The Best Fireplace Packages for the New Year

What’s your New Year’s resolution? If it’s to upgrade your fireplace this year, then you’re in the right place! From increasing the value of your home, to significantly improving the efficiency of your home heating, there are many benefits to upgrading your fireplace. So, if you want to find the best fireplace package for your home, you’ll find them below.

What is a fireplace package?

What exactly do you get in a fireplace package? That’s a common question we receive here at Direct Fireplaces.

After all, a fireplace consists of many different parts and features, and if you’re buying a package, you don’t want to find that you’re missing any important parts!

Here at Direct Fireplaces our fireplace packages generally consist of the following things:

Fireplace surround, consisting of:
- Mantlepiece.
- Hearth.
- Back panel.
Fireplace insert, which can be a:
- Gas fire.
- Electric fire.
- Solid fuel insert.

In short, you get everything you need to create a fully functioning, beautiful fireplace in your home.

Of course, within each of those elements, you have a considerable amount of choice. For example, you can select fireplace surrounds made from various stones, woods and metals. Likewise, there are a wide range of different inserts that you can select.

Note - the above is merely a guide. Always check the product description of fireplace packages carefully to ensure they contain everything that you need.

The most popular fireplace packages for 2022

Durrington Arctic White Micro Marble Fireplace

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To give you an idea of the wide range of fireplace package options you have available to you, we have set out some of our most popular packages - covering the different material and insert types - below.

Limestone fireplace packages

A classic fireplace material, limestone has been used in the manufacture of fireplaces for centuries. As such, it’s no surprise to find that limestone fireplace packages are extremely popular.

The properties of limestone fireplaces

Limestone has a warm, soft and natural look; especially compared to some of the other stones that are commonly used to create fireplaces.

It’s a highly-versatile stone which is both strong and durable. However, it’s easier to work with than other, harder stones, and as such can be more easily crafted and shaped. Stonemasons are able to create beautiful clean lines in limestone with relative ease.

Limestone also offers excellent value for money; primarily because it can be sourced from right here in the UK.

Plus, because limestone is a sedimentary rock, having been formed from many layers of compacted shells, mud and natural particles over time, no two pieces are ever the same.

It’s important to note however, that limestone is highly porous, so it’s important that your limestone fireplace is properly sealed. What’s more, whilst limestone has good heat tolerance, it should only be used with gas or electric fireplace inserts.

Agean limestone fireplaces

At this point we want to draw your attention to a type of limestone which is typically marketed as a ‘distinct’ category of limestone.

Where agean limestone shares many characteristics with other types of limestone, where it differs is in appearance.

Typically sourced from the eastern Mediterranean, agean limestone is much whiter than other types of limestone and features a soft speckled grain.

Agean limestone is perfect if you have your heart set on a white fireplace, but don’t want to pick a material that features striations such as marble.

Agean limestone fireplaces can be used with solid fuel and gas fires. You’ll often see agean limestone fireplaces matched with cast iron inserts.

Jurastone fireplaces

Jurastone is another stone that you’ll often see marketed as a distinct type of limestone.

It’s a type of limestone which is extracted in Germany, and has a clean smooth appearance whilst also being very hard and durable.

What can be confusing is that Jurastone is sometimes described as marble. This is primarily because it shares its appearance and properties with marble; yet, here at Direct Fireplaces we describe it as what it is - a type of limestone!

Jurastone tends to be one of the more affordable forms of fireplace materials available, so if you want a fireplace package at a competitive price, consider buying a jurastone one.

PureGlow Hanley Deluxe Limestone Suite with Chelsea Tall HE Gas Fire

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To provide you with a practical example of a limestone fireplace package, we have the PureGlow Hanley Deluxe Limestone suite.

PureGlow have been designing and manufacturing fireplaces for over 60 years, so they certainly know what makes a high-quality, aesthetic fireplace.

This particular fireplace features smooth, clean lines, making it ideal for modern rooms. As you can see, the limestone has a beautiful, yet understated look to it, making it easy to pair this particular fireplace with your home’s decor.

In terms of the gas fire insert, you’ll get a high-efficiency fire which puts out an impressive 4.2kW heat output with 83% efficiency. So, it’ll keep your home nice and warm, without sacrificing your wallet!

Brompton Agean Limestone Fireplace Package with Sovereign Tiled Insert

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If the bright whiteness of an agean limestone fireplace appeals to you, then the Brompton is a fantastic option.

The Brompton features clean, straight lines which will complement both traditional and modern decors. At 56-inches, the mantel is particularly large, which will ensure this fireplace becomes the focal point of any living room.

This particular fireplace package is enhanced further by the addition of a tiled cast iron insert which adds an additional level of detailing, as well as a splash of colour and pattern. With the insert, this package becomes ideal for those looking to create a Victorian or Edwardian inspired living room.

Durrington Jurastone Fireplace Package with Electric Fire

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If the warm, clean tones of jurastone appeal to you, then consider the Durrington fireplace package.

Featuring a very simple, yet stylish design, the Durrington offers a way of creating an understated fireplace. Thanks to its simple square design, this is a fireplace which will fit in almost any type of room; be it modern or traditional.

The Durrington marries this aesthetic versatility to a highly-efficient electric fire; the Celsi Accent Traditional inset electric fire, to be precise. This inset fire features a coal-effect fuel bed and is available in either a brass or chrome finish.

Marble fireplace packages

If there’s any stone which has become synonymous with fireplaces, it has to be marble. With a classic, veined look, marble works for both contemporary and traditional homes alike.

The properties of marble fireplaces

Featuring high-contrast striations (or ‘veins’), no two pieces of marble are alike.

Marble is typically available in lighter colours, such as white and rose, and it’s because of this that it’s a stone which has been associated with quality for centuries.

On the practical side of things, marble is extremely hard, durable and long-lasting and has a high heat tolerance. As such, marble can be used with wood burning, gas or electric fires.

Like limestone, marble requires sealing in order to prevent staining over time. It also tends to be a more expensive option than other types of stone.

A note on micro-marble fireplaces

Increasingly, many marble fireplaces are being manufactured from a material called micro marble.

Micro-marble fireplaces are made from pieces of real marble which are crushed and then combined with resin. This is done to create an incredibly smooth and consistent surface.

Micro marble has grown in popularity in recent years as it’s far easier to work with than traditional marble and can more easily be styled into different shapes.

Gallery Hutton Arctic White Fireplace Package with Electric Fire

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As an example of micro-marble fireplaces, we have the Gallery Hutton Arctic White fireplace.

This is a clean, contemporary style fireplace which is finished in a brilliant, sparkling arctic white. With a 1,000mm (39 inch) mantel, the Gallery Hutton is perfect for smaller homes or apartments, yet still has an impressive, imposing look and feel. What’s more, the surround’s integrated downlights add a further touch of elegance.

This fireplace package comes complete with a Celsi Accent inset electric fire which is available in either a chrome or brass finish. It also features a coal-effect fire bed, to provide the look of a real fire.

Gallery Riverslea Marble Fireplace with Gas Fire

Gallery Riverslea Marble Fireplace Package with Gas Fire

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Should you prefer a gas fire to go with your marble fireplace, then choose the Gallery Riverslea.

This is a beautiful 48-inch fireplace in brilliant arctic white, with a grey marble inlay creating an additional layer of depth and visual appeal.

It’s clean, simple lines make this a highly-versatile fireplace package, suitable for a wide range of different homes - from Victorian terraces to new build homes.

The Riverslea comes with the Gallery Aurora slimline gas fire, which features a cosy 3.4kW heat output and a choice of black, chrome or gold finishes.

Granite fireplace packages

One of the most popular materials used for fireplaces is granite. And, it’s easy to see why.

Granite combines beauty with durability, which is why it’s been used in fireplaces for centuries.

The properties of granite fireplaces

Granite is perhaps the ideal stone for use in fireplaces. Why? Because it is scratch-resistant, resists chipping and abrasions, is available in a wide range of colours and patterns, and has high heat tolerance, being able to withstand wood burning, gas and electric fires.

Granite is also competitively priced, especially compared to some other stone options such as marble. It’s important to note though, that granite requires sealing, but having said that, it’s a relatively low-maintenance stone.

Fireside Ashbourne Black Granite Fireplace Package with Electric Fire

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So, if you think a granite fireplace package would be the perfect option for you, how about this one? The Fireside Ashbourne is a beautiful, black granite fireplace complete with an electric fire insert.

Featuring very bold, heavy lines, this is a granite fireplace which will absolutely become the focus of attention in your living room. Plus, with a 50-inch mantel, there’ll be no missing this fireplace.

The eye-catching surround is matched with an Axon Modern electric fire insert which features a curved steel back with a pebble fuel bed to give it a realistic look and feel.

Fireside Stonehenge Black Granite Fireplace Package with Gas Fire

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Another beautifully-styled contemporary fireplace, the Fireside Stonehenge features an imposing 52-inch mantel, making it ideal for larger living rooms.

The high-quality granite surround is matched with an efficient, yet powerful gas fire that has a heat output of 4.1kW.

The EkoFires 3020 is packed with features including an optional remote control, coal or pebble fuel bed options, a choice of black, brass or silver finishes and a wealth of different fret options.

Cast iron fireplace packages

Cast iron may not be the first material that springs to mind when you think of fireplace packages, yet it’s a material which became incredibly popular during the Victorian-era and is seeing a resurgence today.

The properties of cast iron fireplaces

So what’s so good about cast iron fireplaces? Well, firstly, they look incredible. Thanks to the way they are manufactured, cast iron fireplace surrounds are able to incorporate intricate, delicate detailing.

Cast iron also has great thermal properties and will help to radiate heat out into your living space. It’s durable too, so you’ll find that a cast iron fireplace surround will last decades.

It’s worth noting however, that cast iron fireplaces can be extremely heavy, meaning they aren’t necessarily suitable for all homes.

Wooden fireplace packages

Finally we get to wooden fireplace packages. As an organic material, wood offers a softer, warmer feel than stone. Wood is also easier to work with than stone, so it’s possible to buy wooden fireplace surrounds featuring beautiful detailing.

So, if you want to create a traditional feeling fireplace in your home, wood is an excellent choice.

The properties of wooden fireplaces

Wooden fireplaces have many benefits; the first of which is aesthetic. For some people, stone fireplaces feel cold and sterile. Wood offers a warmer, more organic feeling fireplace.

Plus, depending on the type of wood you choose, a wooden fireplace can be many different colours, shades and feature different patterns. So, no two wooden fireplace surrounds will be the same.

Wooden fireplace packages often come with a granite, marble, cast iron or other material back panel (the back panel is the section of the surround that’s closest to the fireplace opening).

As with some of the other materials listed in this article, wooden fireplaces typically require sealing or staining in order to maintain their appearance and integrity over time.

Hanley Wooden Fireplace Package with Annabelle Gas Fire

Hanley Wooden Fireplace with Annabelle Gas Fire

Hanley Wooden Fireplace Package with Annabelle Gas Fire

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A fine example of a wooden fireplace package, the Hanley features a striking natural oak veneer surround married with a black granite hearth and back panel.

As you can see, the bold grain draws the eye to the fireplace without being overwhelming or gauche. At 48-inches the mantel is sizable enough to accommodate plenty of ornaments too.

The package is completed with an Annabelle gas fire insert which has an impressive 3.1kW heat output. It’s available with a coal or pebble fuel bed effect and is available for either class 1, brick built chimneys, or for class 2, pre-cast flue chimneys.

Stanford Fireplace Wooden Package with PureGlow Zara Electric Fire

Stanford Wooden Fireplace Package with PureGlow Zara Electric Fire

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A simple, straightforward fire surround, the Stanford will fit perfectly in traditional and modern homes alike.

Crafted from oak, the Stanford fire surround will provide years of faultless service, particularly when matched with the black granite back panel and hearth which are included in this fireplace package (note - the back panel and hearth can be upgraded to pearl stone for a small additional fee).

The PureGlow Zara inset electric fire is remote controlled and includes both a flame effect and a coal fuel bed. It’s also available in a choice of graphite or fully-polished finishes.

Bedford Wooden Fireplace Package with Lytton Cast Iron Fire Insert

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Do you want a wooden fireplace that’s able to accommodate open wood-burning fires? Then the Bedford is the fireplace package for you.

Featuring a solid pine surround, the Bedford has a traditional rustic feel, and thanks to the addition of two medium sized corbels, has just enough detailing to stand out from other wooden fireplace surrounds.

The insert is the Lytton cast iron arch insert which is available in either an all-black, or highlighted finish. The Lytton will happily accommodate solid fuels such as wood. However, if you wish, it’s possible to swap the insert for a gas or electric version for an additional charge.

Finally, the Bedford fireplace package is finished off by a black granite hearth which adds the perfect final touch.

Direct Fireplaces: your number 1 stop for fireplace packages

We hope you’ve enjoyed our guide to the best fireplace packages for 2022. If this is the year you’re going to upgrade your fireplace, then upgrade with Direct Fireplaces.

Not only do we have one of the largest ranges of fireplace packages in the UK, but we also offer free mainland UK delivery, 14-day no hassle returns, and a range of finance options to help you spread the cost of your fireplace package.