Renson Camargue with integrated LED light and short-wave infrared heat bars

As the vibrant hues of summer transition into the golden shades of Autumn, the allure of outdoor gatherings is renewed. Autumn in the UK brings with it a comforting charm - the crisp, cool air, the rustling of leaves and the scent of bonfires in the distance - all elements that perfectly complement the joy of a barbecue.

While many might associate barbecues with long summer evenings, the truth is that Autumn provides an equally delightful backdrop for outdoor cooking and communal feasting. In fact, extending the BBQ season into the Autumn months allows us to appreciate the changing seasons, the bounty of Autumnal produce, and the cosy ambiance that comes with gatherings around the grill.

In this blog, we’ll unlock the secrets to extending outdoor cooking including the benefits, materials, recipes, and styling ideas. We will share our top tips on creating an enchanting atmosphere in your own back garden, so you can embrace the outdoor lifestyle no matter the weather.

Benefits of Autumn BBQ’s

While hot summer days are enticing, sometimes trying to cook in the direct sun can be uncomfortable. The heat of the rays mixed with the hot smoke of the grill, warm beers and swarming insects can be unpleasant.

Conversely, the crisp, cool air and golden hues of Autumn mix beautifully with the warm familiarity of outdoor gatherings & provides the perfect recipe for an outdoor occasion.

Instead of revelling in the late sunset, enjoy a crackling fire, warm food and a cosy atmosphere as the temperature drops.

As the days get shorter, it is even more important to make the most of the limited sunlight and the fresh air, to get out of your stuffy indoor environment and feel healthy and rejuvenated.

Autumn outdoor gathering with a WWOO concrete kitchen and a Big Green Egg

Weather-proof your outdoor set-up

To be your most Autumn-ready, invest in a top-tier pergola. Renson, constructed from durable aluminium, stands as a solid structure with exceptional protection for outdoor areas. Canopies allow you to comfortably sit outside enjoying the therapeutic patter of rain without getting wet.

Our BBQ Masterclass events run seamlessly year-round, due to the shelter and integrated heaters provided by our Renson Camargue canopy, so we never have to cancel due to adverse weather conditions.

If a canopy isn’t on your agenda, you can still fire up your kamado or gas BBQ in less-than-ideal weather. With a Big Green Egg, you can put in your dish, and leave it to cook away while you relax indoors - use a Meater digital thermometer so you can check the temperature of your meat from your phone! Additionally, the Big Green Egg is made of NASA grade ceramic - so weatherproof that Big Green Egg provide a lifetime guarantee* (ask TOKC team for details).

When considering enjoying an al-fresco lifestyle throughout Autumn (and even winter) you will need to make sure your outdoor kitchen materials are weather-proof too. Surfaces like stainless steel, aluminium, vitreous enamel, tricoya, concrete, and Dekton, are Autumn safe. You can put your mind at ease on the cool wet days, even if you forget to put the cover on.

Simply ensure that you care for the materials sufficiently and use the covers where possible, for maximum protection.

A TOKC BBQ Masterclasses on an extremely cold day using short-wave infrared heat bars to heat our guests and not the space (our Renson canopy is open on 2 sides)

Keeping Warm

For maximum warmth, we recommend Renson’s integrated infrared heaters. They radiate a lot of warmth and closing the sliding glass and screen helps to retain the heat. Just be extra vigilant about ventilation while cooking, making sure the equipment has been correctly installed (consult TOKC install experts).

As an alternative, layering up with blankets and investing in outdoor-friendly heating options, such as portable heaters or a fire pit, ensures that the bite of the Autumn air doesn't deter your BBQ feast. At our events we have a Braaimaster outdoor fireplace to add heat and atmosphere.

Hot food and beverages will provide extra warmth from within, so your guests won’t even notice the cool air.

Embrace Autumnal flavours

With the correct tools and a little practice, you can enrich any of your favourite Autumn recipes with the natural smokiness of charcoal for a truly satisfying dish. Make sure you use chemical-free, restaurant grade charcoal (available at TOKC Barn).

From seasonal vegetables to succulent roasted meats, the kamado has got you covered. You could try roasted butternut squash or for the committed carnivores, a smoky chilli or classic roast chicken. Cook an indulgent spiced dessert like this pear tarte tatin on the egg to follow your main & round off an outdoor meal in style.

The aroma of burning charcoal embers intermingles with the crisp winter breeze, infusing each dish with a rustic, hearty flavour that is impossible to replicate indoors.

Offer guests a seasonal drink such as a spiced cocktail or a luxurious hot chocolate, for that extra cosy treat.

BBQ butternut squash on the Big Green Egg

Create atmosphere

When it comes to extending outdoor cooking into the Autumn months, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere is key to making the experience truly enjoyable.

One of the most impactful ways to achieve this is through carefully curated decor and lighting options that bring a cozy charm to your outdoor space.

Begin by adorning your area with soft, plush blankets and cushions in rich, Autumnal hues such as deep oranges, warm browns, and pops of yellow or red. Layering these textiles on your outdoor seating will instantly add comfort and warmth.

Seasonal decor inspiration at our St Albans Outdoor Living Showroom

Add some seasonal decorations or faux plants and produce to bring some more colour to your space, for example warm toned flowers and pumpkins.

Complement this with strategically placed lanterns, festoon or fairy lights to fill the space with a gentle, inviting glow. Opt for warm white or soft yellow tones to simulate the flickering glow of a fire.

Decorate trees or tables with these lights to create an enchanting environment for gatherings with family and friends.

Cleaning and storing your appliances over the cooler months

Whether you decide to embrace Autumnal outdoor cooking or not, you will need to store your cooking equipment and utensils. Bringing your outdoor cooking appliances inside while you aren’t using them will ensure their longevity.

Well-made outdoor appliances can stay outdoors, but some of the specialised cooking equipment won’t be quite as robust, so it is best to bring it inside to avoid the impact of harsh weather. Additionally, you can opt to protect outdoor kitchens with an all-weather cover to minimise any weather effects and reduce cleaning debris such as fallen leaves.

Over time - for best protection and looks, the kitchens might need touch ups and maintenance. Make sure to check specific requirements and consider implementing this ahead of the season.

Conclusion

When considering investing in an outdoor kitchen, you will understandably want to know if and how you can use your kitchen in adverse weather conditions.

Materials such as stainless steel, concrete, Dekton & vitreous enamel allow kitchens to look and function perfectly through many years of harsh weather, so long as they are adequately maintained.

For more information on how to get the most use out of your kitchen in the cooler season, visit our website and contact our knowledgeable team for recommendations on the outdoor kitchen which could best suit your style & requirements. Join us at one of our outdoor cooking masterclasses or follow us on social media to see how we style and use our kitchens throughout Autumn into Winter.

Extending Your Outdoor Living: How to host a BBQ in Autumn