Which Size BBQ Do I Need? A Guide to Choosing the Right BBQ for Your Garden

Choosing the perfect BBQ isn’t just about deciding between gas or charcoal — size is just as important.

At Southwood Garden Centre, we stock a wide range of premium BBQs from both Grillstream and Napoleon, from compact models perfect for smaller patios to large outdoor cooking stations designed for serious entertaining.

If you’re wondering what size BBQ you need, this guide will help you choose the right option for your garden, cooking style and the number of people you typically cook for.

Things to Consider Before Choosing a BBQ

Before choosing a BBQ, it’s worth thinking about:

  • How many people you usually cook for
  • The size of your patio or garden
  • Whether you prefer quick weeknight cooking or entertaining large groups
  • If you want gas, charcoal or hybrid cooking
  • Whether you need extra features such as side burners or storage

The good news is there’s a BBQ size to suit every garden.

Small BBQs – Perfect for Couples & Compact Gardens

If you have a smaller patio, courtyard or simply don’t cook for large groups very often, a compact BBQ can still deliver fantastic cooking results without taking up too much space.

Napoleon Charcoal 22 Kettle BBQ

One of the smallest BBQs we stock is the Napoleon Charcoal 22 Kettle BBQ.

This classic kettle-style BBQ is ideal for:

  • Couples and smaller families
  • Traditional charcoal cooking
  • Compact outdoor spaces
  • Customers wanting a simple but high-quality BBQ

The kettle design offers excellent heat circulation and is perfect for achieving that authentic charcoal flavour.

Smaller BBQs like this are also easier to move, clean and store.

Medium BBQs – Great All-Rounders for Family Cooking

For many customers, a medium-sized BBQ offers the perfect balance between cooking space and practicality.

These BBQs are ideal for:

  • Regular family use
  • Weekend entertaining
  • Cooking a variety of foods at once
  • Medium-sized patios and gardens

Grillstream Carbon 3 Burner Hybrid Gas BBQ with Side Burner

The Grillstream Carbon 3 Burner Hybrid Gas BBQ with Side Burner is one of our most popular mid-sized models.

What makes it especially versatile is the hybrid cooking system, allowing you to cook with either gas or charcoal.

Features include:

  • 3 burners for flexible cooking
  • Hybrid gas and charcoal cooking
  • Side burner for sauces and side dishes
  • Modern design with practical storage

This size BBQ is perfect for customers who regularly cook for family and friends but don’t necessarily need a huge outdoor kitchen setup.

Large BBQs – Ideal for Entertaining

If you love hosting garden parties, family gatherings or summer BBQ nights, a larger BBQ gives you much more cooking flexibility.

Larger BBQs allow you to:

  • Cook for bigger groups
  • Prepare multiple foods at the same time
  • Use different cooking zones
  • Create a true outdoor entertaining space

These models are particularly popular with customers creating a full outdoor living area alongside garden furniture and pergolas.

Grillstream Island 6 Burner Hybrid Gas & Charcoal BBQ

The Grillstream Island 6 Burner Hybrid Gas & Charcoal BBQ is one of the largest Grillstream models we stock.

This impressive BBQ is designed for serious outdoor cooking and entertaining.

Features include:

  • Large cooking capacity
  • 6 burner cooking system
  • Hybrid gas and charcoal cooking
  • Spacious preparation areas
  • Premium outdoor kitchen feel

For customers who love hosting, this type of BBQ can become the centrepiece of the garden.

Napoleon Prestige® 665 Connected RSIB Gas BBQ with Infrared Side & Rear Burner

At the premium end of the scale, the Napoleon Prestige® 665 Connected RSIB Gas BBQ with Infrared Side & Rear Burner offers exceptional performance and advanced cooking technology.

This is one of the largest and most feature-packed BBQs we stock.

Highlights include:

  • Large grilling area for entertaining
  • Infrared side and rear burners
  • Premium stainless steel design
  • Connected smart cooking technology
  • Exceptional heat control and performance

This BBQ is perfect for customers wanting a luxury outdoor cooking experience and maximum versatility.

What Size BBQ Is Best for You?

Choose a Smaller BBQ If:

  • You have limited outdoor space
  • You mainly cook for 2–4 people
  • You prefer simple cooking setups
  • You want easier storage and portability

Choose a Medium BBQ If:

  • You regularly cook for family
  • You enjoy occasional entertaining
  • You want flexibility without taking up too much space
  • You like having additional cooking features

Choose a Large BBQ If:

  • You frequently entertain guests
  • You enjoy outdoor cooking as a hobby
  • You want multiple cooking zones
  • You’re creating a full outdoor entertaining area

Gas, Charcoal or Hybrid?

Many customers also ask whether gas or charcoal affects the BBQ size they need.

Gas BBQs are often better for convenience and quick cooking, while charcoal BBQs provide traditional smoky flavour.

Hybrid BBQs — like many Grillstream models — offer the best of both worlds by allowing you to cook with either fuel type.

This flexibility makes hybrid BBQs incredibly popular with customers wanting versatility.

Visit Southwood Garden Centre

At Southwood Garden Centre, we stock a wide range of Grillstream and Napoleon BBQs, from compact kettle BBQs to large premium outdoor cooking stations.

Whether you’re looking for a BBQ for a smaller patio or a large entertaining space, our team can help you choose the right model for your garden and cooking style.

Visit us in-store to explore the latest BBQ collections and outdoor living inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many burners do I need on a BBQ?

For smaller households, 2–3 burners are often enough. Larger families and customers who entertain regularly may prefer 4–6 burners for greater cooking flexibility.

Are bigger BBQs better?

Not always. The best BBQ is one that suits your cooking style, available space and how often you’ll use it.

Is a hybrid BBQ worth it?

Hybrid BBQs are extremely popular because they allow you to enjoy both the convenience of gas and the flavour of charcoal.

Which BBQ brands do you stock?

At Southwood Garden Centre, we stock premium BBQ brands including Grillstream and Napoleon.