The best Contura wood burners for the warmest welcomes
Contura shares top stove picks for different needs and spaces for those looking to install a wood burner ahead of stove season 2025-26. Swedish woodburning stove manufacturer, Contura, is sharing a roundup of its top woodburning stoves according to the style of your property, the available space for the appliance, and, of course, personal taste. “A wood burning stove should be top of the considerations for home upgrades well ahead of the colder season, says Phil Wood, Contura UK Managing Director. “If you already have an open fire, switching to a closed log burner is much more efficient at heating the space, significantly improves indoor and outdoor air quality, and, whilst requiring an initial outlay, uses far less wood so is cheaper to run longer term. “With ongoing increases in energy prices many households have been holding back on putting the heating on. Alternative heating solutions such as wood burners can help relieve some of that pressure, saving money on energy bills in the longer-term and allowing homeowners to take back some control of the fuel supply with a renewable and sustainable fuel source. “Opting for a modern, clean burning, Ecodesign wood burning stove and using the right fuel will ensure emissions are kept low whilst offering an efficient solution to staying warm next winter.” “There are a number of factors to consider before selecting and installing a wood burner. Look for a stove that complements your home aesthetically but also consider size and heat output.” Read on for a selection of Contura’s newest and most popular appliances, including freestanding models for rooms without a chimney breast or fireplace, compact stoves for tighter spaces, and award-winning designs… Best for – The ‘home bragger’ Contura 210: Winner of the Red Dot Product Design award 2023, the Contura 210 has a compact cubic format to easily upgrade existing fireplaces or be placed as a freestanding feature in rooms without a chimney breast. With a nod to more traditional stove formats, this is the perfect modern wood burner to add prestige to any home and will work particularly well for smaller properties or spaces. This stove has a 5kW output and heats rooms up to 120m². Prices start from £1,550 Best for – Smart homes and ‘surround sound’ flames Contura Connect 556: The three panels of this stove allow the dancing flames within to be seen from as many angles as possible for 180° mesmerisation. Not only that, but this all-new smart stove – the first smart stove from Contura – automatically regulates the supply of air for the most efficient combustion and minimal emissions. The Connect 556 also has a Refuelling Boost Function, which alerts you when the fire is dying out so you can open the door to provide oxygen to boost the fire – all controlled by an app on your phone. This stove has a 5kW output and heats rooms up to 150m². Prices start from £3,950.00 Best for – Fire TV Contura i1: Who needs a TV when you can enjoy the stress-relieving power of fire? This cubic cassette-design stove can be placed in an existing chimney breast or a purpose-built wall, creating a hypnotic focal point for cosy winter evenings. The clean lines of the square stove add an elegant but low-key design feature; creating a moving piece of modern art once the flames are fired up. This stove has a 5kW output and heats rooms up to 120m². Prices start from £1,550 Best for – Freestanding flexibility Contura 810G: Enjoy the brilliant blaze of your fire with this compact but powerful stove, with a tall glass pane for enhanced flame visibility. This freestanding stove can be positioned virtually anywhere in a room, creating a cosy focal point around which to plan your room layout. This stove has a 5kW output and heats rooms up to 120m². Prices start from £2,550 Best for – A cosy corner Contura 690 Style The Contura 690 Style is an impressive model that will cosy up any corner. A taller model, and with a handy log compartment under the fire chamber, this stove brings the flames closer to the eyeline and will complement both modern and period interiors. This stove has a 6kW output and heats rooms up to 150m². Prices start from £3,475.00 Best for – A traditional-feel fireplace upgrade Contura 110 This classic cast iron stove is small but mighty, perfectly fitting into an existing fireplace. The low-set model provides a more traditional feel but has all the modern features, allowing you to maintain the timeless look of a fireplace but with a heating source that is efficient and low-emission. This stove has a 5kW output and heats rooms up to 120m². Prices start from £1,350.00 Best for – Floor level flames Contura 330G The ever-popular Contura 330G can be fitted as a freestanding stove, on top of log boxes, or inside an existing fireplace. Its distinct metal work and large glass door create a design focal point in the room and draw attention to the dancing flames within. This stove has a 7kW output and heats rooms up to 120m². Prices start from £2,695.00 Best for – Making a statement Contura i61: This statement stove combines simple Scandi design with bold masonry to create a streamlined but eye grabbing effect. This stove is a must have for larger rooms with high ceilings. Opt for white for typical Scandinavian aesthetic appeal, creating a bright and spacious feel. This stove has a 6kW output and heats rooms up to 150m². Prices start from £4,795.00 For more information, please visit www.contura.eu.
Sizzling summer discounts on DRU Virtuo Evolve electric fires
Up to £750 off RRP on selected DRU Virtuo Evolve models until September 30th, 2025 DRU Virtuo Evolve is the gold standard in contemporary electric fires. Special features include: See full details and video here. Save up to £750 off 130 and 150 models this summer! Virtuo Evolve 130 Summer promotion prices Model Code RRP inc VAT RRP exc VAT Standard Front 25044 £4345 £3621 3 sided 24045 £4445 £3704 2 sided LR 25063/62 £4445 £3704 CV glass Front 25050 £4695 £3913 3 sided 25051 £4795 £3996 2 sided LR 25065/64 £4795 £3996 Virtuo Evolve 150 Summer promotion prices Model Code RRP inc VAT RRP exc VAT Standard Front 25054 £4545 £3788 3 sided 25055 £4645 £3871 2 sided LR 25067/66 £4645 £3871 CV glass Front 25056 £4915 £4096 3 sided 25057 £5015 £4179 2 sided LR 25069/68 £5015 £4179 Apply to be a DRU Virtuo Evolve dealer to take advantage of our summer offers, email: info@drufire.co.uk Dealers required throughout Great Britain We are inviting you to apply to become a DRU Virtuo Evolve electric fire dealer. We offer: Apply now! Email: info@drufire.co.uk Terms and conditions The 100 and 180 series will remain at their current price levels.All orders received after 1st April 2025 will be supplied at the new prices.Dealers are reminded that the Virtuo Evolve series is only supplied to dealers that currently have live models on display in the showrooms.Unfortunately, ‘No display mean no access’ to the product.Your dealer trade discount % will remain unchanged.If you would like to take a Virtuo Evolve display model for your showroom, please call your Area Sales Manager as soon as possible. UK distributors: Drugasar Ltd, Deans Road, Swinton, Manchester, M27 0JH T: 0161 793 8700 E: info@drufire.co.uk www.drufire.com
New Trade Show Set to Ignite Stove & Fireplace Sector
The Stove Industry Association (SIA) and Fireplace Specialist Magazine are delighted to announce their joint support for the Trade Stove & Fireplace Professional Show 2026 — set to be the first dedicated fireplace trade show in the UK since 2019. Organised by Selina Brannan and David Ball, administrators of the Trade Stove & Fireplace Professional Group, the show will take place at the prestigious Doncaster Racecourse in May/June 2026 (exact date to be confirmed) and is expected to welcome around 70 leading exhibitors from across the stove and fireplace industry. This landmark trade event will showcase the very best products, innovations, and services from all corners of the sector — all under one roof. In addition to an extensive indoor exhibition, the show will feature an outdoor live burn area, giving visitors the chance to see solid fuel appliances in action. With free parking and free entry for trade visitors, the weekend event — running on a Saturday and Sunday — promises to be an unmissable date in the industry calendar. Further details on visitor registration will be announced soon. Those wishing to register their interest in stand space should email info@tradestoveandfireplaceprofessionalshow.com in order to be the first to receive the floor plan availability for both the indoor and outdoor space. Erica Malkin, Communications Manager at the Stove Industry Association (SIA), said: “The SIA is thrilled to be supporting the Trade Stove & Fireplace Professional Show 2026. The UK industry has been waiting a long time for a dedicated trade exhibition, and this event promises to deliver the ideal platform for professionals to reconnect, explore new opportunities, and celebrate the innovation and craftsmanship that makes this sector so special.” Emma Hatherall, Managing Director of Euromedia Associates, publishers of Fireplace Specialist Magazine, added: “We are proud to support this exciting new trade show. With its combination of indoor exhibits, live outdoor displays, and free access for trade visitors, it’s set to become a key fixture in the industry’s calendar. We’re looking forward to seeing manufacturers, suppliers, and installers come together to showcase the very best that the stove and fireplace sector has to offer.” Selina Brannan, of show organisers MAC Metalcraft, commented: “We’re incredibly excited to bring this new trade exhibition to life. The response from across the industry has already been fantastic, and Doncaster Racecourse offers the perfect venue to combine indoor and outdoor exhibits in a professional, accessible setting. We can’t wait to welcome exhibitors and visitors alike for what’s shaping up to be a vibrant, valuable weekend for everyone involved.” Further information, including a dedicated exhibition website, will be announced soon – watch this space!
Cleaner Safer Group CEO steps down after almost two decades
Bruce Allen, longstanding CEO of Cleaner Safer Group (CSG) is retiring after almost 20 years. He will remain in his role until September 2025, overseeing the handover and induction of a new CEO to be announced this month. CSG is the parent company to independent not-for-profit organisations, HETAS and Woodsure. In 2006, Bruce was appointed CEO of HETAS, training and certification leaders for biomass and solid fuel appliances and associated technologies. In 2017, he was also made CEO of Woodsure, the UK’s only wood fuel quality scheme, before taking up the same role at CSG five years later. CSG oversees both HETAS and Woodsure, and provides guidance and solutions to its clients helping them to meet compliance and regulatory standards, and minimise their impact on the environment. Collectively, the group of organisations lead on industry standards, policy and strategy, working alongside a range of stakeholders, local authorities and government departments – including Defra, DESNZ and MHCLG. Under Bruce’s stewardship the three organisations have seen exponential growth in services and personnel. Starting as the sole employee of HETAS in 2006, across CSG there are now over 70 members of staff. He was also the driving force behind HETAS’ training and certification courses for retailers, sweeps and installers. Bruce oversaw the launch of HETAS’ Cleaner Choice Scheme, which helps consumers identify the cleanest-burning appliances, and its Competent Person Scheme, allowing installers to self-certify their work as compliant with building regulations. Later, he guided Woodsure in the administration of Defra’s Ready to Burn certification mark on wood fuels that are dry to burn and ready for immediate use, along with securing the contract to administer the Biomass Suppliers List. Kaye Welfare, Chair of CSG, said: “This leadership transition marks the close of a remarkable chapter. For 18 years Bruce has led HETAS and Woodsure with vision, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the group’s overall aim of working together for a cleaner, safer, more sustainable environment. “Under Bruce’s leadership, HETAS, Woodsure and, now Cleaner Safer Group, have developed and expanded their services and offerings to become leaders in the wood and biomass fuel sectors, strengthening the focus on safety to ultimately work towards a more sustainable environment. “His passion, care and dedication have echoed through each organisation as they have continued to grow, resulting in a culture grounded in accountability and expertise. An incredibly strong foundation for the future. We wish Bruce the happiest of retirements and thank him for the wonderful legacy he is leaving us.” “We look forward to welcoming our new CEO this summer.” You can visit the Cleaner Safer Group website here.
The new Varde Samso wood burner from Eurostove
Think Scandi chic this autumn/winter with the new Varde Samso wood burner from Eurostove. Whether upgrading an existing heat source or choosing something new for a home renovation or new-build project, it’s often best to keep things simple. That’s the fuss-free beauty of the new Varde Samso wood burning stove from Eurostove. Blending sleek and elegant Scandinavian styling with state-of-the-art efficient heating performance, this streamlined stove will complement both modern and traditional interiors perfectly. Part of the new Varde offering from Eurostove, the Samso stove is made from high-quality steel with a durable and hardwearing cast iron door. It’s DEFRA-approved for use in smoke control areas and has a 3-7kW heat output, which makes it suitable for all rooms, from cosy dens and dining rooms to large, open-plan living areas with multipurpose use. The generously sized glass window gives an uninterrupted view of the flicking flames inside while the integrated airwash system ensures the glass stays clean, even after regular use. This is due to the airwash directing a stream of heated air down the inside of the glass, which prevents soot from sticking to it. Creating a warm and welcoming ambience for any home, the Varde Samso wood burner also features an integrated log store for comfort and convenience as well as an eye-catching rustic and authentically Scandinavian focal point for its surroundings. Added benefits of this clean-lined Scandi stove include easy-to-use controls, advanced combustion technology for reduced emissions and peace of mind that it provides warmth, sleek Scandi style and a sustainable heating solution for any home heating upgrade. Eurostove is proud to be the new official distributor for Scandinavian brand Varde Ovne in the UK and Republic of Ireland. A brand that prides itself on its craftsmanship, product development and sustainable credentials, Varde’s values are perfectly aligned with Eurostove. “For anyone looking to improve, update or upgrade their home’s heating this autumn/winter, Varde has a stunning range of Scandi-style stoves that complement all kinds of interiors,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Eurostove. “Here at Eurostove, we’re thrilled to be able to offer heating solutions for all tastes and budgets, and this latest Samso stove is sure to be an instant hit with consumers.” The Varde Samso from Eurostove is priced £1,391.20
The New Smart Stove from Contura, The Connect 556
Europe’s leading wood burning stove manufacturer, Contura, launches a groundbreaking new product – its first smart stove, the Connect 556. Part of the popular 500 Style range, featuring an elegant, timeless aesthetic and compact size, the innovative Contura Connect 556 is the perfect smart and sustainable solution for modern, energy efficient homes. To view the Connect 556, click here. Balancing style with smart technology, the clean lines and wraparound glass panels of the Contura Connect 556 make it a stand-out choice for those who appreciate an attractive, contemporary stove that enhances and blends with design-led interiors and that also delivers instant comfort. With a discrete LED on the front of the stove, hinting at its high-tech interior, Contura’s new smart stove offers a number of sophisticated features, including: An easy-to-use Contura Connect 556 app allows stove owners to control the stove settings from the sofa or from another room. Simply set the temperature you want the stove to maintain to optimise the performance of the stove and the comfort of those enjoying it. The app also provides a host of useful notifications and reminders, including when it’s time to add more fuel, how much firewood is needed when loading or reloading, when it’s time to empty the ash pan, and a handy weather feature that notifies stove owners of any upcoming temperature drops in their region. The delivery of analytics showing how stove owners use their stove and how it heats the home allows users to take more control than ever before, optimising the stove’s performance and minimising waste of both fuel and heat energy. “The innovative Contura Connect 556 is the ideal stove for modern homes,” says Phil Wood, UK managing director at Contura. “It’s stylish aesthetic and compact size, paired with the innovative smart technology marks it out as a complete gamechanger in the industry. “The app provides stats and data to ensure optimal performance, whilst automatic regulation of air supply leads to optimal, cleaner, more efficient combustion and minimal emissions, making the Contura Connect 556 more environmentally friendly and cleaner burning than any other traditional stove on the market. “For homeowners wanting an elegant stove that can help keep them cosy whilst keeping both heating bills and emissions low, the Contura Connect 556 is the smartest choice.” Available in a black or white finish, the Connect 556 has a number of improved features compared to its non-smart 556 sibling, including updated top air vent design and new grate inside the fire chamber. A backup battery system means you can continue to control the cosy levels in your home even during power outages. Features, specifications, availability & pricing: Contura Connect 5556 Positioning Freestanding model Fire visibility Large front and side Log box No Materials Cast iron and steel Dimensions 1071 (h) 495 (w) 496 (d) Net Weight 106kg System efficiency class A+ Combustion efficiency 83% Maximum log length 33cm Heat capacity up to 150m2 Heat output 5kw Chimney connection Above, behind Price £3,950 All Contura stoves meet Ecodesign regulations and are Defra Clean Air Act exempt, which means they are approved for use in Smoke Control Areas. Contura stoves offer style combined with outstanding performance, maximum efficiency, practicality and ease of use. With 80% heating efficiency compared to only 20% of traditional open fireplaces, and thanks to a 3-9kW heat output, Contura stoves can heat spaces of up to 150m². Further benefits include powerful convection and clean burning systems, ensuring less wood is used, working to save the environment as well as customers’ money. For more information, please visit www.contura.eu.
SFL Flues & Chimneys Announces New Regional Sales Manager for the North
SFL Flues & Chimneys is pleased to announce the appointment of Damian Tyrrell as Regional Sales Manager – North of England. Damian brings with him over a decade of experience in the flue and chimney sector, having previously held senior sales roles at Schiedel UK and the Docherty Group. Based in Northumberland, he will support customers across both the commercial and residential sectors, offering expert advice and tailored flue system solutions. With over 50 years of British manufacturing heritage, SFL is one of the UK’s longest serving and most respected flue and chimney manufacturers. Known for delivering high-performance systems and comprehensive technical support, SFL remains a trusted partner across a wide range of applications. For flue and chimney enquiries in the North, Damian can be contacted at:📞 07776 657079✉️ damian.tyrrell@sflchimneys.com Visit the SFL Flues & Chimneys website here. You can also find them featured on the front cover and inside the latest issue of Fireplace Specialist Magazine.
Government Spending Review Commitment to Local Authority Funding and Air Quality Improvements
The Stove Industry Association (SIA) welcomes the announcement in the UK Government Spending Review, which confirms £3.4 billion in core grant funding to local authorities by 2028-29. The real-terms annual increase of 3.1% and the inclusion of funding streams specifically allocated for air quality improvements is a positive step in supporting healthier, more sustainable communities. Commenting on the Review Andy Hill, Chair of the SIA, said: “As a key stakeholder in the drive to improve air quality, the SIA is encouraged by the Government’s recognition of the need for continued investment in this area. We hope to see this funding used positively and proactively at the local level, supporting a range of practical initiatives that deliver measurable environmental and public health benefits. “In particular, we urge local authorities to consider targeted appliance replacement schemes that enable households to upgrade to modern Ecodesign-compliant stoves, which produce up to 90% fewer emissions than open fires and older appliances. Additionally, we believe that a portion of the funding should be dedicated to the rational and fair enforcement of Smoke Control Area (SCA) legislation—an essential component of ensuring compliance while supporting consumer choice and responsible stove use. “We also advocate for the endorsement and promotion of mandatory chimney sweeping as a cost-effective and practical measure that can further reduce emissions and improve appliance efficiency.” The SIA remains committed to working collaboratively with local authorities, policymakers, and stakeholders to ensure that air quality funding delivers tangible outcomes while supporting consumers in making sustainable home heating choices. You can view the Government Spending Review here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/spending-review-2025-document/spending-review-2025-html
Dik Geurts Orbe: The wood stove that redefines modern home heating
Dik Geurts Orbe is the latest wood stove from Europe’s premier fireplace company. Designed for contemporary or traditional homes, with a sleek cylindrical profile, the Orbe represents everything that a modern stove should be. Many more special features to follow soon. See full details and video (https://www.drufire.com/en-gb/assortiment/dik-geurts/orbe) Take control with the Dik Geurts Smart Assist app. This clever app for phones and tablets enables the user to control the air slide, flame height and heat output of the stove. It also includes a refill alert so you will always replace the logs when needed. Now available on the Orbe and other selected Dik Geurts stoves. See full details and video (https://www.drufire.com/en-gb/about-dru/innovations/dg-smart-assist) Download the new Dik Geurts brochure The new 72 page brochure of wood fires and stoves features the entire product range. It also includes full technical details and plenty of useful information about how to get the best results from your wood stove or fire. An essential guide for consumers, dealers and installers. Download the brochure (https://www.drufire.com/getmedia/7ab88fe2-80ae-4bd6-bef0-af174110c5bc/1Brochure-DG-EN-(993476).pdf) Dealers required throughout Great Britain We are inviting you to apply to become a Dik Geurts wood stove and fire dealer. We offer: Email: info@drufire.co.uk
Introducing the efficient and elegant Varde Shape 2 from Eurostove
Efficient and elegant with integrated log store, introducing the Varde Shape 2 from Eurostove. When in the midst of summer, it’s hard to consider home heating yet now is the perfect time to think ahead and get organised before the autumn/winter chill. Eurostove, UK experts in wood burning stoves, is thrilled to announce the addition of the new Varde Shape 2 wood burner to its portfolio, designed by Scandinavian wood burning brand Varde Ovne. Sleek and chic with its clean lines and cylindrical form, Shape 2 is the epitome of simple, pared-back, high quality Scandi design. Its modern styling is perfect for any contemporary living space with a tall fire chamber and large curved glass window for a panoramic view of the flicking flames within. The modern black stove complements all interiors, so it can easily be added to an existing décor as well as a complete room renovation or new-build project. The Shape 2 wood burner is effortlessly efficient with a nominal heat output of 5kW, making it compatible with medium-sized rooms and open-plan spaces. It’s manufactured from premium-grade steel and cast iron for durability, making it refined yet robust. The tall cylindrical stove also includes an integrated log store, handy when it’s too cold or wet to head outside to collect wood, producing a wood burner that’s perfectly practical for clean, modern living. Varde’s Shape 2 also features Cleanburn technology, a powerful airwash system and easy to use air controls for efficient combustion, reduced emissions and a consistently clear view of the flames inside. It’s also DEFRA approved so is suitable for homes in smoke control areas. Eurostove is proud to be the new official distributor for Scandinavian brand Varde Ovne in the UK and Republic of Ireland. A brand that prides itself on its craftsmanship, product development and sustainable credentials, Varde’s values are perfectly aligned with Eurostove. “We are incredibly excited and proud to welcome Varde Ovne to the Eurostove family,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Eurostove. “We love the brand’s functional and simple design ethos, which is backed up with ease of use, sustainable credentials and high heat output and we know our customers are going to fall in love with the Shape 2 wood burner, designed to make the house a home.” The Varde Shape 2 from Eurostove is priced £3,205