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Welcome to the UK Water Feature social hub. We love sharing new and exciting garden design ideas and simple & effective gardening tips. From time to time we will post new and exciting blog posts right here on the UK Water Features social hub page. If you are more of a social media junkie then feel free to come and join us on our Facebook or Twitter pages where will have exclusive member only content such as gardening competitions and unique voucher codes specifically for our fans and followers. We would love for you to come and join in on the conversation or even start one of your own. Feel free to share your gardening design ideas, garden tips or even just to say hello.
When we think about cooking alfresco, barbecues (BBQ) must be the first thing that comes to mind, where family and friends relax around a grill awaiting finger-licking good flame-grilled food. Barbecue aficionados just wait for the summer to organize an outdoor entertaining event by cooking outside and inviting friends over for a beer. Barbecue is a soulful and humble foodstuff that often evokes in us a sense of community.
Outdoor kitchens are in great popularity among enthusiasts of cooking alfresco. In order to entertain friends with great food and lots of memories, your outdoor kitchen needs to be equipped with a good quality integrated BBQ. There are numerous barbecue grills available that suit all price ranges and requirements. Investing in an excellent BBQ with a big grill is worthwhile for creating enhanced gastronomic outcomes. A gas barbecue or masonry barbecue are good options that you can consider and below are some of their features and advantages.

Masonry Barbecue – More Than Just A BBQ
A masonry barbecue is best suited for those for whom alfresco cooking is a way of life. Usually constructed from stone, bricks or any other first-rate raw materials, masonry barbecues are robust and durable. Both charcoal and wood can be used in the fireplace to create excellent smoked or grilled food. A masonry bbq by its design and structure can become a permanent garden fixture, even though it is moveable and detachable. Considered as a long-standing and dependable barbecue, the masonry variation can be placed as the hub of your garden or can even be treated as a second kitchen. The waterproof and windproof characteristics of masonry barbecues are added advantages and they can also be used as an outdoor heater. Since these bbqs come equipped with sufficient countertop space for preparation, the master chef can enjoy a contented cooking experience. A laid back, fun and social approach to cooking can be aptly met with nice masonry barbecue equipment.

Gas Barbecue – More Convenient Option
This relatively new barbecue version is getting increasing popularity in the barbecue world. Barbecue fanatics often argue on the best choice bbq and never reach a conclusion on whether charcoal or gas bbq is the best. Both charcoal and gas barbecues have their own pros and cons and hence the choice should depend on your taste and budget preference. Masonry barbecue campaigners using charcoal as fuel argue that charcoal burning lends a distinctive taste to the cooked meat. But a gas barbecue will certainly win over the convenience and easy to clean aspects. This relatively cheap bbq equipment can be ignited at the simple touch of a button, to start cooking in seconds. You can even control temperature with a dial and for longer periods of time, which is not possible with a charcoal bbq. Cleaning up is also easy since there is no messy smoke residue.
Before investing on a masonry or gas barbecue, it is prudent to contemplate your options and personal preferences.
UK Water Features has a wide range of barbecues and barbecue accessories for all your outdoor grilling needs.
Cadix garden furniture offers a range of products that can enhance the looks of your garden greatly. They are easily the biggest name in the UK when it comes to premium garden utility products that reflect your lifestyle.
If you are looking for some great earthy planters, Cadix planters will do fine with their coarse natural look. They are produced in lightweight concrete and are available in a variety of sizes and shapes to hold flowers and small ornate plants and shrubs. They are great garden items to contribute to the landscape design of your garden.
Cadix furniture is available in a broad range of designs and styles and is created to give your garden that improved, homely look at all times. The product list includes items such as patio sets, all weather resin Rattan weave articles, cast aluminium furniture, stone ceramic tops and resin weave items and garden accessories such as Parasols and Bases.

Perspective garden mirrors are available in beautifully designed frames of various materials and finishes. They can create space and light in the darker corners of your garden and will add more substance and character to the blank walls where you intend to use them. Another product that can enhance your garden is the mirrored windows with shutters. They are designed to reflect light into a dark corner and come in many shades and styles.
Garden wall art of reputable brands can be used to create an atmosphere that seems natural and serene. Wall art includes butterflies, sparkling dragons, and exciting and wholly natural looking bumble bees among others. There are other exciting wall pieces available such as terracotta items, fish wall art, floral designs and sun and moon wall art in a variety of sizes and styles.
Looking for a unique garden clock? Find some really innovatively designed clocks such as ones made of terracotta or even fossils. Even station clocks can be used to add a touch of elegance to your garden and make them look stylishly different. There are some unusual stone effect clocks also available that will blend perfectly with your garden settings.
Garden bamboo screening is the ideal decorative screen for your garden as it helps enhance your garden space and also provides that much needed privacy. The screen is prepared from best quality natural bamboos and can be easily attached to your existing fencing as an extension.
To give your garden that personal touch of your own you can bring in a premier barbeque which can be placed in a strategic location. Garden parties will never be the same again.
The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee which marks 60 years of the Queen’s reign takes place later this year. The Diamond Jubilee Central Weekend is scheduled to be held from 2nd to 5th June, 2012. Buckingham Palace is making preparations for coordinating the events the details of which are being awaited by the public enthusiastically.
The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee is going to trigger off celebrations of monumental magnitude across the UK. Official as well as private parties are sure to take place on a scale that has not been witnessed in recent times. You too can make arrangements to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in style in your own backyard with an unforgettable garden party.
Since it is an once-in-a-lifetime celebration, you must make sure that the party is grandiose on all levels. If you have chosen your luxurious garden as the venue to throw the party on the big day, it is imperative to have luxury garden furniture to create the right impact on your guests.
There are few things that you can do with lighting to create the right ambiance. Solar garden lighting is a good option to choose to make sure that your garden, walkways and patios decks remain well lit even after dark. There are a variety of solar garden lights to choose from that includes hanging types, stake mounted and wall mounted.
Brushwood screen fencing is a great way to keep unwanted eyes from snooping into your exclusive celebrations. Your Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations are an event for your friends and family. The bamboo screening can be attached to existing fences and stone walls, chain link or even arbours. They are made of vertical bamboo slats and acts as a natural screen giving a completely natural look to your garden.
The food for such an exclusive occasion must be special too. To add your own touch of exclusivity, you can order an outdoor masonry BBQ or 3 burner gas BBQ which can be assembled in a jiffy. There are models that come with ready mix mortar and in a terracotta coloured table. They are designed for use with charcoal.
The arrangement can be completed with some truly exquisite luxury garden furniture which can be ordered from any leading garden furniture store or from online resources. Now you are ready to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in style with a garden party that has all the elements of luxury in it and of course some delectable and choicest foods and drinks.
Add a touch of class to your garden this spring with one of our items from AFK Garden Furniture. Based In a small village, in the heart of the Lincolnshire countryside AFK have some of the most technologically advanced woodworking equipment available ensuring the items they produce are of the highest quality and built with an exceptional degree of accuracy.
AFK Blenheim Arbours are hand crafted and painted in the UK incorporating a genuine handmade lead roof, this arbour really does ooze quality. What better way to enjoy spring/summer days in your garden and a wonderful place to wind down during barmy evenings enjoying a sparkling glass of wine. Each arbour has a contoured seat and back for extra comfort and support. Most Arbours also come complete with arm rests and a very handy drinks holder.
Grow your own is becoming more and more popular as we all look to save money. It can also be fun and educational. AFK Classic Planters & Classic Troughs are ideal for adding grow your own items. Create your own mini herb garden by using a 34’ Classic Planter available with an either a Teak or Oak effect finish. All planters are ready assembled and come complete with a free pre formed heavy duty liner.
If you are planning on creating an oriental themed garden what better way to span a small stream or garden path than with a handmade oriental styled garden bridge. The Small Oriental Bridge and Large Oriental Bridge both have a unique bowed design and a fully assembled arch making the installation in your garden painless.
AFK Garden Products have entered into an agreement with Environmental Partnerships to help the environment. They have committed to planting 500 trees each year to offset their carbon emissions. Each year AFK recycle all of their waste products including wood, plastic and metal which is converted into a range of diverse products such as animal bedding and wood pellets for heating boilers. We are proud to support a true British company who really does care.
All AFK items are made using slow grown Scandinavian timber.
UK Water Features are the place online to buy AFK Garden Furniture from. Products include Arbours, Swing Seats, Planters, Troughs and Wooden Bridges.
“Remember remember, the fifth of November. Gunpowder treason and plot. We see no reason, why gunpowder treason, should ever be forgot” is a quote that we are relatively familiar with. However, do we actually know where it originated or why we actually celebrate the 5th of November every year here in the UK.
Robert Catesby knew ‘The Gunpowder Plot’ as it was the failed assassination attempt against King James I of England by a group of English Catholics led. In short, the plot was to blow up the House of Lords during the State Opening of Parliament on 5th of November 1605. Guy Fawkes is the name that we all associate with bonfire night here in the UK. The name is remembered as he was plotter that was in charge of the explosives for the scheduled plot. The thwarting of the Gunpowder Plot was commemorated for many years afterwards by special sermons and other public events such as the ringing of church bells, which have evolved into the Bonfire Night of today.
Every year on the 5th of November here in the UK we celebrate this failed attempt by hosting bonfire parties and firework displays. Every year millions of pounds are spent of fireworks across the UK with the end of October and early November holding the more significant increase in sales due to the celebration, which we now call Bonfire Night.
Over the years firework displays have evolved into beautiful and spectacular events where people come together to admire the skies. With so many variations of fireworks now available it is truly a huge task to decide on which ones interest you. The list really is endless, ranging from Roman Candles, Sparklers, Fountains & Mines, Rockets to even ones that make a deafening bang. You tend to be so spoiled for choice when it comes to selecting a few fireworks that your best bet is probably to purchase a selection box of assorted fireworks. During the run up to Bonfire Night there tend to be many offers floating around where you can pick up a bargain, such as buy one get one free offers. If you keep your eye out you will certainly pick a great deal.
Yet the 5th of November or Bonfire Night as we call it is a time for us all to celebrate, we also need to take extreme care and safety when handling any sort of firework or fire. Bonfire night safety is exceptionally important.
Here are 10 safety tips to help keep you safe on Bonfire Night.
Well this is certainly un expected, highs are set to reach a whopping 24C today in London. Isn't it the end of September? Well according to weather forecasts across the UK we are set to have a beautiful end to the month with sunshine and warm temperatures sweeping the nation.
That being said, we may want to hold of on packing the BBQ away for the winter and prepare for a wonderful weekend out in the sun. With temperatures this weekend set to soar to a remarkable 27C!

If you are lucky enough to have the weekend off this week then you are certainly in for a cracking weekend. Why not invite some friends or family round and host a end of summer party. It is crazy when all said and done, we really didn't have a summer here this year. Who would have thought that come the end of September we were going to be having such lovely weather let alone been able to sit outside all day grilling some food on your gas barbecue that you probably didn't get much chance to use so far this year. Sit back and enjoy the weather while it lasts guys, winter will surly roll in sooner or later and the snow shovels and rock salt will certainly be in high demand. Lets not think about that right now though, get yourself out in your gardens and enjoy the rays while you sit back with a glass or two of wine and admire your lovely garden.
Funny thing is, I wrote a blog the other day on preparing your water feature for the winter. I think that it may be wise to put those thoughts and ideas to one side right now and if you do own a water feature then embrace it for a few more weeks.
UK Water Features has a huge range of garden summer essentials ranging from garden lighting, garden buildings, bbq's and water features.
We are all familiar with the more commercialized barbecues such as gas and charcoal but have we even heard of a masonry bbq and the overall benefits of owning one? A masonry bbq is a striking feature that can basically be added to any garden.
Buschbeck Masonry Barbecues are the finest masonry barbecues available in Europe. A masonry bbq effectively looks like a brick-built barbecue, and has multiple functionality as they can either act as a barbecue, a garden focal point, a garden firepit and a garden patio heater.
Masonry bbq's make an beautiful focal point in any garden and can be used all year round. The Buschbeck masonry barbecues are manufactured from unique high-quality materials so there is no need to cover them, paint them, render them or to apply any form of treatment.
Advantages of a Masonry Barbecue?
A masonry BBQ makes a stunning garden feature, not only that the thick double walled construction of the BBQ allows you to choose either charcoal or wood as your fuel. The unique material that these barbecue fireplaces are constructed from means that the Buschbeck masonry barbecues are manufactured from unique high-quality materials so there is no need to cover them, paint them, render them or to apply any form of treatment. Buschbeck, is the only European manufacturer of Masonry Barbecue Fireplaces to have been awarded several awards for their products.

UK Water Features has a huge range of garden summer essentials ranging from garden lighting, garden buildings, bbq's and water features.
There are so many different types of BBQs now a day that it can become a little bit of a choirs when it comes to deciding on which barbeque is the perfect one for your garden and grilling needs. This season we have seen a massive increase in the sales of gas bbq’s. Even though there are many people who prefer the more traditionalcharcoal bbq's there are actually several benefits to owning a gas barbeque. The gas generally lasts quite a long time, giving you plenty of juice for all your grilling needs and you don’t have to stack up with piles of coal. Due to their overall convenience a gas bib is very easy to light. There is really no messing around when it comes to lighting a gas bib. Another great benefit to owning a gas bib is that there is very little wait time. Compared to charcoal bib the wait time for the bib to get hot is far shorter. It is easy to regulate to heat. With coals, the heat is regulated by the amount of coals that are used, and how close the rack is that holds the coals in relation to what you are grilling. These factors usually have to be determined before you start grilling because it is difficult to impossible to adjust once you get going. But, with gas BBQ grills, the flame height can easily be adjusted with the turn of a knob, a higher flame to make the grill hotter or lower to reduce the heat. This also allows for more accurate grilling. On top of all that gas bib offers a great value for money!





UK Water Features has a huge range of garden summer essentials ranging from garden lighting, garden buildings, bbq's and water features.
If you are lucky enough to be one of the attendees at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show then it may be worth planning your visit beforehand. With the wide array of gardens and features on display along with the activities and local attractions planning your trip down to London will certainly benefit you to help use your time efficiently.

First of all, you need to know the location and the official opening times for the event. As we all probably know by now the event is located at the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, London and the opening times are as follows.
May 24-27 8am- 8pm & May 28th 8am - 5:30pm with a 4pm sell off.
Travelling to and from the Chelsea Flower Show
Public transport
It is recommended that visitors travel to the show by public transport. Please visit the Transport for London Journey Planner for more information on public transport in and around London.
Tube & bus
Sloane Square tube station (on the District and Circle Lines) is a 10 minute walk from the showground. Please check the TFL website for the latest information, and make alternative travel arrangements if necessary.
Bus numbers 11, 137, 211, 360 and 452 stop closest to the showground, while bus numbers 19, 22, 319 and C1 stop at Sloane Square.
For further information on tube and bus travel, visit the Transport for London website or call 020 7222 1234.
Rail
London Victoria is the closest train station to the show. For information on rail services, visit the National Rail website or call 08457 484950.
London General operates a shuttle bus service between London Victoria (Hudson’s Place) and the showground (Barrack Gate, Chelsea Bridge Road) from 7am to 8pm each day (6pm Saturday).
Prices for this service are as follows:
Adults: £2.50 single, £4 return
Children, senior citizens, Oyster card and travel card holders: £2 single, £3.50 return
Parking
Public parking, including for orange/blue badge holders, is available in Battersea Park on a first come, first served basis. Battersea Park is located outside the Transport for London congestion zone and is approximately 20 minutes’ walk from the show. Alternatively, a park & ride service is available; buses, including a mobility bus, operate at frequent intervals between Battersea Park and the showground’s Bull Ring Gate entrance.
There are more than 2000 spaces available from Tuesday to Friday, but on Saturday fewer spaces are available due to other public events in Battersea Park.
Wandsworth Council parking charges apply as follows:
Cars: £25 per day, £15 after 2.30pm
Coaches: £35 per day
Motorcycles: no charge
Please note that there are no reduced rates for disabled visitors.
Throughout the event there is a wide range of food and drink to suit everyone's taste. Restaurants ranging from 3 course meals to cafes, seafood, sandwiches, cakes and snacks will be served throughout the day.
The Chelsea Flower Show is yet again set to be an amazing event, with garden displays designed to please everyone. If you are going to the event this year, there are many different gardens that may interest you. Gardens such as the growing your own, tropical style planting, structural planting, plant collecting, contemporary, urban chic and romantic gardens are all on display.

UK Water Features wishes everyone to have a fabulous week down at the Chelsea Flower Show. As we have several of our water features on display this year we would love people to send in their pictures of the event to us to display on our Facebook page.
This year’s Chelsea Flower Show has gotten off to a great start. Yesterday was opening day at the show and while many of us sat and watched the event on the television there were some lucky people who were able to get their hands on some tickets for the event. It was nice to see that for the 9th year in a row, Yorkshire was represented as one of the featured gardens.
'The Leeds Garden' was on show down in London yesterday and attracted thousands of spectators who were influenced by this magnificent garden design.
Description of garden
A slice of Yorkshire in Chelsea, a stone mill house complete with waterwheel is surrounded by semi-naturalistic planting, evoking old industrial Leeds. With areas of dry and damp shade the planting is more tamed and 'gardened' close to the building and, as you get further away, increasingly wild containing native species which will support local flora and fauna. An old boundary wall with ferns tucked into the stonework and large loniceras cloaking other boundary surfaces make this an intimate space which appears to have been here for years and that's Martin's aim, through sound, sight and scent, to create an atmosphere of days gone by. However it's not just looking to the past when the power of water built cities like Leeds, but also the future and water's potential role in the supply of sustainable energy.-BBC


The designer of the garden was influenced with his deisgn by the his love for his home town and heritage. Watermills were directly referenced as reference point for the design. The use of the watermill is a fantastic idea to create a unique water feature within this creative garden design.
List of plants planned to feature in garden
Geranium robertianum - Herb robert
Geranium macrorrhizum - Big-root Crane's bill
Menyanthes trifoliata - Bogbean
Myosotis scorpioides - Water forget-me-not
Primula bulleyana - Bulley's primrose (candelabra primulas)
Crataegus monogyna - Hawthorn
Acer campestre - Field maple
Alchemilla mollis - Lady's mantle
Lychnis flos-cuculi 'White Robin'
Thuja plicata - western red cedar
Viburnum opulus - guelder rose
Everyone here at UK Water Features wishes Paul Ackroyd and Martin Walker the designers of the Leeds Garden this year at the Chelsea Flower Show the best of luck.
Today sees the offical start of the Chelsea Flower Show (24th-28th May). It is a highly significant event in the gardening world where millions of people come together for 5 days to both celebrate the highest quality horticulture and view some of the amazing gardens and features that are on display. Hosted by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) in the grounds of the Rotal Hospital Chelsea in London, it is widly considered to be the most famous show in the United Kingdom, infact it could possibly be the most famous gardening event across the globe. The event plays a crucial role for the social scene throughout London and is hugely anticipated throughout the year.

With the show being such a large event, there are many designated areas of interest. One of the more popular parts of the Chelsea Flower show include the 'show gardens' which are designed entirely by some of the top names in the garden design industry. This year sees several of the 'show gardens' featuring various water features. A popular trend this year seems to be in the inclusion of stainless steel water feature. The event really is great time of the year for both spectators and businesses. While it is a ticket only event the BBC televise the entire show for the enjoyment of the garden fanatics who prefer to enjoy the event from the comfort of their own home. It certainly will be very interesting to see how the week unfolds.
The programming time are as follows:
Evening programmes
Sunday 22 May 18:15 - 19:00 on BBC One
Monday 23 May 19:30 - 20:00 on BBC One and 20:00 - 21:00 on BBC Two
Tuesday 24 May 20:00 - 21:00 on BBC Two
Wednesday 25 May 20:30 - 22:00 on BBC Two
Thursday 26 May 20:00 - 21:00 on BBC Two
Friday 27 May 20:00 - 21:30 on BBC Two
Saturday 28 May 19:30 - 20:00 on BBC Two
Sunday 29 May TBC on BBC One
Daytime programmes
Monday 23 - Friday 27 May 2011 12:30 - 13:00 on BBC One
Well spring flying by, summer is almost here. So now is the time to start preparing your garden for the outdoor season. With all the features and garden accessories out there it may be worth just highlighting the top 5 essentials for your garden this summer.
#1 BBQ: It would not be summer without a barbeque. Whether it is gas, charcoal or masonry bbq they are certainly an essential part of any garden this summer especially is you are thinking of entertaining guest this summer. Hosting a bbq can be a great social event, a great way to bond with new neighbours, meet new people or bring the family all back together.
#2 Garden furniture: well there is no use in entertaining people with a lovely bbq, if they have nowhere to sit. Garden furniture not only provides a comfortable seating area for guests it also provides a great visual element to any garden. With the harsh winters that we have over here in the UK it is essential to have garden furniture that is resistant to the harmful elements. Cast aluminium or pressure treated teak are great examples of heavy duty garden furniture. However, realativly new to the furniture market is the maintainence free weave furniture. It is resistant to UV, chlorinated water and sea water, high and low temperatures, micro organisms, and body lotions. Viro® is extremely durable and colourfast, which means that it is maintenance free and easy to clean (perfect for a hassle free clean up after your guests leave)
#3 Garden Lighting: You do not want to have to bring the party inside when the sun goes down. Illuminating your garden is a great way to add a sleek and holiday resort feel to your back garden or patio area. Garden lights are also a great way to light up darker areas of your garden or highlight a specific feature on display. Installing garden lights or deck lights are not only for outdoor entertaining. They are also great for personal use. If you enjoy sitting on your back garden on those warm summer nights, relaxing it may be worth thinking about including a few garden lights to help "lighten" the mood and create a peaceful atmosphere. Solar garden lights are becoming more popular in the market. Helping people save money on their bills by providing them with free energy to light their gardens.
#4 Patio heaters: Not every night this summer is going to be a warm one, so investing in an eco-friendly patio heater to help take away the chill on one of those off nights it certainly a sound investment. A benefit to a outdoor heater is that they are especially beneficial at this time of year. Spring is a great season to sit outdoors, but at night the temperatures tend to plummet making it a little on the chilly side to sit outdoors and enjoy a glass of wine. Patio heaters are also perfect for outdoor entertaining. They provide a focal point where people can sit near and socialize.
#5 Water features: A water feature not only provides a great focal point and visual beauty to your garden. The relaxing sound from the trickling water is a peaceful and mellow sound that gives off a unique ambiance for yourself and your guests to enjoy. Self contained water features are a very simple way to add peace, tranquillity, and interest to your garden or patio. These re-circulating water features set up in minutes, require little ongoing maintenance and incur low operating expenses. It is possible to purchase a self-contained water feature that operates on solar power exclusively. Many of these solar water features are sold with battery backup for use on overcast days. Maintenance of a self-contained water feature consists of using algae and lime scale cleaners as needed. Both of these items are commercially available at reasonable cost. Similar to the solar garden lights, solar water features are rapidly becoming more popular in the market. For example, the solar powered stainless steel sphere is one of our most popular water features. Stainless Steel water features are perfect for any kind of garden, whether they be contemporary and elegant as well the more traditional looking gardens. Stainless Steel is very simple yet very effective element. I am sure everyone has heard of stainless steel, so I’m not going to sit here and bore you with the long history of the stuff. Instead I am going to quickly tell you about how a stainless steel water feature will become one of your favourite features in your garden.
Garden Gazebos are becoming more popular amongst the UK public. Gazebos tend to be a free-standing structure that is either attached to the building or an individual feature set apart from the building. They are perfect for open areas such as parks and gardens. Today, you can enjoy a garden gazebo in your garden for a very reasonable cost.
A high quality garden gazebo is usually made from pressure treated timber in order to ensure the gazebo lasts for a longer period of time. The quality of the timber used for constructing a garden gazebo is a key element in determining it's quality.
With the weather warming up, gazebos are great for providing you with a perfect amount of shade in those warm spring afternoons. They also provide a brilliant platform for entertaining your guest this spring as well as providing your garden with an eye catching focal point.
A note to remember when selecting a gazebo in the garden is to be sure to consider the weather in your particular area. For example, if you live in hot climates, very little rain it is not necessary to stress yourself out trying to find a gazebo that resistant to the snow and rain. However, here in the UK you probably will need one that is resistant to rain.
Regardless of the type of gazebo you choose, hexagon, octagon etc. you can rest a sure that is going to be extremely versatile. Dig into you creative side and to decide how you want to enhance your garden.
Well with the long weekend upon us, there is some great news that will certainly put a smile on your face today. This Friday sees the first day of the bank holiday/Easter weekend, and guess what? It is time to break out the sun tan lotion in April. Yes, you heard it right it's going to be a warm one.
According to the Met Office, temperatures could rise to a scorching 23C this Thursday in the South of England. Unbelievably, this is warmer than Mediterranean hotspots such as Corfu, where their high is 19C and Athens at 18C and to be honest not that far off from Tenerife where their high is at 24C.
The unusually hot weather is set to continue throughout the weekend which sets it up to be a brilliant weekend in the sun. The average temperatures in the UK in mid April hover around the 10C-15C, so this surprising warms weather is certainly well above average.
With the long weekend set to be a warm one, the smell of sizzling food on a BBQ in the air is a certainty. When the weather is nice, there is nothing better than the smell of food cooking over charcoal lingering in the air. It is a great sign that summer is near. If Barbequing is not your thing, then you can definitely look forward to a relaxing weekend in the sun in the comfort of your own back garden, deck or patio area or even a lovely weekend away. Either way, the weather looks like it is going to be here till around the Royal wedding so let's take advantage of it. Don't forget your sunscreen!
Every year, millions of us cook up a feast on the barbeque. As soon as the sun comes out we immediately dust off the shorts, grab some flip flops and start thinking about having a good old barbeque. With the weather set be lovely all weekend across the UK now would be a perfect time start planning your own.
What is the difference between barbequing and grilling? Many of us may believe that they are the same. Well in fact, there is actually a difference. Even though they are very similar there are actually a few differences that distinguish these special cooking techniques.
Grilling is a quicker way of cooking on a barbeque. Generally you grill at a higher heat, which essentially cooks your food a little quicker. Preparation for grilling is usually shorter as not much is really needed. Nutrition wise, grilling has a list of benefits compared to traditional barbequing techniques. For example, a grilled chicken breast can be grilled on impulse with a little seasoning for taste whie the fats from the meat automatically drip off. So this is a great option for those who are conscious about what they eat. Barbequed chicken breast would require more time to prepare, the inclusion of condiments and oils to keep the meat moist and stop it from drying out in the barbeque.
When grilling your food there are three widley used techniques. Technique number one is probably the most common and is probably the one that we are most familiar with. It basically consists of using a form of under heat grilling. Under heat grilling involves the food being placed on a grill rack over either a charcoal or gas grill. This form of grilling is perfect for enhancing the flavours in your foods. It is however important to take note that in this form of grilling it is essential to preheat your BBQ to 260 degrees Celsius or 500 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure safe cooking.
The third most common technique is broiling. This is technique is different from grilling as it is done in an over-head cooking oven. As with using a grill rack, again it is essential for the over to be preheated to the recommended temperature.
The second form of grilling is a technique called 'pan grilling'. This technique is usually used for tender cuts of meat. Generally the chef would use a cast-iron pan in order to cook the food. Obvious steps need to be taken in order to prevent the meat from sticking to the pan such as seasoning or oiling.
Barbequing requires a little more time and preparation to achieve the authentic "barbeque taste" as the food is required to be cooked at much lower temperatures causing creating a need for it to be cooked for a longer period of time. Barbequed food is much different to grilled food as it tends to be cooked to produce a Smokey taste. Oh, and it tends to be covered in sauces...which is what we all love!
Barbequing is a great family event, where you can enjoy ample food while sitting outside in this lovely weather. There are barbeques available for sized gardens and patio areas. The most popular gas BBQ is the Flat Bed Three Burner with Roasting Hood as this tensd to fit in with most peoples gardens. So with the lovely weather sweeping the nation, and those prized Bank Holidays coming up this month now would be the perfect time to start putting one together.
A quick note for everyone who wasn't aware, the clocks do go forward an hour this Sunday the 27 of March 2011. Which is good news, we do lose an hour of sleep... however we will be able to spend that much longer in our gardens in the evening. With the warmer weather sweeping in through out the day the evenings still tend to be a little on the chilly side. If you are unfortunately sat in an office all day and do not get a chance to enjoy this lovely weather because by the time you get home from work, the weather has cooled and is now a little to chilly to sit outside to enjoy the remainder of your evening with a glass of wine and a home cooked meal. Fear not friends, a simple yet very effective garden feature such as a Chiminea will keep your garden cozy so you can enjoy a toasty relaxing evening on your deck or patio area long into the night. Now if you are wondering what on earth is a chiminea? here is a little history behind this fascinating garden heater.
History Behind The Clay:
A Chiminea; is a freestanding front-loading fireplace or oven with a bulbous body and usually a vertical smoke vent or chimney.
Originally, the clay open fire garden heaters that were sent to the U.S.A. from Mexico were known as Chiminea's. According to the ancient story, Chiminea's originated hundreds if not thousands of years ago by Mexican tribesmen who developed the Chiminea's as a means of providing heat for their family as well as a vessel for cooking and baking. The very frist Chiminea was designed to keep the rain off the fire and the family warm using merely a couple of sticks.
Over the past few years Chiminea's have become a popular backyard and deck accessory in both the U.S.A. and the U.K. where they are often acquired as general garden ornaments. Commonly, pinonwood is burned for its aromatic scent and its bug repellent qualities. Fires tends to start very quickly and very simply in chimineas and after initial ignition with some papers and small pieces of wood and in full burn after only 15 minutes, they will give off tremendous heat due to their design which allows much more air to be drawn in than, for example, a fire basket.
The best selling and most popular chimeneas tend to be made from cast iron however there are several aluminum versions available. Missing out on the great weather in the day is no longer a problem and is a thing off the past, including a chiminea in your back garden or patio area will surly keep you warm and cozy outside this spring.
If you are looking for something to keep you warm in the evenings that is a little more modern, then adding a Eco friendly outdoor patio heater maybe something that you could consider. Outdoor patio heaters are a great simple to set up, Eco friendly addition to any garden.
Every Christmas I go all out on decorations for inside my home. I have the biggest tree and the best stockings. However, this year I realised that in my Christmas frenzy I have neglected my garden.
This is why I have decided that my outdoor space deserves the very best outside Christmas lights decorations. I started deciding on the colour scheme of red and white. I bought bunches of red and white twinkling lights and wrapped my porch and gutters with them. I then found some beautiful Moravian Stars in white and hung those from the tree that overlooked my nativity scene.
I also bought a light up reindeer light display, light up bear and a light up topiary of Santa's sleigh. I also bought some red and white light up stakes that line the walk way up to my house. They are in a ball shape and really let off a lovely light at night. My final purchase was this beautiful 5 foot tall light up snowman. He is a silver colour and has a red scarf and a red trimmed hat to fit in with my theme. He comes wrapped in silver lights and sits in the middle of my topiary scene.
Last nights Firework Preview Night was a huge success with in excess of 500 people watching the hour long display showcasing a great selection of our range.
Hosted by Dearne FM the fireworks included the new 'Pyro Mesh' rockets (Scud Silo, Intersella Wars and Metallic Morpheous), best selling Atom Bombs and end of night finale barrages - Setanic Desecration, Atom Smasher and our favourite, The Thunder Bomb.
On the night we were also collecting money for Barnsley Hospice and raised just over £350, a big thank you to everyone who made a donation.
Our fireworks store is open late throughout this week in the run up to the big night. Orders can be placed online and collected in store. For further information please call 01226 388889.
Next Saturday (30th October) will see out first Fireworks Preview Night. A special night where you will be able to see the fireworks before you buy them. A running order will be handed out on the night to those who want to make notes and build an order up.
The night is to be hosted by Dearne FM's breakfast host Joel and Drivetime DJ Vicki.
Fireworks start from approx 8pm, free bonfire treats, a bouncy castle for the kids. Our shop will be open all night with special offers throughout.
The event is free to attend, we are collecting though on the night for our chosen charity - Barnsley Hospice.
Click here to find directions to our shop and showroom. We are based junction Junction 37 & 38 of the M1 - follow the firework signs from each junction.
Gunpowder and fireworks march hand in hand across history. Where one goes the other soon follows. The origins of gunpowder and fireworks are rooted in the misty depths of ancient China. Legend says a cook accidentally dropped sulphur and salt peter into a charcoal fire and bang! That was the beginning of gunpowder. One thousand years later a monk named Li Tian put gun powder into a bamboo tube, sealed it and ignited it creating fireworks. Fireworks were originally lit during religious ceremonies like New Years to frighten evil spirits. America’s tradition of using noise makers on New Year’s Eve has similar origins.
Fireworks were brought to Europe by Marco Polo and spread slowly throughout Europe. Queen Elizabeth enjoyed fireworks so much she created the court position of Fire Master. The fireworks display for the coronation of James II earned the Fire Master a knighthood. Eighty years earlier James II’s grandfather was nearly assassinated with thirty-six barrels of gun powder in the famous Gunpowder Treason. Furthermore, that was not the first time gunpowder was used in royal assassination. Henry Lord Darnley, Scottish King Consort, was killed when his sickbed was blown to smithereens by a cellar packed with gun powder. Despite this bloody history, fireworks continue to be a popular and exciting way to celebrate important religious and cultural events.
A bonfire is something that many people wait for with anticipation especially when they are looking forward to a special occasion. Preparing that bonfire requires some special planning if you want to make it the best it can be. One of the most important things to remember when preparing a bonfire is to build it for safety.
Whenever fire is to be a part of a celebration planning is the key to success. Bonfires should not be built so high that you run a risk that it might fall bringing the fire with it onto a celebrating crowd. With that in mind, you should also be careful to not build the fuel for the fire so loosely that when it burns down it might topple.
Once you have prepared the stack of materials to be burned you are ready to get started and enjoy your time with family and friends. One of the most spectacular things about a bonfire is the much anticipated fireworks display that goes along with it.
Just think about the cosy time that will be had by all participants as they gather together for chit chat and roasting marshmallows and such. The excitement gets started and builds until everyone is satisfied with a good time that is had by all. A successful bonfire will live in the memory for a long time.
We all look forward to those summer holidays; a chance to feel the warm sun on our face and the gentle breeze in our hair; just the chance to get away from the everyday grind of life. However, most of us get bored to tears after a few days of just vegetating around the house. Taking a trip would be to nerve wracking, as well as expensive, but you want to do something. Well how about a bit of gardening?
There are many tasks that one can undertake on a summer holiday in the garden that is both rewarding and easy to do. Want to do your part to help the environment and have that luscious green garden without adding those pesky grow formulas and pesticides? Try your hand at composting. It is simple to do, does not take much room or effort and can pay off greatly. Not only will you reduce your wastes to be tossed in the rubbish, you get a cheap high quality fertilizer.
You can also try landscaping. Turn that plain garden into a summer and fall explosion of colour. Have a walkway to you house, line it with small hedges, or be adventurous and plant flowers and plants that bloom brightly coloured and fragrant plants. Maybe some window planters for herbs, there is nothing like the small or taste of fresh herbs in your meal, or to just add to the aroma of the room. Maybe even install a water feature and listen to the tranquility of running water as you sit outside.
For your summer holidays, gardening can be a rewarding experience. You get the challenge of making living things grow, and the activity and exercise to challenge the mind, body and refresh the spirit.
There are many benefits of having a swim spa installed in your home, some more obvious than others. If you are a bit overweight this summer, a swim spa can be used as an easy and fun way to do exercises and workouts. If you know that a swimming pool would be too costly for your family, a swim spa is a great deal cheaper and can be placed just about anymore in your home, either indoors or even outside.
If you have had a long day at work and all you want to do is relax, you can use your swim spa as a hot tub and just sit back and relax. Some of them have jets that provide a current that is very relaxing. When it comes time to clean and maintain your swim spa, you can be assured that you don't have to do anything special like in a regular swimming pool. Since it is much smaller than a swimming pool, you have less to maintain. Just make sure you keep the water clean, you use the right chemicals to keep it clean and fresh, and check to make sure your filtration system is always working properly.
For something as special and exciting as a World Cup party, you’re going to want the best BBQ to satisfy your guests. Since the World Cup only comes around every four years, you’re going to want to get it right the first time! There are many terrific (and sometimes expensive) grills on the market, but how do you know which is the best one to kick off the World Cup with? I can assure you, the Gas BBQ and Charcoal Grill is your ticket to success. Not only is it an amazing grill, but it’s also very affordable.
The Char-Griller is special for the fact that it’s a duo grill; it includes both gas and charcoal capability. It also has lots of great features, including an 876 square inch grill area, porcelain cooking grates for exceptional and balance heating, an easy-to-use dump ash pan, a side fire box for some special Texas smoked flavour, and a newly added warming rack that keeps your food warm even after cooking. The Char-Griller has so many functions and capabilities.
One last awesome aspect of the Char-Griller is that it’s made from heavy, well-constructed steel that has a powder coat finish, which consequences in literally years of long lasting durability and colour. Not only will you be serving some great food that was easy to cook, but your guests will definitely be impressed.
As warm weather approaches and people are more inclined to spend their time outdoors, this also includes the time that they will be entertaining. Families will be outside together more, groups will be pulling together to barbecue and enjoy evening bonfires and one of the ways that time will be set apart is by the environment that is created with your gardening and landscaping choices.
One of the key things to remember when you are working with new concepts is to recognise the size that you have to work with. Some ideas may need to be set aside if you live in a flat with only a small area to work with or if your homes backyard has terrain that might not fit your "ideal" landscaping.
A great way to update and beautify your area is to add potted trees and flowers and water features. They are great way to add life and beauty to any space. Some plants and trees are more pricy than others but the versatility it provides is ideal. They can be moved around many different times to change up the feel of a home depending on likes, dislikes or the change in the seasons.
Another way of landscaping in gardens is to add different types of lighting to your area. They can be solar powered lights that will not cost you extra on your electric bill and can change the mood of an area just as quickly as flowers and trees.
Finding a main focus for your space will help you make the right decision.
Plan your World cup BBQ party now and celebrate in style in your garden! Plan your world cup BBQ party and celebrate in style in your garden! Bring out the sauces and jams prepared from your garden and add them to your wonderful selection of delicious foods. BBQ parties in the garden during the summer months can be great fun.
Planning a BBQ outside stirs your creativity, guest will need a place to sit and shaded areas to keep cool, over hanging greenery is great for creating light shade. The cool breezes blowing through the greenery is cooled helping to make the garden area more pleasant. Place your tables and chairs near your beautiful flowers; this creates a magnificent backdrop with very little effort.
Buying new lawn furnishing this summer? Wicker is really in if you don’t mind the care that it takes when it is exposed to the weather. If you feel that is too much buy new cushions for your old furniture this will give your old furnishing a real lift. You cannot Plan your World Cup BBQ party without a great BBQ grill, a little counter space would be great. Now you are ready, comfortable surroundings, good food and friends. Have a great World Cup BBQ party.
When having an outdoor party, a gas patio outdoor heater is a perfect choice. Your guests will appreciate the warmth these patio heaters provide as well as the welcoming ambiance.
Gas patio heaters are available at lawn and garden stores and come in an array of models and brands but all need careful handling. While operating these patio heaters, be certain to keep children and pets away from the heater. Do not hang wet towels or clothing on the heater as this is a fire hazard waiting to happen. Be sure to mount the patio heater on a flat surface away from high traffic areas to minimise chances of the heater being knocked over. Do not allow debris to collect underneath the patio heater to avoid a fire hazard. Always provide proper ventilation for the gas patio heater and do not allow the air vents and holes on the heater to become blocked. Frequently check the hose connection for possible gas leaks. Do not allow the heater to sit out in the rain without being covered.
A gas patio heater will allow you to extend the time you can enjoy and use your patio or deck well into the fall season. Your patio parties will be the envy of your neighbours.
The football world is getting ready to unite once again for the World Cup. The 2010 World Cup starts this summer, and the best football teams from around the world are converging on South Africa to try to win the tournament. With so many people from around the world interested in watching the games, exploring different ways to watch it, can be a valuable thing. Consider 5 ways to watch the 2010 World Cup at home, and enjoy the glory of, "The Beautiful Game".
The first way to watch it is via your television. Whether you have satellite or cable, you can watch the action unfold with relative ease. Invite some friends, and enjoy each and every game broadcasted live or in replay, and get into the action.
The second way to check out the games is via online streams. The World Cup will be broadcast online for free in a variety of sources, and you can watch wherever you are.
Another great way to check out the action is by investing in a projector and watching the game via a garden party in your backyard. Invite some friends for a BBQ, and broadcast the games onto a soft-screen with a projector and you'll feel like you're in the stadium.
Enjoying the tournament action can also be fun on your mobile phone. Whether you're doing a little spring-cleaning, putting away dishes, or vacuuming, you can utilise your mobile smart phone to watch the game. You can even go outside on your porch or your patio and enjoy the streaming action.
Some of the games will be broadcast in early mornings and afternoons and will not be easily watched live, especially with work commitments. That's where you can take advantage of a TV recorder and record the game for later viewing. You can ensure that you never miss a thing, if you have to work or are not awake yet. You can even invite friends from work or school to join you in watching the events of the World Cup 2010 unfold.
UK Water Features Online
You know that the best time for entertaining friends and family is the summer. Outdoor entertaining is the best for less fuss and mess and the relaxed atmosphere is always a plus.
Enjoy summer and enjoy a great get-together with simple tips for successful outdoor entertaining.
Everyone likes to feel special and you can do just that by creating personal seating cards for all of your outdoor guests. Purchase cardstock at any local hobby store and use your printer or write each persons name on a card. Fold each card in half with names out and place one at every seat. You can make them more designer chic and unique by adding other personal embellishments of your choosing.
With almost all outdoor entertaining there will be some unwanted guests in the form of pesky bugs. Keep your outdoor area pest-free with several citronella candles. Place the citronella candles at strategic areas. Your guests will love the ambience of candle lighting while enjoying a bug free party. Citronella candles come in a variety of shapes, sizes and different, decorative holders. You can group regular candles in different areas of the outdoors with the citronella candles to create candle light for your entire party lighting solutions.
For even more lighting you can add strands of outdoor lights. Drape the lights all around your outdoor area and throughout any trees, plants or shrubs, even overhead. Exterior light strands and rope lighting have become very popular as well as affordable. These lights can be purchased at most home stores.
Music is always a welcome addition to any outdoor gathering. Play it low as just a background enhancement. You don’t want guests to have to talk over the music or have the neighbours complaining.
Keep plenty of ice on hand for drinks and for dishes that need to be kept chilled. Put a large serving dish full of ice out and sit the smaller dish with food on top of the ice. This keeps food cooler for longer.
A white, washable tablecloth will show off all of your decorative accessories. Using different shaped baskets and raffia mats to serve from and on will keep the natural, outdoor feel of your party alive.
Put plenty of eating utensils out for guests. Baskets will work for this too. Fill the basket with plenty of utensils at the serving area or place a basket on each table. You can also set out the napkins and condiments in baskets as well.
Keeping a box handy with your outdoor entertaining in mind is a simple solution. This box can hold all of your grill accessories and your outdoor dishes. Plastic dinnerware and glasses can be chosen to match any décor or theme and are much more personal than paper. This cuts down on garbage and keeps you from damaging the good china from chipping and breaking. Just wash and store for next time.
Just follow some or all of these simple tips for successful outdoor entertaining. You’ll spend minutes planning a fabulous, outdoor party that your guests will remember for a long time to come.
The best World Cup bbq party should be one that your guests will remember for years to come. It should make them want to come back for the next year. The first thing that you have to focus on is the setting for your party such as your garden. You should have a big enough garden for your guests to mingle and have a relaxing time with their kids. Make sure that all of your guests will fit comfortably and that you have enough sitting space for everyone.
A good idea is to have people RSVP in order to know how many seats you will have to provide. Your decor should be appropriate for the world cup so you should visit a party store that may have decorations for your celebration. Lights, fountains, centre pieces, games, streamers, and even a pool are all things that would add versatility to your party, as well as your England flags!
People can have a number of activities to choose from if you have all of those fun things available. An important thing to remember is that you want both the kids and the parents to have fun so by providing kid's games or a bar for the adults, you may just keep everyone happy. Party favours would also be a great idea that kids would love. You may be able to find some world cup themed party favours online or at your local party supply store but you should also make sure that you find something that adults will also enjoy.
The food and drinks are the most important when it comes to a BBQ party so make sure that you have a list of things that your guests will want to eat or drink but that you can easily prepare. Meat, salads, fish, vegetables, or even pasta are food that people will love to eat at your BBQ party but you should also ask friends for ideas or suggestions. You should try to add spices or use special recipes to make everything taste even better and keep your guests wanting more.
Appetisers are an important thing to remember to get because you should not keep your guests hungry while you prepare the main courses. Chips, fresh fruit, kebobs, potato salads, candy, and finger food are good appetizer ideas that will not fully satisfy people but will provide something to munch on while they wait for the actual course. If you want everything to go smoothly, always start preparing for your world cup party some time before the actual event because last minute preparations always result in a mess and stressful situations.
Stay within your budget because you may come up with more ideas for your celebration so having extra money will allow you to get whatever else you need. Hiring catering services can also be easier to do but you should find an affordable and timely service because splurging too much will leave your pockets empty. The most important thing to remember when you have a BBQ party is to have fun and be the best host because everyone will remain content if you make an effort to do so.
The football world is getting ready to unite once again for the World Cup. The 2010 World Cup starts this summer, and the best football teams from around the world are converging on South Africa to try to win the tournament. With so many people from around the world interested in watching the games, exploring different ways to watch it, can be a valuable thing. Consider 5 ways to watch the 2010 World Cup at home, and enjoy the glory of, "The Beautiful Game".
The first way to watch it is via your television. Whether you have satellite or cable, you can watch the action unfold with relative ease. Invite some friends, and enjoy each and every game broadcasted live or in replay, and get into the action.
The second way to check out the games is via online streams. The World Cup will be broadcast online for free in a variety of sources, and you can watch wherever you are.
Another great way to check out the action is by investing in a projector and watching the game via a garden party in your backyard. Invite some friends for a BBQ, and broadcast the games onto a soft-screen with a projector and you'll feel like you're in the stadium.
Enjoying the tournament action can also be fun on your mobile phone. Whether you're doing a little spring-cleaning, putting away dishes, or vacuuming, you can utilise your mobile smart phone to watch the game. You can even go outside on your porch or your patio and enjoy the streaming action.
Some of the games will be broadcast in early mornings and afternoons and will not be easily watched live, especially with work commitments. That's where you can take advantage of a TV recorder and record the game for later viewing. You can ensure that you never miss a thing, if you have to work or are not awake yet. You can even invite friends from work or school to join you in watching the events of the World Cup 2010 unfold.
UK Water Features Online
Are you planning on holding a World Cup BBQ party in your garden? It is certainly the right time now, with the tournament in full swing. As action kicked off with the host country competed on the pitch against the side from Mexico. Fans from around the world tuned in to see the very best footballers play for their country against the best the world has to offer.
A gala occasion outdoors can be planned with a World Cup theme in mind. Flags from various countries can be purchased or possibly stickers to represent each of the participating nations. These can be hung or placed at various places on the deck or patio to designate a particular place. Each can then be complemented by a typical food from that country as well. You can further break this up according to the various pools that the committee used to organized the teams into before play was begun. This not only helps to serve notice that the competition is under way but the rivals in each group.
What a great way to invite some friends over and enjoy the games and listen to your water feature? Add a television feed and you are sure to have success.