23 Spectacular Fire Pit Ideas to Transform Your Outdoor Space
What’s better than gathering around an outdoor fire pit in the evening? With peaceful crackling sounds and dancing flames, a fire pit is the ultimate cosy place to sit with friends and family and chat the night away. At Harbour Lifestyle, we believe that few elements can rival the inviting warmth of garden fire pit ideas. But with so many options available, which is the right pick to enhance your outdoor living space?
We’ll fan the flames of inspiration with 20 of the best outdoor fire pit ideas and guide you through essential safety tips so you can enjoy your fire pit responsibly. From sleek and modern to rustic and charming, we have something for everyone. Add some snuggly blankets and marshmallows for roasting, and you’re good to go!
The benefits of adding a fire pit to your garden
Adding a fire pit to your garden might just be the best way to heat things up. And we’re not just talking literally. Here’s why:
Ambience and aesthetics: A fire pit is a natural focal point that draws people in, adding elegance and cosiness to your garden. It also helps create the perfect setting for memorable evenings.
Extend your outdoor living season: Who says you can’t enjoy your garden even when the temperatures drop? Fire pits keep the good times going, providing warmth well into the cooler months.
Boost property value: A stylish, well-placed fire pit can increase your home’s appeal and value, making it an investment that’s both fun and financially rewarding.
Table fire pits vs traditional fire pits:
- Table fire pits: Great for compact spaces, table fire pits provide extra space, doubling up as tables for meals, drinks and snacks—perfect for cosy evening gatherings with your partner or friends.
- Traditional fire pits: Ideal for larger areas, traditional fire pits will create a campfire vibe in the back of your garden and are great for bigger gatherings and intense catch-up sessions.
23 top fire pit ideas for your garden
1. Go modern with a rectangular fire pit table
Luna 8 Seat Outdoor Fabric Rectangular Ceramic Firepit Dining Set in Oyster Grey - £3,849
First up, it’s the classic, modern choice. A rectangular patio pit table is a great option for those who love to entertain, providing enough space for drinks and snacks. Adding a modern look to your garden, this design creates a focal point that seamlessly integrates into your patio or deck.
With its clean lines and minimal aesthetic, a rectangular fire pit table is a versatile centrepiece. It allows guests to gather around, toast some marshmallows and sip a cocktail or two while enjoying its warmth and ambience. Whether you opt for a sleek black-and-grey design or rustic fire pit ideas, it’s the perfect spot for hosting your next stylish soirée.
2. Think sculptural with a round fire pit
Cosiloft 120 Black and Teak Round Fire Pit £1475.00
A round fire pit table is ideal for a more sculptural and organic design. The circular shape also encourages conversation and creates an intimate atmosphere among those who gather around.
From rustic wooden teak tabletops to sleek metal finishes, there are endless options to match your outdoor aesthetic for a striking centrepiece or a more subtle addition. With a round fire pit table like this, you can easily gather the family or party guests around the flames to create lasting memories.
3. Add geometric shapes with a square fire pit
Looking for more fire pit ideas? Give square fire pits a try! Adding a more geometric look to your garden, square fire pits offer a clean, symmetrical look perfect for those who appreciate modern design with a hint of classic charm.
Whether placed pride and centre on your patio or tucked away into a cosy corner, these fire pits create a gathering spot that draws people in. And with plenty of room for everyone to sit around, a square fire pit provides warmth and ambience in equal measure. Pair it with other geometric furniture like an L or U-shaped corner sofa to maintain the cohesive look and structural feel in your garden.
4. Enjoy evening drinks at a fire pit bar
Kalama 6 Seat Rope Teak Firepit Bar Set in Latte - £3,849
Why go out when you can bring the bar to your back garden? A fire pit bar combines the best of both worlds: the warmth of a fire and the enjoyment of sipping your favourite drinks al fresco style. Perfect for those who love socialising outdoors, add some stylish bar chairs and turn on the flames to create a centrepiece for enjoying drinks and food under the stars.
For minimal effort and maintenance, choose a fire pit bar table with a built-in gas burner and a simple on/off switch so you can focus more on what really matters—spending more time with your guests.
5. Add versatility with a fire lantern
Höfats SPIN 90 Table Top Fire in Silver - £129.99
Ok, while it’s not exactly a fire pit per se, a fire lantern allows you to add the same warm glow of a fire to your outdoor space with extra portability. They can be moved around your garden to light up pathways and decks or create a cosy seating area wherever you choose.
Ideal for smaller spaces or as an addition to your existing setup, they offer a softer, more intimate glow than traditional fire pits, perfect for creating a magical ambience.
6. Explore rustic brick and stone fire pit ideas
Transport your garden to the countryside with stone and rustic fire pit ideas. Whether you’re a fan of the popular cottagecore farmhouse aesthetic or simply want something more traditional, these charming fire pits will add a cosy, rustic vibe to your garden.
Surround your stone or brick fire pit with lush greenery, a wooden sofa set and cosy outdoor cushions to create a homely and inviting space full of warmth and character for gatherings with friends and family.
7. Opt for a tall fire pit table
Luna 6 Seat Outdoor Fabric Teak Firepit Bar Set in Oyster Grey - £3,849
Reach new heights with a tall fire pit table that commands attention and serves as both a fire pit and a small bar table.
The tall fire pit table adds a sense of elegance while also providing some surface area for standing guests to place their drinks and snacks. Whether you opt for a fresh white colour or a moody black design, this freestanding fire pit table becomes a focal point that effortlessly blends style and practicality.
8. Dine al fresco with a rattan fire pit set
Como 3 Seat Rattan Sofa Set Set in Natural Antique - £2,949
If you enjoy al fresco dining and cosy furniture, a rattan dining set with a built-in fire pit is an excellent pick. Rattan furniture is a durable and stylish garden furniture idea that adds natural beauty and elegance to complement any garden. These sets feature a central dining table with a built-in fire pit in the middle, surrounded by comfortable rattan chairs.
They create an inviting atmosphere for outdoor meals and allow you to enjoy mealtimes with loved ones while staying warm and relaxed. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or a casual brunch, a rattan fire pit set is designed to make every meal unforgettable.
9. Elevate the space with a sleek black fire pit
Make a bold statement with a sleek black fire pit. If you prefer a modern look, this piece is a great addition thanks to its contemporary, minimalist design that goes with just about any décor.
Creating a striking contrast against your garden walls, fences and greenery, it instantly gives the space a luxurious designer edge. Let it stand out on its own, or pair it with matching black outdoor furniture for an even more cohesive look.
10. Fall in love with a fire pit dining table
Looking for luxurious outdoor dining ideas to take your garden setup to the next level? Let us introduce fire pit dining sets. With an easy-to-use fire pit built right into the ceramic table, these tables pair nicely with ultra-comfortable weatherproof rope chairs.
Doing it this way means you won’t have to choose between a dining table and a fire pit area—you can have both in the same place! Simply switch on the fire pit and enjoy your food around the small dancing flames. Add a chic outdoor rug and some colourful cushions, and you’ll quickly become the go-to host for your social circle’s outdoor events.
11. Choose a durable concrete fire pit
Cosibrixx 60 Concrete Fire Pit £685.00
Concrete fire pits are the unsung heroes of the outdoor décor world, built to withstand harsh weather conditions and stand the test of time. With their clean lines and industrial charm, robust concrete fire pits complement just about any garden and provide a modern look that’s both durable and stylish. Add sleek aluminium garden furniture and white outdoor cushions to complete the look.
12. Adopt a traditional wood fire pit
For those who appreciate the rustic campfire experience of a crackling wood fire, a traditional wood fire pit is a timeless choice. With a traditional fire pit, you’ll enjoy the charming smell and sounds of burning wood. Create a cosy seating area around the fire with a comfortable garden sofa set. Then, gather your loved ones to kick back, relax and bask in the fire’s warmth.
With their natural appeal, rustic fire pit ideas add an infusion of campfire nostalgia and simplicity to any garden.
13. Add nearby seating options
Merano 2 Seat Sofa Set and Coffee Tables in Latte £2,999.00
To truly create a welcoming and inviting ambience around your fire pit, comfortable seating is a must-have.
No one wants to sit on hard, plastic lawn chairs for too long. Instead, choose plush garden sofas, lounge chairs or day beds with cushions and blankets that provide extra comfort and style. Arrange your seating around the fire to encourage conversation and create a welcoming atmosphere where guests can unwind. Consider materials like weather-resistant fabric and rope, which are durable without sacrificing style.
14. Match your colour scheme
Cosipure 120 White and Teak Rectangular Fire Pit £1,579.00
Opt for a fire pit that complements your outdoor colour scheme. Whether you prefer bold and vibrant hues or soft, neutral tones, coordinating your fire pit with your existing décor will tie everything together and create harmony in your garden.
For example, consider a white fire pit table to match a neutral white and grey sofa for a crisp and clean look. The white colour not only enhances the overall aesthetic but also creates a sense of tranquillity, making it a perfect choice for an understated but thoughtful design.
15. Consider DIY fire pit ideas for a customised look
Unleash your creativity with DIY fire pit ideas that allow you to customise every detail, from size and shape to materials and design. Going down the DIY route allows you to tailor your fire pit to suit your unique style and outdoor space while providing a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.
With a bit of planning and effort, you can create a one-of-a-kind centrepiece that transforms your garden into a cosy, custom haven.
16. Embrace comfort with a casual sofa & rising fire pit table
Luna U-Shape Outdoor Fabric Corner Dining with Rising Firepit Table in Oyster Grey - £5,749
If comfort is the first thing that comes to mind when creating your ideal outdoor space, then look no further. For those seeking ultimate relaxation, a comfy sofa set with a rising fire pit table is the answer, helping you to transition from cosy coffee mornings to evening cocktail parties.
The table adjusts to whatever height you prefer, and there’s plenty of room for food and drinks. As far as fire pit seating ideas go, this is one of our absolute favourites. Pair it with a stylish garden parasol or place it under a luxury pergola for added outdoor shade.
17. Introduce a unique pillar fire lantern
Cosiscoop Pillar Lantern in Teak £789.99
Want to wow your guests with an out-of-the-box garden feature? Add an element of intrigue with a pillar fire lantern.
These tall and elegant structures resemble lanterns or columns and come in various design choices, from rustic to modern. The flames dance within the enclosed glass structure at the top, providing warmth and casting a gorgeous glow perfect for intimate gatherings or quiet evenings.
Place it strategically in the corner of your seating area, let it frame an outdoor casual dining setup or place it in front and centre of your garden to create a head-turning focal point.
18. Add wood storage
Cosivista 160 Black Fire Pit £1,685.00
If you’re on the hunt for a wooden fire pit, look for one with built-in storage for wooden logs to create an authentic, rustic look. Not only will it pair great with wooden furniture and natural foliage, but it will also ensure you’ll have a supply of dry wood on hand to keep the fire crackling.
19. Pair the fire pit with mood-lighting
If you've got this far, you may be wondering how to decorate the rest of your outdoor living space around your fire pit. The good news is, there are plenty of ways to dress up a fire pit area—one being outdoor lighting.
Use soft string lights, lanterns or LEDs on your patio, deck, pergola or around seating areas to accentuate garden features and create a moody atmosphere that enhances the gentle ambience of the flame.
20. Explore sunken fire pit ideas
Take your garden design to the next level and think outside the box by exploring sunken fire pit ideas. Great for anyone who wants a more unique fire pit setup, these variants amp up the cosy factor, creating an intimate atmosphere that invites guests to gather below ground level around the fire. Sunken fire pit ideas also provide shelter from the wind, making them functional as well as visually impressive.
Whether you go for a simple stone circle or a more elaborate design with built-in seating, a sunken fire pit adds depth (literally) and interest to your garden.
21. Create a cosy corner with a bench
Richmond Antique Wood Bench with Pop Up Table in Antique Grey - £215
No space for a chunky outdoor sofa? No problem. Turn that little unused garden corner into your new favourite space to kick back and unwind with a small fire pit and a wooden garden bench.
These beautiful benches create an intimate seating area and are perfect for gathering with family and friends - not to mention that the glow of the fire will look stunning against the warmth and elegance of the natural wood. Just add cushions and blankets for extra comfort, and you’re good to go.
22. Place your fire pit near a window or sliding doors
Luna 6 Seat Outdoor Fabric Ceramic Firepit Bar Set in Grey - £3,699
Make the most of the cosy glow by placing your fire pit near a window or sliding doors, and enjoy the warmth and flickering light both indoors and outdoors.
It is the perfect setup for creating a harmonious flow between your living space and garden and for chilly nights when you want to enjoy the ambience without braving the cold. Bathing your interior a cosy, golden glow, it’s a great way to enjoy your fire pit from the comfort of your home.
23. Install a fire pit under a pergola
PergoSTET 3m x 4m Rectangular Pergola with 3 Drop Sides and LED Lighting in Grey - £3,999.00
Turn your garden into the ultimate go-to destination with a fire pit under a pergola. These impressive structures provide shade and the perfect framework for fairy lights and lanterns to add to the ambience of your fire pit at night and create a defined outdoor living space.
Open and airy enough to allow for ample airflow above and around your pit, a pergola creates an intimate space for year-round enjoyment.
How to build outdoor fire pit ideas
Whether you’re handy with tools or prefer leaving the work up to a professional, building a fire pit is a rewarding project that will turn your garden into a cosy outdoor living area that you can enjoy for years to come.
Here’s our step-by-step guide on how to build backyard fire pit ideas:
Step 1: Plan and mark the area
Start by arranging your blocks in the shape and size you want for your fire pit. Whether you have a large or small garden, use these blocks to space out the area and mark the ground by creating an outline around all the sides with a shovel. You’ll also want to make sure the outline is about 4 inches from the edges of the blocks to give yourself some working room.
Step 2: Measure and dig
Stack two blocks on top of each other to measure their combined height to determine how deep to dig your hole. Once you have your height, dig your pit to the desired depth within your marked area, ensuring it's wide enough for your fire pit blocks and dig a trench to seat them, leaving space for a sub-base.
Step 3: Prepare the base
Use a sledgehammer to flatten the soil in the trench, creating a sturdy, level surface and double-check the measurements to ensure everything is accurate.
Place the ventilation tube where it will be installed and mark the location with a line on either side. Next, dig an inclined channel for the tube, ensuring it reaches the bottom layer of blocks.
Step 4: Install ventilation
Ventilation is an absolute necessity. To install this, you'll need to drill a hole in one of your blocks using a diamond core drill bit. Find the centre of your block, align your drill bit and carefully drill a hole.
Check to ensure your ventilation tube fits through the hole, then place the block in your fire pit hole and feed the tube through. Position the vent and lay it in place.
Step 5: Lay the foundation
Create a sub-base by adding four parts sand to one part cement on a mixing tray. Mix well and add water gradually to form concrete.
Pour a layer of concrete around the trench and lay down the bottom layer of blocks, ensuring the block with the hole faces the ventilation channel. Use a rubber mallet to adjust the blocks, securing them in place with the cement.
Step 6: Build the fire pit
Add concrete to the top of each block, repeating the process until you reach the top layer. Check that your blocks are level and make any necessary adjustments.
Use a brick joint trowel to clean up excess concrete and leave it to dry completely. Once dry, fill the area around the outside of the blocks with soil, including around the ventilation tunnel.
Step 7: Finishing touches
Fill the centre of the fire pit with stone chippings, stopping at the bottom of the vent hole, and level them out. Place coping stones on top of the blocks, allowing them to overhang the pit's edge by about a centimetre.
Step 8: Enjoy your fire pit
Invite friends and family over for a BBQ, light a fire and enjoy the warmth and ambience of your newly built fire pit.
If DIY isn't your thing, hire a professional to ensure a seamless installation instead or better yet, buy a firepit to get the good times rolling… quickly! They can provide expert advice on the design, materials and safety, turning your fire pit vision into reality with minimal fuss.
Safety tips for using fire pits
Fire pits provide warmth, ambience and the perfect gathering spot to relax while you catch up with loved ones. They also provide an open flame, meaning safety should always be your top priority. Ensure you get the most out of your new fire pit and enjoy it responsibly with these essential safety tips.
- Choose the right location: To reduce fire hazards, place your fire pit on a non-flammable surface away from structures, trees and overhanging branches. Ensure it’s in a clear, open area.
- Maintain a safe distance: Keep furniture, decorations and other flammable items at least 10 feet from the fire pit. Always supervise children and pets whenever your fit pit is in use, ensuring they maintain a safe distance.
- Use proper fuel: Use only wood, charcoal or fuel specifically designed for your fire pit. Avoid burning rubbish, treated wood or flammable liquids that can release harmful chemicals or cause uncontrolled fires.
- Keep a fire extinguisher handy: Always have a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand and water nearby in case of emergencies, and make sure that everyone knows how to use it to extinguish a fire safely.
Get toasty with Harbour Lifestyle’s fire pit ideas
During the crisp autumn and winter months, a fire pit turns a chilly night into a prime opportunity to spend time in nature. And, with all the fire pits we've covered, there's something to suit every taste and style, from industrial-style fire pit tables to more rustic fire pit ideas.
A fire pit is more than just your average garden feature—it’s the heart of your garden, where you can warm your hands around the fire, toast marshmallows, sip hot chocolate and spend time with family and friends.
Just remember that when it comes to garden fire pit ideas, safety is key, so keep our tips in mind to ensure the best experience possible.
Ready to find the perfect outdoor fire pit ideas? Explore Harbour Lifestyle’s premium collection of fire pits and outdoor furniture to enjoy your garden all year long. Whether you’re looking for a contemporary design to match your minimalist garden or a more traditional setup that adds warmth, our range offers high quality and style to elevate your outdoor space.
FAQs
What is best to put in the bottom of a fire pit?
Sand, gravel, lava rocks or fire pit glass are the best materials to put in the bottom of a fire pit, helping with drainage and heat distribution while preventing damage to the fire pit structure.
How to build a cheap fire pit?
To build a cheap fire pit, use materials like bricks or pavers, which you can often find second-hand or at a discount. Dig a shallow pit in your garden, arrange the blocks in a circle and layer them until you reach your preferred height. Make sure you have proper ventilation and a non-flammable surface, like sand or gravel, at the bottom.
Are fire pits a good idea?
Fire pits make a great addition to any garden. Not only do they provide warmth, ambience and a gathering spot for socialising and relaxing, but they also extend the usability of your garden long into the cooler autumn and winter months.
What are the disadvantages of a fire pit?
A fire pit can be a potential safety hazard if it is not properly maintained or supervised and can also produce smoke, which may be a concern for anyone with respiratory issues. Depending on where you live, some areas may have strict regulations or bans on open fires, which can limit their use.
