What Is the Difference Between a Fire Pit and a Bonfire?

If you're planning to add outdoor heating or create a cosy gathering spot, you may be wondering: What’s the difference between a fire pit and a bonfire?

Although both offer warmth and ambience, the way they’re used—and which one is right for your garden—differs significantly.

This guide explains the key differences and answers the most-searched user questions. Whether you’re choosing your first backyard fire feature or upgrading to a premium SUNJOY fire pit, you’ll walk away knowing exactly which option fits your outdoor lifestyle.

What Exactly Is a Fire Pit?

A fire pit is a contained outdoor heating structure designed for small to medium gatherings. It’s usually made from durable materials such as steel, stone, or cast iron, and includes protective features like spark screens, stable bases, and airflow controls.

Key characteristics of a fire pit:

• Controlled flame
• Designed for domestic garden use
• Portable or permanent
• Safe for patios, decks, or paved areas
• Complies with many UK local fire guidelines

SUNJOY fire pits prioritise steady heat output, premium materials, and long-lasting durability, making them ideal for year-round UK use.

What Is Considered a Bonfire?

A bonfire is a much larger, open-air fire usually built directly on the ground. It’s often used for:

• Community events
• Burning yard waste
• Large celebrations (e.g., Bonfire Night in the UK)

Bonfire characteristics:

• Large, open flame
• Not contained
• Requires wide, clear space
• Higher smoke output
• Often restricted by local regulations

Most residential gardens cannot safely or legally host a traditional bonfire.

Which One Produces More Heat?

Bonfire

• Generates much more heat due to its large size
• Radiates heat over a wide area
• Not suitable for small gardens or close seating

Fire Pit

• Produces controlled, consistent heat
• Safe for close seating and family use
• Ideal for small-to-medium outdoor spaces

SUNJOY’s steel fire pits—such as the 83cm Woven Pattern Fire Pit—offer balanced heat output designed for comfort, safety, and long burn times.

Is a Fire Pit Safer Than a Bonfire?

Yes—significantly.
A fire pit is designed with safety as a core function.

Fire pit safety features include:

• Spark guards
• Stable steel bases
• Heat-resistant mesh screens
• Lower flame height
• Contained burn area

A bonfire, on the other hand, has:

• No containment
• Higher flames
• Greater risk of wind-blown embers
• Increased wildfire or property damage potential

This is why most UK homeowners choose premium fire pits instead of bonfires for everyday use.

Which One Is Better for a Small Garden?

Fire pit is the clear winner.

Bonfires require a very wide open space—and many councils restrict them entirely. Fire pits offer:

• Safe, contained flames
• Compact footprint
• Cleaner burning
• Better airflow engineering

SUNJOY fire pits are specifically designed for small urban gardens, patios, and terraces.

Can You Cook on a Fire Pit or Bonfire?

Fire Pit

Yes—many fire pits come with grilling capabilities or cooking attachments.
They’re safer, more controlled, and easier to maintain.

Some SUNJOY fire pits include removable mesh guards and steel bowls ideal for roasting or slow cooking.

Bonfire

Also possible, but not recommended:

• Too hot
• Harder to control
• Unsafe for hands-on cooking

Which One Produces More Smoke?

Bonfire

❌ Produces much more smoke, sparks, and ash.
❌ More likely to bother neighbours or violate local nuisance laws.

Fire Pit

✔ Designed for controlled burning
✔ Smokeless or low-smoke options available
✔ Cleaner airflow and improved combustion efficiency

SUNJOY’s smokeless fire pit designs minimise smoke output by improving oxygen flow.

Which One Is Better for Entertaining?

Fire Pit:

✔ Perfect for conversations
✔ Safe for children with supervision
✔ Works in compact spaces
✔ Creates a premium, inviting atmosphere

Bonfire:

✔ Best for large outdoor events
❌ Not ideal for close seating
❌ High heat and flames reduce comfort

For cosy gatherings, a high-quality fire pit is the best choice for style, safety, and ambience.

Fire Pit vs Bonfire: Quick Comparison Table

Why Choose a SUNJOY Fire Pit Instead of a Bonfire?

SUNJOY fire pits are built with premium materials, high-quality steel, durable mesh guards, and stable bases. Unlike bonfires, they offer:

• Controlled flame height
• Superior safety
• Long-term outdoor durability
• Elegant design that enhances outdoor décor
• Low-maintenance performance
• Compatibility with UK fire guidelines

Explore SUNJOY fire pits

Conclusion

A fire pit is the modern, safe, stylish option for everyday garden enjoyment—while a bonfire is large, intense, and limited by space and local rules.

For UK homeowners seeking premium outdoor heating, a fire pit offers comfort, durability, and a steady performance fit for year-round use.