Why Choose a Kettle Charcoal BBQ?
Iconic Dome Design
The distinctive dome-shaped lid is the signature of kettle BBQs. This design creates an oven-like environment that traps heat and smoke around food for superior cooking results. The dome shape promotes even heat circulation, preventing hot and cold spots. Originally designed by George Stephen in 1952 (the Weber kettle), this iconic shape has become the benchmark for versatile charcoal cooking.
Versatile Cooking Methods
Kettle BBQs excel at multiple cooking methods. Direct grilling (food over coals) for burgers, steaks, and sausages. Indirect cooking (coals on one side, food on the other) for roasting whole chickens and joints. Low-and-slow smoking for brisket, ribs, and pulled pork. Even baking pizzas and bread. One BBQ, endless possibilities.
Precise Temperature Control
Adjustable vents on the lid and base provide precise temperature control. Open vents fully for high-heat grilling (230°C+), close partially for low-and-slow smoking (110-150°C). The bottom vent controls oxygen to the coals, the top vent controls airflow and smoke. This simple system allows accurate temperature management without electronics or complicated controls.
Superior Heat Retention
The enclosed dome lid traps heat efficiently, maintaining consistent temperatures even in wind and cold UK weather. This heat retention makes kettle BBQs fuel-efficient - you use less charcoal than open grills. The lid also protects food from wind and light rain whilst cooking, extending your outdoor cooking season.
How to Use a Kettle Charcoal BBQ
Direct Grilling
Spread charcoal in a single layer across the base. Light using a chimney starter and wait until coals are covered with white ash (15-20 minutes). Place food directly over coals. Cook with lid open for quick searing or closed for faster cooking and smoky flavour. Perfect for burgers, steaks, sausages, and vegetables.
Indirect Cooking
Arrange charcoal on one side of the BBQ only. Place a drip tray on the empty side. Position food over the drip tray (not over coals). Close the lid and adjust vents to maintain 180-200°C. The BBQ acts like an oven, roasting food evenly. Ideal for whole chickens, joints, and large cuts that need longer cooking.
Smoking
Set up for indirect cooking as above. Add wood chunks or chips to the coals for smoke. Close the lid and adjust vents to maintain low temperatures (110-150°C). The dome circulates smoke around food for authentic BBQ flavour. Perfect for brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and whole chickens. Add more charcoal and wood as needed for long smoking sessions.
Kettle BBQ Brands
Weber Kettle BBQs
The original and most iconic kettle BBQ brand. Weber kettles (introduced in 1952) are known for exceptional build quality, porcelain enamel coating that lasts decades, and precise vent systems. Available in 47cm, 57cm, and 67cm sizes. The Weber Original Kettle is the benchmark for charcoal kettle BBQs. Many Weber kettles last 20+ years with proper care.
Napoleon Charcoal Kettles
Premium charcoal kettle BBQs with innovative features and superior construction. Napoleon kettles offer stainless steel components, advanced airflow systems, and thoughtful design details. Excellent heat retention and precise temperature control. Perfect for those who want premium features and performance in a traditional kettle design.
Big Green Egg Kamado Grills
Ceramic kamado grills that take the kettle concept to the next level. Thick ceramic construction provides exceptional heat retention, moisture control, and fuel efficiency. Big Green Eggs can hold temperatures for 12+ hours, making them ideal for long smoking sessions. More expensive than steel kettles but offer unmatched performance and versatility.
Kettle BBQ Sizes
47cm (18 inch): Compact size for 2-4 people. Perfect for small gardens, balconies, or as a portable option. Cooking area suits 6-8 burgers.
57cm (22 inch): Most popular size for families of 4-6. Best balance of cooking area and portability. Cooking area handles 12-15 burgers. Ideal for most UK gardens.
67cm (26 inch): Large size for 8+ people and serious outdoor cooking. Cooking area accommodates 20+ burgers or multiple large joints. Perfect for regular entertaining.
Shop BBQ Products
- Weber BBQs - Weber kettle BBQs & gas grills
- Napoleon Grills - Napoleon charcoal & gas BBQs
- Big Green Egg - Ceramic kamado grills
- Charcoal BBQs - All charcoal BBQ models
- BBQ Charcoal & Gas - Fuel supplies
- BBQ Accessories - Tools & equipment
- BBQ Covers - Weather protection
Buy Kettle Charcoal BBQs Online with UK Delivery
Shop our range of kettle charcoal BBQs online with UK delivery. Browse Weber kettle BBQs including the legendary Weber Original Kettle, Napoleon charcoal kettles with premium features, and Big Green Egg ceramic kamado grills with detailed specifications, size information, and features. Compare brands and sizes to find the perfect kettle BBQ for your garden and cooking needs. All kettle BBQs designed for versatile outdoor cooking and built to last.
For local customers in Berkshire, Bracknell, Ascot, Wokingham, Windsor, Maidenhead, and Reading, we offer showroom collection and local delivery. Visit our Berkshire showroom at Oaktree Garden Centre to see our range of kettle charcoal BBQs on display. Our specialists can demonstrate vent systems, explain direct and indirect cooking techniques, compare Weber, Napoleon, and Big Green Egg models, and help you choose the right kettle BBQ for your outdoor cooking style.
All kettle charcoal BBQs are designed for authentic charcoal flavour and versatile cooking. Shop online for convenient nationwide delivery, or visit our Berkshire showroom for expert advice and hands-on demonstrations.