The best BBQs are selling out ahead of summer, so here are 21 stylish choices to level-up your garden parties
The best BBQs are selling like hot cakes right now - not least because they're one of the best Father's Day gifts. Just one look down John Lewis' almost entirely sold-out selection of stylish barbecues will act as proof. And it's hardly a surprise. There's nothing better than the great British barbecue season, and as we get more glimpses of warmer weather and outdoor socialising comes onto the cards once more, it's going to be better than ever. Just imagine: gathering in the parks and beaches with our best pals, bathing under non-stop sunshine (a tad too ambitious?), drinking boxed-wine, Prosecco and Aperol aperitifs while grilling something delicious on the barbie. Hell. Yes.
It's likely you usually make a beeline for those tiny disposable barbecues you get from the supermarket circa April-September each year. But not only are they way too small for a proper feast, they're pretty unreliable and wildly bad for the environment. They burn the grass they sit beneath and they can't be recycled or composted. So in the name of sustainability (and your purse - in the long run), investing one of the best (actual) barbecues is a no-brainer. Consider your al fresco summer 2022 plans transformed. If you're in a rush, we've actually got our top two picks right here to save you the hassle of scrolling and, on top of that, if you cast your eyes down just a little bit, we've even pulled together our top 10 BBQs by category. Though, if you're after a bit more in-depth research, by all means, keep scrolling - there's some real good'uns to get your hands on.Ā
What is the best BBQ to buy?
There are a few things to consider when it comes to shopping for the best BBQ. For true grill aficionados, there's a longstanding debate between which BBQ is better: the charcoal barbecue or the gas barbecue. And honestly? It just comes down to your preferences. Generally, charcoal is best for taste and easy transportation, while gas is said to be more efficient and much easier to use.
Other factors to consider include size āĀ do you want a two-burner grill, or something bigger for cooking higher quantities of food? ā cooking speed, ease of clean-up and hassle of fuel access. There's also, of course, your budget. Prices can range hugely depending on what you want. You can get a pretty affordable two burner gas BBQ from John Lewis for less than Ā£200 - but you can also invest in an all-singing-all-dancing extra large BBQ embedded in its own transportable acacia wood table for Ā£2,690 at the top end of the spectrum. We've made sure to include the best barbecues for all budgets here.
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Best BBQs at a glance
- Best BBQ 2022 UK - Char-Broil Professional CORE TRU-Infrared 4 Burner Gas BBQ, Black, Ā£799.99, John Lewis
- Best gas BBQ - Everdure By Heston Blumenthal FURNACE 3 Burner Gas BBQ, Graphite, Ā£899, John Lewis
- Best charcoal BBQ - Gardenline Kamado Ceramic Egg BBQ, Ā£399.99, Aldi
- Best budget BBQ - Home Wow Premium 6 Burner Gas BBQ, Ā£240, Argos
- Smallest gas BBQ - John Lewis & Partners 2 Burner Gas BBQ, Ā£199, John Lewis
- Best table top BBQ - everdure by heston blumenthal CUBE Portable Charcoal BBQ, Graphite, Ā£179, John Lewis & Partners
- Best portable BBQ - Eurohike Foldable BBQ, Ā£15, Blacks
- Gas and charcoal combination BBQ - Outback Spectrum Hybrid 3 Burner Gas BBQ, Ā£400, Homebase
- Best electric BBQ - Lotus Grill XL BBQ grill 43.5cm, Ā£225, Selfridges
- Best Amazon gas BBQ - Outback Excel 2 Burner Gas BBQ Ā£169.99, Amazon
How did we test and review our BBQs?
Combining our knowledge of the BBQs we've used as a team with customer reviews and the most frequently purchases BBQs over the years, we've compiled what we believe to be an exhaustive round up of the best BBQs to cover all bases. We haven't ignored negative customer reviews and, whether a BBQ is hard to clean or requires a handyman to assemble, we've let you know. We're lucky enough to speak to lots of the influential staff behind the brands to get that little bit of extra know-how and, now with this guide, we're able to share it with you. Happy shopping!
So, whether you want a smaller grill for chucking on a few hot dogs and meat-free burgers ā seriously, whether you're vegan or not, you need to try the Beyond Meat Plant-Based burgers, they are chef's kiss ā or if you're after a meatier (sorry) option for family get-to-togethers, these are the best gas and charcoal barbecues you need to buy this summer. Don't sleep on it.
We've also rounded up the best garden furniture for all budgets to transform your outdoor space for those summer parties, fire pits for a Love Island-style garden makeover and the very best cocktail making kits (to pair with those perfectly-grilled hotdogs or vegan burgers)... Head this way for the best pizza ovens, over here for picnic sets to take to the park and in this direction for the best patio heaters to keep you toasty. And, lastly, we've got the best chimineas, the best patio heaters, the best rattan furniture, the best garden bean bags, garden mirrors and Aldi garden furniture - more than enough to get going with.Ā
For more from our Commerce Writer Lucy Smith, follow her on Instagram @luceeeeesmith.
Best charcoal BBQ UK 2022
Symple Stuff 59cm Kamado Charcoal BBQ, Ā£152.99, WayfairĀ
Why we love it: If you like your BBQ to taste smoky and even more flavoursome, this Kamodo charcoal number from Wayfair is the pick for you. For starters, it's portable - which is unusual for a BBQ this size - and, with a thermometer on the exterior, you don't need to worry about opening the lid and losing any of that precious smoky flavour. Other features include two shelves for storage, heat proof handles and a side vent for air flow, should you need it.
Pros: Mimics a US-design Traeger BBQ for a fraction of the price, not to mention providing buyers with a rust-resistant steel outer so you needn't worry about rainfall.
Cons: Given the size, it's surprising that there's no place to keep food warm.Ā
Customers are saying: A little tough to assemble for DIY novices, but cooks amazing tasting food.
Save money on the best BBQs with these Wayfair discount codes
Best deals on BBQs
Outback Spectrum Hybrid 3 Burner Gas BBQ, Ā£400, Homebase
Why we love it: Currently reduced by 20% in an offer (which gets added at checkout), this Outback hybrid BBQ is perfect for both smoky charcoal and speedy gas BBQing. Complete with a regulator, warming rack and three different burners, this BBQ will cook for quite the crowd, all the while keeping in that delicious flavour.
Pros: Hose and regulator are included, can cook for up to 12 people and can be picked up in Homebase stores with free click and collect.Ā
Cons: Delivery to postcodes starting with BT, KW, IV, PH, PA or TR will take longer.Ā
Customers are saying: Better than the older model, lasts a long time and produces a good heat.
Best portable BBQs
Lotus Grill XL BBQ grill 43.5cm, Ā£225, Selfridges
Why we love it: At less than half a metre in diameter, this portable Lotus grill is perfect for beach and park BBQs away from home. Complete with a carrier bag, batteries and dual heat control, Lotus claims this BBQ can cater to a whopping 10 people and actually has a grill surface 60% larger than most standard BBQs. Impressive.
Pros: For those who hate leaving a BBQ with the smell of smoke running through their hair, the Lotus Grill promises to provide āsmokelessā cooking.Ā
Cons: Too hot to touch the exterior when in use.Ā
Customers are saying: A top pick for big groups, easy to dissemble but a little tricky to clean.
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BBQs: Best for family feasts
Why we love it: The GOAT when it comes to preventing flare-ups and prioritising moist cooking and flavourful meats, the Char-Broil Professional BBQ pays attention to details and brings buyers even the most subtle of added touches, including utensil hooks and an integrated bottle opener. The wheels lock and the handles are heatproof, to make it safer for families and kids and, if you ask us, it's an all-round top pick.Ā
Pros: Includes a warming rack, a dedicated space for your gas bottle and a generous 77cm long grilling area.Ā
Cons: Warning label is hard to remove.Ā
Customers are saying: You'll need to adjust to the TRU-Infrared, but it cooks evenly and food doesn't burn.
Save money on the best four burner BBQs with these John Lewis discount codesĀ
Best BBQs for the money
Gardenline Kamado Ceramic Egg BBQ, Ā£399.99, Aldi
Why we love it: At around half the price of the Big Green Egg, this Kamado BBQ from Aldi provides all the same, smoking, baking, grilling and cooking functionality. Complete with space for plating up and an exterior temperature gauge to keep all that delicious flavour in, this is a top pick for luxury BBQing on a smaller budget.
Pros: Includes free delivery, the chimney top acts as an air vent and it even includes a cover.Ā
Cons: Instructions for BBQ novices are a little lacking.Ā
Customers are saying: Lasts well, cooks great food and is an adequate competitor for The Big Green Egg.Ā Ā
Weber BBQ
Weber Master-Touch Premium E5770 Charcoal Gourmet System BBQ, Ā£389, John Lewis
Why we love it: This top-of-the-range charcoal barbecue will improve your BBQ'ing experience tenfold. It boasts a stainless steel cooking grate plus plenty of cooking space. There is a One-Touch cleaning system with a rust-resistant ash catcher that lifts out for easy ash disposal and cleaning, plus the Gourmet BBQ System grate allows you to add a number of accessories to cook with. We're talking woks, griddle plans and sear grates. Your BBQ menu just got a whole lot longer.
Pros: Generous 57cm diameter cooking area for all your kebabs, burgers and veggies, and only needs cleaning with a grill brush to remove any food residue, the rest should burn off.Ā
Cons: No warming rack or side shelves.
Customers are saying: Makes great food, is easy to assemble and is an excellent size.
Make sure to get the best BBQ for cheaper with our John Lewis discount codes, too.
Best BBQ under Ā£300
John Lewis & Partners 2 Burner Gas BBQ, Ā£199, John LewisĀ
Why we love it: One of the best quality BBQs for less than Ā£200 in this edit is John Lewis' two burner gas BBQ. It cooks for up to four people, can be lit individually with no batteries required has a lid thermometer plus four shelves for cooking (base, middle and two side shelves).Ā
Pros: Free delivery, lots of storage space and has a warming rack to keep any veg and/or side dishes warm.
Cons: No dedicated space for the gas canister.Ā
Customers are saying: Easily enough room on the gas grill to cook for six, the cooking temperature isn't hard to control and it cleans so well.
Make sure to get the best BBQ for cheaper with our John Lewis discount codes, too.
Best gas BBQ UK 2022
Everdure by Heston Blumenthal Furnace Gas BBQ with Stand - Graphite, Ā£889, John Lewis
Why we love it: With three independently controlled gas burners, this Heston BBQ is perfect for a family of five or six and can be ready to cook on in just five minutes. It has an extra deep hood for all your beer-can chicken needs and, with enamel coated plates, it's super easy to clean afterwards, too. A top luxury pick.
Pros: Features heat-retaining cast-iron for high-quality searing and succulent flavour, as well as offering buyers a five-year warranty and, currently, a free cover. Alternatively, the John Lewis offer on the smaller, two-burner model, includes a pizza stone and paddle as part of the deal.
Cons: Replacement drip trays over time will set you back around Ā£8-15.
Customers are saying: High-quality and great for pizza, but you'll probably need a wire brush to give it a good clean at the end of each season.
Save money on the best BBQs with these John Lewis discount codes.
Best BBQ under Ā£100: Weber BBQ
Weber Smokey Joe Premium Charcoal BBQ, Ā£95, Amazon
Why we love it: This BBQ comes in at under Ā£100 and it can be used in your garden, in parks or on the beach with thanks to how portable it is. Available in a stylish green hue, it's crafted from porcelain-enamel and has a rust-resistant lid and bowl so it doesn't get weathered by the elements. There is space to cook for three-four people and you get a fire resistant lid handle (plus a separate carry handle) so you can move with it soon after cooking and not worry about getting burned.
Pros: A top charcoal grill pick if smokey flavour food is your end goal, not to mention it only weighs 4kg for easy transportation.Ā
Cons: Be careful not to chip the paintwork on the outside if using on the go frequently.Ā
Customers are saying: Great for two-three people and easy to clean.
Make sure to get the best BBQ for cheaper with our Amazon discount codes, too.
Best portable BBQ
Everdure by Heston Blumenthal Cube Charcoal Barbeque Graphite, Ā£179, John Lewis & PartnersĀ
Why we love it: This Heston portable BBQ comes complete with heat-resistant handles, a food storage tray and a chopping board for all those onions and pepper accoutrements your burgers are lacking. It's suitable for use with charcoal and, with a heat protection layer, can be used on pretty much any surface. Ā
Pros: Can be used on a tabletop, for those without ground space includes both a preparation board and food storage tray.Ā
Cons: Silicone/paint may experience some wear and tear in the charcoal compartment, though some buyers recommend using foil to avoid this and make it easier to clean.Ā
Customers are saying: Perfect for two, very lightweight and no issues with heat transfer.
Save money on tabletop BBQs with these John Lewis discount codesĀ
Best Green Egg BBQ
Big Green Egg MiniMax BBQ with ConvEGGtor, Ā£795, John Lewis
Why we love it: Big Green BBQs are pricey - but you get what you pay for. Plus, they're super sleek and stylish in design. This one is one of their cheaper models: small, compact and with state-of-the-art technology to offer incredible strength, durability and heat insulation. John Lewis says: "This Egg comes with a ConvEGGtor, a clever ceramic insert that turns your Egg into a convection oven, for baking, slow-cooking, smoking and roasting outdoors."
Pros: Includes a purpose-built carrier so it can be used as a portable barbeque and promises buyers a lifetime guarantee.Ā
Cons: Grilling area will only fit four burgers OR one whole chicken, despite the high price point.Ā
Customers are saying: N/A
Make sure to get the best BBQ for cheaper with our John Lewis discount codes, too.
Best charcoal BBQ
Napoleon Charcoal Kettle Barbecue, Ā£335, Amazon
Why we love it: One of the most popular BBQs right now is Napoleon's charcoal BBQ. The lid comes with a thermometer which is really accurate - no excuse for anything but perfectly cooked food here! - and it has the same 22-inch grill as more expensive Weber options. It's also worth mentioning that the grill can be adjusted to three different heights, to tailor the amount of heat your food gets.
Pros: Includes a high-tech āACCU probeā thermometer to ensure that all your brisket and steak stays succulent and tender, while the adjustable grill height means you can get the ideal cuisson on both bigger chickens and individual burgers.Ā
Cons: It's heavy, but does include wheels for moving.Ā
Customers are saying: ā¦it's better than Weber!
Make sure to get the best BBQ for cheaper with our Amazon discount codes, too.
Best BBQ for easy cleaning
Kamado Joe KJ23RH Classic I Charcoal Grill, Blaze Red, Ā£863.95, Amazon
Why we love it: Complete with everything from side shelfs to tool hooks, the Kamado Joe may be expensive, but its performance is legendary and provides buyers with only the most smoky, flavourful and moist eats with minimal fuss. The wheels lock to prevent any strong gusts of wind from sending it down your lawn, and the two tier divided plates allow you to cook vegetables at a lower heat, while charring meats on a searing heat all at the same time.Ā
Pros: Removable ash drawer makes for easy cleaning while the open/close airflow vent means you can control your smoking and searing temperatures more accurately.Ā
Cons: Grill cover not included, even with given the price.
Customers are saying: Easy to use and you can pretty much leave your food to cook unattended.
Save money on Kamado Joe BBQs with these Amazon discount codesĀ
Best gas BBQ 2022
Outsunny Deluxe Gas Barbecue Grill 3+1 Burner, Ā£214.99, Aosom
Why we love it: With hidden storage for all your packet sausages and burgers, as well as a handy side burner for any frying pan additions, this Outsunny deluxe BBQ really does do it all. Complete with a porcelain enamelled grill for easy cleaning, wheels for movement and a warming rack for when, inevitably, everything cooks at different times, the Outsunny will make being the grill master stress free once more. A win, win.Ā
Pros: Three burners mean it's great for large families, the handles remain cool throughout the cooking process to prevent burns and a one-button Piezo ignition minimises juggling two things at once.Ā
Cons: Regulator and hose are not included.Ā
Customers are saying: Delivered quickly, sturdy and well-built and ideal for use with four people.
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Best BBQs under Ā£100
Eurohike Foldable BBQ, Ā£15, BlacksĀ
Why we love it: You won't believe us when you tell you that this BBQ folds entirely flat. Yep, just the ticket for backpackers and van lifers alike, this supremely affordable BBQ from Eurohike provides a generous grill space and even comes with its own carry bag for easy transportation.
Pros: Only weighs 1.8kg and includes free delivery.Ā
Cons: If using on campsites, you make want a flat surface to grill on.Ā
Customers are saying: It exceeds expectations and stands the test of time.
Save money the best BBQs with these Blacks discount codes
Best hybrid BBQ UK
Vertical 2-in-1 luxury BBQ Charcoal and Smoker Grill, Ā£229.99, Very
Why we love it: This sleek black charcoal BBQ is a top pick for flavour fanatics, bringing smokiness and succulent flavour into even the most rudimentary of foods. Cool to the touch, extra heat protection around the exterior makes this a good choice for families and, with a stay-cool handle and study feet to keep it grounded, it really has covered safety from all angles.
Pros: Includes a water pan so you can make the most moist and juicy of porks, while the ventilated door ensures that any smokiness doesn't become too overpowering.Ā
Cons: Product doesn't include any means of anchoring it to the ground.Ā
Customers are saying: Looks great and makes delicious smoky food.
Save money on the best BBQs with these Very discount codes
Best BBQ and grill
Dancook 9000 Bonfire Barbecue Grill, Ā£169.99, Amazon
Why we love it: Made from stainless steel and aluminium, this grill will last a lifetime and, thanks to the extra-thick chrome plated grid, it's ideal for cooking heavier cuts of meat and poultry. Used with either wood or charcoal.
Pros: Includes a 10-year warranty and doubles as a fire pit.Ā
Cons: If moving, be careful not to scratch the stainless steel.Ā
Customers are saying: Super! Ticks all the boxes and is well supported so you don't need to worry about kids or pets knocking it over.
Make sure to get the best BBQ for cheaper with our Amazon discount codes, too.
BBQs: Best value for money
Home Wow Premium 6 Burner Gas BBQ, Ā£240, Argos
Why we love it: Highly reviewed and coming in at less than Ā£300, the Home Wow BBQ not only features a whopping six burners but, with individual temperature controls for each section you can ensure that everything from your peppers to your shish kebabs are cooked just right.Ā
Pros: Hose, regulator and flame tamer included, as well as a drip tray, warming rack and electronic ignition. It's almost a meter and a half in length and has clear instructions for assembly.
Cons: The grill is steel, so doesn't benefit from the same heat retention as cast-iron.Ā
Customers are saying: Some even managed to cook for up to 120 people with it!
Save money on the best gas BBQs with these Argos discount codesĀ
Best BBQ under Ā£100
Landmann Pedestal Round Charcoal BBQ, WAS Ā£69.99 NOW Ā£44.99, Robert Dyas
Why we love it: This pedestal BBQ is an upright, height-adjustable model which is a popular European design. The round cooking grill caters for up to six people. It's portable, easy to assemble and can be used with charcoal briquettes or lump wood charcoal.
Pros: Includes a windshield to minimise smoke and flame size, while the airflow regulator makes temperature control a breeze.Ā
Cons: Tower sways a little in wind.Ā
Customers are saying: Easy to assemble and reasonably priced.
Make sure to get the best BBQ for cheaper with our Robert Dyas discount codes, too.
Top gas BBQĀ
Weber GenesisĀ® II E310 Black 3 burner Gas Barbecue, Ā£919.20, Weber
Why we love it: Featuring everything from cast-iron cooking grates to gas tank storage and utensil hooks, the Weber Genesis II is pretty much your do-it-all BBQ and, while it might cost a fair amount of Ā£Ā£Ā£, it's an annual summer sell out, award winning and you really can't go wrong.Ā
Pros: Includes Weber's trademarked āflavourizerā bars for that delicious BBQ flavour we know and love, as well as a rust-resistant coating, easy ignition and the promise that you can have it set up and built within 90 minutes.Ā
Cons: We can't flaw it!
Customers are saying: You get what you pay for and the 10-year warranty provides ease of mind.
Best BBQ under Ā£200
Outback Excel 2 Burner Gas BBQ, Ā£195, Homebase
Why we love it: Complete with a side burner for those caramelised onions everyone will want with their hot dogs, this 2 burner gas BBQ from Outback is not only reasonably priced, but pretty luxurious, too. It comes with the regulator - something not always afforded to even the more expensive models - and a flame tamer, too, not to mention it's on wheels for easy movement when you do eventually store it away from winter.
Pros: Side shelf folds away to save space when storing away, is rated a Best Buy by Which?, includes a gas bottle holder as well as a tool rack for all your spatulas and tongs and, lastly, the flame tamer prevents any flare ups and overly charred chicken (we've all been thereā¦).Ā
Cons: Self assembly required.
Customers are saying: Good value and lots of room to grill.
Save money on the best BBQs with these Amazon discount codes
