About Ember Crate Hire

Ember Crate Hire began with a small collection of portable BBQ tools loaned among friends during the warmer months along the Solent. What started as a simple idea—keeping useful, clean gear in circulation for shared outdoor meals—has become a dedicated hire service for individuals and small groups around Portsmouth who want to cook well without owning bulky or short-use equipment.

Our focus is clarity and care. Each kit has a defined list of inclusions so you always know exactly what arrives. From grill plates and chimney starters to thermometers and tongs, every item is cleaned, checked, and stored to prevent unnecessary wear. Nothing leaves the workshop without a fresh inspection and, where applicable, food-safe surface treatment. While we keep things tidy and efficient, we also aim to preserve the friendly feel that came from the original “lend and return” idea.

We operate mainly around Southsea, Fratton, and Eastney, with flexible pickup slots to suit varied weekend and evening plans. Local delivery is available when arranged in advance, and our crates are sized to fit into small car boots or cycle trailers. You can hire for a single day, a weekend, or longer when planning a small festival or community event. If a date looks busy, send us a note—sometimes returns clear faster than expected and we can prepare a spare set at short notice.

Every Ember Crate kit comes with basic setup notes and a small safety sheet. We encourage clients to read the guide before lighting any grill, particularly when using charcoal near tents or windbreaks. Our staff are not instructors, but they are always happy to explain the difference between fuels, safe cool-down practice, and responsible waste disposal. We do not supply meat, marinades, or condiments—our purpose is to keep reliable cooking tools in circulation.

We also see this as a way to reduce unnecessary purchases. By sharing solid equipment that lasts, fewer low-grade grills end up discarded after one use. The small repair station in our store allows us to replace bolts, mesh plates, or handles rather than dispose of them. We recycle packaging and refill gas bottles through local partners who comply with safety standards.

If you’re new to outdoor cooking, you can visit our space at 18 Albert Road, Southsea, Portsmouth PO5 2QL. There you’ll see the kits in person, compare sizes, and ask practical questions about setup, cleaning, or fuel types. We welcome casual visitors, but for guaranteed availability we recommend a short message or call to 44 23 9401 7326 or an email to [email protected]. Someone from the team will confirm what’s in stock and hold a crate under your name for the chosen date.

Behind the name “Ember Crate” lies a simple thought: warmth that stays controlled. We believe that cooking together should feel relaxed, not rushed or wasteful. Whether you plan a beach evening, a family garden meal, or a modest work gathering, our goal is to make the practical side smooth so the moment itself stays in focus. We are a small Portsmouth service with straightforward manners—clear communication, clean gear, and steady hands.

We appreciate feedback and suggestions. Each season teaches us something new about wind, fuel, or cleaning products. When you share your experience, it helps us improve the next crate that goes out. Our team continues to build on the same idea that started it all: lend useful tools, keep them cared for, and make it easy for others to enjoy good food in open air.