Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Handmade Open Fires for Traditional Fireplaces
Camelot Real Fires has been a leader in crafting traditional open fires for nearly five decades. Established in 1971, we specialise in hand-made canopies, firegrates, fire baskets, and dog irons, blending heritage techniques with modern innovation. Our expertise extends to the unique Twin Skin canopy design, developed to resolve smoking issues while preserving aesthetic appeal. With a focus on bespoke commissions, we cater to both private clients and commercial projects across the UK and internationally.Our team, led by HETAS-approved installer Paul Shaw, combines generational knowledge with technical precision to deliver solutions for period properties, including thatched cottages. We pride ourselves on maintaining the tradition of open fires while adhering to contemporary regulations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and timeless beauty in every creation.
Services
Handmade Canopies
Fire Grates
Dog Irons
Thermovent Fires
Fire Baskets
Bespoke Commissions
Twin Skin Canopies
Heritage Restoration
Consultancy
Installation
Details
- Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
- We offer 50 years of specialist experience in open fire design and craftsmanship.
- Our Twin Skin canopy innovation resolves smoking issues without compromising aesthetics.
- HETAS-approved installations ensure compliance with UK safety and environmental standards.
- Bespoke commissions tailored to unique fireplace requirements and heritage properties.
- Proven expertise in solving complex challenges for thatched and listed buildings.
Associations and certifications
- HETAS
- CE Mark
What people say
Functionally and aesthetically perfect
Transformed our enjoyment of the house
No smoke, excellent heat output
Professional and courteous service
Unique designs tailored to vision
Services
Handmade Canopies
Our handcrafted canopies are designed to enhance fireplace efficiency and aesthetics. Using materials like steel, copper, and brass, we create bespoke pieces that prevent smoke ingress while complementing period architecture. Each canopy integrates precise engineering with artisanal skill, ensuring optimal airflow and heat distribution. Clients benefit from tailored solutions that preserve historical integrity without compromising modern performance standards.
Thermovent Open Fires
Thermovent systems combine traditional open fire aesthetics with advanced heat circulation technology. These woodburning units feature patented airflow management for 40% greater efficiency, reducing fuel consumption while maintaining heritage appeal. Ideal for listed buildings, they resolve smoke issues and meet UK emissions standards. Each unit includes hand-forged accessories, ensuring both functionality and visual harmony with original fireplace designs.
Fire Grates
We produce custom firegrates in iron, steel, and brass, optimised for coal or wood burning. Designs range from swan-nest patterns to bespoke commissions, with options for integrated dog irons. Each grate ensures proper air circulation and heat retention while matching fireplace dimensions. Our grates combine durability with decorative appeal, enhancing both performance and visual cohesion in traditional settings.
Bespoke Commissions
From intricate copper canopies to tailored fire baskets, our bespoke service addresses unique architectural challenges. Clients collaborate with our designers to create one-off pieces, supported by detailed CAD visualisations before production. This process ensures precise fitment and aesthetic alignment with heritage requirements, particularly for listed properties and thatched cottages requiring low-risk heating solutions.
Twin Skin Canopy
Invented to eliminate smoking problems, this dual-layer canopy separates airflow dynamics from visual design. The inner steel structure manages draughts, while the outer layer provides decorative finishes in copper or brass. This innovation allows installation in challenging spaces like tall inglenooks, ensuring smoke-free operation without altering historical fireplace structures.
People
Paul Shaw
Owner & Director
Second-generation specialist with 25+ years in open fire design. HETAS-approved installer focused on heritage solutions. Leads innovation, including the Twin Skin canopy. Known for hands-on project management and client collaboration.
Trevor Shaw
Founder
Established Camelot in 1971, pioneering the Thermovent system. His engineering legacy shapes modern designs while preserving traditional blacksmithing techniques. Retired but influences quality standards.
Questions
Do you create custom fireplace designs?
Yes, we specialise in bespoke commissions. Our design process includes detailed sketches and CAD visualisations to ensure your unique vision is realised.
Are your products HETAS certified?
Our Thermovent systems carry CE certification. Paul Shaw is a HETAS-approved installer, ensuring compliance with UK building regulations for solid fuel appliances.
Can you help with thatched property fireplaces?
Yes, we provide low-risk open fire solutions for thatched homes, addressing insurance and safety requirements while maintaining traditional aesthetics.
What materials do you work with?
We use steel, copper, brass, and cast iron. Bespoke finishes include hand-beaten textures and aged patinas to match historical specifications.
How do you handle installation?
We offer consultation visits and can coordinate specialist installers. Clients may also opt for self-installation with detailed guidance and pre-delivery specifications.
What is the Twin Skin Canopy?
An innovative design separating airflow management from decorative elements. It eliminates smoke issues in traditional fireplaces without altering structural integrity.
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