Gas vs Wood-Burning Fire Pits: Which Is Best for Your Garden in 2026?
Choosing the right fire pit instantly elevates your outdoor space. Below is an expert, practical comparison to help you choose the perfect option for your UK garden, whether you prioritise convenience, heat, atmosphere or design.
At a glance: the difference
Both gas and wood-burning fire pits create atmosphere and warmth, but the experience is different. Gas fire pits are clean, controllable and low maintenance. Wood-burning fire pits offer high heat output and that unmistakable crackle and aroma of real wood.
Gas fire pits: Clean, stylish & convenient
Gas fire pits are ideal for those who want instant warmth with minimal fuss. They ignite at the push of a button, produce little to no smoke, and offer precise flame control, perfect for modern, premium garden designs.
Key benefits
- Instant ignition: light it and you’re ready to go — no kindling or starter blocks.
- Smoke-free experience: great for small gardens, neighbours and family gatherings.
- Controllable heat: easily adjust flame height and temperature.
- Low maintenance: no ash to clean and fewer moving parts to worry about.
Considerations
- Typically produces less radiant heat than a big wood fire.
- Requires a gas bottle (many designs have tidy enclosures).
- Higher upfront cost due to engineering and safety features.
Explore our gas fire pit collection: Gas Fire Pits.
Wood-burning fire pits — atmospheric, robust & warm
For many, a wood fire is the heart of the garden. The heat, the smell and the sound are unmatched. Corten steel and heavy-gauge steel designs are popular for their sculptural looks and long-term durability.
Key benefits
- Higher heat output: ideal on chilly nights or for larger gatherings.
- Authentic atmosphere: crackling wood and natural flame movement.
- Cost-effective running: wood is often less expensive than bottled gas.
- Design impact: wood pits, especially corten, age beautifully and become a garden focal point.
Considerations
- Produces smoke — consider prevailing wind and neighbours.
- Requires ash management and storage for firewood.
- Needs supervised use around children and pets.
Shop wood-burning styles: Wood-Burning Fire Pits.
Quick comparison — Gas vs Wood
| Feature | Gas Fire Pit | Wood-Burning Fire Pit |
|---|---|---|
| Heat output | Moderate | High |
| Atmosphere | Modern, clean flame | Authentic, crackling |
| Startup time | Instant | 5–15 minutes |
| Maintenance | Low | Moderate (ash, cleaning) |
Who should pick which?
Choose gas if you want: a clean, family-friendly option that works with modern gardens and fast social evenings. Ideal where smoke would be a nuisance or for smaller terraces.
Choose wood if you want: a powerful heat source, ritual and atmosphere — and a sculptural garden centrepiece that ages beautifully.
Not sure? Consider a hybrid approach: a compact gas pit for everyday use and a larger wood-burning pit for occasional weekend gatherings. We often recommend this to customers who want flexibility without compromise.
Editor’s top picks
Below are three curated options to suit common needs.
- Premium Gas Option: Elementi Hanhattan Gas Fire Pit
- Best Wood Choice: Moodz Feet & Handle Fire Pit
- Great For Small Spaces: BonFeu BonVes Fire Basket
Practical tips & safety
- Always maintain a safe clearance from fences, hedges and flammable materials.
- For wood pits, store seasoned dry wood and keep a spark guard at hand.
- For gas pits, ensure the bottle is secured and serviced where necessary.
- Keep a bucket of sand or fire extinguisher nearby for peace of mind.
Final thoughts
A fire pit is the heart of an outdoor lounge. The best choice depends on your priorities: convenience and clean lines (gas) or heat and atmosphere (wood). Either way, a carefully chosen fire pit will transform evenings at home.
