The best wok will come with an unique bowl-shaped design that can be used to cook large servings all in one go. The design and sturdy handle will make it easy to toss your vegetables and fried rice and ensure they land back in the pan safely. Woks are also a great multi-tasker. You can use them in the place of a large saucepan or a frying pan, and they come in a variety of finishes.

Some of the best woks in our guide come with non-stick coating and dishwasher-safe designs for a less traditional, but more convenient, day-to-day use. Traditionally though, woks will come with a classic carbon steel design that can be seasoned over time to add flavour and char to your meals with every use. 

Unlike many of the best saucepan sets, a wok will have a narrower base and a wider rim. This will allow heat to spread out along the sides of your wok to cook everything directly, which is especially useful in dishes with no sauce. A round-bottomed wok is especially useful for those with gas hobs, but if you plan to rest your wok on an induction or electric hob, a flat-bottomed wok will be far more stable.

How to choose the best wok

Most people will prefer a non-stick wok for the convenience of dishwasher cleaning. It’s less authentic than the carbon steel woks traditionally used in Chinese cooking, but non-stick will be able to withstand the high temperatures of the hob, even on full blast. You won’t get the same charring that you’d find with cast iron or steel, but non-stick pans are often lighter, too.

Choose a wok with a handle that makes you feel safe. Many metal handles will heat up after prolonged use, but if you opt for one with a keep-cool handle, you won’t be able to put the wok in the oven.

It’s not essential to have a lid for your wok, but if versatility is a concern, you can opt for a rounded lid to create high levels of steam to heat through noodles or cook your chicken all the way through. A glass lid will let you look in to see how your meal is coming along, and they may come with a vent to let out moisture and keep your wok from bubbling over.

1. Stellar Rocktanium Non-Stick Wok

Best wok overall

Width: 30cm
Oven-safe? Yes
Dishwasher-safe? Yes
Reasons to buy: 

• Grab handle for easy lifting
• Sturdy non-stick design
• Not too heavy

Reasons to avoid: 

• None!

The Stellar Rocktanium Non-Stick Wok is the best wok for most homes. It’s a far cry from traditional designs, although you’ll find plenty in the rest of our roundup, but the non-stick design is very high quality and will withstand scratches. It can also take a lot of heat to replicate the flash-fried results you’re looking for.

What’s more, it’s oven-safe up to 210 degrees, and it’s got a very generous capacity thanks to the 30cm width. Despite the large design, it’s a good weight, and the curved handle is very easy to hold. Should you want to take it out of the oven, you can hold the handle on the other side of the wok to keep things sturdy. 

The flat bottom is suitable for all types of hobs, but the curved sides are ideal for authentically tossing your stir fry ingredients.

Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars 

2. Ninja Foodi ZEROSTICK 28cm Wok

Best non-stick wok

Width: 28cm
Oven-safe? Yes
Dishwasher-safe? Yes
Reasons to buy: 

• Can be used with metal utensils
• Oven safe up to very high temperatures
• Comes with a lid

Reasons to avoid: 

• Not the lightest

The Ninja Foodi ZEROSTICK range continues to impress us with its hardy design. The Ninja Foodi ZEROSTICK 28cm Wok is a little heavy, but it comes with a lid included to steam or keep the heat in, and this can also be used on the 28cm frying pans. 

We particularly enjoy the quality of the non-stick on this wok. It’s scratch-resistant and you can use metal utensils to stir your egg fried rice or chicken as it cooks. The range is also oven-safe up to 260 degrees. 

You can use this wok on hobs of all types, and because of the quality of the non-stick, you don’t need to use much oil to prevent food from sticking or burning to the base. It’s also covered by a ten-year guarantee.

Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars 

3. Samuel Groves Non-stick stainless-steel wok 32cm

Best premium wok

Width: 32cm
Oven-safe? Yes
Dishwasher-safe? No
Reasons to buy: 

• Amazingly high quality
• Ergonomic riveted handle
• Grab handle for oven use

Reasons to avoid: 

• The most expensive option in our guide

The luxurious Samuel Groves Non-stick stainless-steel wok is a treat from the second you take it out of its woven hessian bag. It’s oven-safe up to 250 degrees, but you’ll need to wash it by hand to keep the non-stick in tact. 

It’s a premium pick, and the triple-ply stainless steel is a little on the heavy side if you plan on tossing your stir-fries. This does make it very sturdy though, and the riveted handle allows you to keep your distance from the action. Because it’s metal though, it will heat up when in use, so be careful to not hold the handle too close to the rivets when cooking. 

Ideal Home’s rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars 

4. Kuhn Rikon Allround Wok

Best lightweight wok

Width: 24cm, 28cm
Oven-safe? Yes
Dishwasher-safe? Yes
Reasons to buy: 

• Lightweight design
• Efficient induction-friendly base
• Three-layered non-stick

Reasons to avoid: 

• No lid

The lightest of the woks we tested, if you struggle to toss your vegetables to easily coat them in soy sauce or sesame oil, the Kuhn Rikon Allround Wok is a great choice. It’s got a solid and wide induction-friendly base, and three layers of non-stick protection. 

Because the handle is hollow, it will be much more efficient when it comes to keeping cool after even prolonged use.

You can put it through the dishwasher and the oven, up to 240 degrees. It comes in 28cm and a smaller 24cm width, great for single servings. 

Ideal Home’s rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars 

5. BergHOFF Leo 28cm Non Stick Stir Fry Pan

Best wok for multi-tasking

Width: 28cm
Oven-safe? Yes
Dishwasher-safe? Yes
Reasons to buy: 

• Sturdy lid with a pouring vent
• Can be used as a sauté pan
• Easy to clean

Reasons to avoid: 

• Quite flat base

We’re big fans of BergHOFF’s Leo range, and while it’s not labelled as a wok, the BergHOFF Leo 28cm Non Stick Stir Fry Pan is designed for the task of stir-frying. The handle is non-stick and ergonomic, as is the lid handle, and the non-stick is very easy to clean.

It is technically oven-safe, but only up to 160 degrees. Because it has a wider base and steep sides, it can easily step in to the task of being a sauté pan or even frying pan for multi-tasking in the kitchen. 

Ideal Home’s rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars 

6. Salter Megastone Wok

Best wok for steaming

Width: 28cm
Oven-safe? No
Dishwasher-safe? Yes
Reasons to buy: 

• Very durable non-stick
• The matching pan set is one of our favourites
• You can use the lid for steaming and keeping food warm

Reasons to avoid: 

• Plastic handles can’t go in the oven

We enjoyed the Salter Megastone range when reviewing saucepans, and the megastone wok is no exception. The range is made of rough non-stick that’s durable enough to endure heavy use, and the handles are plastic coated, which will keep them from getting too hot when in use. This does mean they can’t go in the oven, but this isn’t essential when cooking with a wok anyway.

The glass lid has a steam vent which can be very useful when cooking fish or heating through noodles. It’s also great for cooking dishes with sauce without reducing the liquid down too much. 

Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars 

7. Judge 35cm Non-Stick Wok Set

Best value wok set

Width: 25cm
Oven-safe? Yes
Dishwasher-safe? Yes
Reasons to buy: 

• Comes with all the extras you need
• Authentic-style lid
• Keep-cool handles

Reasons to avoid: 

• Cannot be used on induction hobs

At an impressive price, the Judge 35cm Non-Stick Wok Set is packed with value. It’s made of classic Chinese carbon steel and comes with plenty of accessories to keep your busy. That includes a serving trivet, seaming rack, turner, chopsticks, and a lid. The lid is curved and reminiscent of more traditional woks.

You can’t use it on induction hobs and the handles are coated with a stay-cool coating. While it is oven-safe (save for the wooden extras) it can only go up to 150 degrees, so be careful. 

Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars 

How we tested the best woks

When testing we considered how fast the wok heated, and how evenly. After all, when cooking with a wok, you’re usually in a hurry to stir-fry a quick and healthy dinner.

Another factor we took seriously was the material used in construction. Carbon steel is the material of choice for most cooks, but these woks are becoming tricky to come by on the mass market, and have been replaced by durable non-stick that aims to replicate its lightweight design. However, you won’t be able to season your non-stick as any remnants will wash away after cooking.

The balance of the wok was a big factor, because it should be able to support itself when left on the hob. However, the handle should also be sturdy enough to flip the wok when cooking, without the bowl being too heavy.

The post Best wok 2021: for speedy stir-fries and healthy meals appeared first on Ideal Home.

What is more cosy and inviting than a warming living room fireplace idea; the flickering flames of an open fire? Whether it’s real or artificial, an ambient glow will give your room a warming and appealing atmosphere. But even if you don’t have a working fireplace, you can make a focal point of a fireplace that’s purely decorative.

Our fireplace ideas can be incorporated into both contemporary and more traditional room scheme. And though most apply to living room ideas, there’s no reason they can’t inspire other spaces like bedrooms, hallways or open-plan dining areas.

Fireplace ideas

Looking to add a fireplace in a house that’s lost its originals? Owen Pacey of fireplace restoration specialist Renaissance London has some top tips on how to choose one.

“I’d always recommend sticking to the period of the house when looking to purchase a fireplace,’ says Owen. ‘This ensures that the styles align, and the fireplace will look like it’s always been there.’

‘The ground floor of Victorian properties always used to have a marble or slate fireplace and later on in the Edwardian era, slate became much more popular. My go-to material would always be marble, however, as it is generally very durable.’

‘If you’re thinking of inserting something functional or decorative inside your fireplace, I generally like to stick to original cast iron inserts or a freestanding basket.’

1. Style a mantel like a pro

image credit: Future PLC

We ask a leading interiors stylist for tips on styling a mantel piece like a pro. ‘Style it up with your favourite vases, family memories and seasonal foliage, and arrange your furniture so it embraces the fireplace rather than avoiding it,’ says Sally Denning, Interiors stylist, @Blackshorestyle on instagram.

‘Flowers and foliage, a huge mirror and your favourite ceramics always work,’ says Sally. ‘But don’t be tempted to overfill. Be considered and paired back. Groupings of three always work well, as do different heights and textures. Saying that, work in plenty of candles and even a string of fairy lights for cosy nights.’ Ambient light is essential for cosy living room idea.

2. Make a feature of a chimney breast wall

Image credit:Future PLC/ Sussie Bell

Ruth Mottershead, Creative director, Little Greene loves to see contrast, ‘Try painting the fireplace in a contrasting colour to walls, wallpapering all walls or alcoves except the chimney breast.’

‘Or opting for floor-to-ceiling colour, enveloping the fire surround and chimney breast just leaving the dark fireplace or decorative tiles to become a room’s feature highlight.’

3. Keep it simple for a contemporary design

Image credit: Dulux; Walls painted in Romney Wool Velvet Matt emulsion, Dulux Heritage

‘An inset stove gives the illusion of a “window of fire”,’ says Declan Kingsley-Walsh, Managing Director Morsø UK. ‘So keep things minimal to let the fire remain centre stage.’

‘Try either a single or grouping of larger vases positioned on the floor.’ Sally would bring in a few statement pieces of foliage to create a focal point above – or even a few branches, leant against the wall on one side.

4. Make a modern fireplace the focal point

Image credit: Future PLC/ Rachael Smith

In a contemporary layout embrace the freedom to upsize. Make a big impact, quite literally, with an oversized fireplace design. ‘Glass panels on stoves are now bigger and wider, so you can really enjoy the beauty of a log fire, compared to more trad designs,’ says Declan.

‘Stoves can be placed almost anywhere as long as the requirements of the stove are met and there’s a flue, which means focal points are moving away from the traditional fireplace.’

5. Welcome wallpaper to frame a fireplace

Image credit: Future Publishing Plc/ Simon Whitmore

Draw attention to the fire within the fireplace by framing the surround with a decorative paper. Ruth loves a wallpaper idea; ‘Adding wallpaper to the chimney breast in an otherwise muted scheme highlights it and create an element of surprise.’

6. Give an original fireplace a makeover

Image credit: Little Greene

With the right materials you can upcycle anything. ‘Most fireplaces are made from varnished wood, cast iron, tiles or stone, so if you are looking to paint it – and a contrasting colour always helps highlight this architectural feature – then use a coat of an all-surface primer’ advises Ruth Mottershead, Creative director, Little Greene.

‘If you have a highly sculptural or cast-iron fireplace, then paint the walls and the fireplace itself the same colour – this reduces the powerful nature of the ironwork or shape but allows the detail to show through by the highlights and shadows that are displayed as light falls on it.’

7. Style a fireplace seasonally

Image credit: Future/Joanna Henderson

‘Style with the season,’ says Sally. ‘For spring and summer, pop candles into the grate or add seasonal foliage. As you head into autumn, stack with logs – they are great for adding texture and can be moved to a log basket to one side come winter.’

8. Don’t overpower the wood-burner

Image credit: Morso

‘For a contemporary stove, try to keep the area around minimal with a neutral palette. This allows the stove’s warm, dancing flames to be the focal point. For more traditional stoves, expose the original brick or go for decorative tiles to create a warm, homely look,’ says Declan.

9. Make your mantel pop

Image credit: Future PLC/Dominic Blackmore

Not sure what to do with that tired old wooden fireplace surround? If you are feeling brave, painting it a bright colour will make it sing. Try to pick out your chosen colour in accents such as cushions and rugs, and smaller pieces of upcycled furniture for a more cohesive look.

Think carefully about your colour choice. If you have a cool neutral like grey on the walls, pick a strong sunshine yellow, teal blue or fuchsia pink. If you are working with a warmer neutral, try an on-trend brick or terracotta red, a sage or olive green or even plum.

10. Go grey all over

Image credit: Future PLC/Joanna Henderson

One way to make a fireplace feel less old fashioned or obtrusive is to paint it in an on-trend, colour, and to also us that colour on the wall behind. This cocooning grey living room idea is on trend, and makes this mantel feel smart. It’s also light enough that you don’t lose the fine details of any carved details.

11. Make sure it’s to scale

Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles

This is important if you are choosing a replacement mantelpiece, or installing a new fireplace where one didn’t previously exist. ‘If you have lots of space and high ceilings, you may wish to opt for a tall fireplace with an overhanging mantel, an ornate overmantel and a wide hearth extension,’ advises Owen Pacey.

‘If your space is smaller, such as in a bathroom or guest bedroom, you may wish to opt for something more flush to the wall. Focus the detail on ornate jambs or tiles around the grate.’

12. Turn a chimney breast into a home office

Image credit: Future PLC/Anna Stathaki

Here’s a very smart solution for a defunct upstairs fireplace – turn it into a desk or dressing table. Deeper wardrobes sit in the alcoves created by the flue, while attaching a shelf to the chimney breast makes an instant workspace or beauty bar. And the hearth becomes a place to tuck in a stool – it’s the home office you’ve always wanted, but takes up barely any space.

13. Pare back a disused fireplace

Image credit: Future PLC/Joanna Henderson

Turn a simple hole in the wall into a stunning feature that reflects the style of your property. This house is located by the sea, so rustic materials – a raw concrete cavity and a stone base are complemented by the mix of textured ceramics and woven rattan inside.

A small jar of coral is another nod to the surroundings.

14. Use reclaimed wood for authenticity

Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole

A big open hearth and flue might look authentic, but they are also rather impractical. In this cosy cottage, the flue is sealed off so there are no draughts, and an efficient wood burner does a far better job of emitting heat directly into the room that an open fire wood.

A simple reclaimed beam is a rustic alternative to a traditional mantelpiece, while still nodding to the age of the house. See more of this stunning home: Have a wander through this 400-year-old thatched cottage in the Cornwall countryside

15. Create a dramatic bathroom feature

Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole

Ok, so chances are you won’t naturally have a chimney breast in your bathroom, unless you have repurposed a bedroom or done some serious reconfiguring downstairs. But if you do, it can be a very useful feature and the focal point of your space. Use it as a home for laundry baskets and fill it with plants for a fresh look. It’s also the natural home for a mirror.

If you don’t have a chimney breast in the bathroom, you could fake one. It might be a handy addition, particularly if you are trying to box around and hide pipework. Just add a wooden mantel and no one will know it’s not authentic.

16. Fake it in a new build with this instant fix

Image credit: Next

Though it’s not true of all new builds, some can feel a little bereft of features. So if you are looking for a focal point to replace the TV, a fireplace surround like this one from Next could be the retro-fit solution you’ve been looking for. It will fit against a flat wall for an instant feature, and you you can add your choice of electric stove or hearth to complete the look.

Buy now: Jefferson fireplace surround, £475, Next

17. Keep things elegant with marble

Image credit: Future PLC/ Paul Craig

Marble is the perfect choice for a fireplace. It is resistant to heat and fire, meaning you can light the fire all winter long without worrying about any damage. Marble is perfect for creating a sleek modern look. It can be expensive, but the versatility and longevity of marble makes it is a great investment.

18. Add character with exposed brick

Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles

If you have inherited a fireplace already fitted with a heating element, rather than tearing it out immediately check to see if it is still safe to use and work with it.

This old heating element and exposed brick fireplace add character to this otherwise modern living room. It is a lovely focal point that offers a nod to the history of the house.

19. Create a modern, industrial look

Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore

Has your original fireplace been ripped out? It’s relatively affordable to commission your own in cast concrete, for a surround that has all the character or marble or stone without the expense.

Pops of orange fire up the neutral living room background when the stove itself isn’t flickering.

20. Match your fireplace to your walls

Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Whitmore

Fireplaces can sometimes stand out for all the wrong reasons. So if you want yours to blend in, paint it to match the walls around it. This is particularly effective if you go for a deep colour rather than a pale neutral. Pick out the tone in soft furnishings but make sure there’s enough ‘light’ to contrast with the shad to avoid overkill.

Here, a grey stove and grey sofa with metallic furniture do the job brilliantly in a blue living room idea.

21. Work in a wood-burning stove

Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Whitmore

Fireplace alcove not in use? Install a log burning stove. It will create wonderfully cosy centrepiece and will heat the whole area. Be sure to enlist the help of a trained contractor who will make sure the structure is safe and built to the latest regulations.

The results as seen here in this quaint country living room are stunning and can be enjoyed from all angles of the room. ‘Whether your living room is big or small, a wood-burning stove always makes it cosy’ says Declan Kingsley-Walsh, Managing Director Morsø UK.

22. Dress an inglenook

Image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Eltes

Large open fireplaces or Inglenooks as they are often known are the ultimate indulgence for cottage, country living room ideas. They were originally used in houses to cook, and for people to gather in for extra warmth but these days they are purely decorative and atmospheric.

Their grand appearance is the epitome of rustic cosiness and looks the part amongst beamed ceilings and comfortable sofas. You need to have sufficient permanent ventilation into the room to ensure that the fire can work safely with a good draught up the flue.

Be sure to clean and maintain your chimney and heating stove in time for winter.

23. Decorate the mantel

Image credit: Future PLC/ Brett Charles

Ever wondered where the living room furniture pointed before the days of the TV? Although many have been neglected or ripped out completely, the fireplace is gaining gravitas once more thanks to our current love of all things heritage.

Whether offering a place for your wine glass at a party to perching a family portrait, the mantel itself has long reflected each era of design. Use a bare mantel to display your favourite objects – a sure fire (get it?!) way to cheer you up on a dull, dreary day.

Select specific items to make more of a statement – oversized letters to spell out kid’s names looks great, or use the wall above to position a large scale print and leave the mantle free.

24. Fill your fireplace with shelving

Image credit: Future PLC/ Heather Hobhouse

If you have a small fireplace that no longer houses a fire or has been blocked up and plastered over, why not use it as an alcove for shelving to fill an unwelcome gap? This works particularly well in bedrooms for storing books, and also in kitchens by creating extra space for pretty displays.

25. Pop storage into the niche

Image credit: Future PLC/ Nikki Crisp

If you’re lucky enough to have a big fireplace that is no longer in use, take advantage of the tailor-made niche in which to house a freestanding cupboard.

Rather than have a built-in design, which can be an expensive project, ready- made furniture is a great alternative. Especially effective if you paint it the same colour as the alcove and the surrounding walls, blending the whole look together.

26. Fill in the gaps with logs

Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles

Fill an unused fireplace with logs for an eye-catching display. Fire wood is making a rustic style statement this season. Stacked and styled with an interior designer’s eye, the storage of this humble heat source is also the ‘hot’ new way to bring a textural element into the winter home.

We’ve got plenty more log storage ideas where that came from, to make a display of firewood.

27. Light up your fire

Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles

An exposed brick chimney breast is a popular decorative fireplace style right now. It demands attention, adds texture and lends itself well to not only rustic but modern schemes as it gives a nod to the industrial trend.

It particularly looks the part in this relaxed living room as creates a focal point and balances the eclectic scheme. If your fireplace is not in use, light up the hearth with a quirky novelty LED letter light as an extra highlight.

28. Adorn your fireplace with foraged foliage

Image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Eltes

Give those Sunday afternoon walks extra purpose by taking the opportunity to forage in the hedgerows for pretty foliage to adorn your fireplace. Slip your secateurs in your pocket and be on the look-out for ivy, rose hips, eucalyptus, yew and box cuttings. As well as looking pretty, they’ll double as kindling.

The time honoured and traditional fireplace was once a necessity to heat a room, but in today’s world they can be seen as more of a comforting indulgence and delight. From artificial gas and electric fires to rustic wood burners and roaring open inglenooks, there is certainly a style and type to suit every style of living room, bedroom, kitchen or even bathroom.

Should I buy a restored fireplace or reproduction fireplace?

A beautiful fireplace might be a must-have now, but it’s a sad fact that in the 1970s and 1980s, homeowners couldn’t rip them out fast enough. That’s left many older homes lacking their original fireplaces. So if you want to reinstate them, is it best to seek out an old fireplace, salvaged from a property of a similar age, or to buy new?

‘Restoration can be a hugely gratifying and challenging process, from sourcing to installation, but the result is a true piece of history amongst the fabric of your home,’ says Owen Pacey of Renaissance London. ‘Alternatively, specifying a reproduction fireplace gives you the freedom to create something entirely new. It can be made to look old while incorporating all the detail and personalisation you could wish for.’

How do I make my fireplace a year-round feature?

Image credit: Brent Darby

Declan says to acknowledge rather than disguise; ‘During the summer, a stove or fire remains a functional design element that boosts the aesthetics of any space, even though it’s not in regular use. Keep logs and fireside tools close by – whatever the season – they add interest and make the stove feel homely all year round.’

Do fireplaces cause pollution?

While we love the cosy element that a wood-burning stove brings to a room, we also acknowledge the Clean Air Strategy 2019, which sets about the reduction of emissions at home. Burning wood and coal in open fires and stoves makes up 38% of the UK’s primary emissions of fine particulate matter2.

The Clean Air Strategy 2019 set out plans to legislate to prohibit the sale of the most polluting fuels, with only the cleanest stoves available for sale by 2022.
You don’t need to wait until 2022 to make a difference, even small changes can help, such as only using fully seasoned wood; avoiding burning waste wood; sweeping your chimney at least once a year, and only burning when you need to. Find out more at gov.uk.

Additional words by Jennifer Morgan.

The post Fireplace ideas – from modern designs to rustic hearths for living rooms and more appeared first on Ideal Home.

Beatrix Potter’s Lake District home is up for rent – and you could be living in it.

If you’ve ever had one of her famous books read to you, you’ll know that Beatrix Potter was not only a fantastic writer but one of the most beloved children’s authors of all time.

Whether it’s The Tale of Peter Rabbit, or stories about Jemima Puddle-Duck or Mrs Tiggy-Winkle, many of Beatrix Potter’s stories were inspired by trips and later her home in the Lake District.

Castle Cottage sits in a hidden corner of the quaint village of Near Sawrey, Ambleside. It was where Beatrix and her husband, William lived for 30 years, between 1913 until she died in 1943 and features some love country living room ideas and stunning grounds.

The property is currently being let on behalf of the National Trust for £1,750pcm. Shall we take a little look?

Beatrix Potter’s former Lake District home

Image credit: Savills

It’s quite a house isn’t it? Castle Cottage is an 18th-century grade II-listed building that’s pretty as a picture and boasts incredible views over the surrounding countryside.

Inside, you’ll find five bedrooms, two of which are en-suite, a kitchen-diner, living room, utility and boot rooms, while outside has traditional outbuildings and beautiful lawn areas.

Sitting room

Image credit: Savills

How about this for  cosy living room ideas? During her time at Castle Cottage, Beatrix designed an extension with French windows out onto the garden, and this first-floor sitting room with its large bay window and sweet window seat.

We wonder if she would sit here, looking out at the Lakeland views?

Image credit: Savills

The sitting room also has access to this outdoor staircase, which supposedly allowed Beatrix to escape from unwelcome visitors over the farmland towards Moss Eccles Tarn!

Kitchen

Image credit: Savills

Despite its history, the cottage has included some modern kitchen ideas with a large range cooker, panelled island unit and retro-style Smeg fridge. It’s the perfect spot to whip up some country-style treats!

Garden

Image credit: Savills

Along with its south-facing views, whoever lives here will get to enjoy the stunning country gardens. Imagine watching the seasons change and spotting the local wildlife – we bet you’d see most of the animals featured in Beatrix’s books from here.

‘When Beatrix Potter died, she left Castle Cottage to the National Trust, along with 4,000 acres of land, 14 farms and flocks of Herdwick sheep,’ says Jennifer Dixon of Savills Carlisle.

‘The Trust has continued the author’s conservation work and now owns 91 hill farms in the area, some of which still have traditional Herdwick flocks. Without Beatrix Potter’s practical and tireless support, it is uncertain whether the Lake District would have remained the place of spectacular beauty it is today.’

If you’d like to find out more about renting Castle Cottage, head over to Savills.

Can you imagine a dreamier country getaway?

The post Beatrix Potter’s former home in the Lake District is available to rent appeared first on Ideal Home.

Whether you’re buying new cookware in time for Christmas or stocking up whilst prices are cheap, these are the top Le Creuset sales in the UK right now. From everywhere including Amazon, Wayfair, Brand Alley and even Le Creuset direct. Just before Black Friday 2021.

Whatever you are searching for, we’ve found deals on all things from Le Creuset espresso mugs to Le Creuset casserole dishes – and everything in between. In all colours, too including the classic Volcanic Orange. Perhaps you’re buying Le Creuset for somebody else? Their kitchenware does make a lovely present idea, whether for birthdays, Christmas or as a wedding present. Just an idea.

Don’t miss: Best saucepans – for cooking up a storm

We’ve done the job of searching for Le Creuset offers for you, to save you scrolling through pages and pages of deals. If you’re shopping for new cookware that you want to last, then don’t miss your chance to save big in these Le Creuset sales. And, clearly, there’s no need to wait out for the Le Creuset Black Friday deals.

Le Creuset sale quick links

We’ve only included genuine Le Creuset in our list of offers. These are the best Le Creuset deals we found on the web right now, click on them to head straight to the retailer and buy now.

• Le Creuset Almond Pepper Mill, £33 £23, Brand Alley
• Le Creuset Almond Pestle & Mortar, £45 £23, Brand Allley
• Le Creuset Cream Oven Mitt, £28 £23.80, Amazon
• Le Creuset Satin Black Square Dish (23cm), £52 £26, Brand Alley
• Le Creuset Classic Teapot Almond, £50 £28, Brand Alley
• Le Creuset Traditional Kettle, £99 £74.95, Lecreuset.co.uk
• Le Creuset Cast Iron 28cm Frying Pan, £180 £155.50, Wayfair
• Le Creuset Cerise Signature Cast Iron Round Casserole (24cm), £250 £178.69, Wayfair
• Le Creuset Volcanic Orange Shallow Casserole Dish (26cm), £210 £169, House of Fraser – INCREDIBLE DEAL
• Buy a Le Creuset 3ply 3 piece set and get a Le Creuset 3-Ply Non-Stick Pan worth £105 at no extra cost – from John Lewis & Partners

More Le Creuset sale deals…

Not (yet) found what you’re looking for? Keep scrolling and click the ‘BUY NOW’ buttons to shop these deals.

Le Creuset.co.uk sale

Le Creuset Kone with Fixed Whistle 1.6L Stovetop Kettle | £85 £63.75 at Le Creuset
This whistling kettle has a 1.6L capacity and it’s perfect for use on a stovetop. It’s suitable for all hobs, including gas, electric, glass and induction, while it will certainly take centre stage in your kitchen. Choose from a huge range of colours, from Volcanic Orange to Shell Pink and everything in between.

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Wayfair Le Creuset sale

Le Creuset Stoneware Espresso Cup | £16.52 £13.99 a Wayfair
Switch your espresso cups for some Le Creuset ones and stick them on display in your kitchen. A total bargain, plus they are on sale in Volcanic Orange – our favourite colour.

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Le Creuset Stoneware 0.25 L Petite Casserole | £21 £19.37 at Wayfair
These mini casserole dishes make dinner parties look that little bit fancier, and they rid the need to serve dinner from the table – or in the kitchen beforehand. You could even use them for serving dips or nibbles, and with a handy lid, they make concealing your food from bugs and flies that bit easier. A bargain price for four, especially if you are collecting other Le Creuset Volcanic Orange cookware.

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Le Creuset Non-Stick 26 cm Round Non-Stick Steel Springform Pan | £33 £29.29 at Wayfair
Whether for baking a Victoria sponge cake or for refrigerating your famous strawberry cheesecake, this 26cm rounded pan ought to help do this job – leak-free. It’s also non-stick and it has a removable bottom for ease of use, while you can pop it in a dishwasher after use to cut down your washing up pile.

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Le Creuset Signature 23cm Frying Pan | £120 £101.97 at Wayfair
Use this Le Creuset frying pan for searing your meat to cooking your pasta sauce, and even frying up some shakshuka eggs. With a pouring spout on either side, it’s very simple to use, though bear in mind it’s quite heavy. It has a handle for hanging if you are tight on space in your pan cupboard, and it’s made of cast iron.

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Amazon Le Creuset sale

Le Creuset 941009290 Toughened Non-Stick Bakeware Square Cake Tin | £29 £26.40 at Amazon
One for all of the homemade brownie and blondie lovers out there, this square cake tin is the ideal size while being both non-stick and easy grip. Not only is it great for sweet treats but it can also be used for small roast dinners.

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Le Creuset Signature Enamelled Cast Iron Round Casserole Dish With Lid | £200 £170 at Amazon
If you know someone who is collecting Le Creuset kitchenware in Satin Black, then send them a link to this page so they can save £30. This is a total bargain since this casserole dish measures 20cm – perfect for cooking for two to three people. It’s perfect for whipping up a chilli con carne or making a soup, plus it’s both hob and oven safe, as well as suitable for the dishwasher.

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Le Creuset Black Friday

As we’ve already mentioned, the Black Friday 2021 sale is inching closer and closer, so it’s only natural to wonder about the Black Friday Le Creuset deals. If what you want to buy is on sale – with a lot of money off – right now, then we say to buy it quickly. If not, and the item you are searching for only has a few pounds off (and you can wait) then mark the 26th of November in your calendar. Come back to this page closer to Black Friday as we’ll be featuring all of the best offers, as they come in…

Shop Le Creuset sales

Head straight to Le Creuset sales via the links below, if you want to shop the deals for yourself.

• Le Creuset clearance sale
• John Lewis & Partners Le Creuset sale
• Wayfair Le Creuset sale
• Amazon Le Creuset sale
• Harts of Stur Le Creuset sale
• eCookshop Le Creuset sale
• eBay Le Creuset sale
• House of Fraser Le Creuset sale
• Philip Morris & Son Le Creuset sale 
• Brand Alley Le Creuset sale

Where can I buy cheap Le Creuset?

Cheap Le Creuset items are hard to come by, so when you do spot any bargains, we suggest buying ASAP. They tend to sell out fast – and for good reason. You’re most likely to find affordable or on sale Le Creuset items at Amazon or Wayfair.

Why is Le Creuset so expensive?

The Le Creuset iconic cast-iron cookware is a highly desirable brand for kitchens everywhere, thanks to its superior cooking attributes. The cast iron distributes and retains heat evenly without hotspots to ensure that you get the best results each time; whether you’re simmering, baking or roasting.

Buying a classic cast iron cookware set is an investment. It’s a big initial outlay, but Le Creuset dishes will stand the test of time! When you work out the cost per use, there’s no quibbling the value of owning great cookware.  And while it’s regarded in such supreme excellence, it does mean it’s rather expensive – too expensive for some budgets, sadly. This is why we’ve got this sales page to alert you on the best offers as they come in.

When is the best time to buy Le Creuset cookware?

The best time to buy Le Creuset cookware is during the Black Friday sales. We’ve seen so many cheap Le Creuset deals during this time of year – at the end of November. It’s also a great time to buy Le Creuset Christmas presents at cheaper prices. This year, Black Friday falls on the 26th of November, so mark your calendars.

A brief history of Le Creuset

Related: best chef knives – update your kitchen arsenal with these top picks

Now is the time to finally snap up the dream Le Creuset set you’ve been hankering after. Trust us, you will not regret buying these pans at the best price you can– we love our collection, it’s worth every penny!

The post The best Le Creuset sales ahead of Black Friday – from £13.99 appeared first on Ideal Home.