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.

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!

Our top 5 selling gas bbq's this season

Adelaide Silverline Flat Bed BBQ (3 Burner)

• 3 Cast iron burners 4.3Kw each
• Each burner has its own independent control with variable heat settings offering maximum control
• Large wheels to move the BBQ around the garden
• Side shelves ideal for food preperation or storage
• Metal cover to protect the grilling area and drip tray for excess fat
• Metal grill and twin hot plate (These can be moved around as required)
• Push button piezo ignition
• Warming rack
• Serves 10-12 People

Adelaide Silverline Flat Bed BBQ (4 Burner)

• 4 Cast iron burners 4.3Kw each
• Each burner has its own independent control with variable heat settings offering maximum control
• Large wheels to move the BBQ around the garden
• Side shelves ideal for food preperation or storage
• Metal cover to protect the grilling area and drip tray for excess fat
• Metal grill and twin hot plate (These can be moved around as required)
• Push button piezo ignition
• Warming rack
• Easy clean drip tray
• Serves 14-16 People

Darwin Flat Bed 4 Burner with Roasting Hood BBQ

• 4 stainless steel burners 4.3kW each
• Side burner 3kW
• Warming rack
• SIlver plated heatshield and facia
• Enamelled cooking grids - 2 pieces
• Push button piezo ignition
• Hose and (27mm) 37mb clip on propane regulator
• Stylish ergonomic silver knobs
• Side shelves
• Heat shield which folds down flat to cover the grill area
• All nuts and bolts supplied
• Easy clean drip tray
• Flamer tamer technology
• Serves 16-18 people

Taunton Deluxe Barbecue (4 Burner) with Side Burner

• 4 Cast Iron Burners (4.3kW each)
• Side Burner (3kW)
• Each burner has its own independent control with variable heat settings offering maximum control
• Metal grill and twin hot plate (These can be moved around as required)
• Large wheels to move the BBQ around the garden
• Side shelf ideal for food preperation or storage
• Push button Piezo Ignition
• Warming Rack
• Temperature Gauge
• Hose & 27mm Clip on Propane Regulator supplied
• Stylish ergonomic silver knobs
• Lava rocks included
• Spacious storage cabinet
• Serves 16-18 people

Adelaide Silverline Flat Bed Roaster BBQ with hood (2 Burner)

• 2 Cast iron burners 4.3kW each
• Roasting hood with sturdy handle - great for getting the real smokey BBQ flavour into your food
• Very large cooking area
• Metal grill and twin hot plate (These can be moved around as required)Push button piezo ignition
• Hose and (27mm) 37mb clip on propane regulator
• Stylish ergonomic silevr knobs
• All nuts and bolts supplied
• Easy clean drip tray
• Lava rocks included
• Serves 8-10 people
• High quality wooden trolley
• Deluxe wheels

UK Water Features has a huge range of garden summer essentials ranging from garden lighting, garden buildings, bbq's and water features. 

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.

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.

As we are all probably aware the Royal wedding is coming up, just in case you aren’t then it is on Friday April 29th 2011.  That being said, there is not that long left for you to finish your preparations (4 weeks to be exact) so now is the time to double check you have everything in place and keep those fingers crossed the weather holds out so we can all enjoy this memorable moment.

A barbeque is always a popular one when it comes to outdoor parties. If the weather is nice, then a bbq is the way forward. With the Royal Wedding on a Friday, and a majority of us been given the day off of work it is a perfect time to invite some friends round to enjoy some succulent burgers and juicy chicken wings whilst watching the wedding from the comfort of your own home.  Gas barbeques tend to be the more popular choice with consumers as these have a very large cooking area. However, if you prefer to be different to the ‘in crowd’ then a masonry bbq may be more to your liking as this is not only a barbeque but a permanent feature and a real focal point in your garden. I am personally more of a traditional person, so my bbq preference lies with the good old charcoal barbeques as I feel food grilled on a charcoal bbq has that distinct grilled flavour.

With the clocks going forward last week we are getting longer daylight hours, so our party  can go on into the night while we enjoy that little bit of extra sunshine. However once that sun drops below the horizon temperatures may drop a little causing it to get a little on the chilly side. We don’t want to be sat outside in the cold, eating those perfectly grilled burgers shivering do we?  So if we want to enjoy the evening then we are going to need to think about some sort of outdoor heating. Patio heaters are a great and simple addition to any outdoor living space and provide ample amount of heat to warm up a small area under the patio canopy.

The final touches to your outdoor party are also important.  It may be a good idea to add a few outdoor lanterns to set a small amount of illumination and a mellow relaxing evening ambiance to calm the evening. 

Let’s not get caught up in with the little things like barbeques and garden lighting and forget about the entertainment! Being a good host it is necessary for you to provide some entertainment (for when the wedding is not on). Some popular activities such as garden games such as Tug-of-War, swing ball, football, volleyball, basketball, cycling, face-painting, musical chairs, dancing competitions and karaoke. Don’t forget it is important to try to involve everyone in the fun and games so chose activities that are suitable for all. End the night in style and show your patriotism by setting off a few St. George sky lanterns, and remember this is an historic event to be remembered for years to come, have fun!!

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.

A BBQ is a great idea for entertaining at your home this summer. You will love being able to invite friends over telling them that you will cook out dinner for them. It can be a great experience for all. Sit a few chairs out in the garden and cook dinner. Enjoy a nice drink and conversation with your mates while you eat. A BBQ is always an investment that you won't regret purchasing for yourself. You will wonder to yourself why you never bought one before this year. It is always a great way to bring people together. It is an easy way to entertain. A BBQ should last you several years so this investment will be worth it over time.

Imagine all of the things that you can cook on your BBQ. Fixing steaks, shrimp, and chicken are all great ideas. You can spice them up a little if you would like that better. There are so many different things that you can cook on the BBQ. Don't be afraid to try new things. Pineapple is great cooked outside. You will be happy with all of the new flavours that you come up with for your meals. Enjoy the atmosphere of eating outside and have a good time.

The first question you may find when purchasing a BBQ is whether you want to buy a gas or charcoal BBQ. Both gas and charcoal come with several disadvantages and advantages that may influence your final decision.

Convenience of the product tends to be a heavy influence, but one that does not exactly make the grill a good choice. Gas BBQs tend to be more convenient than charcoal grills. Gas BBQs require you to simply turn on the grill, the fire comes up, and you are ready to go. Gas BBQs are great for those individuals who want to come home after work and grill hamburgers for dinner. With the ready to go model, the food does not benefit from that great smoky flavour from the charcoal grill. Charcoal grills provide foods a nice, rich smoky flavour that you just cannot achieve with gas grills. This is most evident in steak and chicken that is grilled. Hotdogs and hamburgers do not benefit well from the smoky flavour, as it seems to be more difficult to notice. The gas BBQ is also extremely easy to clean because it does not contain ashes or charcoal stains like the charcoal BBQ does.

Location is also an influential factor when choosing a BBQ. You may want to have your BBQ right next to your house, but the chances of flare up may keep you from doing so. Flare up is the rise of flames above the grill that occur after starting the BBQ. A charcoal BBQ does not contain a flare up. Charcoal BBQ require a small fire to start the BBQ, and the fire typically remains low and around the charcoal. A gas BBQ usually contains a large amount of flair up. Flair up can result in a house fire, so it is recommended to keep the gas grill away from the home structure.

Cost can also make or break the sale of a BBQ. Charcoal BBQs tend to be the least expensive to purchase. These units are generally smaller, but they do require the constant purchase of charcoal. Charcoal is rather inexpensive, so most people do not mind spending the additional money. Gas BBQs are generally the most expensive, but they can also include features such as a side burners or rotisseries, and have a far more attractive appearance. Although there are additional styles, like smoking food, these require grill parts that are purchased separately. Gas BBQs require a gas tank to be purchased and installed. These tanks usually need to be replaced every year; possibly more often if it is used daily. The gas BBQ allows the griller to have instant heat, at the turn of a switch. With gas, the griller also has the ability to control the heat to ensure the heat remains constant. Gas barbeque grills can be extremely difficult to assemble because they require a lot of small parts to operate. Charcoal BBQs usually come in three to five large pieces and are very easy to assemble.

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.

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.

Water Features

Summer is almost upon us, and that means time for BBQs and get togethers with friends and family. Getting your property ready to host the party of the century is easy with some simple touch lights to put along your paths and driveway, a decent charcoal or gas powered barbecue pit, and an outdoor heater for those cool summer nights when the party just won't stop. Gas is the cleanest way to cook and control the flame, and is relatively inexpensive. Forget about hibachis; they're too small. To host a kicking party, you want a mammoth grill that can handle steaks, burgers, hot dogs, kebabs, and veggies, too.

For more professional lighting, look into having some spotlights installed in your garden and around the bushes and driveways of your property. These will keep the party going late without disturbing the neighbours.

If you have a pool or Jacuzzi, you may want to install lights in the vicinity of that as well, if you haven't already. When it gets cold, your guests can go for the hot tub or stand by the heater. Heaters come in a variety of prices, so you won't kill your budget. If you deck out your place with lights, you'll probably want some energy efficient light bulbs to keep your electricity bill low this summer. Having fun can be cheap and exciting with some cool summer gear like I've just mentioned. Happy shopping, and happy summer!