A fire pit is a great way to enjoy the last hours of a summer’s day in the garden without feeling the chill, and many on the market double-up as that other warm-weather staple: a barbecue.
We’ve spotted a two-in-one fire pit and grill at Argos for £50, which shoppers have praised as “excellent value” for money.
The steel pit is 57cm in diameter and weighs 5kg, making it light enough to be moved wherever you need it. It comes with a grill to convert it into a cooking space, a poker for safely stoking the flames, and a fireguard.
The pit works with wood or some alternative fuels, such as coconut shell briquettes. Note, however, that it’s not suitable for charcoal.
Based on current reviews, it has a customer satisfaction score of 4.89 out of 5. One shopper said: “The firepit is sturdy, easy to assemble, and makes a great centerpiece for the garden. It gives off good heat, perfect for relaxing outdoors in the evening.”
Shoppers report that it works well for both functions, particularly considering the price. One wrote: “Excellent value for money…good cooking capacity with plenty of space for barbecue food.” Another noted that it is ideal “for gathering round and toasting marshmallows”.
The mesh fireguard won’t keep out the rain, so anyone leaving it outside may want to buy a waterproof cover to avoid water collecting in the bowl. To protect surfaces from being damaged by the heat – one reviewer does note that it scorched her grass – it could also be worth investing in a protective mat.
The Wayfair Alica Round Steel Wood Burning Smokeless Fire Pit is similar to the Argos option, though it is noticeably more expensive, priced at £125.99, and is reduced from £134.99. While it also stands on a pedestal, it is slightly bigger than the Argos’ fire pit with a diameter of 74.5cm and a weight of 12.5kg.
Another fire pit that doubles up as a barbecue with excellent reviews is the reasonably priced VonHaus Round MgO Fire Pit. It’s currently £59.99. down from £64.99. However, it does look quite different. It has a steel fire bowl that’s suitable for charcoal or wood, but it’s housed in a beige magnesium oxide coating, which basically looks like up-market concrete. The advantage of this is that it’s likely to be very strong.
The brand also claims it is “rust, frost, and UV resistant.” The fire pit has 127 five-star reviews, with one shopper saying: “Perfect for what I need. Versatile fire and barbecue. Lightweight but sturdy. Looks lovely in the garden when not in use. Great value for money.”
