25 Outdoor Kitchen Ideas: How To Create The Perfect Garden Cooking Space
Are you ready to host memorable outdoor meals with your friends and family this summer? Having an outdoor living space means there are plenty of opportunities to throw garden parties, birthday bashes, barbecues and sunset evening dinners on the patio or by the pool. The only problem? Having to run back and forth between the kitchen and your garden. Plus, who wants to be stuck inside cooking while everyone else gets to soak up the sun outside? As a result, you may be wondering how to make an outdoor kitchen in the UK. With a beautiful, open-air kitchen garden, you can be right in the middle of the festivities while preparing delicious culinary creations for family and friends. Even better — you can get everyone involved in the fun.
Become an expert in the art of al fresco dining and discover how to make an outdoor kitchen in the UK with Harbour Lifestyle’s outdoor kitchen ideas. We promise that they’ll make you want to eat outside all summer long.
What is the point of an outdoor kitchen?
Outdoor kitchen garden ideas are exactly how they sound — fully-fledged kitchens for outside cooking. With the power to instantly transform your garden, an outdoor kitchen lets you take a break from using your indoor kitchen and cook outside in the fresh air. It also acts as a central point for social gatherings, allowing you to prepare meals without missing out on the fun. It can even encourage healthier eating habits, with grilling being one the healthiest ways to cook. Outdoor kitchens can also increase your home’s value, making them a smart investment for anyone looking to blend their culinary passions with the great outdoors.
How to build an outdoor kitchen in the UK: 25 outdoor kitchen ideas
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Add shade via a Pergola
PergoSTET 3m x 4m Rectangular Pergola with 3 Drop Sides and LED Lighting in White - £3,999
Enhance your outdoor kitchen with a stylish pergola, providing shade and protecting your kitchen from unpredictable showers (a must in the UK!) Plus, a pergola enhances the aesthetic of your garden threefold by adding architectural interest. Decorate your pergola with beautiful climbing plants. Or, invest in a state-of-the-art pergola with a louvred roof. This allows you to open or close it for complete control over your shading, creating a comfortable and inviting setting to cook and dine.
2. Optimise your outdoor kitchen layout for light
Napoleon 700 Series 32" Built-in Gas Grill £2,220.00
Design your outdoor kitchen to take full advantage of natural light. Position cooking and dining areas where they can receive enough sunlight during the day and enjoy the ambience of a sunset in the evening. Enhance the versatility of your outdoor kitchen by adding a mix of task lighting under counters and warm, diffused lighting with a soft glow overhead. This setup allows you to extend your kitchen's usability into the evening, giving you full control over the atmosphere.
3. Create a seamless transition from inside to outside
Panama Luxury Outdoor Large Corner Group Set in Latte - £3,799
Install large sliding glass or bi-fold doors to open up your home and create a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors. This addition will also make the movement between your kitchen inside and the outdoors kitchen more fluid. Matching colours, floor tiles and countertops help unify spaces, making your outdoor kitchen feel like a natural extension of your home. Meanwhile, a covered structure, like a pergola, will help create a distinct outdoor kitchen and dining area that blurs the lines between inside and outside.
4. Deck out your kitchen with all the essential appliances
Fontana Mangiafuoco Stainless Wood Pizza Oven Including Trolley £2,999.00
Equip your outdoor kitchen with high-end appliances to make it as functional as its indoor counterpart. A built-in grill is obviously a must, as well as an outdoor fridge to keep your drinks cool.
Add a pizza oven for an Italian twist that will have friends and family queuing out your door. Meanwhile, a smoker can recreate those intense, classic barbecue flavours everyone loves. Don't forget to add all those handy kitchen utensils, ensuring your outdoor kitchen is ready for any meal and occasion, from a simple family dinner to a large garden party.
5. Build a wooden outdoor kitchen for a traditional look
Quay 6 Seat Round Dining Set in Linen - £1,749
Go for a classic look with a wooden outdoor kitchen and furniture that not only looks gorgeous in the sun but also blends beautifully with your garden.
Invest in durable, weather-resistant woods like teak or iroko that bring a timeless charm to your al fresco experience. Complement it with natural stone countertops and iron or bronze hardware to create a rustic, farm-chic aesthetic.
6. Set Up a Pizza Making Station
Juno Pro 16" Gas Pizza Oven - £349
Create a dedicated pizza-making station complete with a wood-fired oven. Add a stone worktop for kneading dough, built-in storage for your ingredients and pizza accessories for restaurant-quality cooking in your own home.
This specialised station will make pizza nights more exciting and add an interactive element where guests can create their own custom pizzas. Design the area with terracotta tiles, red brick or decorative Italian ceramic motifs for an authentic feel that will make you feel like you're on the Amalfi Coast.
7. Fire Up the Kamado Grill
Kamado BBQ 22" Ceramic Grill in Matte Green - £849
Get juicy meat every single time with a Kamado grill. A must-have addition to any outdoor kitchen, this versatile grill does it all, allowing you to grill, smoke and even bake. Each Kamado grill is egg-shaped and constructed from ceramic, with thick walls and a heat-resistant shell that's superior at retaining heat. They lock in smoke and moisture at any temperature, giving meals a unique and succulent flavour.
A statement piece, Kamado grills are both a superior piece of cooking equipment and visually appealing — perfect for any barbecue enthusiast.
8. Cover the Kitchen
PergoSTET 3m x 3m Steel Square Pergola in Grey - £1,429
Add a permanent roofed structure over your outdoor kitchen to protect it against the wind and rain for year-round usage, even during the autumn and winter months. For a unified look, choose materials that complement the style of your home. Consider adding a pergola with LED lights and drop sides to keep your kitchen 100% waterproof and your appliances safe.
Harbour Lifestyle’s range even comes with built-in drainage systems to direct any excess rainwater from the roof into the framework of the pergola, making it a versatile addition to your outdoor living area.
9. Go for rustic outdoor kitchen ideas
Napoleon 700 Series 32" Built-in Gas Grill £2,220.00
If you're a fan of the farmhouse-chic style, use it as inspiration to create the outdoor kitchen of your dreams. For a cosy, country feel, embrace rustic outdoor kitchen ideas with natural stone walls and wooden furniture with plenty of character.
Decorate with antique brass cooking tools and use copper fixtures for a touch of old-world charm and add patterned cushions to unwind and cook in style.
10. Dine at the Bar
Luna 6 Seat Outdoor Fabric Ceramic Firepit Bar Set in Oyster Grey
There’s no need to go to the bar in town when you have one of your own in your back garden. Design your outdoor kitchen with a long, elevated bar counter and sleek and comfortable leather bar stools. Not only does it add additional dining space, but it’s also the perfect spot for casual conversations while you cook, enhancing the social aspect of your kitchen.
Add features like a built-in sink or ice bin to keep drinks chilled. Stack it with a collection of your favourite wines, spirits, mixers and garnishes for a cheeky afternoon cocktail to reward the chef.
11. Light a Warm Fire
Cosiloft 120 Black and Teak Round Fire Pit £1,399.99
Enjoy an outdoor kitchen even in the colder months with the simple addition of a fire pit. This cosy, upscale addition adds a bit of sparkle and creates a central area that will draw everyone in. Gather around the fire and enjoy the crackling flames while savouring delicious meals from your outdoor kitchen. A fire pit helps keep the party alive by warming your guests and encouraging them to mingle and stay outdoors well into the night. Just add some cosy blankets and cushions to keep the chill away on those cooler evenings.
Blend functionality with style by choosing a fire pit that complements the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space. For example, do you want a rustic look? Choose a freestanding fire pit with log storage. Do you want a modern touch? Consider a glass fire pit built into a dining table.
12. Outdoor kitchen ideas for a small space
Napoleon Freestyle 365 SIB Gas Barbecue - £649.99
If you have a small space but big outdoor kitchen dreams, don't worry. You can still whip up a storm with small outdoor kitchen ideas for UK gardens, such as a space-saving grill, single-side burner and clever fold-down counters.
Don't forget to make the most of your wall or fence space to hang up some hooks for your utensils. Maybe add a few wall-mounted shelves to prove that even the smallest spots can host the biggest flavours.
13. Eat in a Cosy Nook
Cape Lounge Set in Beige - £1,299
Create a dining nook within your outdoor kitchen for an intimate and inviting space to enjoy delicious meals, play games and relax. Enclose the space with latticework covered in climbing vines. This will create a stunning, secluded, intimate eating area. Ensure there are comfortable seating options, such as a plush corner sofa. Additionally, add decorative elements like throw pillows and blankets for extra comfort. Don’t forget to add some soft lighting via lanterns for romantic dinner dates. Choose garden furniture with durable outdoor fabric so you don’t have to worry about your sofa degrading in the rain or fading in the sun.
Browse more ways to keep your guests comfortable with our garden seating ideas guide.
14. Showstopper Pizza Oven
Juno 16" Pizza Oven Bundle with Stainless Steel Pizza Peel - £369
If you’re a massive pizza lover, a large outdoor pizza oven could be the perfect addition to your outdoor kitchen garden setup, allowing you to cook delicious, traditional pizzas with ease. A show-stopping pizza oven with storage space for all your pizza oven accessories will make a statement and quickly become the star of any outdoor gathering.
Hold pizza nights and invite guests round to make their own pizza over a glass of wine. Or use this versatile piece of equipment to make bread, roast veggies or cook fish instead.
15. Install an Outdoor Sink
Incorporate a fully functional outdoor sink into your kitchen and say goodbye to running inside and outside with dirty plates. An outdoor sink is an ultra-convenient addition to any upscale outdoor kitchen layout. It not only streamlines the cleaning process but also the food prep, making the space much more versatile and efficient.
Choose a deep sink with a high faucet to fit all your pots and pans. It should be made of a durable and weather-resistant material, like stainless steel, to keep it looking gorgeous and modern for years to come.
16. Add Adequate Space for Food Prep
Napoleon Bamboo Cutting Board - £33.99
Set up a spacious, durable and heat-resistant counter where you can lay out all your ingredients to prep like a pro and have enough space to chop, slice and dice. Include some extra side tables or a versatile mobile cart for when you’re juggling a variety of dishes when hosting those large gatherings.
A dedicated food prep area ensures convenience and efficiency, allowing you to cook and serve your guests quickly. If you don’t want to install additional countertops, you can consider grill extensions for your Kamado grill. Or, invest in a simple stainless steel table that you can store away when you no longer need it.
17. Install an outdoor kitchen attached to your house
Napoleon 700 Series 44" Built-in Gas Grill £4,055.00
Consider outdoor kitchen ideas attached to your house for seamless transition and convenience. This setup saves steps and simplifies meal prep by providing quick and easy access indoors, keeping you connected to both cooking environments without missing a beat. It’s great for quickly transferring dishes and tools back and forth. It’s a smart way to keep cookware and ingredients within reach while still enjoying the benefits of cooking outdoors.
18. Install Sturdy Countertops
Napoleon 700 Series 44" Built-in Gas Grill - £4,055
Your new outdoor kitchen deserves countertops that can handle everything you throw at them. Choose stylish and durable materials like granite or concrete that can endure the elements (and your chopping knives), are easy to clean and still look great, letting you focus more on your culinary creations.
19. Gather at the Masonry BBQ
Buschbeck Toscana Masonry Barbecue £633.00
A masonry BBQ is a rustic, charming and functional addition to any casual outdoor living space. Built from high-quality brick or stone, these grills are made to last, are visually striking and are a firm favourite with outdoor cooking enthusiasts thanks to their excellent heat retention. The result? Delicious, flavourful meals every time.
A masonry grill is perfect for everything from a quick weekend barbecue to a larger get-together. It can also double up as a stone fire pit to keep your guests toasty on chilly nights. Get ready to fire it up and enjoy countless cookouts with friends and family.
20. Outdoor kitchen ideas by a pool
Hatia Double Sun Lounger with Side Table in Latte - £1,899
Positioning your outdoor kitchen near the pool combines food, fun and relaxation. It allows you to whip up snacks and meals without missing out on any poolside action. And who says you can’t host and take a dip yourself? Prep your snacks and keep them in the fridge so they’re always on hand for peckish guests while you get in a length or two in the pool.
21. Illuminate the Outdoor Kitchen
Höfats SPIN 120 Hanging Fire in Silver - £159
Good lighting is essential for your outdoor kitchen area ideas, not just for cooking but for creating the right atmosphere. Strategically place multiple outdoor light sources to illuminate the space and create a captivating ambience when the sun starts to set. Incorporate a combination of overhead patio lights, LED lights, wall sconces and walkway lights to illuminate your outdoor kitchen area ideas.
Other outdoor kitchen lighting ideas include eye-catching hanging fire displays, lanterns and floor lamps. These come in many different styles and set a cosy and inviting mood for evening gatherings.
22. Set the Table Outside
Kalama 8 Seat Rectangular Dining Set with Teak Table in Latte - £2,549
Complete your outdoor kitchen with a spacious and stylish dining table where everyone can enjoy your delicious creations under the open sky. Choose durable materials that exude elegance, such as aluminium, dark wood and rattan. Make sure that it’s large enough to accommodate all your guests. Decorate it with a beautiful tablescape, including a natural linen runner and blooms from around the garden.
23. Grill on a Gas BBQ
Napoleon Prestige Pro 500 Built-in Gas Grill - Natural Gas £2,899.00
A gas BBQ is a convenient staple in any outdoor kitchen. Plus, it's easier to clean compared to many charcoal grills, making it a practical option for frequent entertainers. Choose a high-quality stainless steel grill with multiple burners and adjustable heat settings. You’ll effortlessly prepare mouth-watering meals, from classic burgers and ribs to deliciously smokey vegetables.
24. Add easy outdoor kitchen ideas like a BBQ and dining set
Quay 6 Seat Rectangular Dining Set in Linen - £1,649
For a straightforward approach to outdoor cooking, try easy outdoor kitchen ideas like pairing a basic BBQ grill with a dining set. This simple setup is especially effective for enjoying simple but delicious meals outdoors and can be easily adapted to fit any space, large or small.
It’s a great starting point for those new to outdoor kitchens or anyone looking for a more minimal approach.
25. Outdoor kitchen ideas on a budget
Napoleon NK22 Charcoal Kettle Grill £229.99
Contrary to popular belief, adding outdoor kitchen garden ideas doesn’t have to cost a fortune. For outdoor kitchen ideas on a budget, use reclaimed materials for countertops and hunt for budget-friendly appliances that deliver good value. Not only is this affordable, but it’ll bring to life your rustic outdoor kitchen ideas on a budget. A simple charcoal grill can cut costs while still giving you delicious results. Where possible, you can also do some good old-fashioned DIY, like handmade seating or shelves. These strategic choices can still help you design a beautiful and functional outdoor kitchen without exceeding your budget.
Bring your dream outdoor kitchen ideas to life with Harbour Lifestyle
Ready to feel like an accomplished dinner host? If you love to prepare dishes for others, these modern outdoor kitchen ideas are a beautiful upgrade that will make your home feel all the more like you. With a fully stocked kitchen right in your garden, you’ll feel ready to take on any social event with finesse.
If you’re installing appliances, just make sure to consider where your outdoor kitchen ideas will connect to the electric, gas or water mains. A design firm or contractor can help you draw up outdoor kitchen area ideas and bring a full-scale renovation project to life. And when you’re ready to add beautiful garden furniture and outdoor cooking accessories to the mix, Harbour Lifestyle has your back. Check out our post on garden furniture ideas for even more inspiration for your outdoor space.
Outdoor kitchen idea FAQs
How do I build an outdoor kitchen on a budget in the UK?
Building an outdoor kitchen doesn’t have to break the bank. To build an outdoor kitchen on a budget in the UK, plan your layout around existing structures to save on construction costs and use repurposed materials or cost-effective alternatives. If you’re good at DIY, consider doing some parts yourself and cutting costs with budget-friendly appliances like a simple grill.
How much does a full outdoor kitchen cost?
Outdoor kitchen prices vary greatly and depend on factors like size, materials and complexity. The average cost of outdoor kitchen areas in the UK is £20,000, but it can start from as low as £4,000 and go all the way up to £50,000 or more. UK outdoor kitchen area ideas typically cost more than their indoor counterparts because they require more durable materials.
What is the cheapest material to build an outdoor kitchen?
Concrete is one of the most economical materials for constructing an outdoor kitchen. It’s durable, fire-resistant and easy to assemble, providing a sturdy frame that can be finished with various surface and countertop materials to enhance its appearance.
Is it worth it to build an outdoor kitchen?
An outdoor kitchen not only looks great but is a worthwhile investment for those who enjoy cooking, dining and entertaining outside. It can also boost the value of your property, with an ROI of 100-200% on your property's resale.
