Get Your Garden Set for Summer

Is your garden looking a little beaten and drab after the onslaught of the long Scottish winter? In this blog we look at getting your garden summer ready with 5 easy tips for a gorgeous outdoor space.

Once the sun starts shining we are all itching to drag out the garden furniture, soak up the rays and make the most of whatever space we have. However, it’s worth taking a moment or two to get your garden in shape for the summer months. By making sure your outdoor space looks attractive it becomes an extension of your indoor living space – another amazingly colourful room full of life for the whole family to enjoy. From walled courtyards to large grassy gardens, we’ve got some great ideas to help you get set for a summer of outdoor living.

  1. Whip Your Garden into Shape

Start by making the most of what you already have. You’ll be surprised how much basic garden maintenance will perk up your outdoor space and make it feel like somewhere you can relax in.

It’s time to channel your inner Titchmarsh …

Love Your Lawn

Just give it a mow! There’s nothing nicer than a freshly clipped lawn, it looks great and smells amazing. If it’s looking less than lush, sprinkle with seed and water regularly.

A neatly mown lawn is a joy to behold in a British summer garden, so make sure yours is in tip-top condition. Re-sow any poor patches, aerate it to encourage root growth and give it a good scratch with a wire rake to allow light and water to reach the soil. It’s also a good idea to remove the most common lawn weed, the white-flowering clover. Pull them out individually by ripping out the stems, as this will hopefully avoid the plants getting established. Remember to not mow less than 1cm height off your grass – cutting it too short will give you a far less healthy-looking lawn.

Patio/Decking

Remove any moss or weeds from between paving flags and give decking some much-deserved love by sanding and re-treating with a stain or protector. If you have a jet washer, giving any paving a quick blast will transform it from tired slabs to almost new!

Banish Those Weeds

Weed out all the undesirables from borders and pots, and turn over the soil for a fresh, maintained look. Recruiting extra hands can make a big job smaller, and more fun! Get family and friends round to help, you’ll be surprised how quickly it comes together.

Keeping weeds at bay can seem like the never-ending task. If you are given or buy any plants always check them over before you introduce them to your garden. In the lead up to summer, you want your garden looking it’s the best right from the pathways and walkways to the lawn and borders. If you do find you’re losing the battle and have missed the moment to tackle weeds as you find them, you may wish to call in the cavalry with a specifically designed weed control product.

2. Paint And Treat The Fence

During the winter months, there is likely to be detrimental conditions for your garden fence. Before summer comes it is a great idea to give your fence a revitalised look of colour and health. Use a treatment such as Creosote to give it the extra protection it needs from those hot sunny days.

3. Clear Out the Shed

Over a long winter, you tend to stockpile a lot of odd bits which usually results in a chaotic mess that is in desperate need of order. If you love your garden shed then this should be a priority. We usually find the best method of doing this is to follow these simple steps:

Remove everything from your shed.

Sort all items into groups of ‘keep’ and ‘don’t keep’.

Throw or give away everything in the ‘don’t keep’ group.

Think about what you have left in comparison to the size you shed, and be ruthless about what to keep if you still have too much.

Clean the inside of the empty shed.

Place the remaining items back in the shed in a sensible organised order.

4. Clean the Summer Essentials

Don’t just drag your barbecue out, show it some TLC first!  Depending on the type of barbecue or outdoor fire you have in your garden, it can vary in difficulty to clean and will certainly vary in how much it is affected by harsh winter conditions. If you have a masonry barbecue or fire pit you will have very little to do, however, you may have to remove any rust that has built up on the grill in wet conditions. If you have stored your barbecue away for the winter in might just be a case of a spring clean and dusting down before inviting the family and friends over for a feast.

If you have outdoor sofas and other furniture items then you will have to make sure they are pristine for all your summertime fun. It is recommended to take your cushions off any outdoor seating during winter, but if you forgot this year there are great ways to clean them with little hassle. Most covers should be made of a water-resistant material so a sponge down with warm soapy water and good air will have them ready to go.

5. Prepare to Entertain

Set the mood and ensure your BBQs and alfresco dinners extend well past dusk with simple outdoor lighting. Solar lights not only illuminate the surroundings but also add a little extra character, and allow you to enjoy your garden 24/7. Flickering tea lights in jam jars are another lovely way to inject instant charm, great for lighting before a BBQ or when the sun starts to go down.

Don’t forget the gazebo! You live in the UK and no matter what the weather forecast says, always prepare for drizzle. A pop-up gazebo is a perfect protection in case of a sudden downpour, store in the shed for quick retrieval in the event of precipitation.

Eating in the garden, garden parties and BBQs are all achievable with a summer-ready garden so get stuck into those spring gardening jobs and extend your living space.

For more information on the outdoor fireplaces, pizza ovens and other products Living Fires supplies click here.

5 Poems About Fire

In celebration of World Poetry Day, dedicated to promote reading, writing, publishing and teaching poetry throughout the world, we would like to share 5 wonderful poems about fires. These poems capture the essence and many forms of fire, from the idea of the fire as a catalyst for memories and imagination to the ever-changing nature of flames never settling but flickering and flashing before disappearing again.

We recommend enjoying these poems beside you fire with a nice warm brew.

Autumn Fires (From Child’s Garden of Verses)

by Robert Louis Stevenson

In the other gardens
And all up in the vale,
From the autumn bonfires
See the smoke trail!

Pleasant summer over,
And all the summer flowers,
The red fire blazes,
The grey smoke towers.

Sing a song of seasons!
Something bright in all!
Flowers in the summer,
Fires in the fall!

Fire on Your Finger

By Tony Jolley

Fire on your finger,
Fire in your eye,
Fire in your spirit,
Fire that won’t die.

Fire in the bare bones of being,
Fire to uphold what’s right,
Fire in the heart of darkness,
Fire to fuel Love’s light.

Fire to burn but not consume,
Fire to learn and not assume,
Fire to live and give living room,
Fire to love and sing her tune.

The Fireside

by G.F. Bradby

In the ember’s drowsy glow
Fiery figures come and go,
Quiver into crimson light,
Now a goblin, now a knight,
While the winter wind makes moan
And the clock ticks on and on.
Snatches of mysterious rhymes,
(Fairy lore of nursery times)
Long imprisoned in the brain,
Leap to life and sing again;
Dreams forgotten with the waking,
Thoughts that vanished in the making,
Fancies, memories and moods,
Crowded hours and solitudes,
Ancient fears and old distresses,
Childhood’s wanderings and guesses –
Everything that one remembers
Makes a picture in the embers,
Grows to clearness, flickers, flashes
Burns a moment, then is ashes.

Upon The Hearth The Fire is Red

by J.R.R. Tolkien

Upon the hearth the fire is red,
Beneath the roof there is a bed;
But not yet weary are our feet,
Still round the corner we may meet
A sudden tree or standing stone
That none have seen but we alone.

Tree and flower and leaf and grass,
Let them pass! Let them pass!
Hill and water under sky,
Pass them by! Pass them by!

Still round the corner there may wait
A new road or a secret gate,
And though we pass them by today,
Tomorrow we may come this way
And take the hidden paths that run
Towards the Moon or to the Sun.

Apple, thorn, and nut and sloe,
Let them go! Let them go!
Sand and stone and pool and dell,
Fare you well! Fare you well!

Home is behind, the world ahead,
And there are many paths to tread
Through shadows to the edge of night,
Until the stars are all alight.
The world behind and home ahead,
We’ll wander back to home and bed.

Mist and twilight, cloud and shade,
Away shall fade! Away shall fade!
Fire and lamp, and meat and bread,
And then to bed! And then to bed!

The Firewood Poem

by Lady Celia Congreve

Beechwood fires are bright and clear
If the logs are kept a year,
Chestnut’s only good they say,
If for logs ’tis laid away.
Make a fire of Elder tree,
Death within your house will be;
But ash new or ash old,
Is fit for a queen with crown of gold

Birch and fir logs burn too fast
Blaze up bright and do not last,
it is by the Irish said
Hawthorn bakes the sweetest bread.
Elm wood burns like churchyard mould,
E’en the very flames are cold
But ash green or ash brown
Is fit for a queen with golden crown

Poplar gives a bitter smoke,
Fills your eyes and makes you choke,
Apple wood will scent your room
Pear wood smells like flowers in bloom
Oaken logs, if dry and old
keep away the winter’s cold
But ash wet or ash dry
a king shall warm his slippers by.

Mother’s Day Mantel Décor Ideas

Mother’s Day is fast approaching (SUNDAY 10th March this year) and here at Living Fires, we want to salute the mothers of the world this month.

Since we like to celebrate every holiday by redecorating our mantelpiece, this month our thoughts are with everyone who mothers and making the mantel a celebration about them. Mother’s Day is such a fun day to decorate for because anything you do is just a bonus!  You can pull out all the stops or simply add a few hearts here and there, however understated or over the top you go we know it will be appreciated. It’s a simple way to show Mum how much you adore them… who doesn’t love that?

While we’re sure you’ve already planned a special day to leave her grinning, if you want to take your display of appreciation to the next level, setting the scene with some fun decor is a must. From floral touches to wall decor she’ll be able to enjoy even if the closest you get this year is a video call, we’ve got everything you need to make the day extra special.

There are as many kinds of mothers in the world as there are people. When you’re planning for a Mother’s Day mantel, it’s important to look at individual tastes. Chances are you’re focusing on one mother in particular so you want to make sure the decor is to her liking.

If you’re decorating a mantel for your mother, think about things your mum likes. If you are the mother, and you’re decorating the family mantel, well, this is a good month to think about what you like and decorate accordingly. Hey, it’s your month!

VINTAGE

Vintage decorations always look attractive, especially in older homes. Arrange display plates, tea cups, books and some of your favorite knick-knacks on the mantel. Arrange flowers in old glass pitchers, vases or bottles, and finish with some old-timey black and white portraits of women in your family.

MUMS AND KIDS

This one is fun for kids of any age. Use Mum’s favorite colors to dress up the mantel. Find photos of all the kids at different ages and even include one of mum and dad too. Finish it off with Mum’s favorite quote on a chalkboard and it’s sure to be a surprise she’ll cherish. Bonus points if you can get the kids to write the chalkboard!

FLOWERS

Flowers are the perfect accessories for your mantel decor. Create little bunches of flowers, budding twigs and leaves from what is growing and fresh in your garden. Arrange in matching vases, or re-used milk bottles tied with ribbon, and space evenly along the mantel. A soft pink and blush mantel is ideal for Mother’s Day and you don’t need a whole lot of flowers to have a stunning impact.

GET MUM A NEW MANTEL FOR MOTHER’S DAY!

Don’t feel like your current mantel is fit for a Queen (aka Mum)? Why not surprise her with a new mantel that’s as beautiful as she is? With a great selection of designs to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect mantel at Living Fires. We can even customise a design just for her!

However, you decide to celebrate the mothers in your life, the important thing is to recognise their contributions and make them feel special. So, take a moment to reflect on what makes her happy, then decorate accordingly. And if you want to go all out, call us about setting her up with a gorgeous new mantel!

10+ Uses for Wood Ash You Probably Didn’t Know

Living more sustainably and finding additional uses for products we would have once considered trash is now part of many daily lives. If you’re heating with wood, there’s always plenty of wood ash to go around.  While you may be hard-pressed to think of uses for wood ash in a modern daily life, historically it was used in many different creative ways.  Wood ash was a precious asset, used for food preservation, gardening, pottery, pest control, and even cosmetics.

Long before baking soda was discovered, wood ash was being used in baking.  Our ancestors wouldn’t have invented soap without wood ash and mascara.

While some of these uses are merely a historical curiosity, many are still incredibly useful in our modern world.  Looking for free garden fertilizer?  Natural pest control?  An odor remover?  Wood ash can do that! Don’t throw away the wood ash from your fireplace—read on to discover over 10 daily uses for wood ash in your home and garden that you probably didn’t know!

  1. GARDEN FERTILIZER

Wood ash contains all the trace minerals from inside a trees wood, which are the building blocks needed for plant health.  While it doesn’t contain carbon or nitrogen, those are in ready supply from compost.  The University of Vermont recommends about 5 gallons of wood ash per 1,000 square feet of garden.  Since wood ash will raise the pH of soils, it’s not good for acid-loving crops like blueberries or potatoes.

2. BOOST COMPOST

A small amount of wood ash can help give compost piles a boost. Compost is naturally acidic so wood ash is a great addition, plus it adds calcium. Lightly sprinkle a layer of ash as you build up green and brown layers. Be careful to just sprinkle it though – too much will ruin it.

3. FEED YOUR TOMATOES

Tomatoes love calcium. US organic gardening author and grower Mike McGrath places a quarter of a cup in the hole before he plants a tomato.

4. PREVENT FROST DAMAGE

When the temperatures start to dip in early autumn, nothing can strike fear in a gardener quicker than the threat of a frost. Well fear not, simply dust your plants with some powdery wood ash to prevent frost damage.

5. PEST CONTROL

Wood ashes can be used to deter pests like slugs and snails, and even to repel ants. Sprinkle a small amount or ring around susceptible plants and reapply after the rain washes the ash away.

6. FIGHT POND ALGAE

One tablespoon of wood ash for every 4000 litres of water in a pond full of algae can help aquatic plants compete with it.

7. CLEANING

Looking for a cost-free cleaner for glass and metal? Is the glass front on your fireplace sooty? Dip a damp cloth into the ashes, then wipe the glass to get off stubborn soot.

Wood ashes, mixed with a bit of water to form a paste, can be used as a mild abrasive to buff up tarnished metals such as cutlery, clean dirty glass, and even remove adhesives and sticky residue. Apply the paste with a cotton cloth while wearing gloves to protect your skin. Try in a small spot at first to test the results.

Before you pop the cloth with the ash on it in the washing machine, use it to clean up tarnished silver jewelry as well. For necklaces, pinch the chain lightly with the ash-coated flannel piece between your fingers, and then pull the chain through your fingers. A few passes will restore that beautiful white, gleam to your jewelry. Rub and polish other pieces with the cloth adding more ashes as needed. For larger or more complex pieces, use the paste method as mentioned above.

Be sure to wash and dry all items after you polish it.

8. HOMEMADE SOAP

Wood ash was traditionally used to make lye (a necessary component of soap) by combining it with boiled water, then mixed with animal fat and boiled to make soap. Ashes from burned hardwoods (such as ash, hickory, or beech) are used for this purpose since they contain enough potassium to produce lye.

Careful production can yield homemade soap from what you’d otherwise throw away, though with a bit more effort than it takes to buy a bottle or bar. (If going the homemade route, follow instructions from a reputable source and make sure to wear protective gear to avoid burns.)

9. GRIT

Like gravel on snow-covered streets, wood ash can be applied to provide traction underfoot. Wood ash contains potash – potassium salts which can be used to de-ice pathways in cold weather, although watch the run-off, you don’t want to tread this through the house! You can even keep some in a closed metal container in your car to use in an emergency to get out of a slippery spot

10. SOAK UP DRIVEWAY SPILLS

Changing the oil on your car? Or just spilled something that might stain? Use wood ash to absorb the spill. Most driveways are dark coloured, hard surfaces which will mask the ash’s colour, and the ash’s absorbing properties should allow you to sweep up the spill afterwards.

11. ABSORB ODOURS

Wood ash is alkaline, just like baking soda, which means it will absorb moisture and odours from the air. Put a small bowl of it in your fridge or in a musty room, and it will absorb the odors, making things fresh again.

The History of Fire

Fireside tales are an integral part of our history, a place where knowledge was passed on and dreams were conjured. Stories have been shared around fires for centuries from myths and fairy tales to fables and facts. So kick back and get cosy at your fireside today as you learn about the wonders that started with a spark.

The exact timing of the discovery and use of fire by humans has been a subject of continuing research and, as yet, is undecided. What we do know it there is scientific evidence that it happened somewhere between 1.7 and 2.0 million years ago. Fire is one of the most important forces on Earth. The use of fire by humans has long been considered as a defining property of intelligence, separating us from other animals.

Fire control changed the course of human evolution, allowing our ancestors to stay warm, cook food, ward off predators and venture into harsh climates. It also had important social and behavioral implications, encouraging groups of people to gather together and stay up late. Here we look at the history of fire and how over the millennia human kind has learnt to harness the power of this element.

Fire in used in many ways, from powering fireworks to heating homes. We use it for heat, light and power. Three main components are needed for fire. First, there must be a fuel to burn. Second, oxygen must be available — after all, combustion is essentially an oxidation process that gives off heat and light. And third, there must be a heat or ignition source that allows the fire to begin. The main sources of ignition before humans appeared were lightning strikes.

  1. Controlling Fire

When humans first learned how to control fire, it was an important step in their culture. It allowed humans to cook food and get warmth and protection. Making fire also allowed activity into the dark, gave some protection frightening off predatory animals and the smoke would have been effective in keeping insects away. The cooking of food was probably the most useful effect of fire. There are foods like fruits which do not need cooking, but others, such as meat and root vegetables, mostly need cooking.

The first stage of human interaction with fire, perhaps as early as 1.5 million years ago in Africa, is likely to have been opportunistic. Fires may have simply been conserved by adding fuel, such as dung that is slow burning to one which started naturally. This ability to “stretch” fire was a novel feat, only developed by humans.

The earliest certain evidence of human control of fire was found at Swartkrans, South Africa. Many burnt bones were found among Acheulean tools, bone tools, and bones with cut marks that were made by hominids. This site also shows some of the earliest evidence of humans eating meat. Clear evidence of habitual use of fire, though, comes from caves in Israel dating back between 400,000 and 300,000 years ago, and include the repeated use of a single hearth in Qesem Cave, and indications of roasting meat.

An important change in the behavior of humans happened because of their control of fire and the light that came from the fire. Activity was no longer restricted to the daylight hours. Fire also led to better nutrition though cooked proteins. Richard Wrangham of Harvard University argues that cooking of plant foods may have caused the brain to get bigger, because it made complex carbohydrates in starchy foods easier to digest. This made humans absorb more calories.

  • Starting Fire

The next stage was to gain the ability to start a fire. This would have enabled more regular and managed use, allowing the development of cooking, expanding our diet. According to British primatologist Richard Wrangham, cooking may have played a role in the expansion of our brains. The hearth would have probably formed a social focus, helping the development of language.

The use of flints to start fire may have occurred as far back as 400,000 years ago, but concrete evidence only comes from as recently as 40,000 years ago. As the American archeologist Andrew Sorensen and his colleagues have put it, “we archaeologists have yet to ascertain, even in coarse chronological terms — when in our early prehistory fire became part of the human tool kit.”

  • Controlling Fire

The third stage, in which humans began to use and control fire on a regular and widespread basis, may have started only 7,000 years ago. This includes the use of fire for land clearance for agriculture and even for warfare. But even when humans were controlling fire to the extent that it could be used to modify agriculture, we should not lose sight of the fact that wildfire is predominantly controlled by climate.

Today we humans appear to be confident of our ability to control fire. But we should not become overconfident. The spread of non-native grasses such as Gamba grass in Australia and Cheat grass in North America, together with a warming climate, are having a severe impact on the nature, scale and frequency of wildfires. It would be well for us to take on board the fact that fire has been part of Earth’s story for the past 420 million years, and will continue to be so long after we are all gone.

How to Host a Fireside Valentine’s Date Night

Wouldn’t it be grand to escape for a romantic Valentine’s weekend or even just a date night? Don’t worry, we have the ideal solution for you to get away from it all without travelling anywhere. With just a little planning you and your loved one can be cosied up in the snug, comfortable setting of … the lounge.

 What better than an evening at home? After all, staying in is the new going out. Imagine, the soft warm glow and heat from the fireplace where logs burn and crackle, a picnic set out for two on the rug and Marvin Gaye softly playing in the background, it’s enough to warm any heart. Or imagine a fireside table set for two, far away from the noise and bustle of everyday life, ready to simply enjoy one another’s company. Afterwards retire to the sofa as the embers die down and chat the night away. Read on to find out how to create these dreamy settings in your home and escape for an evening to remember.

Set the Scene

Nothing says date night quite like a table set for two. Shuffle the furniture about and set it up at the fireside if you can, fold up outdoor furniture is great for this. Go all out and use a table cloth, cloth napkins and placemats. A candle in the centre mimics the fires glow and creates a focal point between you as you’ll obviously want to be gazing across the table into each other’s eyes!

If you’re in the mood for a more relaxing and cosy evening, then make space in front of the fire and set up a picnic area. Picnic dates give you the perfect opportunity to enjoy each other’s company in a quiet, informal setting. Place a thick, warm blanket on the ground to sprawl out on and plenty of cushions for comfort, select soft colours to keep the mood relaxed. Pop your picnic basket or box (even an emptied, upturned drawer works!) in the centre to create a low-level table to set your drinks and food on and well, you could be in the meadows. A vase or pitcher filled with fresh flowers will add to the atmosphere as will mild scented candles, you don’t need to pluck petals from roses to make it romantic. If you want to add in some fun options for after dinner entertainment, why not include your favourite card game or poetry book in the setup, this is a date night after all!

Prepare the Food

A home cooked, three course meal may say ‘I love you’ however, with many of us working at home and juggling home schooling too, time is of the essence; not many of us want to be slaving over a hot stove for hours on end! So why not order in from your favourite takeaway or treat yourself to a dine at home kit. Many restaurants are now offering DIY oven meals, ready to heat up at your convenience, or ingredient packs to make your own at home, from burgers to tacos, roasts to pizza, your local businesses have valentine’s dinner sorted! Mimic restaurant vibes by serving on warmed plates, clearing the table between courses and serving with sparkling water alongside your choice of beverage.

If a more relaxed setting suits your relationship then try these ideas to create the perfect indoor picnic date night. A glass of burgundy, a giant platter of cold meats and cheeses to nibble at the fireside are guaranteed to set the mood. Can you even call it an indoor picnic if a cheese board isn’t involved? Spruce up your grazing board with almonds, red grapes, blackberries, figs and olives. Add in some dips, artisan bread and crackers and the evening is yours.

Every meal, seated or picnic, should end with a bit of sweetness. For a perfect date night create something to share, from a giant cookie to a warm loaded brownie with ice cream, there’s nothing more fun than a spoon battle over the last mouthful!

The Atmosphere

Silence can be golden if your house is constantly bustling and loud, but softly playing background music or a playlist from a shared experience such as a concert will make the evening more memorable.

We’ve said it before but in case you missed it, candles. Eating by candle light instantly adds to the romantic atmosphere. It enhances the mood and will make you feel like you’ve gotten away from it all.

Remember to have everything prepared and within easy reach for your evening so you don’t need to get up and down to grab anything every few minutes. The fewer distractions during your date the more time for romance!

Activities

If you feel like your evening might need a little added extra than why not try out one of these activities together:

  • Go through old photos. Cue the nostalgia, pour a glass of wine and reconnect as you take a trip down memory lane.
  • Play a video game. Grab a controller and playfully challenge your partner to a game, retro games are always a win! Mario anyone?
  • Build a jigsaw together.
  • Turn up the tunes and share a dance.
  • Create your own wine tasting experience or order one in for the evening.
  • Plan a dream trip together. We may not be able to travel just now but that doesn’t stop you planning for one day in the future.

A perfect date night comes down to two things, relaxing and enjoying each other’s company. Everything else is a bonus. Be thoughtful, be kind and most importantly have a giggle.

Wood Fired American Pancakes – A Recipe for Your Pizza Oven

What’s better than hot, freshly baked pancakes? Ones from your pizza oven of course! This easy recipe is sure to be a winner this Pancake Day!

Whether you’re a fan of chocolate spread and raspberries, syrup or lemon and sugar, these American style pancakes are the ultimate thick and fluffy staple to build your stack of dreams.

What You’ll Need:

  • 150g plain flour
  • 1 level tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp fine seasalt
  • 30g caster sugar
  • 220ml milk
  • 2 eggs, separated
  • 30g melted butter
  • A large, heavy bottomed, high heat frying pan or girdle
  • Two mixing bowls
  • A whisk
  • A ladle

Method:

  1. Fire up your pizza oven to optimum temperature and allow to cool to around 210°C or a ‘3 Mississippi’ for those in the know, keep the door off. Alternatively, you can use the residual heat of your oven the morning after a pizza party.
  • Then, put your flour, baking powder, salt and sugar in a bowl and whisk in the milk, egg yolks and melted butter to get a smooth thick batter.
  • Whisk the egg whites until they are at the soft peak stage and fold them into the batter.
  • Put a large, heavy duty, frying pan or a smooth griddle in the oven and let it heat up.
  • Pop in a small piece of butter and wipe it around the surface of the pan. Add a large spoonful of the batter to form a pancake about 10cm wide to one side of the pan. Put in another spoonful of batter so you’re cooking 2 pancakes at once.
  • Once little bubbles start forming on the top of the pancakes, flip them over and cook until the other side are golden brown and the pancakes have puffed up.
  • Take them out of the pan and keep them warm (wrapping in a hot, clean dish cloth works well) while you cook the rest of the batter. Wipe the pan out with a little extra melted butter on some kitchen paper before every batch of pancakes.
  • Serve and enjoy!

Serve with:

  • Lashings of maple syrup with either fresh fruit or crispy bacon.
  • Berries, yoghurt and honey
  • Bananas and chocolate spread
  • Layer with jam and cream – Who needs scones?!
  • Icecream – We love this combination of hot and cold.
  • For a savory twist, feast like royalty and top with smoked salmon, a soft-boiled egg and slices of avocado.
  • Try adding a large handful of fresh blueberries to the batter before cooking.
  • Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the batter and serve with caramelised apples and a dollop of clotted cream.

How Will Eco Design 2022 Regulations Affect You?

It’s becoming increasingly difficult to separate fact from fiction with misleading information filling the media regarding the future of the wood burning stove industry. To help you we’ve outlined the facts about the new Eco Design 2022 Regulations and how these will affect your home fire.

Contrary to media reports, all stoves are not to be banned, the new limits on emissions align new products with the world we exist in today and permits us all to continue enjoying the back to basics tradition of solid fuel heating appliances, responsibly.

Put simply, in a bid to further reduce the impact heating appliances have on our environment, the bodies that govern our industry (DEFRA, Stove Industry Alliance and HETAS) have introduced stricter guidelines concerning efficiency levels and particulate matter by which a multitude of appliances manufactured after 1st January 2022 and sold in the UK (and Ireland) must adhere. These will be known as Eco Design 2022 Ready.

The primary areas of focus for the Eco Design directive are reduced particle emissions, lower Carbon Monoxide emissions and improved efficiency levels through better fuel standards and sustainability. Local councils will also be handed greater power to enforce the Eco Design Ready Scheme in their region.

So, will your existing stove be legal after 2022?

Yes. The Clean Air Strategy does not say there will be a ban on the use of existing wood or multi-fuel appliances, nor do you need to modify your appliance. Recommendations however are that you should only burn quality dry “Ready to Burn” wood or quality smokeless fuels.

Assuming you are a responsible stove owner with a HETAS certificate and using only fully-seasoned approved fuels, then you will not be affected by the new regulations as it will only concern stoves manufactured (and subsequently, purchased) after 1st January 2022.

You may wish to consider improving your existing stove with the installation of an electrostatic filter (this pulls the particles from the exhaust fumes before emitting into the atmosphere) and ensuring that you book in a minimum of two chimney sweeps a year.

Will I still be able to purchase fuel for my stove?

Yes. However, from early 2021, the sale of wet wood and coal will have been gradually phased out. You will no longer be able to use these fuels for domestic combustion. Coal and wet wood are two of the most polluting fuels – by restricting home use the government hopes to lower air pollution. The plan is that all wood sold for domestic use in volumes of less than 2 cubic metres must have a moisture content of less than 20% by February 2021. Sales of bagged house coal will be phased out by February 2021 and the sale of loose house coal delivered direct to the customer will end by 2023. All manufactured solid fuel will have a 2% maximum sulpher limit and a smoke emission limit of 5g per hour.

We always recommend burning kiln-dried hardwood or properly seasoned hardwood that has had two to three years of drying time. You can of course still gather your own unseasoned wood, but must ensure it has had time to season and again has a moisture content of no more than 20% before burning.

Why should you consider an EcoDesign 2022 Ready stove if you’re looking to install or replace a stove?

What can be better than making a difference now and start personally contributing to a proposed reduction in UK carbon emissions by two million tonnes per year? By purchasing an Eco Design Ready stove, you unlock the full potential of a modern, highly-efficient wood burner with up to 84% less particulate emissions than older stove models (SIA research). You cut fuel costs and reduce your carbon footprint on the planet too whilst continuing to enjoy all the benefits you love from your wood burning stove. You can even dispose of your old stove responsibly through the nationwide Stove Scrappage Scheme.

You can read more about what Eco Design Ready means here

Incorporating a Multi-sided Fire in Your Home

Today, more than ever, the function of a fire or stove in a typical home is to create vital warmth and a calming, centralised, atmosphere. The enticing glow of a fireplace is a defining element of many home living areas. The most common locations for fireplaces and stoves are lounges, kitchens, bedrooms and increasingly in home offices too. How do you choose the best place for your fireplace? What if you want more than one?

The Answer: Multi-sided fires!

To get the effect of having multiple fireplaces while meeting their budget, many homeowners are now incorporating multi-sided fires or stoves. There are several types of fire that provide multiple faces and they’re ideal for opening-up homes or dividing up large living spaces with a striking centrepiece. 

A multi-sided fireplace has one firebox, the chamber where fuel is burned, that is open on two or more sides. It’s this configuration that allows you a to view the flames from one room into the next. A show-stopping design feature, multi-sided fires are often used as a divider to help define spaces within an open layout; a great way to break up space while sustaining visual and light flow between two areas.

However, like most things in life, there are both pros and cons to this type of fireplace worth considering whilst planning to incorporate a multi-sided fire in your home. For instance, if your property has a full-sized living room and kitchen area with the fireplace located at the end of the living room, most of the heat will be lost before it even reaches the kitchen. But if the fireplace is located between the living room and the kitchen, it will function as an efficient dividing wall while delivering heat between the two separate rooms.

A great point in these fires favour, is that multi-sided fireplaces are safer than many other kinds of fireplaces due to the sturdy glass enclosing the flame. This is particularly ideal if you have small children in your house.

Multi-sided fireplaces are usually located between two full-sized areas. By doing so, the heat is evenly distributed compared to a traditional hearth placed against one wall. With conventional fires, the heat can cluster up in one area rather than radiate throughout the entire space.

If you’re planning to place a multi-sided fireplace on a floor-to-ceiling divide, then you must ensure that you are utilising proper wall supports. Remember that without correct supports, the fireplace could collapse anytime.

Our highly skilled team are on hand to discuss what structural adjustments you may need to incorporate your dream fire. Contact us today to discover if a multi-sided fire is the statement piece you’ve been looking for.

Great Fireside Activities for the Winter Months.

We’ve racked our brains and scoured the internet and put together 8 fantastic fireside activities to shake up your evenings this winter. Entertaining ideas to enjoy in the comfort of your own home, in fact, fun has never been easier! So, get set and get planning for an evening around the fireside and get ready to make memories.

  1. Cook

Sounds simple but eating around a fire is something we’ve done for years and you don’t need to be outdoors to enjoy it! Cooking is an all-time favourite campfire activity and now it’s set to become your indoor fireside favourite too. Roasting marshmallows for s’mores is only the beginning of fireside cooking activities to enjoy, and if you don’t have an open fire consider using a small burner on a safety mat.

2. Sing

Singing isn’t just for campfires, bring the tradition indoors to your fireside! Choose to go acapella or add a guitar, harmonica or whatever else you may have. Make your own rules and just go for it! Why not show off your musical talent with a karaoke night? Enjoy the chance to sing around the fireside to your favourite tunes. A karaoke evening is among the easiest activities to plan. Whether you choose to use a karaoke machine or simply an app, your living area will become an area of entertainment and delight. Set up a stage and position chairs or blankets accordingly. Grab some bar snacks and it’s an open mic night ready to go. Take your activity to the next level by choosing a theme such as 80’s music and go all out with fancy dress to match. Half fun is in the preparation!

3. Tell ghost stories

Add some spooky vibes to your fireside by planning a ghost story night. Gather around the warmth of a fire and swap classic horror tales and personal favourites. A ghost storytelling session is hassle-free and easy to plan, and they provide hours of freaky fun for everyone. Sure, you don’t necessarily need to decorate for your ghost storytelling, but where’s the fun in that? Break out those Halloween decorations, tack up some fake spider webs, and have the storyteller wear a witch hat. Play a spooky soundtrack on a phone or small speaker to enhance the entire experience. If you love this idea but want something a little less Halloween, why not tell fairytales or read aloud your favourite poems? A simple storytelling game is to take turns to each add a sentence to a story you make up together, who knows how this once upon a time will end?

4. Quiz

A home quiz by the fireside is a great activity for all ages. Make some cocktails/mocktails, get out the snacks and make up a quiz (or there are loads of free themed ones online too)! Try and keep screens to a minimum so you can enjoy the ambience of the fire. Play in teams or all against one, if there’s just the two of you simply quiz each other in a battle of the brains!

5. Movie night

Enjoy the nostalgic feeling of the cinema by transforming your living area into a cozy theatre. Assembling your home cinema may be easier than you think (just reposition seats to face the tv or set out a big cosy blanket with all the cushions) and it will provide all ages with a unique, memorable viewing experience. Stick with a family-friendly Disney theme or add a hint of exhilaration with a marathon of classic horror films. To add some extra magic, give out movie ticket invitations and arrange a self-serve popcorn and candy bar. Make sure to keep everyone safe by using string lights to illuminate the way to the loo!

6. Games

Twenty Questions, Name That Tune, Would You Rather, Eye Spy – the list of great traditional games to play round the fireside is endless. Many games you might play on a car journey are perfect for screen-free, fireside fun and are guaranteed to get a good few giggles.

7. Wine tasting

There’s nothing quite like a glass of vino by a roaring fire, unless it’s several glasses! There are many fantastic companies now offering wine tasting experiences delivered to your door and hosted online. Bring the elegance of a fine dining experience to your own home, make this an opportunity to sample a plethora of wine selections and discuss their observations. Add a touch of class to your fireside evening with just a bit of planning and shopping, polish the glasses and why not get in or set up a tasting platter to pair with the wines. This activity requires very little preparation and cleanup allowing you more time to enjoy the experience and ambience.

8. Sleepover

Sure, camping makes a great summer outing, but why not camp out in the convenience of your lounge this winter? An adventurous spin on a traditional slumber party, and who can deny that a bathroom within walking distance adds a certain sense of luxury generally not afforded by other camping trips? No need to check your weather app or prepare your bug spray, simply get ready for a fun-filled night indoors! Many of the ideas within this list can be accompanied by an indoor campout. The best part about indoor camping is its simplicity. Grab your sleeping bags and pillows, that’s it, setup is a breeze. Once the sleeping arrangements are made, you’re free to relax around the fire with hot chocolate, win!