Is it a genuine Victorian fireplace or a modern fire in the 'Victorian' style?
Assuming it's genuine and you have a gas 'coal effect' fire grate, you can easily get the grate (the bit where you put the fuel) replaced. You can buy solid fuel ones very reasonably priced from fireplace shops and even some DIY supermarkets. However, you will need a qualified gas fitter to remove the existing grate and cap the gas off.
Also get the chimney checked because the gas fire usually requires that the chimney is 'lined' and I believe this will need to be removed for solid fuel. You should also check the fireback (the brick bit the grate sits in) for cracks as these can also be replaced very easily.
It's well worth the bother and it shouldn't cost a lot - get some quotes from local gas fitters.
Good luck!