18 BBQ Area Ideas That Will Upgrade Any Outdoor Space
A well-designed BBQ area can transform even a modest garden into a place people naturally gather. Britain’s growing love of outdoor cooking has made BBQ corners, compact kitchens and covered grills a staple in gardens of every size, inspiring everything from small outdoor BBQ area ideas to full outdoor kitchens. This guide explores how to make a BBQ area run smoothly, from the way the space is planned to the atmosphere you build around it. Inside, you’ll find ideas for patios, long gardens and larger hosting areas, along with inspiration for sheltered cooking zones, comfortable seating and lighting that sets the tone after dark.
Whether you’re shaping a simple cooking corner or developing a full outdoor kitchen, these BBQ area ideas will help you create a space that’s easy, enjoyable and ready for long evenings outside.
How to plan a BBQ area
Planning your BBQ area properly ensures it works smoothly, which matters even more when exploring small BBQ area ideas where space and flow are crucial. By thinking ahead about airflow, heat placement and how you move through the space, you avoid smoky corners and keep walkways clear.
Safety and ventilation
Place the grill far enough from fences, sheds, windows and doors to prevent heat damage and drifting smoke. Covered cooking zones need consistent airflow, so open louvres and lift side screens whenever you’re grilling. Good ventilation keeps the area safer and makes the whole space far more pleasant for guests.
Access to utilities
Consider how you’ll power and maintain the space. Gas, electrics and lighting cables look and work better when neatly routed, and having water close by makes prep and cleaning much easier. A little forward planning around utilities keeps the patio clear and avoids trip hazards.
Wind direction and natural shelter
Notice how the wind moves through your garden before choosing your cooking spot. Placing the BBQ so smoke drifts away from guests makes hosting much more enjoyable. Natural shelter from hedging, walls or a pergola helps stabilise heat and gives the cooking area a sense of enclosure.
Space and flow for cooking and hosting
Check there’s enough room for the grill lid to open fully and keep walkways unobstructed. Seating should sit comfortably away from the direct heat, with enough spacing for people to pass through without interrupting the cook. Installing heat-safe flooring such as porcelain, concrete, or a protective mat on decking adds peace of mind.
Storage and weather protection
Built-in cupboards, tidy gas-bottle storage, utensil hooks and waterproof cabinets make outdoor cooking a piece of cake. Protective covers keep the grill in good condition during winter, and concealed storage for charcoal or wood and all of your cooking accessories helps maintain a clean, organised setup. Small touches quickly add up to a more complete outdoor kitchen.
Choose the right layout for your space
Shape the BBQ layout around your garden. L-shaped kitchens work beautifully on large patios, while straight runs slot neatly against a boundary in compact spaces and support small garden BBQ area ideas that rely on clear, efficient layouts. Corner setups free up central floor space, and island designs create a sociable atmosphere around the grill.
Legal considerations
Most BBQ areas fall within permitted development, but it’s still worth checking a few basics. Keep any permanent structures a sensible distance from boundaries, ensure roofed shelters allow for ventilation and confirm local rules before installing something substantial. A quick review at the start helps avoid issues later.
18 BBQ area ideas for every garden size and style
From compact balconies to generous entertaining gardens, there’s a BBQ setup for every outdoor space. Some designs are more permanent, while others offer the freedom to move and adapt as the seasons change. The ideas below explore built-in kitchens, portable grills, sheltered zones and creative styling, offering a wide mix of garden BBQ area ideas suited to both traditional and modern spaces.
Explore different BBQ options
1. Add a dedicated built-in BBQ station or outdoor kitchen
Napoleon 700 Series 32" Built-in Gas Grill - £2,339.00
Give your garden a clear focal point by anchoring the cooking zone within a built-in setup. Materials like stone, brick or composite help the structure feel grounded and long-lasting. Ample worktops keep prep effortless, while integrated storage ensures tools stay exactly where you need them. Once everything sits within one cohesive structure, cooking outdoors feels as natural as using your indoor kitchen, only with better atmosphere and more room to unwind.
2. Create a stylish BBQ zone with a freestanding grill
Napoleon Freestyle 425 Gas Barbecue - £615.00
Define the cooking corner by styling around your freestanding grill rather than relying on the grill alone to shape the layout. Set it on heat-safe flooring and frame the zone with thoughtful touches such as a side table, a hook rail for utensils or a pair of tall planters. Balancing both relaxed and structured elements, it creates a setup that adapts as the garden evolves yet remains reliable for everyday cooking and weekend hosting.
3. Save space with a compact BBQ setup for small gardens
Napoleon Pro Charcoal Kettle Grill - £349.99
Make every inch work harder by tucking a slim grill neatly against a wall and pairing it with fold-out shelves or a narrow prep board that appears only when needed. A vertical herb planter or slim stool injects personality without cramping the layout, turning even the tiniest patio into a dedicated cooking spot.
4. Set up a portable BBQ area for flexible cooking
Napoleon Freestyle 365 Gas Barbecue - £495.00
Move your cooking station with the changing light by choosing a portable model that shifts easily between sunny patches, shaded corners or open lawn. A lightweight trolley or gravel pad provides the perfect foundation without fixing it permanently in place. Rearranging becomes second nature, turning quick midweek meals into simple open-air rituals.
5. Choose a ceramic BBQ for slow cooking and statement style
Kamado BBQ 18" Ceramic Grill in Black - £499.00
Lean into slow cooking and leisurely afternoons by using a ceramic barbecue for steady heat and a sculptural presence in the garden. Rest it on a raised counter or sturdy stand to give it prominence, and position a casual dining set nearby so guests can settle in and enjoy the process. The steady warmth creates beautifully tender pulled pork, richly smoked meats and anything that needs time to reach its best.
6. Treat yourself to a premium Napoleon BBQ
Napoleon Prestige Pro 500 Built-in Gas Grill - Natural Gas - £3,055.00
Treat yourself to a premium Napoleon barbecue, where powerful, even heat and multiple cooking styles combine with practical additions like rotisserie kits, side burners or generous prep shelves. Napoleon’s sleek, durable build sits comfortably within both modern and traditional spaces, shaping a setup that looks as good as it performs. Once everything is fired up, hosting feels seamless and easy to manage, even when you’re cooking for a crowd.
7. Fire up the Kamado grill
Kamado BBQ 22" Ceramic Grill in Matte Green - £649.00
Most people recognise a Kamado grill the moment they see one, thanks to its iconic, egg-shaped silhouette. These ceramic cookers deliver impressive versatility, including fast searing, slow roasting and deep, smoky flavours. A compact counter or wooden stand keeps tools and ingredients close by, while a couple of barstools encourage guests to sit, chat and enjoy the theatre of the cook. Even once the flames fade, the grill remains a sculptural feature outdoors.
8. Explore affordable BBQ setups using paving, gravel and simple seating
Sorrento Armchair with Ottoman in Taupe - £869.00
Keep things budget-friendly by setting the grill on a clear, heat-safe base and framing the corner with a compact bench or a pair of bistro chairs for guests to relax in while you cook away. A pot of herbs, a lantern or a small tray table completes the setup with minimal effort.
Covered BBQ area ideas for year-round enjoyment
Protect your cooking zone and block out harsh sunlight on hot days by positioning the grill beneath a luxury pergola. Adjustable louvres help direct shade and airflow, giving welcome relief during heatwaves, while side screens add comfort and protection during light drizzle or those infamous UK showers. Soften the frame with climbing greenery or subtle lighting to set the tone for slower, more mindful cooking that naturally draws people in to share the moment.
For further inspiration on contemporary structures, explore Modern Aluminium Pergolas with Roof & Sides.
10. Try a retractable awning for flexible cover
4m x 3m Electric Motorised Awning in Grey - £1,899.00
Create flexible shade that moves with the day by installing a retractable awning. Extend the canopy during sharp sunlight or light rain, then slide it back to reveal open sky again. The neat profile suits patios close to the house, forming a protective layer without adding bulk. With instant adjustment at your fingertips, the setup adapts naturally to the moment, keeping things effortless as you cook.
If you are deciding between different structures, read our guide Awning Vs Pergola: Which Is Better for Your Garden?
11. Build a roofed BBQ shelter for permanent coverage
Napoleon 700 Series 44" Built-in Gas Grill - £4,269.00
Give your grill a reliable home that works in almost any season by building a roofed shelter. Use a wooden frame to inject warmth and character, or aluminium if you prefer a clean, modern finish that stands up well to the elements. A slim counter, built-in storage and dining set turn the space into an expansive cooking and dining zone.
12. Invest in a high-quality parasol
Finca 4m x 3m Cantilever Parasol in Sand - £1,049.00
Create an adaptable cooking nook by pairing a high-quality grill with a generous parasol instead of a fixed structure. Cantilever styles stretch comfortably over the BBQ, offering shade and light protection while keeping movement unrestricted. A few simple touches, whether that’s a helpful side surface or textured planters, give the corner its own personality and help it blend into the garden.
Create atmosphere with clever seating, lighting and décor
13. Add comfy seating to keep guests nearby but safe from smoke
Pello Corner Group Set with Rectangular Coffee Table in Fawn - £3,299.00
Welcoming seating shapes the feel of a BBQ area, giving friends an easy place to settle while you cook. A cushioned bench tucked to the side or a deep corner sofa creates a relaxed spot to catch up without being affected by the heat from the grill.
14. Illuminate your outdoor BBQ area
Höfats SPIN 900 Tabletop Fireplace Silver - £139.00
Transform evening cooking by introducing plenty of lighting to guide the mood gently into the night. Subtle wall lights can highlight textured surfaces, while lanterns or low-level path lighting cast a quiet glow across walkways. Warm LEDs tucked beneath shelves or counters provide a helpful task light so you can see exactly what you’re doing at the grill. As the light settles in, watch how your patio shifts into a relaxed, atmospheric space that encourages slow, easy evenings.
15. Dine in a cosy nook
Luna Deluxe Outdoor Fabric Square Corner Dining Set with Rising Firepit Table in Grey - £4,499.00
Create your very own retreat by positioning the dining area just far enough from the grill to feel intentional. A firepit set placed beneath a pergola or beside a leafy border creates cosy privacy, helping mealtimes flow at their own pace. Add comfortable chairs, a patterned outdoor rug and candlelight to set the tone for memorable al fresco meals.
16. Add personality to your cooking area with greenery
Shop our Napoleon Prestige Pro 825 Built-in Gas Grill - £5,055.00
Bring some nature back into the heat and structure of a BBQ zone with some soft greenery. Tall grasses in generous pots, herbs growing close to hand or climbers threading up nearby frames all add movement and colour. A few well-chosen plants tie the cooking space into the rest of the garden while fragrant varieties like thyme or rosemary subtly lift the air.
17. Set up an outdoor dining table
Tellaro 8 Seat Rectangular Teak Firepit Dining Set in Latte - £2,499.00
Give your BBQ setup a natural centre of gravity by adding a dining table that suits the area’s proportions. Choose a shape and size that leaves walkways open, then pair it with chairs comfortable enough for long evenings outdoors. Wood, rattan, rope and aluminium designs work across a range of garden styles, and simple cushions soften frames without fuss. With a welcoming table close to the grill, hosting moves effortlessly from cooking to eating.
18. Incorporate privacy screens to block wind and views
Shop our Napoleon Phantom Prestige 500 RSIB Gas Barbecue - £3,045.00
Introduce privacy elements to create gentle boundaries around the BBQ zone and take the edge off passing breezes without shutting the garden down. Slatted panels, tall planters or decorative metal screens add visual interest as well as shelter. Set in the right place, a screen forms a calmer pocket for cooking or eating.
Build a BBQ area you’ll use all season
Few things bring people together like a British BBQ, whether it’s sausages sizzling in the sun or burgers cooked between showers. A well-planned BBQ area turns those moments into something smoother and more enjoyable. The ideas in this guide show how changes in layout, airflow, shelter and atmosphere all play their part. When they’re pulled together, even the smallest garden starts to feel organised, comfortable and ready to use for a big cookout whenever the mood strikes.
With these ideas guiding your choices, you can shape a cooking zone that feels welcoming, practical and ready for you to show off your BBQ skills from early spring to late autumn and beyond. Start building a space that works beautifully all season, and explore Harbour Lifestyle’s premium outdoor furniture and outdoor cooking collection designed to stand the test of time.
