This log-fuelled compact fire pit is comprised of a steel bowl and comes with many accessories, such as a fire safety screen, carry bag and fire tool. The steel will oxidise naturally over time, so it shouldn't need much maintenance. John Lewis La Hacienda Westcott Fire Pit

Don’t make your pit too small or too big. Too small and the fire won’t get started; too big and it can get out of control. The average size is 0.9-1.2 metres wide. If you want something to keep you warm while relaxing in your garden but don’t fancy a fire pit, here are some other outdoor heating options to try. ChimineasChimineas are normally smaller in width compared with fire pits, but much taller. The surrounding walls offer more safety because they can contain the fire, while also retaining heat and funnelling the smoke upwards rather than outwards, which a fire pit does. Includes firepit, grill and ferrocerium rod / minimalist design / stainless steel / foldable and rollable grill / built-in windshield / airflow / dimensions: 29x28cm grill

This is because when wood is burned, it releases harmful pollutants, such as small particles known as PM2.5. These tiny particles can be easily inhaled and can enter the bloodstream. Is a wood-burning stove bad for the environment, too? Our guide covers everything you need to know about stoves and pollution . How we selected prices and retailers Ideally, you'd get to see some fire pits in store before buying, but if this isn’t possible, find out as much information about it as possible before investing.

A fire pit is an open, lidless container in which a fire can be lit using wood or charcoal. Or, to put it another way, a fire pit is a no-nonsense version of a barbecue, with an extra touch of rugged, outdoorsy appeal. You can cook over a fire pit, or you can simply light it for the warmth. Whether you want to keep warm in your garden, spruce up your patio or you’re looking for a more authentic way to cook your dinner, an outdoor fire pit could fit the bill. These fire pits are made using a recycled washing-machine drum – great if you want to get creative and save some money. All you need to do is remove the drum from the machine, along with any plastic parts, then stake it safely into the ground. You can add legs if you want it higher off the ground. Gaining popularity as we all spend more time at home, fire pits are super versatile and can add some glamour to your garden. But choosing the right type, size and material before investing is essential. You can get a variety of designs, including coffee tables, dining tables and high-top tables; they’re almost always powered by gas or electric, but you can get wood-burning ones, too. We list brands to buy in our garden furniture buying guide.

Chimineas are front-loading, freestanding fireplaces with a round bottom and a vertical chimney. Typically they're made of clay, cast iron or steel and come in a variety of sizes – opt for a model that you can cook on, too. A BBQ fire pit is a great multifunctional tool, in that you can use it for flame-grill cooking as well as warmth (perfect if you're short on space). It makes an interesting centrepiece for any garden event, and if you opt for a larger than average pit, it can accommodate food for big parties.This budget-friendly, powder-coated steel fire basket from Homebase looks a little different to most models on the market. If safety is a priority, a patio heater should give you much more peace of mind. They usually come with grills and screens to shield the heat and will automatically switch off if they overheat, as well as turning the gas off if the flame goes out. Plus, there will be no ash and embers to worry about. Do remember that the more basic options won’t come with safety extras such as lids or screens, so you might need to spend a little more on accessories.