What is a Summerhouse?

Summerhouses are typically wooden outdoor garden structures that feature felt or tiled roofs, and a number of windows and glazed doors to allow daylight to shine in. Having a timber summerhouse in the garden has endless potential for personality and character, and will almost certainly create a focal point to complement your garden’s theme. It will also give you additional living and relaxation space, as well as storage space.

Get inspired with our Summerhouse Gallery, which is full of design and style ideas!

What are summerhouses used for?

Think of your summerhouse as your personal getaway. Whatever it is you can’t find space for, you can give it a home in your summerhouse.

Many of our customers use their space as a garden office or somewhere to relax with a good book. Others like to entertain guests with home pubs, game rooms, or a separate living space. They're also great for housing hobbies and crafts. Their bright interiors and quiet locations help you focus and get in the zone.

In recent years, we’ve seen an increase in the number of summerhouse-shed combinations! Customers who want a multi-use space are more commonly choosing a summerhouse with a side shed for a practical storage solution, and it’s increasingly popular for those wanting a hobby room. Separate storage for tools and materials leaves you the space to create, refine, and proudly present your work.

What are the best summerhouses?

Despite what the name might suggest, the best summerhouses should be suitable for use in every season. The basics to look for are a quality materials and thoughtful craftsmanship. Sturdy roofs and tightly jointed panels will prevent leaks, draughts and risk of wood rot. All crucial if you want to use your summerhouse year-round.

For added comfort, the best summerhouses are lined and insulated, with electrics for lighting and heating. That way, you can keep the party going long after the sun goes down!

How much do summerhouses cost?

As with most things in life, you generally get what you pay for with garden buildings. A flat-pack summerhouse may cost a few hundred pounds, but they’re more prone to draughts, damp and mould. You may find yourself re-purchasing in a few years. 

When you invest in a quality summerhouse, you put that money right back into your property. On average, a superior quality summerhouse starts at around £20,000. Of course, there are many customisations and extras that will change the price. We recommend using our online configurator to plan exactly which features you want your building to have.

How long does a summerhouse last?

Premium summerhouses should last upwards of 30 years with good maintenance.

We pride ourselves on producing market-leading products, using only the highest quality timber and workmanship, which provide long-lasting protection and durability. Every garden building is hand-built at our factory in Norfolk, by our expert carpenters and joiners to maximise quality and longevity.

Does a summerhouse need planning permission?

As a general rule, (in the UK) summerhouses are considered “permitted development” and don’t usually require planning permission (there are exceptions to this rule). Our article, Planning Permission for Garden Buildings gives more detailed information. Alternatively, you can access our planning permission calculator, which will tell you if your property will require planning permission or not.

What size summerhouse should I buy?

That depends on what you want to use it for. If you have a small garden, you may want a more intimate space for small gatherings or personal hobbies. Our Wiveton Summerhouses offer more compact sizes, which start at 1.8m x 1.8m (6ft x 6ft). Alternatively, our Weybourne Summerhouse is a corner summerhouse, which may suit a smaller garden.

A large summerhouse may be suitable for use as a dining or socialising space, or as a craft, hobby or workroom  Our range generally comes in sizes up to 5.4m x 6.0m (18ft x 20ft) however, our Morston Summerhouse, which includes a veranda, is available up to 6.0m x 6.6m (20ft x 22ft).

Summerhouses are available in all shapes and sizes; what you want to use it for, the space available (see also Planning Permission above) and your budget will dictate what size you should buy.

Can I design my own summerhouse?

Each of our summerhouse styles is customisable. You will be able to choose the door and window placement, interior and exterior colours, as well as roof material and flooring, allowing you to create a summerhouse that's to your exact specification. Simply select your perferred building style and begin the journey through the building configurator or speak to one our designers. We will be able to generate an immediate quote, which you can save and amend as often as you like.

If you want bespoke sizing or configurations, you can work with one of our garden designers to create the perfect room for your garden. Take a look at our bespoke buildings for inspiration and get in touch for expert advice and quotes.

How can I find out more? 

To see our summerhouses, as well as all of our other garden buildings, you can visit one of our UK Show Centres. If you have any questions, you can contact us, or call a member of the team directly on 01760 444 229.