• MaterialCast iron/porcelain enamel
• Sizes available21cm, 24cm, 28cm

This surprisingly affordable cast iron offering from John Lewis is, in my opinion, exceptional value for money. Not only does it look like a certain other popular brand over three times the price, it's fantastic quality too.

The main body is fully cast iron, while the exterior shell is porcelain enamel, all non-toxic and non-stick. There are nodules on the inside of the lid - which fits well - for collecting and redistributing moisture back into the pod. I am a particularly big fan of handles too, which are easy to grab onto and make removing it from the oven a breeze.

You can choose from three colours - ombre green, frost grey or blue and it comes in three sizes 21, 24 or 28cm.

• MaterialStainless steel
• Sizes availableJust the one

For fans of stainless steel, this gorgeous offering from HexClad is definitely an investment piece to consider. Though expensive, it's made from lightweight stainless steel, meaning it's about half the weight of a traditional cast iron dish.

Weight aside, it's also non stick and can be put in the dishwasher and if that wasn't enough, the whole thing is oven safe up to 480 degrees, meaning you could even technically use it in a pizza oven.

What I value the most about this pot though, is that it can be used as a standard saucepan or cooking pot for pasta and risotto or used for searing meats.

Lifetime warranty, metal-utensil safe, dishwasher safe, induction-safe - well worth every penny.

• MaterialMolten iron/enamel
• Sizes availableMultiple

I’ve been using this ProCook dish for a few years now and it’s still one of my favourites - mainly because it’s induction friendly, but also because I just love its matte black exterior. You don’t see many casserole dishes and dutch ovens in a matte finish, especially ones that are made from strong molten iron with a non-stick interior.

Like most dutch oven dishes, this has a self basting lid to help lock in moisture and is oven-safe up to 260 degrees celsius, making it ideal for those winter warmers. You do need to oil the rim as this part is uncoated but it takes just a few seconds - certainly not as time consuming as standard cast-iron.

With a 25 year guarantee as well, you know it’s going to last.

• MaterialCast iron/ceramic
• Sizes availableJust the one - 14cm

Although I love my ProCook pot, I have to say that this charming compact casserole dish from M&S won me over. Ignore the single bad review on the site - it’s from someone who thought it was a large dish. Instead, consider this - at 14cm it’s the perfect little cast iron pot for yourself or you and a partner.

Not only is it an ideal size for smaller households, it’s gorgeous too. The non-stick deep green glaze is simply enchanting.

Will it last you as long as some of the others on this list? Perhaps not. But it is still cast iron and should last a good long while, what’s more, it’s breathtakingly cheap at under £20 - go buy it now for yourself or as a gift, you won’t regret it.

• MaterialCast iron/enamel
• Sizes availableMultiple

It's a classic for a reason. The original and the best cast iron casserole dish. Available in more colours than you could ever imagine, with even more spin off shapes and sizes.This dish has more five star reviews than anything I’ve ever seen and when you cook with it, you’ll know why. It has unparalleled heat retention, a strong, sturdy build despite being daily lightweight and a perfectly fitting lid.

It’s versatile, it’s fabulous to look at and of course it’s very expensive. Do you NEED to buy a Le Creuset to make the best stews and stocks? No, but if you can afford it, it’s the best there is. It’s also dishwasher-safe, oven safe and induction-hob safe, it can withstand temperatures up to 250 degrees celsius. Lifetime guarantee included.

• MaterialCast iron/enamel
• Sizes available24cm, 26cm

An in-store marvel that comes and goes. It’s hard to get your hands on it but the Aldi cast iron has been applauded for its price, versatility and its striking resemblance to a far pricier rival that might also be featured here.

This one comes in three colours and a couple of sizes. It feels sturdy, especially given the price and is made from cast iron with an enamel non-stick coating, much like the other classic dutch ovens on this list. Does it come with a long guarantee, no, is it an absolute bargain - of course it is.

They’re currently in store as I write this but I doubt they’ll hang around for long. If you can get your hands on one, then do. It makes a great budget gift, too.