As the sun sets and the temperature drops, there’s nothing quite like sitting around a warm and inviting wood-burning fire pit in your garden.
They can serve as a focal point, providing warmth, light and amazing ambience.
It’s important to choose a quality, well-made fire pit, for safety reasons as well as enjoyment.
At mygardenheaven.com we like to champion the smaller local manufacturers out there making things by hand, so today we are looking at three of the best garden fire pits in the UK available to buy at Etsy.com, and comparing them on looks, price and function.
| Best Overall: | Runner Up: | Budget Choice: |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
| TaoTao Ltd £87.99 | Carmen Interiors £265.00 | Muddy Hands UK £72.99 |
Why You Should Get A Fire Pit
Wood-burning fire pits are traditional and evocative, giving an amazing campfire experience to your garden.
They are great for burning leftover wood from gardening, provided it is dry and seasoned.
Brilliant for summer parties, or just a nice glass of wine at the end of the day.
They can also be used a barbeque with the addition of a grill.
What to Look for When Buying A Fire Pit
Everyone has different ideas on what is important or not when deciding on a fire pit, but I want to offer my opinion on the most important things to consider.
Material
A fire pit needs to made of a safe and appropriate material that can handle hours of burning. The material will need to be thick enough so that it does not buckle or burn through, and a material that will not degrade or rust too much outside.
It is good to have a drainage hole too, so it won’t fill up with rain if you accidentally leave it out overnight.
Size
The size of your fire pit should be proportional to your garden space. A large fire pit can overwhelm a small garden and be heavy to move, while a small pit might not provide enough warmth for a large outdoor area. Measure your available space and choose a fire pit size that suits it.
Design
Your fire pit should harmonize with your garden’s overall design. Choose a style that goes with your existing outdoor decor, whether it’s rustic, modern, or eclectic.
It must be constructed properly and safely. Look for fire pits with sturdy bases, good floor clearance, and if you are concerned about embers escaping, consider a protective screen.
Fire Pit Product Reviews
As the owner of this website I’ve tracked down great deals for some of the products mentioned herein. When you use the links on this page to make a purchase I may get a small commission and you may get a great bargain. It’s a win-win all round. Full disclosure.
Here are the reviews of three great fire pits available to buy at Etsy.com at the moment:
1. Best Overall – TAOTAO Texas Steel Fire Pit 60CM with Chromed grill + FREE rain cover + Free Dia.56cm Camping Fire pit (Grill, Folding Legs, Carry Bag) £87.99
This is an absolute winner for the price, as you get so much with it!
Made from alloy steel with dimensions of Height: 61cm, Width: 61cm, Depth: 61cm.
Pros
- Loads of free extras including a cover and a travel fire pit!
- Stunning design with a mesh flame design on the sides so you get a 360 degree view of the flames.
- Has a mesh lid to stop embers escaping.
Cons
- Can’t be used on decking.
- Metal not as thick as others we have reviewed, only a problem if you are burning for a long time.
2. Runner Up – Indian Fire Pit by CarmenInteriors £265.00
This is a stunning original kadai fire pit from India. It is the most expensive fire pit reviewed today however it is also the widest with the following dimensions: Height: 47cm, Width: 64cm, Depth: 60cm.
As it is hand crafted, sizes and shapes may vary slightly as well as the weight.
Pros
- Beautiful original kadai from India.
- Solidly made from iron.
- Comes with a stand and a grill for cooking.
- Free delivery.
Cons
- Made from iron, so will rust if left in the rain.
- Heavy at 14.3 kg.
- On the pricier side.
3. Budget Choice – Large Fire Pit with Lid & Poker by MuddyHandsUK £72.99
This handmade fire pit is a great budget option with dimensions: Diameter: 75cm – Height: 58cm
A good sturdy item, the manufacturers say it is able to withstand temperatures of 600 degrees!
Pros
- Comes with a mesh screen cover to protect you from potentially dangerous flying embers.
- Comes with fire poker to move wood without using your hands.
- Returns & exchanges are accepted within 30 days.
- Free delivery.
Cons
- Fairly shallow bowl compared to our other choices.
FAQ’s
Here are some commonly asked questions about fire pits:
Is it legal to have a fire pit in your garden in the UK?
Yes it is absolutely legal to have a fire pit in your garden. You do have a social responsibility to make sure it is safe and not causing a nuisance to others however. So make sure:
- It is not too close to the fence, the shed, washing lines, trees, or anything that may catch on fire.
- You are not burning wet/treated wood or plastic/tyres etc that would cause excessive black noxious smoke.
- Don’t leave it unattended.
- It’s a good idea to have water or sand on standby in case it gets out of control.
- Ideally don’t have a fire on a windy day. This will send smoke and ash everywhere and the gusts may cause the fire to surge.
What’s best to burn on a fire pit?
Ideally burn dry, seasoned wood. Be sensible about the size of the pieces you are putting on as larger bits will burn through and possibly fall out.
If your fire pit is thick and sturdy you can also burn coal.
Don’t burn rubbish, green garden waste or plastics.
Should I put anything in the bottom of my fire pit?
You can put an inch of sand in the bottom of your fire pit.
This will provide some insulation and protect your fire pit, keeping it usable for longer.
Remember to clean this out after use though, as if it becomes damp it will sit against the metal and cause rust over time.
Conclusion
So that concludes our list of some of the best fire pits on the market today.
By considering factors such as size, materials, safety features, and cooking capabilities, you can create a cozy and inviting outdoor space that brings family and friends together around the mesmerizing glow of a crackling fire.
The ideal fire pit is not just an addition to your garden, but a centrepiece that fosters warmth, connection, and unforgettable memories.
Another great way to enjoy warmth and food is by making your own pizza oven! Check out our article here.