At Dobbies, we believe a great BBQ is the heart of the British summer, which is why we only stock grills that combine exceptional build quality with effortless performance. From compact, portable models for balcony dining to expansive multi-burner stations for the ultimate garden party, our range is designed to suit every space and appetite. With durable finishes that stand up to the elements and innovative features like side burners and integrated thermometers, you can grill, sear, and roast with total confidence all season long.
The choice usually settles on flavour versus speed. Charcoal BBQs are the go-to for enthusiasts who love that classic, smokey aroma and the ritual of managing a fire. Gas BBQs offer "turn-of-a-dial" convenience, heating up in minutes and providing consistent temperature control, which is ideal for busy families and effortless midweek entertaining.
Consider how many people you typically cook for. A compact 2-burner gas grill or a 47cm charcoal kettle is perfect for couples or small families. If you frequently host garden parties or large Sunday lunch gatherings, a 4-to-6 burner gas station or a larger 57cm kettle will give you the surface area needed to cook various foods at once without crowding the grill.
The easiest method is to "burn off" residue by turning the heat to high (or opening the vents) for a few minutes after cooking. While the grates are still warm, use a high-quality wire BBQ brush to scrub away carbon and food bits. For a deeper clean at the end of the season, warm soapy water and a specialised BBQ cleaner will keep your grates looking pristine and hygienic.
While our BBQs are built for outdoor use, the British weather can be unpredictable. We highly recommend using a breathable, weather-resistant BBQ cover when your grill isn't in use. This protects the finish from UV fading, prevents rust on metal components, and ensures your BBQ is clean and ready to light the moment the sun comes out.
Direct grilling involves cooking food directly over the heat source - perfect for searing steaks, burgers, and kebabs. Indirect grilling moves the food to a cooler part of the BBQ with the lid closed, creating an oven-like effect. This is the secret to cooking larger joints of meat or whole chickens through to the centre without burning the outside.
Yes, most BBQs with a lid can be used for basic smoking. For charcoal grills, simply add soaked wood chips to the hot coals. For gas BBQs, you can place a smoker box filled with wood chips over one of the burners. For those serious about low-and-slow cooking, we also stock dedicated smokers designed to maintain steady, low temperatures for that authentic pit-style BBQ flavour.