Kettle BBQs
The quintessential choice for any garden enthusiast, kettle BBQs are prized for their classic circular design that delivers exceptional heat circulation and authentic charcoal flavour.
First designed to tackle the unpredictable wind, the kettle BBQ’s unique shape has made it a global favourite for its incredible versatility. The porcelain-enamelled bowl and lid act like a convection oven when closed, allowing you to master everything from high-heat searing to succulent slow-roasting. Whether you’re looking for a compact model for a small patio or a premium grill with integrated ash catchers and tool hooks, our range of kettle BBQs offers the perfect blend of heritage style and modern cooking performance.
The rounded "kettle" design isn't just for looks; it’s engineered for superior air circulation. When the lid is closed, the shape allows heat to reflect off the interior surfaces and circulate around the food, much like a fan-assisted oven. This ensures your meat cooks evenly from all sides, reducing the need for constant flipping and keeping your food juicier.
Temperature is managed using the air vents (dampers) located on the lid and the base. By opening the vents, you allow more oxygen to reach the coals, making them burn hotter for searing steaks. Partially closing the vents restricts the oxygen, lowering the temperature for slow-roasting or smoking. It’s a simple but incredibly effective way to stay in control of your cook.
Absolutely - this is where the kettle BBQ truly shines. By using the "indirect" cooking method (placing your hot coals on either side of the grill and the meat in the middle), you can roast a whole chicken or a joint of beef to perfection. The lid traps the heat and moisture, resulting in a crispy skin and tender interior that is difficult to achieve on an open-topped grill.
Many of our premium kettle BBQs, such as those from Weber, feature a "One-Touch" cleaning system. By moving a handle back and forth, internal blades sweep the ash into a removable catcher below the bowl. For models without this feature, simply wait for the BBQ to cool completely and use a small hearth brush to sweep the ash into a bag, ensuring the bottom vents remain clear for your next cook.
The most common sizes are 47cm and 57cm in diameter. A 47cm kettle is ideal for small families or couples, providing enough space for a dozen burgers or a few steaks. The 57cm model is our most popular choice, as the extra surface area gives you much more flexibility to set up "heat zones" for indirect cooking and provides enough room to cater for larger garden parties.
Most high-quality kettle BBQs are made from steel that has been baked with a porcelain enamel coating at extremely high temperatures. This finish is incredibly tough and rust-resistant. To keep it in top condition, avoid using abrasive steel wool on the enamel and always use a fitted, breathable BBQ cover when the appliance is not in use to protect the metal legs and ash-catcher from the elements.