Five beautiful flower fields across the UK to visit this summer – and some have free entry
AS summer steps into bloom, so do millions of flowers across the UK - and what is better than getting out and seeing them.
Whilst the UK doesn't benefit from a tropical climate or colour-coded tulip fields, we still gets some amazing plants and garden destinations.
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Here is a round-up of some of the best flower gardens in the UK, including a new lavender destination.
Secret Lavender Garden, Mayfield
Mayfield Lavender, famed for its organic Banstead lavender farm, will launch a brand-new visitor experience this summer: the Secret Lavender Garden.
The experience will open on June 21 Mayfield's Epsom site in Surrey - which is also home to the Glasshouse Café and Gift & Plant Shop.
There will be time sessions in the morning and afternoon for visitors to explore the fragrant lavender, an apple orchard, over 500 fruit trees and local wildlife.
There is a tall tree-lined avenue that leads guests to a second hidden lavender field, which boasts amazing countryside views and even the skyline of London is visible.
Guests will be allowed to bring a picnic blanket or sit at one of the garden's tables to enjoy the fields.
They can also pre-order one of Mayfield's handcrafted pick-up hampers filled with treats.
Alternatively, visitors can head to the Glasshouse Cafe which offers a menu including lavender-inspired food and drinks.
From the July 5, the Secret Lavender Garden will also offer 'sunset special' slots for golden-hour views.
Booking online costs £10 for adults, £8 for children over the age of 12 and £5 for children between five and 11-years-old.
Explore the Most Beautiful Flower Fields in the UK
Brendan Maye, founder of Mayfield Lavender, said: "The opening of the Secret Lavender Garden at our Epsom site marks an exciting chapter for Mayfield.
"It's a peaceful, hidden gem that complements the vibrant atmosphere of the Banstead-based lavender farm. We can't wait for people to experience both."
Little Budds Farm, Coldblow Lane
Set in the Kent countryside, is Little Budds Peony Farm - a great peony paradise, that boasts displays of over 6,000 peonies.
Peonies only bloom for a few weeks each year, from the end of Mat to the beginning of June.
And at Little Budds Farm, visitors can see the vast array of flowers until June 15.
In total, the farm has over 50 different varieties of peonies, which all range in size, shape, scent and colour.
Whilst visitors cannot pick their own peonies, there are plenty of pre-picked bunches available for purchase at the site.
The farm is completely free to visit, but tickets to see the flowers must be booked in advance.
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If heading from London, guests can board a direct train from London Victoria to Bearstead and then hop in a short taxi ride to the farm.
The Confetti Flower Field, Worcestershire
The Confetti Flower Field in Worcestershire is home to an array of flowers that bloom for just 10 days.
Estimated to bloom towards the end of June, the farm has acres of tall delphinium flowers.
Guests will be able to see the flowers in the fields, as well as a range of insects.
At full bloom, the fields are a "magical experience" according tot he farm's website and visitors will be able to walk around "such an expanse of colour".
There will also be a pop-up Confetti Café, a small shop and fresh flower stall inside the event.
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New for this year, the farm is also offering sunset events on June 26 and July 1 and 3.
Tickets cost £9.95 per person and must be booked in advance.
Blooming Green, Kent
Also in Kent is Blooming Green - a large meadow with bundles of wild flowers to investigate.
Whilst a fruit farm, Blooming Green has seasonal, organic flowers that visitors can pick every Saturday from late June to October.
There is no need to book and guests can simply grab a PYO (pick your own) container and take the pick of the bunch.
The farm will even wrap up your field-fresh flowers.
Admission is completely free of charge, but it does cost £25 for a PYO container of up to 40 stems.
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Hitchin Lavender, Hertfordshire
Hitchin Lavender is home to more than 30 acres of lavender, making it the largest lavender farm in the UK.
Visitors can head there, explore and pick lavender themselves.
Outside of the main field, there is also a two-acre display field that showcases 60 different varieties of lavender.
The flowers bloom from mid-June to late August.
Also, at the same site, there is a sunflower field where visitors can also explore and pick the sunflowers, which are priced per stem.
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If that wasn't enough floral exploration, there are also wildflower meadows with hundreds of wildflower varieties.
To make a day out of it, visitors can also enjoy the Old Barn Tearoom, which is a 17th century barn serving up hot food and drinks, homemade cakes and has a children's play area just outside.
General admission costs £8.91 per adult and £6.81 per child.
There are a number of stunning spots around the world to take the perfect floral selfie.
Plus, the pretty 'secret' garden in England that is more like going to China and Egypt.
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Telegraph
25 minutes ago
- Telegraph
The best camping chairs, including folding and lightweight options for summer 2025
Which is the best camping chair? You'll never know how important that question is until you've spent all day exploring, or travelling hard to your chosen campsite, only to find that the chair you've brought is uncomfortable, hard to assemble or, worse still, you don't have one at all. I've pitched hundreds of tents in every corner of the globe. Each time, once the last peg is banged in, whether I'm family camping, chilling with friends at a festival or alone in the wild, all I want to do is take the weight off my feet and collapse onto something comfortable with good back support (beer optional). To save you from some of the more uncomfortable camping trips I've been through, I've done the work for you by trying and testing the most popular camping chairs on the market, including £30 budget options and premium slouchers which cost more than £100. From Vango's big padded moon chairs to Helinox's low-to-the-ground beach chairs, I've tried them all. My in-depth reviews are below, followed by FAQs on how to choose the right one for you. But if you're in a hurry, here's a quick look at my top five: Which are the best camping chairs? At a glance How to choose the best camping chair First, comfort is key – look for chairs with good back support and plenty of padding so you don't end up stiff or sore. Some chairs even let you adjust the backrest or armrests, making it easier to find the perfect position, whether you're reading or relaxing. Durability is important too. Camping chairs need to withstand all kinds of weather, so pick ones with strong frames made from materials like steel or aluminium. The fabric should be tough as well – often called ripstop polyester, which means it's designed to resist tearing. Portability matters if you're hiking to your spot. Lightweight chairs that fold up small and come with a carry bag are much easier to carry. Also, check the weight limit to make sure the chair can safely support you. Finally, handy extras like cup holders or pockets for your phone and snacks can make your camping chair feel extra special. How I tested the best camping chairs From years spent wild camping on mountainsides using my rucksack as a backrest, I know the value of the right camping chair. Whether folded, inflated, hanging or compact, if it's been made for outdoor use the chances are that over the last 14 years I've sat in it. (I've also spent time reviewing the best sleeping bags and best camping stoves.) For this review, I tested the latest offerings from the manufacturers I've come to trust. Specifically, I was testing how much weight a chair could hold, how light and portable each was, their seat height and most importantly of all, comfort. These are the best of the bunch. Why you can trust Telegraph Recommended Our thorough, real-world tests will always help you find the best product. No manufacturer ever sees Telegraph Recommended reviews before publication and we don't accept payment in exchange for favourable reviews, nor do we allow brands to pay for placement in our articles. From tents to walking boots, all reviews are based on independent expert opinion and our hands-on testing. Visit our Who We Are page to learn more. Best camping chairs 1. Best Buy Camping Chair: Vango Embrace Chair When the sun sets on a campsite, there's nothing better than sinking down into your chair and enjoying a sundown but usually, when that happens, the temperature drops and even a light breeze can chill you through the fabric of a standard folding seat. Not so with the Vango Embrace, a luxuriously quilted and padded number that wraps around your entire body – a style sometimes known as a moon chair – and keeps you well off the ground, meaning that you stay warmer and comfortable even when night falls. It's made from a sturdy steel frame (it can take a weight of 19 stone!) that's easy to unfold – I could even do this with one hand – and when you're done, it easily pushes down and back into its carry bag. The fabric is Vango's own trademarked offering that feels soft to touch but is durable and hardwearing – even if you spill your drink on it and need to vigorously clean it (trust me, I speak from experience). You do, of course, pay for this unrivalled comfort and not just with money. At 5kg, it's considerably heavier than most standard two-person tents. Fitting it into the boot of a smaller car will see it take up a lot of space, too. But if you're car camping for several days, it's definitely worth the bulk. Key specifications 2. Best Value Camping Chair: Trespass Folding Padded Camping and Garden Deck Chair Paddy Whereas the other padded and value options here tend to fold in on themselves in a cuboid shape, this model from Scottish brand Trespass folds flat (good for storing in the shed between trips or behind seats in a campervan or caravan) and still manages to pack in a good amount of comfort in a padded foam seat. The frame is made from steel, hence the slightly heavier weight compared to other options, but this does make it sturdy to sit on, so good for those who are less steady when sitting down. The sitting height is average and the maximum load is decent for the price. It was easy to fold away and set out. For campers who feel the cold, the design of this one will mean draughts as it's not the bucket style, which keeps wind at bay, but that can be mitigated by using a blanket or a good jacket. My only niggle is the finish, though the fabric feels fairly robust, the stitching in places feels like it might fray with use relatively quickly. Still a decent option for the low price. Key specifications 3. Best Camping Chair for the Garden: Hi-Gear Kentucky Classic Chair Recommended by Rebecca Astill This is my camping chair of choice for days spent watching my boyfriend play cricket. It's strong, stable, padded and comfortable enough to sit in all day. Plus, the insulated cup holder keeps a glass of rosé lovely and cool. (Making it an excellent choice as an occasional garden chair, too.) It comes with a carry bag which the chair easily collapses back into and its long handle means it can be slung onto my back while barely noticing the weight. The polyester fabric is nicely padded. It's even breathable in 30C heat, which is impressive. The only thing I'd change is to make the headrest slightly more upright; it slopes back, which means you have to sit up to chat to anyone or, in my case, watch cricket. I've seen other camping chairs which have a zip in the headrest to store the bag, which then creates a cushion. I do think this would make an excellent addition, but other than that it's a practical, comfortable chair. Key specifications 4. Best 'just in case' Camping Chair: Helinox Chair One (re) For something light and packable with more comfort than the featherweight model, I like Helinox's newly designed Chair One (re). First hitting the shelves in 2012 when the South Korean father-and-son founded company produced what became the first in its field of portable camping furniture, the previous iteration was always quite low to the ground (34cm) and could be a little unstable (especially for larger users). The new version has addressed both of these issues. Thanks to added tension in the body of the chair it now feels a lot sturdier and adding four extra centimetres to the sitting height – it's now a little over 38cm – means it's closer to the standard-sized camping chair, yet still packs down remarkably small - 39cm x 13.5cm x 12cm (about the size of a bowling pin). Its green credentials have also improved, with the frame now partly being made from repurposed aluminium (basically the scraps of metal left of the factory floor that would have been discarded) and the fabric is certified recycled polyester. The addition of a side pocket is handy for storing a phone or keys and setting it up is fairly straightforward. It may be a little more expensive than the bulkier models, but for those wanting to save space in the car or backpack and not sacrifice as much comfort for the privilege, this is a great 'just in case option' on all camping trips. Key specifications 5. Best Luxury Chair: Isabella Thor Chair In 1957 Denmark's Søren Odgaard decided that no tent on the market was quite right for him, so he designed one in his basement. Now his company, Isabella, has a reputation for camping accessories that focus on comfort and quality. The Thor Chair embodies this – it's made from a lightweight aluminium frame, but feels sturdy. The seat and padded headrest are made from a ventilated but hardwearing material and it is reclinable – they claim eight positions, though I felt it was a bit of an over-sell, seeing as it only seems to relate to the number of notches on the arms. Either way, it is certainly comfortable to sit in and there are optional add-ons to pimp it out for even greater luxury, from a foldable footrest to a detachable side pocket and even a made-to-measure towel. The only real drawback is the size. Although easy to fold, it still has a total length of 120cm and width of 61cm, meaning I couldn't fit it in the boot of my small car. If you have a large vehicle, though or even better a campervan, this won't be an issue. Key specifications 6. Best Picnic Chair: Regatta Director's Chair with Side Table For those of us who firmly believe that food eaten outdoors tastes better, then a chair with an added foldaway table can turn a good picnic into a great one. Styled like a Hollywood director's pew, Regatta's offering is easy to set up with a quick pull on its arms. The polyester fabric is comfortable yet durable and the table will easily take a drink (in a dedicated cup holder) and a small plate or snack. With a seat height of 46cm you are kept well off the floor and folding it away is straightforward. It is a flatpack affair – though despite the table, it is slightly smaller – meaning great for storing in a caravan or shed, but a little trickier in a small car boot. It is mid-range weight-wise and takes up to 15 stone, but considering that you're essentially taking a table and chair with you, it's a comparatively small price to pay. Key specifications 7. Best Lightweight Chair for Taller Campers: Sitpack Campster 2 Following a hugely successful Kickstarter campaign, this new version of the lightweight, foldaway, previously three-legged backpacker's chair now features an infinitely more stable four-leg design. On first glance, it is much like Helinox's Chair Zero below – the Campster also folds down to 35cm, roughly the size of a water flask. It is also easy to put up, allegedly in five seconds, which I found impossible, but it is straightforward. So you might be wondering how they manage to sell it for £35 less. Firstly, it should be pointed out that it's heavier by a whole kilogram. If you're camping with the car, this won't be a dealbreaker, but for backpackers, this might (pardon the pun) tip the scales in favour of Helinox. If you're after comfort over grams, or are a taller or heavier camper, however, then the Campster II is for you. Not only does it have a higher seat, making it easier to get in and out of and can take an additional three stone, but also comes with some fairly luxurious add-ons for an additional price – and weight of course – including a snuggly fleece seat warmer. It has two side pockets, which I felt a tad unnecessary given that using just one affects the stability. But, overall, a decent compact option for those wanting comfort and portability. Key specifications 8. Best Lightweight Camping Chair: Helinox Chair Zero It's easy to baulk at the price tag of this one – especially when you see the packed size of the item you're purchasing (it folds down to smaller than a thermos flask), but as is often the case with outdoor gear, what you are paying for is the lack of bulk. While similar to Helinox's Chair One above, the Chair Zero is even more compact. For me, as an ardent wild camper, the idea of taking a camping chair when I head to remote places used to be laughable. Their weight made them a comfort I'd just have to do without. But then the Helinox came along in 2012, at the time weighing in at just under 1kg. Since then, I have been tempted on several occasions to throw one in my backpack to avoid evenings hunched over in my tent. Hitting the scales at half a kilogram (that's less than an iPad), this latest lightweight version is still sturdy and strong – it can hold a whopping 18 stone (that's more than some full-size chairs here) – and is insanely easy to put up. The strong aluminium alloy poles, a higher grade than used in aircraft, simply slip into the fabric pockets and it's ready to sit in. Admittedly, the one sacrifice is the low seat height, which on snowy or uneven ground could be cold or less comfortable. People with weaker legs who struggle to rise should opt for something higher. But, with such a low weight, this will always be a great option for backpacking, camping and even on long walks. Key specifications 9. Most Comfortable Camping Chair: Coleman Forester Series Bucket Chair Armless bucket chairs that you can sink into seem to be rising in popularity, like the Vango in our number one spot and this Coleman Forrester bucket chair. Unlike the Vango, this one isn't padded – but rest assured, it's still extremely comfortable. I thought I'd miss having armrests to relax my arms, but I barely noticed they weren't there and it made the chair lighter. The one downside is that the drinks holder has to be strapped onto the bottom, as you can see in the photo. It holds a water bottle, but up-ends any glass with a stem, predictably. I'm not sure I could sit in it all day, because of the lack of back support with the bucket design, but the fabric is pulled tight enough to give a reasonable amount of rigour. The back also comes up high, meaning you can comfortably rest your head while chatting. Be warned, it sits quite low, which is noticeable if you're in a group of mismatched camping chairs. Other than that, I love the simplicity and relaxed style of this chair. Key specifications 10. Best Compact Camping Chair: Outwell Cardiel For something equally as low bulk and weight as the Helinox, at a fraction of the price, there is Outwell's Cardiel Black. Essentially two sit mats lashed together with adjustable straps to create a seat with a backrest, it folds down easily to fit into most backpacks or chuck into your car 'just in case'. The obvious sticking point for some will be the lack of height off the ground – this doesn't only look like a sit mat, it basically is a fancy version of one. However, this can work well for a number of scenarios, in particular on the beach when other chairs would sink into the sand, or to simply make standard campsite benches more comfortable and supportive. The fabric is tough and durable and easy to clean and folding it out is simple and fast. There's even a small pocket great for stashing keys or a phone. Key specifications 11. Best Heated Camping Chair: Vango Radiate Grande DLX If the idea of sitting outside leaves you a little cold, then Vango's heated range offers a solution. There's a near-invisible heating element built into the lower panel of the backrest, which runs off a power bank (not supplied) that can fit snugly in the inbuilt pocket under the seat. It has four temperature settings controlled by a large button – one click for red (hottest), down to blue (coolest). Despite my scepticism on how much heat I could get from a single panel, once paired with a blanket over my legs, it did indeed keep me toasty well after sunset. The seat can be adjusted from upright to near lie flat – with seven options available – meaning you can completely chill, without actually getting chilled. The fabric is robust and durable, yet comfy to touch and is padded and designed to radiate heat, meaning once the pad warms up (which literally takes seconds), you feel the benefit almost immediately. It comes with a moveable headrest for added comfort and there's a tall option available too. When not in use, it packs down flat, so easy to store at home, though it is still quite large (111cm x 9cm x 75cm) and less portable than others, especially if you have a small car. The main drawback is the high price tag, though for glampers who love a little luxury (and warmth) or those with back issues, it'll be worth it. Key specifications 12. Best Children's Camping Chair: Kampa Mini Tub If there's one thing I've learned after having my son, now nearly two, it's that the camping chair he most wants to sit in is whichever one I am currently occupying. That all changed when I got this specially made-for-kids option. Featuring a range of designs – unicorns, cars and woodland creatures – he was immediately taken with the owl on the latter while I, meanwhile, was enamoured with the fact that, unlike most kids' options, there were no open sides he could inadvertently slip through or try and climb between. It's also well-padded for comfort, easy to fold away and with a seat height of 28cm, he can easily get in and out of it himself. It is, unsurprisingly given the padding, a little bulky, but it takes an impressive weight load, meaning it should last him a while. At a push, it can even just about take my weight when he undoubtedly steals my seat again… Key specifications Weight: 2.7kg Seat height: 28cm Maximum load: 60kg (9.4 stone) 13. Best Folding Camping Chair for Festivals: Snow Peak Take Bamboo Score: 8/10 We like: Lifetime guarantee, bamboo and canvas design We don't like: It's heavy and not cheap Rocking up at a festival with your camping gear is not just about comfort and practicality, but about what your kit says about you too. With this bamboo and canvas designed foldaway number – which not only takes a reasonable weight, packs down easily to fit in your car/campervan and features a long back and decent seat height for maximum comfort – it shows that you care as much about sustainability as you do about style. As well as the wood being responsibly sourced, the chair is guaranteed to last a lifetime, with Snow Peak pledging to repair it no matter how old it is. It may not be the lightest offering here, but those eco-creds do take a weight off your mind and thanks to the removable and washable canvas seat, you can enjoy the festival knowing that any food or drink mishaps are easily dealt with. Key specifications Camping chair FAQs Which is the comfiest camping chair? There are a lot of padded options, including the Vango Embrace which I have made my number one pick. Some also have extras, such as reclining functions or built-in tables. But these are bulky and best suited to people heading to their campsites by car. I believe the most important thing when choosing a camping chair is to check out the seat height: some are low and not easy for everyone to get in and out of. Child-sized camping seats are available, too. For wild camping aficionados like me, or those who want to take minimal gear with them, look instead for small pack size, low weight and fabric durability. Finally, no matter if you're going wild or mild, always check the chair's maximum load weight. You want to be sure that every member of your party can be safe and comfortable. What material are camping chairs made of? The first portable folding stool is believed to have been made over 4,500 years ago in Mesopotamia, but JB Fenby's 1881 folding chair in wood and canvas set the standard and still inspires many of the camping chairs made today, including the Snow Peak bamboo chair above. The arrival of lightweight aluminium post-WW2 expanded the possibilities and nowadays there's a huge range of specially-designed outdoor seats to choose from, usually made from weatherproof synthetic fabrics and meshes.
Telegraph
an hour ago
- Telegraph
The best fire pits of 2025 for summer nights in the garden, tried and tested
There's no better way to cap off a fine summer's day than cosying up with family and friends around a fire pit. From the earthy aroma of the fire to the crackling sound of burning wood and the drift of the smoke, the best fire pits engage all the senses and provide a relaxing focal point for evenings in the garden. Although they have been around for a while, their popularity is now rocketing along with that of solar garden lights and garden chairs as we spend more time outdoors, notes Martyn Wilson, an award-winning garden design expert. 'Perhaps it is something deep within us and the primeval need to create fire,' he says. 'It can be relaxing staring into the flames and just zoning out for a short while. Fire pits can extend the use of the garden later into the evening and offer a more ambient feel than patio heaters. They are also great for socialising – and you can cook marshmallows with the children.' Many people take small fire pits with them when they go camping, especially ones designed not to scorch the ground. I've tested this year's best designs in my own garden and you can read my reviews below, followed by some advice on how to use and care for fire pits. But if you're in a hurry, here's a quick look at our top five: The best fire pits: At a glance How to choose the best fire pit The first thing to consider when buying a fire pit is size. Larger fire pits can usually deliver heat to a wider area, which is ideal for larger groups, whereas smaller models require less fuel. Portable models should be lightweight and easy to disassemble, so they can be taken with you on your travels. If a firepit is heavy or can't be taken apart quickly, it's probably supposed to stay in pride of place at home. Also consider which extra features you might like. Some fire pits come with a grill accessory for barbecuing, and certain models reduce smoke via a secondary combustion design. How we test fire pits I judged the fire pits from the moment they arrived on my doorstep. How heavy were the boxes? How easy were they to unpack and assemble? Were the fire pits stylish? Did they have extra capabilities like grilling? I tested a variety of sizes and styles. Once I lit them, I noted how much heat and smoke they gave off and how quickly they cooled down. Other factors included how much wood they needed, how safe they were, how energy efficient and how easy they were to clean: you should never leave ashes in the bottom of a fire pit to get wet. If you want to spend more time enjoying your garden, you might also be interested in our guides to the best rattan furniture and inflatable hot tubs. Why you can trust Telegraph Recommended Our thorough, real-world tests will always help you find the best product. No manufacturer ever sees Telegraph Recommended reviews before publication and we don't accept payment in exchange for favourable reviews, nor do we allow brands to pay for placement in our articles. All reviews are based on independent expert opinion and our hands-on testing. Visit our Who We Are page to learn more. The best fire pits of 2025 1. Best Buy Fire Pit: Recycled Kadai Score: 9/10 We like: Family-made from recycled oil drums in India A kadai is a traditional Indian cooking vessel designed for curries, with curved sides and a deep, flat base. The company Kadai has taken inspiration from the silhouette and transformed it into an authentic fire bowl. This one is made from recycled oil drums by family workshops in India. The result is a rustic-looking fire pit made from metal plates welded together, with drop handles at the side. The handles don't get hot, so you can move the fire bowl without burning yourself. The kit also comes with Kadai beads, which makes it unique. They're tiny clay beads which lie at the bottom of the bowl to help with rainwater drainage and to stop any ash falling through to the ground. My only complaint is that the tiny drainage hole does frequently get clogged. The fire bowl comes with a removable grill so you can barbecue on top. I grilled some thick pork chops, which cooked through within half an hour. You also get some tongs and a wire brush to help with upkeep and fire-building. I'd recommend using kiln-dried logs with this excellent fire pit; otherwise you risk smoking out your companions. Key specifications 2. Best Value Fire Pit: BillyOh Astral 2-in-1 Fire Pit with BBQ Garden design firm BillyOh, possibly better known for their sheds and log cabins, have excelled with this 2-in-1 BBQ model, complete with laser cut moon and stars. It comes with a removable cooking grill, so you can easily cook over firewood or charcoal. There are drawbacks. The log capacity is not huge and there's no easy way to remove the ashes, except by waiting until they're cold and scooping them out. As a barbecue, there's no form of ventilation control, so you are basically cooking caveman-style over the embers. But the price is reasonable, the build quality is decent and you can bolt it together in 20 minutes. The perfect family fire pit on a bargain budget. Key specifications 3. Best Smokeless Firepit: Winnerwell Secondary Combustion Portable Grill Minimal smoke and convenient heating are top priorities for a firepit at home or on the campsite. This portable model from Winnerwell delivers on both. Its legs fold out, bringing the top up to camping chair height. You can also purchase some extension legs (£65.98, Amazon). All of the components feel robust and nicely finished. Speaking as someone who's not much good at lighting fires, this makes it easy work. The tall walls provide good protection against strong breezes, while the bottom vents let helpful airflow feed the fire. It burns brilliantly, providing plenty of warmth at a distance of several meters. I cooked a classic: Flump Minis, which toasted quickly over the flames. This model burns cleaner than most and produced relatively little smoke, even when I used scrap wood with a high moisture content (although performance was best when I burned seasoned firewood). This is all thanks to its secondary combustion. The effect, common to most 'smokeless' fire pits, is produced by a two-walled design which directs airflow to both the bottom and the top of the firepit. So, it burns your wood fuel inside the firepit and also combusts escaping smoke and ashes. It kicks in when the firepit gets hot, after around 10 to 20 minutes of heating. The extra flames are visible around the top edge of the firepit. Overall, I'm thoroughly impressed with this firepit. It's highly convenient, lights easily and looks great on the paving. As with other firepits, it's important to wear heat-resistant gloves during use. Save the toasting for your marshmallows (or Flumps). Key specifications 4. Best Fire Pit and BBQ: BioLite FirePit+ Score: 7/10 We like: The excellent hibachi grill function We don't like: The noise of the fan £187.93, Amazon The BioLite is a compact and portable fire-pit-and-cooking grill combination that can burn either firewood or charcoal. It arrived beautifully packaged and was simple to assemble – just two handles to screw in. The instructions on how to get it working are detailed, but very user friendly. It's small, so you wouldn't want many more than two or three people sitting around it. It would be ideal for small spaces like an urban back yard or a balcony. It's not as pretty as some others, but it has a unique selling point: a rechargeable battery that powers 51 air jets inside the chamber. These jets create a more uniform temperature and improve combustion. That means more reliable heat, but also less smoke – a common issue with fire pits – so your neighbours might be pleased if you choose this one. The fan is fairly noisy, so this model is better for a lively urban environment, rather than quiet spots. It really comes into its own if you fill the unit with charcoal instead of wood and use it as a hibachi-style grill. It cooks well and it was fun to bring grub to the fire pit experience. By combining the functions of fire pit and BBQ, the BioLite cuts down on expense and space. Those who love to have technology connected with everything in life will enjoy controlling it remotely from their phones. However, others might find that the design – a bit like a robotic dog – and the technology run against the spirit of the fire pit, which is communing with nature. Key specifications 5. Best Luxury Fire Pit: English Country Fireball (800mm) This is a very pricey fire pit and I was curious to see if it had the x-factor to justify the cost. The makers have hand-crafted beautiful countryside scenes into into a 6mm-walled steel ball, forming silhouettes of foxes, stags and trees that seem to move against the flames. The way the smoke swirled around the art evoked a late summer/early autumn woodland evening, making an enchanting focal point for the garden. In short, it is both of use and an ornament. The first downside you'll discover is that it's very heavy – my lower back was crying out the moment I began to lift it. It also needs a lot of wood, so the expense continues after you've forked out for the pit itself. However, the sculpture is so stunning that you're getting value out of this one even when it's not lit and it would be the perfect centrepiece to a large garden. You can buy an LED lighting kit so that it glows at night. The company also offers comfortable matching stools so you can look the part as you while away the evenings and dozens of other Fireball designs, including bespoke creations. (One wag commissioned a Death Star.) Key specifications Fire pit FAQs Are fire pits legal in the UK? Yes, fire pits are legal in the UK. 'But you do need to be respectful of your neighbours and be sure that you are not causing a nuisance with smoke,' says garden designer Martyn Wilson. He also recommends checking local legislation to see if you are in a smoke free zone. What is the best fuel to use in a fire pit? 'Try to use woods with a low moisture content, such as kiln-dried woods or well seasoned hardwoods,' says Wilson. Bio-ethanols formed from plant-based materials such as fermented sugar and plant based starches are also used for some more contemporary fire pits. 'They will tend to burn with less smoke,' Wilson says. Other units use gas or coal. How should I look after my fire pit? The good news is that most fire pits can be left outside. 'If you have a fire bowl, try leaving on its side or upside down in the winter to prevent rainwater building up inside,' says Wilson. He also notes that a layer of sand in the bottom of a fire pit can help radiate heat and prevent burn of the metal. However, he suggests that we avoid leaving ash or embers in the bottom. Once fully cooled, the ashes should be removed and disposed of safely. 'Wood ash can be good for the garden!' he said. With that said, some fire pit models will benefit from indoor storage, especially if their materials are prone to rusting. What safety precautions are needed when using a fire pit? Never leave a lit fire pit unattended. Wilson suggests keeping a bucket of sand nearby, in case you need to extinguish the fire in a hurry. 'In light of the recent record temperatures, it is really important to be mindful of the weather and make sure there isn't any dry grass or foliage nearby that could ignite from embers,' he says, 'particularly so if it is windy and there hasn't been any rain.' It is also important to consider the space around the fire pit and allow plenty of room to move around. Keep children and pets away, and always read and follow safety instructions. Are gas fire pits better than wood-burning ones? Gas fire pits have some advantages over wood-burning fire pits; they tend to be easy to use, with an in-built ignition that should light the propane/butane fuel from your connected gas canister (which will be sold separately) at the flick of a switch. Gas produces a 'clean burn' with little smoke or airborne ash, so you and your guests can enjoy the fire without worrying about singed clothing, eye irritation or smoky smells. With that said, for some users, there's no replacing the rustic experience of using real wood on a wood-burning fire pit. If you like the idea of building your own fire and you enjoy a smoky atmosphere, a wood-burning model is the way to go. How do 'smokeless' fire pits work? Smokeless fire pits burn a hard fuel such as wood pellets while producing low volumes of smoke relative to traditional wood-burning models. This type of fire pit reduces smoke by burning at two levels: primary combustion of the hard fuel at the bottom, and secondary combustion of remaining smoke and ashes (material which is not properly burned at the first pass) at the top. The two levels of combustion are facilitated by airflow through the fire pit. Some smoke is still produced, but much of the visible smoke and ash from primary combustion is incinerated. Using a low-smoke wood fuel or well seasoned firewood will provide the lowest attainable levels of smoke. Gas-fuelled fire pits also produce little smoke relative to a traditional wood-fuelled fire pit, so they can be considered as an alternative 'smokeless' option. How long will a cast iron or steel fire pit last? The lifespan of a cast iron or steel fire pit can vary depending on the thickness and quality of the material, as well as on your usage habits, storage and maintenance. Retailers' estimates on the longevity of high-quality models range from around seven years to 25 years and longer. Steel and cast iron are both susceptible to oxidation, and the level of rusting often greatly influences the lifespan of a fire pit. The material will be likelier to rust if it is left in wet conditions or filled with moisture, or if the surface is scratched, dented or otherwise damaged. Try to find out the warranty terms via the manufacturer or retailer. This will guarantee a minimum lifespan, although many cast iron and steel fire pits can comfortably outlast the warranty period given proper care. Should I cover my fire pit when I'm not using it? Water and detritus can easily accumulate inside and on top of an uncovered fire pit, leading to rusting and uncleanliness. So, most models will benefit from being covered while not in use. To ensure effective coverage, choose a suitably sized waterproof cover that can be secured tightly over the fire pit. Many fire pit manufacturers offer purpose-made covers as an additional purchase, while generic covers are available via retailers such as Amazon. Allow your fire pit to cool down completely before you handle or cover it.
The Sun
2 hours ago
- The Sun
I spruced up my bland decking & gave it va-va-voom for summer with a HUGE Temu buy you can nab for just £8 down from £50
A YOUNG woman has shared how she gave her bland decking a mega makeover, without having to break the bank. So if you want to spruce up your outside space but don't have much cash to splash, then you've come to the right place. 3 3 3 Amy Betsie, a content creator from the UK, was able to transform her decking thanks to a bargain buy from Temu. And while she paid £50 for the luxe product, it has now been reduced down to less than £9 - yes, you heard that correctly. Posting on social media, Amy gave her followers a close-up look at her garden, before and after its makeover. Not only did she hoover her decking to get rid of leaves in an instant, but she also added colour with a huge geometric rug. She said: 'So as per usual, I have to go in and tidy up the garden like I have to do weekly, because that tree is the bane of my life. 'I am so not ready for the bee loving people to come into my comments and tell me how much they love nature and bees. 'You might love nature, but I don't love that tree - I love it to look at, I don't love it to tidy up every single week. 'Honestly, it sheds all year round - summer, winter, spring and autumn. It is a joke." Amy then questioned: 'Does anybody else hoover their garden by the way? I feel like if you've got decking, it's a necessity to hoover your garden.' Following this, the brunette held up her purse-friendly find as she beamed: 'So this is the rug. I got it from Temu. I hate my new build garden being overlooked so found a 5 METRE privacy fence to block out nosy neighbours for under £30 'It was between £50 and £60 which I think was a bargain because the size of it is absolutely huge. 'It takes up the majority of my garden and I just feel like with my garden, because it's completely decked, it's so bland.' 8 must-have plants to brighten up your garden Nick Hamilton owner of Barnsdale Gardens has shared his favourite plants and flowers you should consider adding to your garden, borders and pots. Tricyrtis A spectacular plant that gives a real exotic feel to any garden with its orchid-like, spotted flowers giving the impression that this plant should be tender but it is 'as tough as old boots!'. Penstemon I love this plants genus of because most will flower all summer and autumn. They'll grow in sun or semi-shade in a well drained soil and produce a non-stop display of tubular flowers in an array of colours and colour combination to suit all tastes. Luzula sylvatica 'Marginata' With the evergreen leaves edged with yellow it's great asset is that it will grow in sun or shade in any type of soil and is great as groundcover in the hardest spot to fill - dry shade. Eryngium x zabelii 'Big Blue' A stunning, nectar-rich plant that will feed the beneficial insects in your garden. Leave the flowerheads once they have turned brown because they look stunning with winter frost and snow, extending the plant's interest period. Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem' If you need winter scent then look no further than this compact, evergreen shrub. The scent is stunning and the evergreen leaves create an excellent backdrop for the summer flowers. Cornus sanguinea 'Anny's Winter Orange' A dwarf version of 'Midwinter Fire' the very colourful stems create a stunning winter display, particularly on sunny days. Rosa 'Noisette Carnee' A very well-behaved climbing rose that is perfect for training over an arch, pergola or gazebo. The small, 'noisette' flowers are blush-pink and produce the most amazing clove scent constantly from June to November. Sanguisorba hakusanensis 'Lilac Squirrel' I've never seen a squirrel with a drooping, shaggy lilac tail, but this variety will give your garden an unusual and different look throughout summer. It does need a moisture retentive soil but will grow in sun or semi-shade. As she showed off her garden, which she completed with some rattan furniture, she continued: 'So I decided to get this just to spruce it up and give it that little bit of a va-va-voom, which I think it absolutely did.' Thrilled with her rug, the gardening enthusiast shared: 'It is stunning.' Whilst the exact rug Amy bought has now been discontinued, there are a number of strikingly similar geometric rugs that have been reduced on the Temu website. While some of the reversible outdoor rugs were once priced at £151, £50, £44 and £21, the cheapest option is now just £8.91, which we think is a real bargain. Such rugs are great for adding style to a decking or patio, without breaking the bank. The outdoor rugs are said to be 'lightweight and portable', 'easy to clean' and are even suitable for picnics in the park too. Not only does Amy's decking now look fabulous, but it's perfect for hosting events with friends and family - and we're sure any eagle-eyed neighbours will love it too. Social media users react The TikTok clip, which was posted under the username @ amy_betsie, has clearly left many open-mouthed, as it has quickly amassed 40,900 views, 356 likes and 24 comments. A well-kept garden can add anywhere between 5-20% to the value of a property. carried out a study and consulted 36 estate agents, garden designers and property professionals from across the UK. And the experts revealed the garden feature which adds the most value to a property is a shed. Shed - 82% Patio or paving - 76% Secure fencing, walls or gates - 72% Outdoor lighting - 66% Sturdy decking - 62% Water features eg. fountain or pond - 58% Modern garden furniture - 54% Artificial lawn/grass - 40% One person said: 'Love it.' Another added: 'That rug is gorgeous.'
