New to BBQ? Welcome to the club — it’s smoky, satisfying, and surprisingly addictive. But if you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry — we’ve got your back.

Whether you're firing up a kettle grill, a smoker, or a simple fire pit, this is your no-fluff, no-gimmicks checklist of BBQ essentials. Here's everything you need to kick off your first cook with confidence.

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🛠️ The Core Kit

🔥 A Reliable Heat Source

• ✅ Kettle grill, charcoal BBQ, or a live-fire pit — all work for beginners
• ✅ Fire pits give you cooking versatility and warmth in one

→ Shop Fire Pits

🪵 Fuel: Charcoal or Pellets

• 🔥 Use natural lumpwood charcoal for traditional grilling
• 🔥 Pellet smokers? Stock up on hardwood blends

→ Browse Wood Pellets

🌡️ A Meat Thermometer

• ✅ Essential for hitting safe temps and perfect doneness
• ✅ An instant-read model makes life easier

(Don’t have one yet? We can recommend solid options — just ask.)

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🍳 The Right Cooking Surfaces

🛠️ Add-On Tools for Better Cooks

• 🔥 Cast iron grill grates for searing
• 🔥 Flat-top planchas for veg, eggs, smash burgers
• 🔥 Our favourite? The Smokey Rebel Taco Wok — versatile, durable, and seriously fun

Start with one solid surface that lets you cook more than just burgers and sausages.

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🧂 Flavour First — Your Starter Rubs

Forget the bland supermarket spice blends. You need seasoning that hits hard and works across meals.

• 🧂 SPG – salt, pepper, garlic. Goes on everything.
• 🐖 Hickory Hog – sweet and smoky rub made for pork and ribs
• 🔥 Chipotle Cowboy – smoky, citrusy, and perfect for chicken or tacos

→ Shop Best-Selling Rubs

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🧤 Handy Extras You’ll Be Glad You Have

• 🔥 Heatproof gloves or mitts (trust us — you’ll use them)
• 🔥 Long-handled tongs and spatula
• 🔥 Foil trays or butcher paper for wrapping meat or resting
• 🔥 Optional: chimney starter, instant-read thermometer, spray bottle

You don’t need everything on day one — but these extras make BBQ smoother and safer.

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🛍️ Build Your Own BBQ Starter Kit

Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading bit by bit, we’ve got all the essentials covered:

• 🔥 Fire pits and heat sources
• 🔥 Cooking surfaces & gear
• 🔥 Flavour-packed rubs
• 🔥 Fuel for live-fire or pellet grills

Need help picking the right gear? Message us anytime — we’re here to help you get cooking.

❓ FAQs – BBQ Starter Kit UK

What’s the best type of BBQ for beginners?
A kettle-style charcoal grill or a portable fire pit is a great place to start. They're affordable, reliable, and help you learn heat control and direct/indirect cooking techniques.

Do I need a smoker to get into BBQ?
Not at all. Many beginners start with a fire pit or grill. You can still cook low-and-slow, sear over coals, or use wood pellets for added smoke flavour.

What tools are essential for first-time BBQ cooks?
At minimum: a pair of long-handled tongs, a spatula, heatproof gloves, and a meat thermometer. Add a chimney starter if you're using charcoal for easier lighting.

Which seasonings should I start with?
We recommend:
• SPG – an all-purpose base for meat and veg
• Hickory Hog – ideal for pork and ribs
• Chipotle Cowboy – best for chicken or tacos

What if I’m not sure what gear to choose?
You can message us anytime via social or email — we're happy to help you build the right BBQ starter kit based on your space, cooking style, and budget.