Premium Lumpwood Charcoal & Briquette BBQ Fuel
for authentic flavour and consistent heat
Frequently Asked Questions*
What types of BBQ charcoal do you stock?
We stock premium lump charcoal (natural hardwood), charcoal briquettes (compressed charcoal), and binchotan (Japanese white charcoal). Lump charcoal burns hotter and cleaner, briquettes burn longer and more consistently, and binchotan provides intense heat for Japanese-style grilling. Each type suits different cooking styles and BBQ types.
What is lump charcoal and when should I use it?
Lump charcoal is natural hardwood charcoal made from whole pieces of wood. It burns hotter (up to 400°C+), lights faster, produces less ash, and provides authentic wood-fired flavour. Essential for kamado grills like Big Green Egg and ideal for high-heat grilling and searing. Premium choice for serious BBQ enthusiasts.
What are charcoal briquettes and when should I use them?
Charcoal briquettes are compressed charcoal that burns longer and more consistently than lump charcoal. They maintain steady temperatures for extended cooking sessions, making them ideal for low-and-slow smoking and long BBQ sessions. More affordable than lump charcoal but produce more ash. Good for kettle BBQs and traditional charcoal grilling.
What is binchotan charcoal?
Binchotan (white charcoal) is premium Japanese oak charcoal that burns extremely hot (up to 1000°C), clean, and long-lasting. Used in specialist Japanese grills like Kasai Konro for yakitori and robata cooking. Provides intense radiant heat for restaurant-quality searing. More expensive but offers exceptional performance for Japanese-style grilling.
Which charcoal should I use for my Big Green Egg?
Always use premium lump charcoal for Big Green Egg and other kamado grills - never briquettes. Lump charcoal burns cleaner, produces less ash, and allows better airflow for precise temperature control. Big Green Egg premium lump charcoal is specifically designed for kamado cooking and provides excellent performance and flavour.
What gas do BBQs use and where can I get it?
Most BBQs in the UK use propane (LPG) in bottles. Flogas propane is available in-store at Oaktree Garden Centre. If you're looking for Calor Gas, it's available at World of Water at Oaktree Garden Centre. Propane is readily available, easy to replace, and provides excellent performance for outdoor cooking in all UK weather conditions.
What size gas bottle do I need for my BBQ?
Common sizes include 5kg (portable BBQs, occasional use), 6kg (compact gas BBQs), 13kg (standard family BBQs, regular use), and 15kg (large BBQs, frequent use). Larger bottles offer better value and fewer refills. Check your BBQ specifications for compatible bottle sizes and regulator requirements. Visit our showroom for advice on the right size.
How long does BBQ charcoal last?
Lump charcoal burns for 2-4 hours depending on airflow and temperature. Briquettes burn for 4-6 hours with consistent heat. Binchotan can burn for 4-5 hours at high temperatures. In kamado grills like Big Green Egg, lump charcoal is incredibly efficient - a single load can burn for 8-12+ hours at low temperatures for smoking.
How should I store BBQ charcoal?
Store charcoal in a dry location away from moisture. Keep in original bags or sealed containers to prevent absorption of moisture, which affects lighting and burning. Store in a garage, shed, or covered area. Damp charcoal is difficult to light and produces excessive smoke. Properly stored charcoal lasts indefinitely.
Can I use any charcoal in my BBQ?
Most charcoal BBQs accept lump charcoal or briquettes. However, kamado grills like Big Green Egg require lump charcoal only - never briquettes. Specialist Japanese grills like Kasai Konro are designed for binchotan charcoal. Always check your BBQ manufacturer's recommendations for fuel type to ensure optimal performance and avoid warranty issues.
How do I know when my gas bottle is running low?
Most BBQs show reduced flame and pressure when gas is running low. You can also weigh the bottle - the tare weight (empty weight) is stamped on the collar, so compare the current weight to know how much gas remains. It's good practice to keep a spare bottle on hand so you never run out mid-cook.
Can I buy BBQ charcoal online with UK delivery?
Yes, shop our range of BBQ charcoal online with UK delivery. Browse lump charcoal, briquettes, and binchotan with detailed specifications. Please note: gas bottles cannot be supplied online but are available in-store. For local customers in Berkshire, Bracknell, Ascot, Wokingham, Windsor, Maidenhead, and Reading, we offer showroom collection for both charcoal and gas.
Where can I buy BBQ charcoal and gas in person?
Visit our Berkshire showroom at Oaktree Garden Centre to purchase BBQ charcoal and gas. Flogas propane is available in-store, whilst Calor Gas is available at World of Water at Oaktree Garden Centre. Our specialists can advise on the best fuel type for your BBQ and help with gas bottle selection. Convenient for customers in Bracknell, Ascot, Wokingham, Windsor, Maidenhead, Reading, and surrounding areas.
*These FAQs provide general guidance. Always follow the specific product manual and manufacturer instructions for safety, assembly, and operation. Manufacturer guidelines take precedence.