Ignore the showers – this week is officially National BBQ Week so that means we HAVE to bring out the Barbie, right?
Having a BBQ is now as much a British ‘thing’ as it is in Australia, so while we’re not always blessed with wall-to-wall sunshine like our overseas cousins, we can definitely match them with our food, our gadgets.. and our enthusiasm!
We had a scout around Chester city centre and unearthed a few items that will encourage you to dig your BBQs from out of the shed between the showers and get a taste of the great outdoors from the comfort of your garden. We’re leaving the food up to you. In the meantime we’re throwing another shrimp on the Barbie…
Epicurean
There’s so much to discover in this gem of a shop on Bridge Street – from clothing and footwear to stationery – and you’ll definitely be living your best life by choosing its homeware for your BBQ. The gorgeous jugs, glasses, plates and cups will be the stars of the show at any outdoor (or indoor) event.
Find them:
4 Bridge Street
CH1 1NQ
Lakeland
These so, so pretty salad servers are part of a wider range of colourful items, ideal if you like to match your BBQ accessories – there’s even a matching floral apron. As you’d expect from the home of creative cookware, Lakeland has a huge range of goods for a cracking outdoor feast (see main picture, top), including grill liners, sauces, utensils and, of course, BBQ grills!
Find them:
15-17 Northgate Street
CH1 2HA
Morgan
You don’t want to invite your friends and family around for a BBQ and not look the part do you? For some seriously stylish loose clothing have a look at Morgan. The current season of clothes are effortlessly summery and ideal for any sort of event. They even have trainers so you can give your feet a well-earned break while you pass around the salads.
Find them:
15 Watergate Street
CH1 2LB
Beer Heroes
If you like beer then let Beer Heroes bring their beer cave to you. They stock hundreds of local, national and international beers along with cider and soft drinks. Take a look at their website to find out if where you live is in their delivery area and have a BBQ and beer-fest to remember.
Find them:
26 Watergate Street
CH1 2LA
Wilko
The household, DIY and homeware giant has a vast array of items you could buy for a BBQ, including paper plates, cups and napkins as well as disposable trays and tablecloths. They also stock a great range of glassware. These cocktail glasses would look great on a table and even better in your friends’ hands! And at just £9 for the set they’re budget-friendly, too.
Find them:
27/25 Foregate Street
CH1 1HD
B&M
You know you’ll be getting real value for money when you shop at B&M – there’s nothing too expensive to splash the cash on. We spotted some great flame effect post lights for just £12. They’re ideal for lighting up driveways and borders. And while you’re in there buying the torch stakes, you can stock up on the mayonnaise, ketchup, crisps and sauces, too.
Find them:
The Forum Shopping Centre
Hamilton Place
CH1 2BH
TK Maxx
You won’t want to invite your family and friends over for a BBQ without having spruced up your garden. So why not take advantage of some great-looking planters from purse-friendly TK Maxx? They have lots of great quality pot plants in store that will brighten up even the most jaded of outdoor spaces. And of course, they will last you for years!
Find them:
St Michael’s Square
Grosvenor Shopping Centre
CH1 1EE
Sostrene Grene
When the light fades on your BBQ it doesn’t mean the fun has to stop – just buy in some atmospheric lighting. Sostrene Grene is a veritable Aladdin’s cave full of great finds for a BBQ, including these LED lanterns and tealight holders. The bowls and jugs will come in handy, too, for any occasion, indoor or out.
Find them:
6-8 Newgate Street
Grosvenor Shopping Centre
CH1 1ER
Jaunty Goat
Not everyone wants to end an event with even more alcohol, so offering your BBQ guests a sobering cup of delicious coffee could just be what they need. Pop into the Jaunty Goat and you’ll be able to pick up some great-tasting grinds from the likes of Brazil, Costa Rica, Papua New Guinea and more. A great, tasty way to round off an evening alfresco.
Find them:
57 Bridge Street
CH1 1NG
