Having a smaller garden or patio does not mean giving up on the BBQ. Some of the best grilling experiences happen in compact spaces, and with the right BBQ you can have great food, a tidy setup and still have plenty of room to actually enjoy the sunshine.

The key is knowing what to look for. A BBQ that works brilliantly for a large garden can feel completely overwhelming on a small patio, but there are plenty of options designed specifically for smaller spaces that do not ask you to compromise on results.

Here are our top picks from the Norwich Camping & Leisure range, along with a few things to consider before you buy.

What to consider when buying a BBQ for a small garden

Before jumping straight to the products, here are a few questions worth thinking about:

• Footprint vs cooking area: Some BBQs are surprisingly generous on the cooking surface despite having a compact base. Do not write off a BBQ based on overall size alone, check the actual grill dimensions.
• Gas or charcoal? Both have their merits. If you haven’t already, our gas vs charcoal guide is worth a read before you decide.
• Freestanding or tabletop? Tabletop BBQs are ideal for very small patios or anyone who wants something easy to store away after use. Freestanding models give you a bit more cooking space and are easier on the back.

It is also worth thinking about storage if space is tight. Does it fold down flat, or will it need a dedicated spot year-round? 

The best compact BBQs for small gardens

With so many options on the market, it can feel a little overwhelming, particularly if you are working with limited space. Below, we have pulled together our top three small garden BBQs across different fuel types and styles.

Recommended small gas BBQ – Weber Q 1200N Gas Grill with Side Tables and Compact Stand

If you want the convenience of gas without giving up on quality, the Weber Q 1200N at £349.00 is a seriously impressive compact gas BBQ.

Despite its small footprint, it packs in a high-efficiency burner that delivers fast, consistent heat across the entire cooking surface, along with porcelain-enamelled cast-iron cooking grates that retain heat well and are dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. The high-dome lid adds extra capacity, which is handy if you want to cook a larger joint or roast.

The fold-out side tables add useful prep space while you cook and detach neatly for storage, while the compact stand brings the BBQ up to a comfortable working height. 

Best for: Those who want a premium gas grilling experience in a compact package, with minimal cleanup.

Weber Q 1200N Gas Grill with Side Tables and Compact Stand

Recommended small charcoal BBQ – Weber Smokey Joe Premium Black

At £76.99, the Weber Smokey Joe Premium Black is one of the best-value compact charcoal BBQs on the market. It is everything you want from a kettle BBQ, just scaled down to fit neatly into a smaller space.

The classic kettle design gives you a generous 37 cm diameter cooking grate (enough to comfortably feed two to four people) while the porcelain-enamelled lid and bowl retain heat brilliantly, making it easier to maintain a steady cooking temperature. The rust-proof aluminium vents give you good airflow control, and the Tuck-N-Carry lid lock means it is easy to transport to a friend’s garden too.

It is lightweight at just under 5.5 kg and compact enough to store in a shed or garage without taking over the space. Clean-up is straightforward and the durable construction means this is a BBQ that will last for many summers with minimal fuss.

Best for: Anyone who wants an authentic charcoal grilling experience in a compact, no-nonsense package.

Weber Smokey Joe Premium – Black

Recommended tabletop BBQ – Weber Go Anywhere Charcoal BBQ

For the smallest spaces, think tiny patios or taking your BBQ on the road, the Weber Go Anywhere Charcoal BBQ is a brilliant option.

It has a 42 x 26 cm cooking area that comfortably handles a meal for two to four people, and the folding legs lock the lid in place for transport and then flip out to elevate the BBQ safely during use. The porcelain-enamelled lid and bowl retain heat well, and the adjustable aluminium vents give you good temperature control for a tabletop BBQ.

At under 7 kg with a built-in carry handle and heat shield, it is easy to take anywhere. It works just as well on a home patio as it does at a campsite or picnic, making it one of the more versatile options in the range. Clean-up is simple thanks to the easy-access cooking grate and durable finish.

Best for: Small patios, camping trips or anyone who wants a BBQ they can genuinely take anywhere.

Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal BBQ

Tips for Barbecuing in a small garden

A few practical things worth keeping in mind when grilling in a compact space:

• Follow the manufacturer’s stated clearance distances and keep the BBQ well away from fences, plants, buildings and garden furniture. Also ensure that children and pets are monitored closely around BBQs.
• Never use a BBQ indoors, in a shed, garage, tent or on a balcony. Barbecues need plenty of open-air ventilation and can produce dangerous carbon monoxide.
• Use a small folding table for prep. A compact camping table alongside the BBQ gives you a surface for plates, utensils and ingredients without taking up much room. However, keep it a safe distance from the heat and avoid cluttering the cooking area.
• Think about storage. Most BBQs fold down or pack away neatly, which makes a real difference when space is tight. A weather-resistant cover is worth investing in to keep your BBQ in good shape between uses.

Ready to get grilling?

Whether you are working with a compact patio, or just want something practical and easy to store, there is a BBQ in our range to suit you. All three picks above are available to browse online or see in store at our showroom in Blofield, Norfolk.

Our friendly in-store experts are always happy to help you find the right BBQ for your space and budget. Visit Norwich Camping & Leisure, or give us a call. You can also browse our full BBQ range online.