Fireplaces in UK Homes: Where They’re Thriving and Where They’re Fading

Imagine coming home on a chilly evening and lighting up a real, crackling fire—not just for warmth, but for that unmistakable feeling of home and comfort.

Whether you’re drawn to the cosy embrace of a traditional hearth or the sleek style of modern alternatives, finding the perfect fireplace can make all the difference in your new home.

Thanks to data from Imaginfires in partnership with Zoopla, we now know exactly where in the UK homes for sale are most likely to feature fireplaces, and where they are becoming a rarity.

So, let’s explore which regions are sizzling with fireplace appeal and which ones are cooling down.

Why a Fireplace is More Than Just a Heating Feature

A fireplace is more than a spot to warm your hands on a frosty night; it’s a symbol of comfort, history, and homeliness.

For many homebuyers, the allure of a traditional fireplace lies in its ability to evoke memories of family gatherings and to create a uniquely inviting atmosphere.

It’s no wonder that in some parts of the UK, a fireplace is as important as the four walls around it, while in others, modern heating solutions and architectural trends have led to their decline.

Where Fireplaces Are a Key Feature: The Best UK Locations

If you’re looking for a home where a fireplace isn’t just an afterthought, these are the top 10 regions where fireplaces are most commonly found in homes currently for sale:

Top 10 Local Authorities with the Highest % of Fireplaces in Homes for Sale

• Ceredigion, Wales – 48.3%
• Derbyshire Dales, East Midlands – 43.8%
• Forest of Dean, South West – 42.3%
• Rother, South East – 39.1%
• Staffordshire Moorlands, West Midlands – 39.0%
• Malvern Hills, West Midlands – 38.3%
• Carmarthenshire, Wales – 37.1%
• Herefordshire, West Midlands – 36.6%
• Denbighshire, Wales – 36.4%
• Newcastle-under-Lyme, West Midlands – 36.1%

A Closer Look at the Top 5 Fireplace Hotspots

Ceredigion, Wales (48.3%)

Nearly half of the homes currently for sale in Ceredigion feature a fireplace, making this picturesque region a haven for those who love classic country charm. With its rolling landscapes, historic stone cottages, and cooler coastal winters, fireplaces remain an essential and beloved feature.

Derbyshire Dales, East Midlands (43.8%)

Famed for its stunning countryside and historic homes, the Derbyshire Dales offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and timeless design, complete with a cosy fireplace to match. Many homes here maintain their original Victorian and Georgian fireplaces, adding to their character and charm.

Forest of Dean, South West (42.3%)

If you’re enchanted by a mix of rustic living and rich history, the Forest of Dean should be on your radar. Known for its woodland cottages and period properties, many homes here still retain their traditional fireplaces, making them ideal for those who appreciate a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Rother, South East (39.1%)

With its coastal charm and historic market towns, Rother is a standout destination for those who want a blend of seaside and countryside living, with a fireplace to cosy up to when the coastal winds pick up.

Staffordshire Moorlands, West Midlands (39.0%)

This rugged, outdoor-focused region is perfect for those who love hiking and adventure by day and snuggling up by a fire at night. With its quaint villages and traditional stone homes, fireplaces remain an integral feature of many properties here.

Where Fireplaces Are Disappearing

Some of the UK’s urban areas are seeing a decline in traditional fireplaces. Modern architecture and space constraints mean fireplaces are becoming a rarity in these regions:

Bottom 10 Local Authorities with the Lowest % of Fireplaces in Homes for Sale

• Manchester, North West – 3.4%
• Liverpool, North West – 6.6%
• Medway, South East – 6.6%
• Slough, South East – 7.7%
• Dundee City, Scotland – 7.4%
• Halton, North West – 7.8%
• Bracknell Forest, South East – 8.1%
• North Lanarkshire, Scotland – 8.2%
• Salford, North West – 8.4%
• St. Helens, North West – 8.7%

Why Are Fireplaces Fading in These Areas?

In cities like Manchester and Liverpool, where modern living and efficiency often take centre stage, fireplaces have been largely phased out.

New-build apartments and housing developments prioritise central heating and space efficiency over traditional hearths. Additionally, stricter building regulations have made chimney installations and open fires less practical in urban environments.

But if you still long for that fire-lit ambience, there are modern solutions available.

Bioethanol Fireplaces: A Stylish, Eco-Friendly Alternative

For urban dwellers who don’t have space for a traditional fireplace, bioethanol fireplaces offer a brilliant alternative. These sleek, eco-friendly installations provide the warmth and glow of a real fire without the need for a chimney or extensive remodelling.

Why Consider a Bioethanol Fireplace?

• Eco-Friendly & Clean-Burning: Produces no smoke, soot, or harmful emissions.
• Effortless Installation: Perfect for urban spaces where traditional fireplace installations aren’t feasible.
• Effective Heating: Boosts your room’s temperature by a few degrees, ideal for creating a snug, inviting atmosphere.
• Lower Costs than Wood-Burning Stoves: With government restrictions tightening on wood burners due to air pollution, bioethanol fireplaces offer a hassle-free, regulation-friendly alternative.

Final Thoughts!

Whether you’re after a countryside retreat with a roaring fire or a city home with a contemporary twist, there’s a fireplace solution waiting for you.

With this data from Imaginfires and Zoopla, homebuyers now have a fantastic resource to guide their property search.

So, are you leaning towards old-world charm, or are you ready to embrace a modern alternative?