Buyer's guide to barbecues

2. Weber winners

There is a reason why Weber barbecues are consistently bestsellers. Trustworthy, simple to use and attractive, Weber grills are popular choices. Their compact kettle barbecue (£55) from Heal's is a classic garden staple and a surefire winner for those who want to be able to move their barbecue around.

3. Gas for ease

Throw an impromptu barbecue with minimum effort. The 3-burner gas barbecue (£349) from M&S comes equipped with an adjustable heat panel, allowing you to control the cooking temperature, while the stainless steel design makes it easy to clean and maintain.

4. Feeding five thousand

If you've got an army of hungry mouths to feed on a budget, buy the half barrel barbecue (£39.95) from Crocus. Lucy Warwick, outdoor buyer for John Lewis says, "Charcoal barbecues are the traditional option where the heat below the grill from glowing embers gives the food a classic barbecued appearance."

5. Au naturel

Nervous of buying an ugly monstrosity for your pretty garden? Help is at hand from B&Q who are selling the Panama 3 burner gas barbecue (£399.98). It has an attractive hardwood frame and lights easily. Mother Nature would approve.

6. Stainless steel

'Gas is cleaner and easier to use,' says Vidaurre. 'But some prefer the theatre and ambience of a charcoal barbeque. If you only have room to store your bbq outside all year round, choose an external material like weather-proof stainless steel or purchase a cover. The stainless steel pedestal charcoal barbecue (£49.99) from Crocus has adjustable cooking heights and air vents. Just make sure you use charcoal from sustainable sources. As much as 40,000 tonnes of barbecued charcoal in the UK comes from unsustainable sources every year.

7. Pink party

Not only does John Lewis have a huge range of traditional barbies, they also sells this delightful cerise bucket charcoal barbecue (£15) for something that feels a little more homemade. Portable and pretty, this is the ultimate fashionable statement for the park or beach.

8. Warm and wonderful

Keep warm outside with this attractive La Hacienda cast iron chiminea (£59.99) from Godfrey's DIY. The shape of chimineas which resemble ancient scent bottles – bulging bottom and narrow neck – has a charming ethnic look.

9. Cooking with gas

Why not try this sophisticated compact cooker, with 2 porcelain enamelled, cast iron cooking grates and 2 burners for indirect cooking weber gas barbecue (£330) from John Lewis. Not only is a mobile, lightweight but it also has two tables attached making preparation simpler. Your friends will definitely be making frequent visits to your house this summer

10. Mobile barbecue

These Portable Barbecues from I Want One of Those (£24.95) are the latest in table top, garden, patio and park outdoor sizzlers. You even have a choice of two different styles; the Fold Flat BBQ or the Carry and Go Briefcase BBQ both made from pressed steal. Great value and environmentally friendly these are a summer must have.

Looking for alfresco inspiration? Check out our garden section and buyer's guide to garden furniture to prepare for the summer months.

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