FIREPLACES GARDEN

Keep warm on chillier nights with an open garden fire

FUEL Most outdoor fires burn solid fuel – wood with a lower moisture content such as kiln-dried logs or wood briquettes emits less smoke, while charcoal gives a longer burn time, so is cost effective. Clean-burning bio-ethanol or gel firepits are another option but don’t radiate as much heat as those that burn solid fuel.

ACCESSORIES Useful additions for an outside fire include a mesh screen to keep embers from flying out, a wood grate to allow for better air flow and grills or hotplates for cooking on.

OPTIONS The most expensive type of garden fire is a built-in wall fire, set at seating height for maximum effect. Fire baskets or braziers are the most affordable option and require little set up.