are good. I love the contemporary appearance and while it definitely feels portable, it’s also a good size if you want a smaller barbecue for a couple of people at home. It packs away really neatly so is perfect if you have limited storage.

What’s it like to use

For convenience, I used an instant light bag of charcoal. I’ve been avoiding them recently as they just don't seem to cut it for the bigger barbecues I’ve been reviewing. But, one bag is the perfect amount for this compact barbecue, which is great, because these bags provide a really easy and convenient option if you’re taking it to a picnic spot.

After lighting the bag, I waited about 30 minutes before adding food, and even then, I was probably being a bit eager as it was pretty hot. Surprisingly though, I managed to fit eight meat sausages and six veggie sausages. I hadn’t planned on cooking halloumi but there was room left on the grill so towards the end of cooking I sliced up and added a whole block of halloumi too.

The sausages started charring fast, so I tried to spin the barbecue on the cork base to restrict the airflow to the coals, but this is easier said than done. Not only does the whole exterior of the BBQ get hot, but even the rubber handles do too. So moving it is tricky unless you have oven gloves. Plus, it doesn’t turn smoothly on the cork base, but kind of slides around a bit. So again, unless you’ve got oven or heat-proof gloves, it’s not easy or safe to do.

All of the sausages and the halloumi were cooked within 15 minutes and there was still plenty of heat in the coals, so I could easily have added more food. Interestingly, a few hours later, when it was ready to pack away, I checked the grass beneath where it had been sitting and it wasn’t marked or scorched at all. Making it perfect to use in a park or campsite where they don’t want the ground scorched. 

I’m someone who likes sitting on the ground, you’ll always find me cross-legged on the floor, so I loved barbecuing on the grass where I could happily sit and tend to it. I found it much more relaxing than standing at a barbecue. The next time I used it though, I popped it on our glass patio table, confident that the toughened glass could take any heat radiating off it.

I opted to use another instant light bag because this worked so well last time. I let it burn for 40 minutes before adding two beef and two veggie burgers. They cooked nicely without getting charred too early. The great part was that when they were almost cooked, there was enough space to fit two burger buns onto the grill to be lightly toasted. This shows just how roomy the grill area is.

Lastly I fired it up to cook piri-piri chicken thighs and legs, corn on the cob, and halloumi. There was easily enough room for all the food and again I was surprised by how much I could fit on the grill. This time I went against the advice in the manual and put it on an old wooden table to see what happened. The table wasn’t scorched at all, but you do have to keep a keen eye on it, in case any hot coals spit out onto the wood.

Cleaning and storage 

The time it takes to cool down will vary depending on the amount and type of charcoal you use. After my barbecues, it took as long as 3 - 5 hours for all the coals to burn away and for it all to cool enough to empty, pack away, and move into the house. 

Because the lid doesn’t form a tight seal over the top grill, you’ll want to tip out the cold ash before walking home or putting it in your car. Otherwise, it’ll only take one gust of wind and you’ll be covered in dusty ash residues. 

The cooking grid can’t go in the dishwasher, but it’s small enough to fit in your sink if you do want to clean it. I had several barbecues on it over the course of a week and didn’t bother cleaning it between uses. I simply emptied out the ash and popped the lid on. Any residue left on the grid after the last barbecue simply burnt away when I lit it for the next barbecue.

I did give it all a thorough clean at the end of the week before storing it inside a cupboard. I soaked the grill and gave it a good scrub which removed most of the caked on food. Then I used a hose to wash out the charcoal basket. It all cleaned up pretty well and although there were a few small marks, the white exterior came up reasonably clean.

How does it compare to similar BBQs?

If you’ve decided you want something a bit bigger and you don’t need it to be portable, I’d highly recommend the Weber Original Kettle that I reviewed last month. It’s a reliable charcoal BBQ that offers more cooking space and it’s only about £90 more expensive than the BergHOFF. The addition of a lid gives you more scope to cook things like a whole chicken that require slower, lower, lid-on cooking.

Another compact, good looking BBQ worth checking out is the Everdure Cube BBQ. Unlike the BergHOFF it has a lid that clips securely on to the top so that if you don’t have anywhere to empty out your ash, you can clip the lid on and do it later - so long as it’s cold. It’s a decent little barbecue and the lid doubles as a nifty chopping board. But, at around £150 it’s a tad pricey for its size. 

Should you buy the BergHOFF Leo Carbon Steel Outdoor Tabletop BBQ? 

At around £125, the price does at first seem a bit steep for a small portable BBQ. I’ve seen it available for less though, and actually I do think it offers plenty of value for money. Yes it’s portable and easily transported to your favourite picnic spot. But the biggest drawback is waiting for it to cool down enough to pack away and take home. On that basis, I’d recommend it more for at home, or camping and caravanning trips, where you can allow it enough time to cool before packing away.

I really enjoyed using it at home when there were just two of us, it somehow seemed like less hassle than lighting our bigger freestanding gas BBQ for just a small amount of food. I think it’s a great buy for compact gardens as well as cooking for two, it looks sleek, is easy to store and I loved how much I was able to cook on just one instant light bag of charcoal. And although the airflow regulator design is tricky to use, the cork base works well to insulate it so that it doesn’t scorch the grass.

About this review, and the reviewer

In line with our policy on how we test products we recommend at Ideal Home, Helen tested this BBQ out at home before coming to this conclusions in this review. She was gifted the product as part of the process, and allowed to keep it after testing. 

There is something truly special about food that has been prepared outdoors, especially if you're using one of the best BBQs. Getting perfect grilled char on vegetables or a delicious smoky flavour in meat usually requires a lot of equipment and patience, but The Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker makes it easy to do both after a simple, plug-in set-up of the machine.

Following up from the sell-out success of its best air fryers, Ninja has proved itself again to be one of our favourite appliance brands, with this BBQ and air fryer hybrid that is compact in size and can cook large meats such as a whole chicken or pork shoulder. Even if you only have a little bit of outdoor space, cooking a barbecue for when friends or family visit has never been easier. Here's how I got on with the Ninja Woodfire when I tested it at home with a variety of different foods. 

Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker Specs 

• Type: Electric
• Wattage: 2400W
• Cord length: 2m
• Dimensions: H:34 x W:46 x D:46
• Cooking Dimensions: 28cm x 37cm 
• Weight: 12kg 
• Colours: Grey lid, black body 
• Temperature Indicators: LED
• Temperature Range: up to 260C
• Programs: Grill, Smoker, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate 
• Accessories Included: Crisper Basket, Woodier Pellets 

Who reviewed this BBQ? 

Unboxing, assembly and first impressions 

The Ninja Woodfire is packaged in a single large box that I was able to carry on my own with a bit of effort.. The outside of the packaging has images of the product as well as descriptions of all of the functions so you know the fun you’re in for before you even tear open the seal.

Once the box is open, you are immediately greeted with a Quick Start Guide and Recipe Book. It's colourful and includes a lot of helpful imagery and a range of recipes for each function for different cuts of meat and vegetarian options. There is also a safety instruction booklet which highlights that the machine is for outdoor use only. 

Included in the box are also two bags of woodfire pellets and a measuring scoop, as well as, a removable grease tray which easily slides into the back of the unit.

The machine is really easy to get out of the box and is only packaged with a piece of styrofoam at its top and base and a small piece of cardboard on the side to nestle it. 

Beyond that, there are two side handle pieces which are labelled with an “L” and “R” to direct you to which side of the unit they attach onto. The only assembly required was adding these side handles, which could easily be done by one person. The handles smoothly snap into place and required just a few twists of the provided screws with the turn-key tool which is also included. Attaching the handles took about a minute. The grease tray also easily slid into the designated slot on the back.

Inside the grill lid, an air fryer basket and grill plate are included. I was impressed by how large the air fryer basket is and the clever design of divots in the grill plate for the basket to securely sit into the raised grill lines. This also provides an easy way of knowing how to centre the basket on the grill plate so that the lid will close properly. 

I frequently cook on large, multi burner gas barbecues, so I was instantly struck by how compact and easy to pick up and move the The Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker was, epically with the side handle design. I was thankful for this as the product does not include an outdoor weather protection cover so moving it inside after each use was required.

The Ninja BBQ also has a cooking function dial and digital screen for time and temperature readings which instantly struck me as unique technology for an outdoor appliance, but not conducive to being permanently stored outside without a protection cover.

The final step required before you’re ready to start cooking is simply plugging in the machine. If your outdoor space does not have electrical outlets you will need to run an extension cord from indoors. The extension cord is not provided but thankfully I had one on hand and was able to easily identify its compatibility with the BBQ because the Ninja cord is clearly labelled with its operating current. 

Overall I was impressed by the minimal packaging, compact yet high tech design, and short assembly time required before I could start cooking on The Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker. 

Cooking on The Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker 

Grilling Chicken 

In addition to complete recipes, the Quick Start Guide and Recipe Book included with The Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker also has an extensive chart of suggested cooking times and temperatures for each cooking function. 

During testing, I grilled 1kg of skin on, bone-in chicken thighs. I tested cooking them on the HIGH grill setting for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time as the recipe booklet suggests. Cook time was easily followed by the digital screen time indicator on the front of the unit, and the short beeping sound which goes off at the halfway point so you know when to flip them. 

For HIGH grill, the pre heat was only about 10 minutes which is accurate to the instruction booklet’s suggested preheat time of 8-12 minutes.

The recipe book cooking suggestion was accurate and resulted in beautifully cooked, juicy chicken with gorgeous crispy skin. The recipe book however, claims to be able to cook 2kg of chicken thighs. I cooked a little over half of this amount of chicken and found the grill plate to be full. Adding any more meat would have overcrowded the cooking surface and caused the cuts of meat to touch which may have impacted even cooking. 

The grill plate heated sufficiently and provided nice grill marks but also easily cooled within 10 minutes after cooking so it could be cleaned right away. It only required being wiped down with warm soapy water which was a welcome change to steel brush scrubbing traditional BBQ wracks. 

Overall, the grill function on the Ninja electric BBQ provides all of the crispy skin and flavour benefits of a traditional gas BBQ without the long preheating time and cook time or temperature guess work. 

Because of the small cooking capacity, I wasn’t able to cook my veggies at the same time which I am used to being able to do with a gas barbecue. Thankfully, due to the Ninja’s quick heat time and temperature dial, I was able to easily change the temperature and cook my veggie sides while the chicken rested before eating. 

Smoking a large cut of meat 

I used the Ninja Quick Start Guide + Recipe Book’s recipe for smoked pulled pork. I followed the instructions for the Smoke functions to cook a 1.7kg pork shoulder which was easy to follow and detailed how to appropriately add the woodfire pellets.

I selected the Smoker function on the dial which runs an ignition cycle for the woodfire pellets but does not require an additional preheating cycle. Within the first 10 minutes, you can start to see and smell a steady stream of smoke billowing out from the side smoke box compartment. The smoke smell lingers during cooking time and after as it would with a traditional smoker, so you will want to ensure you are as far away from any open doors or windows into your house as your extension lead will allow while using the Smoker function.  

It was great to be able to both grill and smoke the meat at the same time but I found selecting the correct function was a little tricky to navigate at first. There is both a Smoker setting on the dial and also a WOODFIRE FLAVOUR TECHNOLOGY button. There is also a separate Grill setting on the dial.

Thankfully, I was cooking from one of the provided recipes which indicated to select the Smoker setting on the dial, but I needed to review the Quick Start Guide to understand why the pork recipe using the Smoker setting didn’t include a step to press the WOODFIRE FLAVOUR TECHNOLOGY button. It explains that this button is used when one of the other five cooking functions: Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake & Dehydrate are in use. 

Although the cut of meat I cooked was slightly smaller than 1.9kg that the recipe suggested, the cook time was slightly longer. After the timer went off for the suggested 4 hours, my thermometer only read 182F. I wanted to give it a few more minutes to reach the suggested internal temp of 205F and check it again, but one issue I ran into was that the machine only allowed a minimum of 10 minutes to be added which meant I needed to watch it closely and couldn’t just leave the machine to beep once ready. 

It took an additional 7 minutes to reach the suggested internal temperature. Once cooked, I left it to rest inside the Ninja. The recipe suggests resting time between 45 minutes - 1 hour and that you can either leave it in the machine or set it aside wrapped in tin foil. I chose to leave it in the machine to maximise flavour from the smoky environment. One program that would be helpful at this stage of cooking could be a built in timer for resting but I did this separately on my phone. 

After an hour, I opened the lid and although there was no visible smoke, a strong smoky smell was present. I couldn’t believe how beautifully cooked the large pork shoulder was. After removing the fat cap, the meat was tender and juicy on the inside with some delicious light crispy char on the edges. The meat shredded easily and was perfectly cooked throughout.

There were a significant amount of juices that filled the grease tray while cooking but the instruction booklet suggests lining the tray with tin foil before cooking for easy clean up which I had done. There was a little bit of residual moisture which easily wiped clean with a warm wet paper towel. 

As with clean up following cooking the chicken, cleaning the grill plate after cooking the large cut of pork was easy with warm soapy water and a sponge. Even though it took a few extra minutes to cook than the suggested recipe cook time, with the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker you can go from your fridge to a finished large cut of smoked meat in just over 5 hours.  

Traditional smokers can take more than 10 hours plus pre-heating time and only offer this one cooking function. Although navigating the appropriate settings was initially a little confusing, with the Ninja, you can smoke in less time and cook in multiple styles with one machine making it a great all around outdoor cooking appliance. 

Grilling Vegetables 

The Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker makes grilling veggies and obtaining a delicious char easy. I cooked a batch of bell peppers to go with the smoked pulled pork and although the Ninja didn’t produce perfect grill lines on the pepper skin, it did cook them with a nice overall BBQ char.

The multi-functionality of the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ is definitely one of the positive aspects of the machine.

After cooking the pork shoulder, I chose to let it rest inside the Ninja, but to save time I could have taken it out to rest on the side and just changed the settings from Smoker to Grill on the function dial and carried on cooking the veggies. It is great that switching between different cooking functions is really easy because the grill plate is not quite big enough to cook everything at the same time and it wouldn’t be big enough to keep vegetables separate from the meat juices if cooking for vegetarian or vegan guests. The recipe booklet provided straightforward instructions for 4 bell betters and suggested a 6-9 minute cook time, flipping halfway through. I really like the char flavour and found 8 minutes to be the perfect amount of time. 

Overall, The Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker makes delicious barbecued vegetables quickly and they are easy to make before or after grilling or smoking meats. 

Compared to cooking roasted vegetables in a standard oven, the Ninja produced very similar results but in a much faster time. Roasting bell peppers usually takes over 30 minutes, so even if you’re not planning on barbecue for your main meal and just wanted some grilled veggies to toss into a salad, heating up the Ninja is well worth it. 

Using the air fryer function 

The Ninja electric barbecue doesn’t require extensive time for coals to light or for grill irons to heat up from a flame. For the air frying function, which makes this a world first garden air fryer, The Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker only took just over 2 minutes to preheat to 200C. 

I tested making cheddar and chive scones using the air-frying function and they were delicious. I was impressed I could make a recipe typically oven baked in this grill. 

Usually the recipe takes 10-15 minutes cooking time in the oven with additional time for the oven to preheat. With the Ninja air frying function, after only 2 minutes of preheating, the scones which were slightly smaller in size were done in 6 minutes, and the scones larger in size were cooked through in just under 8 minutes. 

Although I did have to set up the stand for the machine outside, overall I think that the additional set up time was worth it for this cooking function as the air fryer made them fluffy and moist on the inside but also extra crispy on the outside which is not usually achieved with a conventional oven. 

I was surprised, however by how much the scones stuck to the air fryer basket because the finish coating on the basket seemed sufficiently non-stick. Although a little bit did burn and stick onto the basket, it easily came loose and any bits that didn’t crack off could be thoroughly cleaned with some warm water and a sponge without leaving any residue. 

How does it compare to similar BBQs?

Compared to other drawer style air fryers, the The Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker achieves similar cooking results to the Ninja Foodi MAX Dual Zone AF400UK, the brand's bestselling product.

I found the wide rectangular basket and the shallow depth more user-friendly than the deep round shaped basket I’ve used with some of the best multicookers, like the Ninja Foodi. If you like the sound of the Ninja Woodfire but you could be swayed by the option to cook pizza outdoors rather than grill, our explainer on the differences between the Ninja Woodfire BBQ vs the Ninja Woodfire Oven might come in handy. 

In terms of BBQ comparisons, if you want an electric BBQ but the Ninja Woodfire isn't your dream buy, then you should check out the Weber Lumin, which is the perfect purchase for balcony grilling. And if you need something altogether a bit cheaper, the Original Weber Kettle is a charcoal BBQ that never fails to hit the spot. 

Should you buy the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker?

Traditional barbecues and smokers can take a lot of time to set up and get hot enough to start cooking. The Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker makes it easy to cook both small and large cuts of meat, as well as vegetables without long preheat times or extensive clean up. If you are looking for a multifunctional appliance that allows you to cook food with great BBQ and smoke flavours while enjoying the outdoors this summer and don’t mind investing in an outdoor protection cover, this Ninja is definitely worth your investment. Plus, with Ninja Kitchen discount codes available, you may be able to pick this gadget up for less than you expect.

About this review, and the reviewer

As part of our commitment to how we test products that we recommend at Ideal Home, Alyssa tested this BBQ over several weeks and tried a variety of food and product functions. She was allowed to keep the barbecue after the review.

Summer is now so close we can practically taste it. And with the emergence of the sun, comes one of our favourite summer activities - it's almost BBQ time!

Getting out our best BBQ after many months of disuse is one of the most exciting days of the year, and signals much warmer days to come. But if you’re anything like us, yours is likely to be in need of a little sprucing up after months of being sat in the shed or garage.

Luckily, there are some very simple ways of cleaning your BBQ, whether it's your first clean of the summer, or you've already used it once or twice this year. And one very easy method involves a lemon, salt, and just a little bit of scrubbing. It literally couldn’t be easier - and has been tried and tested by Ideal Home's very own Digital Deputy Editor Rebecca Knight.

The lemon trick for cleaning your BBQ

How exactly do you clean a BBQ with a lemon then? Whether yours is covered in dust, dirt or caked-on grease or not, this cleaning hack should do the trick.

First, grab a lemon - a large one is preferable. Then, dip it into salt crystals (rather than fine salt), and make sure they attach themselves to the lemon. 

After this, heat your grill up. Holly Jones, garden expert at Garden Street, said, 'You'll want to heat the grill up so it’s at quite a high temperature. In order for the trick to work properly, there needs to be some heat involved.'

'And, as this method is for cleaning the grill plates, it is fine to use on any type of BBQ, be it a gas or charcoal BBQ,' Holly explained.

Then, very carefully glide the lemon across the grates, squeezing as you go, and scrubbing as much as you can, while avoiding the hot grill! 

'Cleaning your BBQ with lemon works well because the acidity from the lemons will cut through the dirt and grease,' Holly said. "Not only will it cut through the grease, but the citric acid in lemons is antibacterial, so it will actually kill bacteria on there too.' A win-win!

Not only that, but Holly assured us that this trick should work well no matter what condition your BBQ is in.

'I tried this method out after cooking on my new Weber Lumin BBQ and was shocked at how well it worked,' says Rebecca Knight, Ideal Homes Deputy Digital Editor. 'I mounted my lemon half on a fork to help keep my fingers well clear of getting burnt.

'I simply wiped it over the grills as they were cooling down and the brown marks all but started to vanish. Stubborn burnt-on bits also started to shift easily.'

However, if you don't fancy getting that close to a hot grill, cleaning expert Nicki Rodriguez, of Essex House Dolly, explained that she also tried a slightly altered lemon method that also produced great results.

'I made a solution of lemon juice with water and sprayed it directly on the BBQ grill, and left it to soak for 5-10 minutes and then wiped it off with a paper towel.

'The acid in the lemon picks up any grease as well as small specks of dirt, and it is a fantastic degreaser.'

So when life gives you lemons, why not clean the BBQ with them? 

We're racing towards summer, and if you're hoping to embrace outdoor cooking, it's worth looking into the best gas BBQs on the market.

Many of the best BBQs out there are gas models, and for good reason: they're convenient, simple to use and reliable. That's why we've put the best models, from leading brands like Weber, Everdure and Char-Broil, through their paces to help you make sure you're buying a quality product.

If you're stuck between those and the best charcoal BBQs, we've even included a guide at the bottom of the page to help you decide if a gas barbecue is right for you.

Amazon Prime Day Gas BBQ deals

The much-anticipated Amazon Prime Day 2026 event is now LIVE, and there are some brilliant Amazon Prime Day Gas BBQ deals floating around for you to take advantage of, and I'll be adding them in here as I spot them.

Best gas BBQ - the quick list

Best gas BBQ overall

What does it take to be the best BBQ on this list? Value for money, cooking power and ease of use – all of which the Weber Spirit E310 Gas Barbecue has by the bucket load.

We previously reviewed the Weber Spirit II E310 gas barbecue and ranked it as the best BBQ on the market, but Weber has now released a new and improved version. The latest model delivers more power thanks to its Boost Burners, features an easy-to-read digital thermometer and includes a snap-jet ignition system, which is a built-in lighting system that's integrated into every control knob.

Having tested it myself, I was seriously impressed. The entry-level model is ideal for anyone looking for a high-quality BBQ without sacrificing power or performance. From the moment my husband and I assembled it, it felt like a reliable investment. The design also has a sleek makeover, addressing the only real drawback we found with its predecessor by adding a front cabinet door that neatly conceals the gas canister.

My full review is coming soon, but I can already say it deserves a five-star rating. The three-burner BBQ impressed me with its versatility, effortlessly handling everything from veggies to sausages and burgers, and its space-saving design is a win for small gardens. Most importantly, it reached optimal grilling temperatures quickly and maintained them consistently throughout cooking, so it's exactly what's needed for stress-free outdoor entertaining.

Tested by Jenny McFarlane.

Best budget gas BBQ

If, like us, you're not looking to totally break the bank on your next gas BBQ, then the Cadac Citi Chef 40 is a wonderfully affordable option. In our at-home tests, our reviewer Helen (who has exceptionally high BBQ standards), thought it was the perfect alternative to oversized models, with enough space and power to cater to smaller outdoor cooking occasions.

Its simplicity (with just one burner) is part of what makes it so great, and it's suitable for patios and terraces too. The design is stylish enough to rival much more expensive options, and there's an incredibly good range of accessories if you're a budding outdoor chef – we're talking paella pans and a stone to turn it into one of the best pizza ovens too.

Using this BBQ couldn't be easier (even if the assembly is a little tiresome), with the automatic ignition making cooking as simple as using a gas hob. It took just five minutes for the Cadac Citi to be ready for Helen to use, which means you can BBQ in enough time before a Great British downpour begins. The meat Helen cooked on this BBQ was succulent and well-done, with not a hint of dryness.

We think the Cadac Citi Chef 40 FS BBQ is a perfect compromise between budget-friendliness and quality, with so much to offer to smaller to medium-sized homes.

Our Cadac Citi Chef 40 FS BBQ review has the full details.

Tested by Helen McCue.

Best small gas BBQ

Gas BBQs are known for their convenience, but that doesn't mean that they have to be drab. The Everdure Force is the most stunning gas BBQ out there in our opinion (with Heston Blumenthal's stamp of approval on it too), and it produced showstopping results in our tests for equal measure.

Our main takeaway after testing was that this BBQ was packed with serious power. It took just 3 minutes and 14 seconds to get up to 250ºC, and it retained heat beautifully, meaning that it mastered our rotisserie chicken test like no other BBQ. You get two burners for your money here, with ample space for hosting a large garden party affair. There's space for 24 small burgers at a time if you're so inclined, we checked.

The design of the Everdure Force captivated the entire Ideal Home team on our BBQ testing day, with the striking pop of colour on the lid matching perfectly with the clean lines look of the rest of the BBQ (our favourite colourways are blue and orange). The small details are picture-perfect too, including the flush taps and a built-in thermometer.

You might be able to tell that we love this BBQ, but we don't feel the same way about the price, which is steep at £749.00 (RRP). It's a real investment buy, with the quality that we're certain would last, but it misses out on the top spot here due to a lack of affordability.

Our Everdure Force Gas BBQ review has the full details.

Tested by Molly Cleary.

Best gas BBQ for beginners

Get high-quality grilling results without the laborious build process with the Weber Q3200, which was by far the easiest gas BBQ to set up during our BBQ testing day. The process was so straightforward and should take you less than an hour. That means that your journey to flipping burgers will be nice and short so that you can have more time in the sunshine.

We know it's not the prettiest of the bunch or the most powerful, but it's quietly capable and has next to nothing complicated about it, so it's perfect for beginners. To us, that's worth plenty. Lighting the BBQ was as easy as pressing a button, and the cooking results we got were all of a high standard. There was a slight delay with heat-up time, which is definitely something to bear in mind if you're a little impatient, but for the price, it's a great two-burner BBQ.

For the price, we know that whoever invests in this BBQ is going to be serious about their outdoor cooking, which is why it's a great choice if you love to entertain. It's the BBQ with the largest grilling area from the Weber Q collection, and can serve up 14 good-sized burgers at a time, a fact we can attest to after our testing process.

Our Weber Q3200 Gas BBQ review has the full details.

Tested by Amy Lockwood.

Best 3 burner gas BBQ

This is a truly kitted-out gas BBQ, with ample space for your burger buns, salad and condiments, and the grilling power to cater to a garden full of people. It's probably not the most accessible BBQ for the casual user, with a long build time and a big price tag, but all of the foods we cooked on this Char-Broil came out well.

Space-wise, on the grill itself, this BBQ has three burners, which makes it perfect for indirect cooking. Add to that a side shelf and an infrared side burner too, and you have a world of choice when it comes to your next grilling session. It's got a warming rack too, so that your burger buns are optimally warm for serving up.

If you're keen to invest in a CharBroil, then we'd recommend the Professional 3400 S if you're a seasoned pro looking to take on a new challenge. It has a seriously tricky build process, and getting a handle on the controls was a bit of a learning curve for us, but if it's an all-American grill with the capacity to cater to a huge crowd, you can't go wrong.

Our Char-Broil Professional 3400 S BBQ review has the full details.

Tested by Molly Cleary.

Best portable gas BBQ

It's got a somewhat intimidating name, but in simpler terms, the Napoleon TravelQ Phantom PRO285X is one of the most convenient gas BBQs we've tried. The design (that of a folding scissor stand with sturdy wheels) means carting it around your garden or hiding it away for the winter couldn't be easier. Despite its relatively compact footprint, it still offers a generous family-sized cooking area, making it well-suited to everything from weeknight grilling to larger summer get-togethers.

Better still, the components inside the barbecue – including the cast iron cooking grids – are unusually convenient to handle and clean. The actual cooking performance impressed us too. The two-burner system heats up quickly, reaching grilling temperatures in around five to ten minutes, while the integrated rack makes it easy to manage multiple foods at once. During testing, our reviewer even managed to fit 2kg of chicken wings on the grill in one go, proving that this portable model can comfortably cater for a family feast.

Our Napoleon TravelQ Phantom PRO285X review has the full details.

Tested by Pete Wise.

Best gas BBQ with griddle plate

While we haven't yet put the Ninja FlexFlame through our full Ideal Home testing process, it's one of the most exciting BBQ launches on our radar, and a review is already in the works. On paper, it ticks a lot of boxes, combining gas grilling, griddling, smoking, roasting and pizza making in a single outdoor cooking system. Its digital temperature controls, high-heat performance and pellet-powered smoking function set it apart from traditional gas BBQs, while Ninja claims it can preheat to 315 oC in just 10 minutes, which should take a lot of faff out of outdoor cooking.

It's also getting plenty of love online, with early reviewers praising how versatile and easy to use it is, particularly for families who don't want to invest in several separate outdoor cooking appliances. Many highlighted its fast preheating and even cooking its fast preheating and even cooking results, saying it could be a real game-changer for anyone who wants the convenience of gas cooking with the bonus of smoking and pizza-making capabilities. Of course, we're reserving our opinion until we've tested it ourselves, but based on positive reviews and all the features, the Ninja FlexFlame definitely looks like a clever bit of kit.

How we tested these BBQs

As per our testing protocol at Ideal Home, we're serious about trying the products that we recommend to you hands-on so that you know you can trust our guidance. For that reason, we've tested every single BBQ you can find in this guide, with more reviews on the way to add even more options to your search.

When we test a BBQ we take into account the assembly process, how well it cooks both large and small cuts of meat and veggies, and the user experience from quality of build to durability. Also, we never forget the price tags of BBQs, as we know value for money is more important now than ever.

As part of our commitment to evaluating different BBQs to establish which one really is the best, we also tried out a range of grills within this guide during a testing excursion in the Somerset countryside. There we could compare first-hand the quality, build-time, and grilling capabilities of each BBQ, and rate them when it came to design elements too. Other BBQs in this list have been tested by our team in their homes, to get the experience that you would have if you purchased one of these grills for yourself.

It's worth us noting that some of the BBQs in this guide were also tested in the last few years, meaning they've received years of use and have proven themselves to be very rust-resistant and long-lasting.

FAQs

If you're looking to really up your outdoor cooking game, take at our list of the best pizza ovens.

Weber is a barbecue brand that needs no introduction when it comes to the best BBQs. This American barbecue manufacturer has been around for decades and Weber’s founder invented the kettle-style barbecue that’s such a familiar sight in gardens across the UK. 

Admittedly at £215, this barbecue is a tad pricier than the copycat versions that you might see around. But as with anything, the cheaper copies don’t always stand up to the real deal. And since we get such a short barbecue season, it’s worth enjoying it and honing those barbecue skills on a quality barbecue that’s designed to work well, rather than one that’s simply designed to be cheap. Though it must be said that you can spend well in excess of £1500 on a barbecue so in the grand scheme of things, this one starts to look pretty affordable.

I tried out this barbecue in spring, so had to dodge the rain and wait for sunny days to be able to give it a thorough review. It’s the ideal size for our two person household, and maybe a couple of guests, but it won’t suit big gatherings. I like it though, it’s a good charcoal barbecue that does its job well.

 Weber Original Kettle E4710 specs

• Fuel type: Charcoal
• Materials: Porcelain enamelled lid and bowl, plated steel cooking grate
• Dimensions: 57 x 60 x 97cm
• Cooking area dimensions: 47 cm diameter
• Weight: 13kg

Who tested this BBQ?

Unboxing the Weber Original Kettle E4710, setting up and first impressions 

First impressions were good when I opened the box, it’s protected by cardboard inserts, with not a hint of polystyrene to be found. Unboxing and assembly takes around 30-40 minutes, which in comparison to some other barbecues is fairly speedy.

A special tool is provided to assist with bolting the handle to the lid, and the thermometer is easy to attach by hand. The legs and wheels have been cleverly designed with clips that lock it all into position. You only need a screwdriver for the main handle on the side.

It’s slightly fiddly and has to be assembled in a particular order, but if I can do it in 30 minutes, then most people should be able to tackle it with ease. There are a couple of other things in the box, one is a big plastic bowl that I really wasn’t sure what it was for. But I later found out that it’s a scoop for scooping charcoal out of the bag.

The other accessories are two metal rails that clip onto the cooking grid and a foil drip tin. These are for indirect cooking and the manual gives plenty of advice on how to use them. In fact I was pretty impressed with the manual in general. It contains helpful guides on cooking times as well as suggested amounts of charcoal, lighting the barbecue and other hints and tips. Plus, there’s plenty more useful advice on the website.

It’s a tripod barbecue with two wheels and a handle on the opposite side. I found it easy to pull around when it needed moving. My patio is split level though, so I kind of wished there was a second handle to make lifting it easier. But with that being said, it’s small enough that lifting wasn’t too much trouble.

The handle has two small hooks for your barbecue tools. A hook inside the lid means it can be hooked onto the side of the barbecue when not in use. Helpfully, it can be hooked on any side, so if you need to put it in a particular spot to deflect wind, you can. The cooking grid can also be hooked onto the side while you load it up with coals, which is great because it’s often mucky and greasy and it can be hard to know where to put it if you want to avoid greasy splodges on your patio.

Airflow plays an important role in controlling a charcoal barbecue and this is addressed with dampers and vents in both the base and the lid. Other great features include the thermometer in the lid and a heat shield that prevents the lid handle from getting too hot to touch. 

Cooking on the Weber Original Kettle E4710

Firstly, let me just say that as with any charcoal barbecue, even super expensive ones like the Kamado Joe Classic Joe BBQ, the results you get depend a lot on the type and amount of charcoal you use, as well as how accomplished you are at barbecuing. But they don’t get much easier to use than this Weber Kettle. 

The first time I lit it, I used one of the instant light charcoal bags - the type where it comes in a brown paper bag and you light the bag. It worked okay but the pieces inside the bag were quite small and a lot fell through the grate. I later used briquettes as well as chunkier lumpwood charcoal and these worked much better, retaining heat for longer. You can buy charcoal directly from Weber which is probably going to be better quality than the stuff you grab from the local petrol station. And if you want to get serious about barbecuing, it’s worth getting decent fuel.

For my first go on this barbecue I made up seven mixed vegetable skewers and sliced two blocks of halloumi into chunky slices and loaded up the cooking grate. Initially the skewers took up the majority of the cooking space, but as they cooked and shrunk I was able to manoeuvre them to allow space for the halloumi. 

This particular day was sunny but quite blustery, and my pathetic instant light charcoal bag only just stayed hot enough to cook the skewers and halloumi. But the results were good nevertheless. I managed not to lose any halloumi through the cooking grate. Plus, I was able to play around with the damper on the lid to try and stop some of the blustery wind playing havoc with the temperature of the coals.

For my next meal I thought I’d try out the new trend of ‘corn ribs’. If you haven’t heard of it, it’s basically corn on the cob cut into quarters lengthways before cooking. Side note: the cutting part is hard work! But I persevered and cut up four cobs which gave me 16 corn ribs. Once the barbecue was hot, I added these along with spicy sausages to the grill plate. After they’d been cooking for a short time, I added asparagus that I had threaded onto a skewer so it didn’t fall through the grate.

I was surprised that despite being considered a small barbecue, there was plenty of space for all this food. Cooking corn like this is a great idea because unlike cooking a whole corn on the cob, you don’t have to turn it a thousand times to make sure it cooks all the way around. But it took me by surprise how fast it cooked. 

The sausages were nicely, but not overly, charred and caramelised, whilst being perfectly cooked in the centre. The asparagus also cooked well and I certainly noticed the difference it made using a combination of lumpwood and briquettes as opposed to the instant light bag.

Finally, I cooked a spatchcock chicken, which is my preferred way of barbecuing a whole chicken. It’s easier and quicker to cook because it’s flatter. For this, I tried out the indirect heat cooking method that’s described in the user manual. I added the charcoal rails and made a pile of charcoal on either side of each rail. I then placed the foil drip tray in the middle and lit each of the charcoal piles.

Once the charcoal was all burning well and the temperature had settled, I added my spatchcock chicken to the cooking grate and closed the lid. The thermometer in the lid showed a very consistent temperature of around 210 - 220oC for the whole cook. 

I really enjoyed this method of cooking, it’s quite hands off, which is ideal for those extra hot days where you want barbecue food, but even the thought of standing over a barbecue makes you sweat. I left the lid on the whole time and turned the chicken after 20 minutes, then again after 40 and 50 minutes.

It was cooked in an hour, with impressively moist, juicy meat and crisp skin, but most importantly, no burnt bits - hurrah! I also noticed that even after an hour of cooking, the lid handle stayed cool enough to hold comfortably.

Cleaning and maintenance

Cleaning out a charcoal barbecue is pretty much always going to be a messy job. The one-touch cleaning system does make it somewhat easier though. Moving the exterior handle from right to left pushes any ash in the base of the bowl out into the ash catcher bowl below. Then the bowl can be lifted and the ash tipped into the bin.

The cooking grate shouldn’t need much cleaning. If it’s preheated over very hot charcoal before use, you can use a barbecue cleaning brush to brush off any residue before cooking on it. Personally I don’t tend to clean charcoal barbecues much more than that. Weber sells the brushes as well as barbecue cleaning kits.

How does it compare to similar models and other Weber BBQs?

If you’re looking for a compact barbecue but think charcoal might not be your thing, I’d recommend checking out the Cadac Citi Chef 40 FS. This gas barbecue is an easy-to-use barbecue that will suit those new to gas barbecues. It’s a similar size to the Weber Original Kettle and slightly cheaper. There are plenty of optional accessories available to make it multi-purpose and it looks very stylish on your patio.

Alternatively, if you want a more compact and portable barbecue, take a look at the Weber Go Anywhere barbecue. It’s perfect for camping trips, but equally, it’s a great option if you generally only barbecue for two people. It’s affordable and easy to store, but it’s reassuringly sturdy and designed with Weber’s barbecue expertise. 

Should you buy the Weber Original Kettle E4710? 

The Weber Original Kettle is a great buy. It’ll suit just about anyone looking for a good quality charcoal barbecue from a brand with an excellent pedigree. Admittedly the E4710 might be a little small for some households, but in that case, you could upgrade to the E5710 which is essentially the same model but with a bigger 57cm diameter cooking grid.

The Original Kettle is a practical choice that’ll please newbies as well as long standing fans of charcoal barbecues. I don’t think you can go wrong with Weber, and a kettle barbecue allows you to hone your skills without being intimidating.

About this review, and the reviewer

As part of our commitment to how we test products we recommend at Ideal Home, Helen tried out this barbecue in April and obsessively checked the weather forecast so that she could use it on some of the few sunny days during spring in the UK. She was allowed to keep the barbecue after the review.

For many of us, the taste of barbecue-grilled food is one of the best things about summer, so deciding which BBQ to add to our garden is a task we shouldn't take lightly. And if you're stuck between a gas vs charcoal BBQ, knowing the differences between the two will help you make a purchasing decision you won't regret.

The best BBQs serve up delicious food without it feeling like a huge mission; get one that's also easy to clean and you're winning. But which fuel type is better for alfresco cooking, charcoal or gas? Deciding between one of the best gas BBQs vs charcoal BBQ can be tricky, which is why it's important to get clued up on the differences between the two.

'Gas BBQs used to promise convenience, feeding the crowds quickly with their quick, searing heat', says Ben Forte, Global Marketing Manager, Kamado Joe and Masterbuilt. 'But over the past couple of years, new technology has seen BBQ brands race to make charcoal grilling just as efficient, easy to use and fast.'

So which of these popular BBQs comes out on top? Whether you're looking to add to your already flourishing outdoor kitchen ideas, or you're a barbecuing novice looking to purchase your first ever garden grill, our guide deep dives the gas vs charcoal BBQ debate so you can decide which one is right for you.

Gas vs charcoal BBQ

We've asked the experts to share the differences between gas vs charcoal BBQs, focusing on ease of use, how they cook food, price point, plus which is easier to clean and maintain. You'll soon know which type of BBQ you're better suited to, so you can start enjoying all the barbecues your heart desires.

Gas vs charcoal BBQs: which is easier to use?

'While both gas and charcoal can be quick and easy to use, gas barbecues are a little less messy to set up; likely making them a good midweek solution for cooking up a meal outdoors', says Caroline Morris, Head of Sales, BAR-Be-Quick.

Gas BBQs are generally easier to use than charcoal BBQs, with some models able to cook food in as little as 10 minutes. The heat produced from the gas is direct and consistent, so food can be seared with ease. Heat control is more of a struggle with a charcoal BBQ, as you're working with live fire, which can take a while to get going in the first place.

That being said, lighting a fire in a charcoal BBQ is a lot easier if you invest in a charcoal chimney. You won't need to rely on firelighters or lighter fluid, and you'll be able to light the charcoals with some newspaper. The oxygen will funnel up through the coals and you'll be able to start cooking after 20-30 minutes. Still, gas BBQs can be turned on with the simple flick of a switch, so they're definitely the easier option, especially for beginners.

Gas vs charcoal BBQs: which is better for cooking?

Though gas BBQs are generally easier to use, they are less efficient when it comes to retaining heat, which basically means you're more restricted with what you can cook. But once the fire's going on a charcoal BBQ, it will retain a consistent level of heat, meaning you can slow-cook larger pieces of meat if you want to.

'Gas barbecues reduce the overall radiant heat (unless the lid is closed) as they don’t have the blanket of heat underneath like charcoal barbecues, plus they have a cooler burning rate', Caroline explains. 'Whereas charcoal barbecues are versatile and can be used to cook at high or low temperatures - if you have the patience for cooking - and once the charcoal is hot and ready to go, you can sear meats quickly, slow-cook large cuts of meat or cook with indirect grilling using the smoke.'

And in terms of the tastiness of the results, many people prefer food cooked on a charcoal BBQ over gas. 'The main benefit of charcoal BBQs is the charcoal flavour', says Dan Cooper, Head Grill Master, Weber. 'It offers a unique taste, and different cooking variations can also be used to impart different methods whilst the food is being cooked. Put simply, it offers a flavour that a griller cannot get in any other way.'

'Nothing beats the taste of cooking on coals,' Caroline agrees. 'Whilst ‘flavourising’ bars on the gas barbecues add an element of authentic flavour, nothing beats the natural smoky flavour of a charcoal barbecue.'

However, before you immediately choose charcoal for the flavour, it's important to remember that the gas vs pellet grill debate exists, too.

Gas vs charcoal BBQs: which is easier to clean?

If cleaning is an important factor for you when deciding between a gas vs charcoal BBQ, you may be swayed towards a gas model, as these tend to be much easier to clean. Cleaning a BBQ is never a quick job, but charcoal models have the added labour of clearing away the ash after each use.

'As a gas barbeque is quite similar to an oven or gas hob, the only nuisance when cleaning is the fiddly knobs and separate parts', says Stephen Tombs, cleaning Expert and Founder, Quean Clean. 'However, with charcoal grills, locating all the ash and deep cleaning each time between uses makes them harder to clean.'

The ashy remains from the charcoal fire requires a fair bit of elbow grease before your BBQ is clean again. You'll need to use a BBQ cleaning product, like the Inspired BBQ and Grill Cleaner, £5.22 at Amazon, to get rid of the grease, food, and ash.

Gas vs charcoal BBQs: which is cheaper?

'Most charcoal domestic barbecues will start at a lower cost point than gas grills', says Dan from Weber. 'However, some insulated charcoal barbecues and smokers will fetch a high price closer to that of a large gas grill.'

Charcoal BBQs tend to be cheaper than gas ones, both in terms of the upfront cost and in the ongoing cost of fuel. Charcoal grills usually have a more simple design with less moving parts, whereas good quality gas BBQs tend to be bigger and more sophisticated in their design. This is something we delve into further in our Everdure vs Weber debate.

You can buy large bags of charcoal at affordable prices, like the Diall Instant Light Charcoal, 6kg for £1 at B&Q, which you'll get a good few barbecues out of. Fuel for gas BBQs can be a little more tricky to find, and will cost a few more pennies.

'With a well-insulated ceramic grill, a handful of good quality charcoal can provide enough fuel for a low and slow 10 hour cook, you can then close the vents on the BBQ and cook on the same charcoal again another time', says Ben from Kamado Joe and Masterbuilt. 'You might use the residual heat to cook bread, meringues, jacket potatoes. The equivalent in gas would be more expensive.'

Gas vs charcoal BBQs: final verdict

Weighing up the winner in the gas vs charcoal BBQ debate is tricky, as it really comes down to personal preference. If you're after a no-fuss, easy to use grill that you can use mid-week whenever the weather takes your fancy, a gas BBQ will probably be the better option. But if you're a keen backyard entertainer and you like to host large numbers of people, offer them a variety of food and really want to create that authentic barbecue taste, a charcoal BBQ is the one for you.

'Barbecue lovers have long opted for charcoal to impart an authentic, distinctive smoky flavour and deliver the essence of great outdoor cooking that you don’t get with gas', says Ben from Kamada Joe. 'With minimal smoke, charcoal burns hotter than gas and gives the versatility to flash-sear at scorching temperatures, or slow-cook for hours.'

You can still cook some delicious tasting food on gas BBQs though, and many people prefer these models because they don't have to faff around with live fire, which is more difficult to control.

'With a gas barbecue, there’s no waiting around for the fire to die down before you can cook', explains Chris Stuckey, Senior Marketing Manager UK, Campingaz. 'With the push of a button, you can light your gas barbecue and be ready to cook in around 5 minutes. You also have the benefit of being able to easily and quickly adjust the heat of your barbecue by turning the power controls, just like you would in your kitchen.'

Charcoal BBQs also require a little more effort when it comes to cleaning and maintenance as well. But for many people, using charcoal as fuel is worth the extra time and effort, because of the better results at the end of cooking. So in deciding between gas vs charcoal BBQ, make sure you weigh up what's more important to you; you'll probably fall into one of two categories.

Barbecues are synonymous with summer and in the UK we love a good barbecue, which is somewhat surprising given how frequently they get rained off! The beauty of a gas barbecue though is that they heat up very fast and you can get the cooking done before that looming raincloud gets too close.

But if you have a small backyard or balcony, it can be tricky to find a one of the best BBQs that’s not a monstrous six-person cooking station. Enter the Cadac Citi Chef. It's one of the best gas BBQs, with a compact design that’s ideal for 2-4 people and perfect for small spaces. Not only that, but its sleek wooden legs and friendly curves give at a stylish look that won’t spoil your outdoor aesthetic.

I fired up this gas barbecue in spring and was lucky the sun came out for a few days. It’s super easy to use and it looks great, so it’s the perfect choice no matter whether you’re a newbie or outdoor cooking pro.

 Cadac Citi Chef 40 FS Gas BBQ product specs 

• Fuel type: gas
• Materials: Ceramic BBQ grid, wooden legs, porcelain enamelled fat pan
• Dimensions: 95 x 46 x 72cm
• Cooking area dimensions: 40 cm diameter
• Weight: 12kg
• Number of burners: 1
• Colours: Grey or black

Who reviewed this BBQ?

Unboxing, setting up and first impressions

The Cadac Citi Chef showed up in a fairly big box, but it wasn’t too cumbersome to move around. Upon opening, I was disappointed by the amount of polystyrene in the box, for me this destined-for-landfill chunky packaging is an unwelcome sight.

Like most barbecues, the Citi Chef 40 does come in several pieces that require assembly. Each of the four wooden legs requires two screws to secure it to the underside of the barbecue. It’s a bit fiddly and you’ll need to supply your own screwdriver. Then the shelf needs screwing into position, there’s four screws in total, one for each leg. 

The handle needs screwing onto the lid and the temperature gauge simply bolts into position by hand. Assembly is doable by yourself but having a second pair of hands makes some of it easier.

Once it was stood upright, slotting the rest of the pieces together was pretty straightforward. The grill plate sits on top of a removable drip pan. I’ll admit I was slightly thrown by the metal pot stand that didn’t seem to fit in anywhere, and the sparse instruction manual didn’t help me out. But I eventually figured out it’s for use with some of the optional accessories like the pizza stone or paella pan.

The two side tables are designed to be removed for more compact storage so they lock into place with plastic clips that twist easily to allow for speedy unclipping. At first I did worry that the shelves were a bit too plasticky and not solid enough, but later during testing they proved up to the job of holding plates and sauces. There’s also a tiny hook on the front of each shelf for your tongs, though it’ll be too small for some chunkier barbecue tools.

My barbecue came with a free weatherproof cover (usually £30), which will certainly come in handy if you have a very small outdoor space with no storage. The cover has a large strip of velcro at the back to make it easy to position on the barbecue. Plus, it’s been designed with side flaps, so it’ll still go on even when the side tables are in position. Though it’ll be more weather proof if you remove them first. It’s a heavy duty vinyl cover that’s designed to protect the barbecue year round and it seems good quality.

What it doesn’t come with is a gas connection hose. I didn’t realise this until I’d set it up, the gas connection has to be ordered separately depending on what type of gas supply you intend to use and is an added cost. 

When I eventually got mine, I struggled to connect the hose to the barbecue fitting and had to (reluctantly) enlist help from my husband to get the hose in place and tighten the jubilee clip.

Cooking on the Cadac Citi Chef 40 FS

With automatic ignition and one simple knob on the front to control the flame, using this barbecue is as simple as operating a gas hob. The first time I used it I lit the flame, closed the lid and when I checked five minutes later the temperature gauge in the lid was showing almost 200oC, it heats up super fast.

I loaded up the grill plate with ten big fat pork sausages and two veggie sausages and I was quite surprised to note that there was still plenty of room for more food. I left the gas on the highest setting and the heat was very evenly distributed, there were no obvious hot or cool spots and all the sausages cooked at the same rate, which certainly made cooking a breeze.

I periodically placed the lid on during cooking to help keep the heat in and when I removed it, I used the integrated hook to hook it onto the back of the barbecue. It’s a bit fiddly at first but you soon get the hang of exactly how to position it to hook it on correctly and it’s better than having to put the lid on the floor.

The sausages were cooked in under 20 minutes and the grill plate left very defined bar marks on them. Not only did they look tasty, but the meat was succulent and there was no drying out, all in all a great batch of sausages.

Next I cooked chicken thighs alongside corn on the cob and halloumi slices. After allowing it to heat up for five minutes I placed four chicken thighs and two raw corn on the cobs onto the grill. The chicken skin started to get dark quite quickly so I turned down the heat mid way through cooking, which allowed me to be sure they got fully cooked on the inside.

Interestingly, once the heat had been reduced, I started to notice the grill plate was hotter towards the centre and cooler around the outside. This became very evident when I added the halloumi slices because some were getting charred much faster than others. But once I’d figured it out, it was handy to have a cooler area where I could keep the chicken warm while the halloumi cooked.

I basted the chicken with hot sauce and there was quite a lot of fat dripping out of it. As you can see in the pictures, the fat sitting below the grill plate set on fire several times, but it was only ever a momentary thing and it went out pretty quickly by itself.

The corn on the cob cooked really nicely, I did have to keep turning it frequently to get an even cook, but the result was very good despite it going on the grill completely raw. Similarly, the chicken skin crisped and charred nicely and the meat was tender and succulent. 

On my charcoal barbecue I always manage to lose some halloumi through the gaps in the grate but there’s no danger of that here, so it was nice to come away with the same amount of slices that I started with!

 Cleaning and maintenance

Once cool, the grill plate and drip pan below it, can be lifted out and taken to your sink. I’ve got quite a deep butler style sink, so I could fit each one in individually for the BBQ cleaning. But if you have a small, shallow sink, it might be a bit trickier. 

Nevertheless, I wiped both down with kitchen towels first to remove excess grease and residue. After that they were no more difficult to clean than a griddle pan and a greasy roasting tray.

Admittedly, I didn’t scrub until they were pristine, it’s still a barbecue after all! I should mention that after cooking the chicken thighs, I went away for a couple of days and didn’t bother cleaning it until I got back, and actually the non-stick coating meant the old, dried-on grease and muck was just as easy to remove even two days later.

The instruction manual makes no mention of whether these parts can go in the dishwasher. But they’re big so they’d take up a lot of space if you did try to put them in, so I’d rather leave space for the plates and dishes and wash them by hand instead. The underside of the lid as well as the two side shelves just needed a wipe with a damp cloth and some kitchen spray.

 Comparisons

If you’ve got a bigger budget but you still don’t want a huge barbecue it’s worth checking out the Char-Broil All Star Gas barbecue. At almost £450 it is double the price of the Cadac and arguably it doesn’t look as pretty, but it’s a beefed up and sturdier option. The hinged lid is easier to use and the side tables are much bigger, which will be helpful if you struggle for places to put your food as you take it off. At 45cm the cooking grill is slightly bigger plus there’s a higher shelf for keeping cooked food warm.

A bigger gas barbecue that still scores plenty of points in the looks department is the Everdure by Heston Blumenthal Force 2 Burner gas barbecue. With two burners and a larger cooking area, it offers more scope for cooking for a crowd. But, the sleek shape and three colour options, mean you don’t have to sacrifice style. And with space for two whole chickens under the hood, it’s a versatile option. But there’s a catch, and it’s the £750 price tag.

Should you buy the Cadac Citi Chef 40 FS? 

If you want a gas barbecue but you don’t have the need or the space for one of the expensive oversized models, I think this is a fantastic alternative. It might not offer multiple burners and various levels, but in my opinion its simplicity is part of the draw. Though if you are looking to entertain a crowd, you’ll be better off buying a bigger model.

Not only is it a great choice for small patios or terraces, but it looks very stylish too, which is an absolute must in a small space where you can’t hide it away. And having the option to buy additional accessories that’ll allow you to use it to make other meals like paella, gives unexpected versatility to this compact gas barbecue.

Once the slightly fiddly assembly is out of the way, this barbecue is effortlessly easy to use. Just remember to add a gas fitting to the basket before you checkout.

About this review, and the reviewer

As part of Ideal Home's commitment to how we test, Helen tried out this gas barbecue on a couple of rare sunny days during an exceptionally wet and dreary April and the threat of the weather turning made its speed of heating up and ease of use even more welcome. She used it with a bottle of standard propane patio gas to cook up a variety of foods. She was allowed to keep the barbecue after the review.