Summertime is barbecue time and with up to 50% off a wide range of barbecues in the Dobbies summer sale, now is the best time to buy.

Portable, gas and charcoal BBQs are all on offer, so whatever your grilling needs may be, the Dobbies barbecue sale has it covered. There are also lots of accessories, chimeneas, braziers and BBQ fuels at up to 50% off, to help you get the most from your outdoor cooking and heating.

Gas barbecue sale

Half price gas BBQs
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The Beefeater Discovery Classic is one of many gas barbecues on offer in the summer sale and is currently half price.

Featuring 4 gas burners and two built in side tables, you have all the cooking space you need to throw a fantastic BBQ party.

Portable BBQ sale

Half price portable BBQs
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Their built in stands will stop the ground from burning underneath as well as letting in air to feed the flames.

Filled with charcoal you can be sure of some classic smoky flavour and with 50% off the price is pretty tasty too.

BBQ accessories sale

Half price BBQ accessories
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As well as some tongs and a spatula, any BBQ pro needs a durable apron and mitt set and some snazzy BBQ gadgets, all of which are now on sale at Dobbies.

There’s a bounty of barbecue tools and accessories in the summer sale with up to 50% off.

BBQ fuel sale

Half price BBQ fuel
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Cut directly from whiskey-saturated barrel staves, the chips capture a pleasant mix of caramel, vanilla and wood notes and will impart an extraordinary smoked flavor to your grilled foods.

For BBQs with 'serious grunt'

The philosophy at BeefEater is simply to manufacture the highest quality porcelain enamel and stainless steel barbecues available anywhere in the world, and their reputation continues to be built upon by doing just that.

That’s why BeefEater concentrate on high quality gas barbecues, tools and accessories and nothing else. Their focus is primarily on the higher end of the market with prices at Dobbies starting at £349 going all the way up to £2,599.99. Between these two points are a wide range of gas barbecues with 2 to 5 burners, Quartz instant ignition technology with hoods and side tables provided on all models.

What’s under the hood?
BeefEater’s 20 year experience in building barbecues has shown them that a great BBQ is based on functional design, solid construction and stylish looks. The following list highlights the key components to all BeefEater barbecues:

• A proven, reliable ignition system that does not need batteries
• Rust free cooking surfaces that are easy to use and easy to clean
• Solid, commercial quality construction in a choice of materials like stainless steel or porcelain enamel
• A modular design for total flexibility. (This means you can even build your own custom model)
• High heat output for instant searing and demanding cooking requirements
• A vaporising grid system for reduced flare-ups
• And finally, a comprehensive warranty backed by a reputable Australian barbecue company.

Here’s a hand picked selection from the BeefEater range

The BeefEater 4 Burner Discovery

Solid, stylish and surprisingly well priced

At £549 the Discovery Classic is a good example of the BeefEater range featuring 4 gas burners, porcelain enamel hood and two side tables.

The solid metal trolley is made from high quality powder-coated steel, heavy-duty wheels and lockable castors for wheel-away convenience. Perfect for throwing a seriously good shindig.

BeefEater 900 Series Plus 4 Burner Gas Barbecue

High quality materials and professional performance

Entertain all year round with this brilliant barbecue.

The 4 burner 900 series comes with rust free porcelain enamel cooktops, an on-board cylinder storage place plus an optional rotisserie.

A timeless masterpiece that’s sure to turn a few heads.

BeefEater Discovery 5 Burner Premium Outdoor Kitchen

Everything plus the kitchen sink

If you are looking for a barbecue that has everything built in, including the kitchen sink, then you have found it here in the BeefEater outdoor barbecue kitchen.

With storage space, a sink, 2 worktops and 5 gas burners, all of which are totally rust-free, this epic unit is a piece of pure Aussie BBQ genius.

For a sizzling range of high quality BeefEater barbecues and accessories visit Dobbies online garden centre.

BBQ summer?

As well as planning trips or improvements to the garden, this also means indulging in one of the nations favourite pastimes – discussing the weather.

Musing on whether we’ll have a welly washout or the perfect barbecue summer often rears its head in the UK, as we never really know what we’re going to get. However, you can always be sure that most of us will have some criticism to offer whatever the outcome. Moaning about the weather is a British pastime, as integral to our culture as tea or Sunday roasts.

Barbecue summer

Get ready for a barbecue summer

In recent weeks several tabloids have predicted a summer to match the long, hot, sunny season of 76’, according to ‘weather experts’. With a current drought looming across the southern parts of England and talk of potential hosepipe bans in the near future, you can see why this forecast has had some attention in the press. Barbecues on standby? Well, not just yet.

The forecast comes from Netweather.tv who are predicting above average temperatures with below average rainfall, fuelling hope of a long hot summer. But over at Weather Action, Piers Corbym is quick to dismiss this as nonsense, arguing that ongoing solar influences mean it’s virtually impossible to have a situation this summer like that of 1976.

Paul Hudson from the BBC has also said that “a close look at the climate records indicates that blocking weather patterns through Spring which have led to the very dry weather across parts of the country, mostly give way to a less settled scenario through the following summer”. So although we may have had a dry start to the year, that doesn’t necessarily mean it will continue.

Welly washout

Will you be wearing your wellies this summer?

Another prediction from Netweather, the proclaimers of 1976 inspired optimism, is also a tad pessimistic for the not too distant future. For those off to Glastonbury festival they suggest you take your wellies, as although there will be some sun, they also expect it to be rather cool and showery.

They also predict a mixed bag (as usual) of British weather for Wimbledon, forecasting a “pleasant start but becoming showery, [with a] slight improvement towards the end.”

So as ever, the elusive British summer remains predictably unpredictable, adding fuel to the flames of the nation’s favourite discourse. But although we may feign despair, being the weather moaners, soothsayers and amateur meteorologists that we Brits are, all that unpredictability is probably just how we like it.

Outback barbecues - tried, trusted and respected.

Their extensive range features all you need to flame grill outside, including gas, charcoal and portable barbecues.

Outback started out in Kent in 1979 as a small family run business and are now one of the leading barbecue manufacturers in the UK. Still in Kent today, Outback continues to be a family run business and strives to provide the best equipment for barbecue enthusiasts.

Every BBQ goes through rigorous testing from design to manufacture and all materials are sustainably sourced. Environmental concern is a key issue for Outback, who were the first manufacturer in the UK to offer Forest Stewardship Council certified timber on all their products as standard.

To give a brief overview of some of the most popular barbecues from Outback, we’ve reviewed three gas barbecues from the Outback barbecue range available at Dobbies, catering for all budgets.

Outback Hunter 3 Burner Gas BBQ

Outback Hunter
Now with £50 off at £299

A one piece porcelain enamelled hood covers the grill, which is acid and corrosion resistant, making it thoroughly waterproof. With three gas burners it’s ideal when cooking for large groups, and there is still room to sizzle a steak on the griddle plate.

For utility space, the Hunter also comes with two built in FSC certified wooden side-tables, making this barbecue an excellent choice for garden parties.

Outback Excel 300 2 Burner Gas BBQ

Outback Excel 300
Now with £20 off at £179

The Excel is a very versatile and strong performing family barbecue that will let you cater for small groups with ease. It’s also excellent value for money and comes with a 1 year warranty.

Outback Omega 150 2 Burner Gas BBQ

Outback Omega 150
Now only £135

There are two gas burners under a compact grill, a hood and a fold-down side shelf, all of which provide enough space to cook for a family of four.

The Omega 150 is perfect for those who want the convenience of gas, whilst keeping it simple enough to easily use and small enough to store away when not in use.

Have a fire pit party

Bonfires are fun on the 5th November, but if you want a controlled heat without getting clouded in smoke then a fire pit or chimenea is what you need.

Both are safe, simple and controllable ways of warming up your evenings when sat out on your decking, patio or garden. They also make fantastic focal points for parties. Chimeneas are charming, chimney like stoves that look great, feel fantastic and can be used for cooking. Fire pits, fire bowls and outdoor fireplaces give a simpler and more exposed fire feature.

There are many flaming hot features that will add extra warmth to your evenings outside. These include garden furniture sets complete with fire pits in the table, simple fire bowls and braziers. All have their unique characters and suit a wide range of open air occasions.

Fire Pit Lounge Set

Wentworth fire pit furniture set

Weber fireplace

Weber fireplace

Fire bowls

Gardeco fire bowl

Braziers

Burning brazier

Chimeneas

Charming chimeneas

For more outdoor heating options, styles and designs, check out the wide range of fire pits and chimeneas available at Dobbies online.

The revolutionary Weber Performer barbecue

Traditionalists espouse the virtues of charcoal barbecues due to what they deem absolutely essential: plenty of smoke. Original barbecue was basically smoking meat until tender and juicy, hence the traditional argument.

In the other camp, modernists sing the praises of gas barbecues: instant heat, easy to control flames and even heat distribution. A simple and convenient way to barbecue.

This argument has been going on for decades and now the barbecue experts at Weber have decided to create a hybrid. Combining the best from both barbecue worlds. The result is a barbecue that has all the authenticity of charcoal with the convenience of gas.

Instant barbecuing

With the Weber Performer, all you need to do is fill the ‘kettle’ with charcoal, turn on the gas, hit the ignition button and hey presto, a charcoal grill that lights like a gas barbecue. The gas ignition means it’s easy to light and the continual even heat gets the charcoal glowing and ready to cook in minutes.

It is a lot easier and safer than using lighter fluid to start a barbecue and makes having a charcoal grill a lot less hassle. Once lit, the gas has done its part and the Performer then behaves very much like a charcoal barbecue with plenty of authentic smoky flavour.

Best of both bbq worlds

This extremely versatile barbeque is based on the long established Weber Kettle Barbecue design, which is great news for the traditionalists. The addition of the gas ignition, ash catcher system and built-in workspace table, takes the barbecue to another level. The Weber Performer ticks all the boxes for those looking for a hassle-free and easy to use barbecue.

So whether you are a BBQ traditionalist, a convenience loving modernist or simply undecided, the Weber Performer barbecue offers the best of both worlds – convenient barbecuing with traditional smoky flavour.

An traditional style chimenea

Their distinctive design not only makes them attractive in any garden but also provides an easily manageable fire for considerable warmth and cooking space.

Originating in the middle ages on the plains of Spain and Mexico, Chimeneas were widely utilised by tribes-people for heat and cooking. Now chimeneas are a common feature in gardens all over the world, and are still used today in much the same way as they were then.

Chimenea design and materials

The explosion of popularity has led to a worldwide distribution and alternative materials being used in their constuction. The traditional clay format is still used but in countries with inclement climates, chimeneas have been forged from bronze, iron, aluminium and steel.

The design of the chimenea was developed to protect the fire from wind and rain, whilst creating a lot of heat from a small amount of fuel. The unique shape makes it easy to use and light, which is a helpful feature in all chimeneas that adds considerably to their popularity.

The body of the chimenea protects the flames and the chimney shaped top encourages the fire to breathe. The small area inside means that with a few bits of paper and some small pieces of wood you can get it burning in no time.

In just a few minutes chimeneas can produce a considerable amount of heat to keep you, friends and family cosy and warm well into the evening.

Chimenea accessories

A contemporary BBQ chimenea

Even without a grill you can still use steel pizza sheets or wrap food in foil and cook it directly on the fire.

You can also help protect your chimenea with a bespoke cover, maintain the fire with a tool set and shield friends and families from flying embers with a fire guard.

The Dobbies chimenea range features top quality manufacturers such as the rustic Adobe chimeneas and the more European styled Gardeco chimenas, visit Dobbies.com now and get free delivery on orders over £50.

BBQ tools can help you cook better, clean easier and make your barbecue food taste amazing.

With a huge range to choose from, there are tools and accessories fit for every flame-grill fanatic. From the essential tools to the adventurous add-ons, there is a BBQ tool for every level of barbecue chef.

Essential BBQ tools

The essential bbq tool set

A stainless steel BBQ tool set is the perfect partner to every barbecue. But if you need a replacement or single addition to your existing BBQ armoury, you can purchase them individually.

And of course, no barbecue tool set would be complete without the obligatory bbq brush and scraper, to help you get off those chargrilled clingers and get your grill gleaming again.

Get your bbq party started

The chimney bbq fire starter

Once lit, you might also want to add a special smoky flavour with some BBQ woodchips. Smoky woodchips are great on charcoal BBQs and come in a variety of flavours including applewood, cherry and even Jack Daniels woodsmoke flavour.

Barbecue accessories

The Weber charcoal rotisserie

There’s a tool for every occassion but not one to stop it raining. However, if you are worried about some dark clouds on the horizon but are committed to seeing your BBQ through to a tasty conclusion, a gazebo provides the perfect shelter.

A barbecue is for life not just for summer! Well almost, so take good care of your cooking companion with a barbecue cover to keep it warm and dry through winter.

Big BBQ selection

With a huge range of bbq tools available at Dobbies.com, it’s time to get tooled up and take your barbecue skills to another level. To attain full char-grilled nirvana, treat your grill to a few barbecue accessories as well.

The Weber Smokey Joe portable bbq

Whether you are looking for gas, charcoal, electric or portable barbecues, Weber have it covered with a wide range that provides for all budgets, needs and desires.

Weber’s strong barbecue history and wealth of experience shines through in all their products. If it helps you cook on an open flame, Weber have made it and probably improved it.

Barbecue beginnings

The original Weber bbq

Taking a hollow metal buoy, George cut it into two pieces to create a barbecue pit with a lid. He then added four legs and the simple kettle barbecue design has remained very similar ever since.

Nearly 60 years on from creating the definitive charcoal barbecue, Weber now produce an incredibly broad range of barbecue related products. All of which are designed for one ultimate purpose – great tasting BBQ food.

Barbecue smokers

The Weber smoker bbq

To get the truly authentic taste of BBQ you need to fully smoke your food and Weber have just the thing to do it with.

The Weber Smoky Mountain allows you to slowly cook your meat to perfection, in flavoursome woodsmoke that provides the authentic taste at the heart of barbecue cooking.

Gas or charcoal barbecue?

The Weber Performer hybrid bbq

For those who can’t choose between the authenticity of charcoal and the convenience of gas; Weber have designed the Performer BBQ which combines gas and charcoal. Now you can be up and running in no time with a gas ignition, and still have the smoky flavour from slow burning charcoal briquettes.

Weber also produce a range of electric and portable BBQs, with the Weber Q140 combining both to let you switch it on and enjoy perfectly cooked food wherever you may be.

Spectacular BBQ selection

The Weber Summit gas barbecue

At the other end of the range is the Weber Summit S670. With 6 gas burners, flavorizer bars and stainless steel cooking grates, the Summit is the ultimate barbecue. At £2,999.99 the Summit represents the top end of the price spectrum and the best in gas barbecue technology.

Weber BBQ tools and accessories

Weber also have a huge range of barbecue tools and accessories to help you barbecue your food to perfection. From tongs and spatulas, to stylishly designed salt and pepper shakers, Weber have thought of every barbecue need.

For the full wonderful Weber barbecue 2011 collection, visit Dobbies online garden centre.

Death comes to us all, but with the proper precautions it needn’t grab you while you’re cooking on coals this summer.

So before you fire up the barbecue, keep the following warnings in mind:

Smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning

Barbecues can lead to burning buildings and toxic fumes
Photo by Shandi-lee Cox

Always make sure that your BBQ is lit in the open air and not under any cover.

When barbecuing you need an abundance of fresh air due to all the smoke and fumes. Without ventilation, smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning are a serious threat.

Before lighting your bbq – look up! Any over-hanging structures can easily catch fire, such as verandas, balconies and trees.

Unlike burning buildings, toxic fumes are often invisible and odourless but both can quickly cause death.

Gas bbq explosions

Gas bbqs cause more fires than charcoal barbecues
Photo by Martin Cathrae

From 2003 to 2006, U.S. fire services responded to 7,900 home fires involving barbecues, 81% of those were fueled by gas (according to NFPA).

Gas barbecues are a very popular choice in gardens across the world, as they are really easy to use and allow you to get cooking straight away.

However, the qualities of gas that make it so convenient in your barbecue, also make it highly dangerous. Always make sure that gas cylinders are stored correctly, in date and in good working condition.

Food asphyxiation

Food inhalation causes more deaths than snakebites
Photo by Jacob Freeman

The National Safety Council in the US says nearly 2,500 people die while dining each year.

The café coronary (as choking is known) outranks aircraft accidents, firearms, lightning and snakebite as a cause of death. Food inhalation is the sixth leading cause of accidental death in America.

So brush up on your Heimlich manoeuvre before your next barbeque.

Garden or house fire

Fully extinguish your barbecue
Photo by Throwingbull

Make sure your barbecue is fully extinguished before disposing or storing.

Putting a charcoal barbecue in the shed or a disposable bbq in a litter bin, whilst it’s still warm will cause dangerous fires.

Sheds are particularly hazardous as they are often used to store flammable liquids and most are made from wood. If located next to your home the potential for disaster is high.

Food poisoning

400 people die in the U.K. from food poisoning each year
Photo by Ernesto Andrade

Every year there are 500 deaths from food poisoning in the UK (see NHS Wales report). In 2009, there were 74,974 reported cases of food poisoning in England and Wales (according to CIEH)

Many more get ill and have to take time off of work, which is estimated to cost the economy upwards of £1.5 billion a year (see FSA report).

Interestingly, cases of food poisoning double in frequency during the barbecue season.

To help you stay safe, take a look at our barbecue safety guide and make sure you always read the instructions that come with any new barbecue before assembling and lighting it.