19 Outdoor Kitchen Ideas for UK Gardens in Every Season

The heart of outdoor living is shifting from the dining table to the open-air kitchen. As more UK homeowners look to blur the line between indoors and out, cooking in the garden has become one of the most desirable design upgrades of the decade. The outdoor kitchen market in the UK is experiencing significant growth, driven by rising demand for outdoor living, home refurbishment, and at-home entertainment. The market is projected to reach $2.5 billion (around £1.93 billion) by 2030, growing at an annual rate of 9.5% from 2025.

In this guide, you’ll find 19 inspiring outdoor kitchen ideas for every style and size of garden and learn how to plan your layout, choose materials that stand up to the UK climate, and estimate the cost of building your own outdoor kitchen.

 

Why outdoor kitchens are on the rise

Outdoor kitchens have become one of the fastest-growing home upgrades in the UK, fuelled by a renewed love for outdoor living since the pandemic. More homeowners are turning gardens into year-round entertaining spaces, combining cooking, dining and socialising in one place. Rising demand for modular kitchen units and smart cooking technology shows how outdoor kitchens are evolving beyond the summer BBQ. They’re now viewed as a natural extension of the home, offering a way to elevate everyday living, spend more time outdoors and add lasting value to a property.

To see how outdoor kitchens fit within broader garden design, explore our guide that covers outdoor living space ideas.

 

19 outdoor kitchen ideas for every style and size

From contemporary setups to rustic retreats, there’s an outdoor kitchen idea to suit every garden and budget. Use the following as a guide to shape a space that feels cohesive and ready for relaxed outdoor living.

 

1. Embrace modern minimalism with sleek units and clean lines 

Fontana Maestro 40 Gas Pizza Oven - £1,455.00

 

A minimalist kitchen should feel calm and considered. Opt for handleless cabinetry, built-in storage and smooth composite or steel surfaces that reflect natural light. Keep colours neutral and let texture take the lead, using materials with natural variation and depth. Polished concrete pairs beautifully with smooth matte surfaces, while marbled finishes with soft veining add movement and character. 

 

2. Introduce rustic charm using wooden finishes and brickwork

Napoleon 700 Series 32" Built-in Gas Grill - £2,339

Natural textures infuse an outdoor kitchen with warmth and authenticity. With its visible grain and imperfections, reclaimed wood adds character, and stone or brick worktops deepen that feeling as they weather over time. Pair these materials with soft, neutral tones and sturdy metal accents to create a calm, countryside feel. A rustic setup suits both large gardens and compact patios, blending perfectly with herbaceous borders and evergreens for a timeless aesthetic.

 

3. Create Mediterranean vibes with terracotta, tiles and warm tones 

Buschbeck Bologna Masonry Barbecue - £719.99

Channel the relaxed spirit of southern Europe and the Mediterranean with an outdoor kitchen that celebrates colour and texture. Terracotta flooring, patterned, hand-painted tiles and weathered plaster finishes instantly evoke the feeling of long, sunlit lunches. Choose soft white cabinetry, olive trees and wooden or rope-woven seating to complete the look and infuse the warmth of summer into your garden, even on cooler UK days.

 

4. Add compact units for small outdoor kitchens 

Napoleon Phantom Prestige 500 RSIB Gas Barbecue - £3,045

Even the smallest outdoor kitchen garden ideas can create a beautiful cooking area. Make the most of tight spaces and corner layouts with slimline counters and mobile modular kitchen units that can be moved out of the way when needed. Incorporate storage beneath worktops and keep the design open with foldaway tables and slimline bar stools for easy entertaining.

 

5. Install foldaway or hidden kitchen units to save space

Cooking Grid Expander for 21" & 22" Kamado Grills - £29

Don’t worry, a small garden doesn’t mean you have to miss out on outdoor cooking. 

Foldaway or hidden kitchen units are ideal for compact spaces, tucking neatly into cabinetry or sliding behind panels when not in use. Powder-coated aluminium and weatherproof wood keep the design sleek and durable, so your setup stays functional and refined without taking over the space.

 

6. Design a corner kitchen layout with built-in seating 

Napoleon 700 Series 32" Built-in Gas Grill - £2,339.00

 

A corner layout makes the most of awkward or unused spaces while naturally framing the cooking area. Counters that wrap around two walls or a fence line keep the flow efficient and cooking accessories within easy reach. Add a built-in bench or a casual dining set nearby to form a social nook where guests can chat as you cook.

 

7. Add a pergola with a retractable roof to create a covered outdoor kitchen

Abierto Motorised 3m x 4m Frame Only Pergola with Retractable Roof and LED Lighting in Grey - £5,549

UK weather might not always play along, but that doesn’t mean your outdoor kitchen dreams have to stay indoors. A pergola with a retractable roof offers the perfect solution, giving you shade on bright days and protection when the rain rolls in. Dress the frame with climbing greenery or subtle lighting to create an atmosphere as the evening draws in. It’s a simple way to make your kitchen feel like a natural extension of your home, ready to enjoy in every season. For more design inspiration, take a look at our guide on Outdoor Kitchen Pergola Ideas and Tips for Your Garden to explore ways to style and shelter your setup beautifully.

 

8. Build a fully roofed kitchen zone for all-weather use

PergoSTET Deluxe 3m x 6m Rectangular Pergola with Motorised LED Louvres, Louvred Side Panels and Manual Drop Side Blinds in Grey - £10,100

 

A permanent roof transforms an outdoor kitchen into a dependable space for cooking and entertaining. Wooden structures or tiled coverings tie the design back to your home, while integrated ventilation ensures grills and ovens work safely. With the right layout and weatherproof finishes, it becomes a sheltered hub that invites use throughout the year, not just in summer. For extra protection and clever layout ideas, see The 19 Best BBQ Shelter Ideas For Any Occasion.

 

9. Add heating and lighting features to host year-round 

Cosi - Cosiscoop Pillar Lantern in Teak - £789.99

Outdoor light and heating extend the life of your outdoor kitchen well beyond sunny days. Combine task lighting over prep areas with more ambient table lamps and fairy lights around dining zones to set the mood after dark. Freestanding patio heaters, fire pit tables or discreet infrared panels add comfort as temperatures drop. Together, they’re a partnership made in heaven, creating an atmospheric setting ready for any season.

 

10. Include a pizza oven station alongside a dedicated dining zone

Juno 16" Pizza Oven Bundle with Stainless Steel Pizza Peel - £299

Give pizza nights their own moment in the spotlight with a purpose-built station. Place your wood-fired or gas pizza oven on a sturdy base, add a heat-proof prep slab for stretching dough, and keep peels and logs within reach. Place a dining table a few steps away so hot slices reach plates fast. Lantern lighting, herbs in terracotta pots and a chilled drinks bucket complete the setup for relaxed, sociable meals - because is there really anything better than Friday pizza nights?

 

11. Set up an outdoor bar with an integrated fridge and sink 

Kalama 6 Seat Rope Teak Firepit Bar Set in Latte - £2,999.00

If your very own, premium bar set doesn’t make you the host/hostess with the mostess by default, then we don’t know what will. Fit a weather-rated fridge for chilled drinks, a small sink for rinsing glassware, and a slim counter for garnishes and mixers that encourages guests to get creative with their own cocktails. Position the bar along the edge of the kitchen to let guests serve themselves and stay part of the conversation.

 

12. Choose a hybrid grill and smoker setup for BBQ versatility 

Napoleon Rogue XT 425 SIB Gas Barbecue - £1,045

Variety is the appeal here. A hybrid grilling station with gas for weeknight speed and charcoal or a dedicated smoker for low-and-slow cooks gives you options for any menu. Include sturdy side shelves to keep trays and utensils close at hand, and use a built-in thermometer to stay on top of the temperature. Make sure there’s enough airflow and covered storage so your setup stays reliable in any weather. 

 

13. Create a cosy fire pit seating area next to your kitchen

Luna 3 Seat Outdoor Fabric Sofa Set with Rising Firepit Table in Oyster Grey - £4,149.00

 

Shift the mood after dinner by moving a few steps from the grill to the glow of a fire pit. Curved seating covered in soft blankets, deep cushions and coffee tables to place warm brews and mugs of hot chocolate encourage long conversations while embers crackle. 

 

14. Incorporate smart tech for a high-functioning outdoor kitchen experience

PergoSTET Wifi & Bluetooth Heater in Latte - £449

Technology can enhance convenience without changing the natural feel of your space. App-controlled grills, weather sensors for retractable roofs and discreet Wi-Fi speakers keep the setup efficient and modern. Smart lighting lets you shift from cooking to dining with ease, while built-in monitors and leak sensors provide reassurance when you’re not outside. With thoughtful integration, your outdoor kitchen stays intuitive, connected and ready for every occasion.

 

15. Create a seamless transition from inside to outside

Pello 10 Seat Extending Dining Set with Teak Table in Grey - £3,449.00

 

Blending the kitchen with the garden makes cooking and hosting feel effortless. Use matching flooring to carry the eye across the threshold, then align worktops with a pass-through window or servery ledge for easy handovers. Bi-fold or sliding doors open wide on sunny days, while consistent finishes on cabinetry and hardware keep the look unified. Add task lighting inside and soft ambient lighting outside so the whole space reads as one continuous, welcoming zone.

 

16. Fire up the Kamado grill

Kamado BBQ 18" Ceramic Grill in Black - £499.00

A ceramic Kamado unlocks impressive versatility, from blistering-hot sears to slow, steady roasts. Its thick walls retain heat beautifully, so fuel lasts longer and flavours develop real depth. Keep shelves nearby for rubs, gloves and a reliable thermometer, and use accessories like a pizza stone or heat deflector to expand your menu. Once you’ve mastered the vents and airflow, even a simple midweek meal feels like an occasion.

 

17. Eat in a cosy nook

Luna Outdoor Fabric Rectangular Corner Dining Set with Rising Firepit Table in Fawn (Left Hand) - £4,249.00

 

Tuck a dining corner beside the kitchen to create a calm place to linger. A built-in bench saves space and pairs well with a compact table, while trellis or tall planters offer shelter from breezes. Layer cushions and hang a simple pendant or wall light to define the area after dusk. Small or large, a nook draws people in and keeps them comfortable.

 

18. Gather at the Masonry BBQ

Buschbeck Wellington Masonry Barbecue - £829.99

A masonry BBQ brings permanence and presence to the garden. Their brick and stone construction stores heat, resulting in even, reliable cooking once it gets up to temperature. Build in side counters for prep, niches for wood or charcoal, and a chimney to channel smoke away from seats. Choose finishes that echo your home’s exterior for a pulled-together look. Light the coals, set out the platters and let the structure do the talking while you cook.

You can also browse The Best 20 BBQ Station Ideas To Get Your Garden Sizzling This Summer for more outdoor cooking inspiration that complements any garden style.

 

19. Explore outdoor kitchen ideas on a budget

Höfats BEER BOX Fire Basket/BBQ - £99

 

Even though it can feel like there are a lot of moving parts to an outdoor kitchen, you don’t need to have everything at once. Start with the essentials and build gradually. A freestanding grill, a foldable prep table and a weatherproof storage cover make up the basics without stretching your budget. Hunt for second-hand bar stools or cabinets and give them new life with fresh paint or updated handles. Keep plumbing simple and invest where it matters most while you grow your kitchen over time.

 

How to build an outdoor kitchen

Building an outdoor kitchen is as much about smart planning as it is about design. This section walks through the essentials so your project runs smoothly from first sketch to final cookout.

 

Do you need planning permission to build an outdoor kitchen?

In most UK homes, an outdoor kitchen falls under permitted development, meaning planning permission isn’t usually required. As long as the structure is modest in size, doesn’t block boundaries, and stays within height limits, you can usually build without formal approval.

Permission may be needed if your property is listed, in a conservation area, or if the kitchen includes a solid roof, plumbing or electrical work that alters existing drainage or power connections. If you do need consent, submit an application through your local planning authority. They’ll assess the design, materials and placement, then issue a decision within roughly eight weeks. Checking with your council first avoids costly changes later. 

 

Planning your outdoor kitchen layout

Choose the right spot:
Pick a location with balanced sunlight, shelter from wind and easy access to your indoor kitchen. Keep grills away from fences and trees.

 

Think in zones:
Divide the layout into four key areas: cooking, prep, dining and storage to ensure everything flows smoothly when entertaining.

 

Select the right layout:

• L-shape: great for corners or wrapping around seating.

• Straight run: ideal for narrow patios and compact gardens.

• Island style: suits large open spaces and sociable cooking.

• Modular units: flexible and easy to rearrange as your outdoor kitchen grows.

 

Add the finishing touches:

• Use non-slip, weatherproof flooring for safety and durability. 

• Layer task and ambient lighting for creating visibility and atmosphere during evening cooking.

• Choose materials that can handle year-round use in the UK climate. 

 

What materials are best for outdoor kitchens in the UK?

Choosing the right materials is crucial to creating a kitchen that looks good and lasts year on year. Focus on durability, maintenance and how each option complements your garden style.

 

Tips for choosing:

• Match materials to your home’s architecture and garden design.

• Use sealed concrete or composite for low-maintenance durability.

• Combine materials, such as brick bases with wooden accents, for texture and warmth.

• Always check finishes are rated for outdoor use and can handle the UK’s changing weather.

 

DIY outdoor kitchen ideas - installation and cost

Installing an outdoor kitchen can be as simple as assembling modular units or as involved as building a bespoke structure from scratch.

 

Buying vs. building:

• Modular or pre-built kitchens are the most budget-friendly and straightforward to install. UK models typically start around £2,000, rising to £6,000–£8,000 for larger or higher-spec designs.

• Custom-built kitchens offer full design freedom with premium finishes and integrated utilities. Bespoke projects can go all the way up to £50,000 with luxury builds occasionally exceeding that.

 

Key considerations:

• Choose weather-rated materials and finishes for long-term durability.

• Hire certified professionals for any gas, water or electrical connections.

• Plan for drainage, flooring and shelter to keep the kitchen practical all year long.

 

Elevate your garden with an outdoor kitchen

An outdoor kitchen reshapes the way you spend time outside, drawing daily life into the garden and turning simple routines into moments that feel unrushed and connected to nature. With a bit of planning and good-quality materials, your outdoor kitchen will work beautifully in every season. Focus on creating a layout that feels natural to move through, with areas for cooking, dining and relaxing that complement each other. If you’re looking for inspiration on a simpler scale, these simple outdoor kitchen ideas are a great place to start.

Explore how to combine design and practicality with Harbour’s outdoor kitchen range, and complete your garden with dining sets, pergolas, and outdoor furniture that make every meal feel like an occasion.

 

FAQs

 

What is the best layout for an outdoor kitchen in a UK garden?

L-shaped layouts work well in corners, straight runs suit narrow patios, and island designs create a social hub. Keep clear zones for cooking, prep and dining, and use durable, weatherproof materials suited to the UK climate.

 

How much does it cost to build an outdoor kitchen in the UK?

Costs start around £2,000 for modular setups and rise to £10,000 or more for bespoke builds. Price depends on materials, layout and extras like sinks, lighting or a pergola.

 

Can you use an outdoor kitchen all year round in the UK?

Yes. Add a pergola or roof for shelter, install heating and lighting, and choose weatherproof materials such as sealed concrete or stainless steel for year-round use.

 

What appliances do you need for a practical outdoor kitchen?

Start with a built-in grill, prep surface and storage. Add a sink, fridge or pizza oven for flexibility, and make sure all appliances are weather-rated for outdoor use.

 

Do outdoor kitchens need planning permission in the UK?

Usually not. Most fall under permitted development, but listed buildings, conservation areas or roofed designs may need approval. Check with your local council before building.

 

How do you protect an outdoor kitchen from rain and frost?

Choose weather-resistant finishes like composite or coated metal, use waterproof covers when not in use, and add drainage and a pergola or roof for extra protection.

 

What are some outdoor kitchen ideas on a budget?

Start small with a freestanding grill, foldable prep table and modular storage. Repurpose old furniture, add solar lighting and build gradually as your space and budget allow.