BBQs & Outdoor Cooking Sizes Explained

In depth

BBQ sizes are often described using confusing terminology – ‘small,’ ‘medium,’ ‘large’ – but these terms can vary significantly in practice. The most common measurements you'll encounter relate to the diameter of the grilling area, which is the space where you actually cook your food. This measurement is crucial because it directly impacts how many people you can comfortably feed and the overall footprint the BBQ will occupy in your garden. Don’t be swayed solely by a marketing term like ‘large’; always check the actual diameter to understand its true capacity.

Generally, smaller barbecues, typically around 37-46cm (15-18 inches) in diameter, fall into the category of ‘personal’ or ‘compact’ BBQs. These are ideal for individuals or couples who enjoy grilling occasionally and have limited garden space. They're often portable, making them suitable for smaller patios or balconies. The cooking surface is small enough to avoid overwhelming a tiny outdoor area, but large enough for a decent steak or sausages. You’ll find models in this range frequently described as ‘tabletop BBQs’ – these are designed to sit directly on your table and offer a very contained grilling experience.

Moving up to ‘medium’ BBQs, diameters usually range from 61-76cm (24-30 inches). These sizes become increasingly practical for families with around 4-6 people. They still offer a good amount of cooking space but don't dominate the garden like larger models. A ‘medium’ BBQ is typically suitable for an average sized patio or decking area and offers enough room to cook multiple items simultaneously – burgers, vegetables, fish – without feeling cramped. It represents a solid compromise between portability and capacity.

‘Large’ BBQs, generally exceeding 76cm (30 inches) in diameter, are designed for entertaining larger groups – often eight people or more. These models frequently incorporate features like side burners for warming food or making sauces, and sometimes even rotisserie attachments. They necessitate a significant amount of space; you’ll need at least an 8ft x 8ft (2.4m x 2.4m) area to accommodate one of these comfortably, allowing enough room around the BBQ for people to move freely and for seating. Consider that the diameter isn't the only factor – a longer BBQ will require more length than just its width.

A very common mistake UK consumers make when purchasing BBQs is focusing solely on the diameter without considering the overall footprint of the unit, including legs or stands. Some models, particularly those with multiple burners or built-in storage, can have surprisingly large bases. Measure the space available in your garden carefully before you start browsing – don't just measure the grilling area; factor in the space needed for people to stand around it comfortably and for accessing the controls. A BBQ that looks perfectly sized on paper can quickly become overwhelming if there’s no room to manoeuvre around it safely.

Finally, when considering size, think about how you intend to use your BBQ. If you primarily want to cook simple meals like sausages and burgers, a smaller BBQ will suffice. However, if you plan on hosting elaborate barbecues with multiple courses and side dishes, a larger model is essential. Don’t underestimate the space needed for food preparation – having enough room near the grill to place plates, serving utensils, and ingredients significantly enhances the cooking experience. It's also worth noting that some BBQs come as sets including accessories; factor in the space required for these additional items when calculating your overall needs.