View More Log Cabins Images
We recommend OPTIONAL Demidekk Ultimate log cabin paint range which can be colour matched to suit. See examples in
our photo gallery. Sadolin 'Atlantic Blue-Old English'
Sadolin 'Articulate' Stain
Sadolin 'Blue Grey' Stain
'Brunswick Green' Wood Stain
Please note that all colour shown are indicative only and will vary depending upon the light on the day the photo was taken. Additionally all screens will display the image differently. If exact colour is essential then please order a sample pot.
We recommend OPTIONAL Demidekk Ultimate log cabin paint range which can be colour matched to suit. See examples in
our photo gallery. Sadolin 'Burlesque-White Accents'
Sadolin 'Various' Stains
Sadolin 'Cosmos' Stain
'Light Green - White Accents'
Please note that all colour shown are indicative only and will vary depending upon the light on the day the photo was taken. Additionally all screens will display the image differently. If exact colour is essential then please order a sample pot.
We recommend OPTIONAL Demidekk Ultimate log cabin paint range which can be colour matched to suit. See examples in
our photo gallery. 'Polynesia - White Accents'
Sadolin 'Prince Charming'
'Tokyo Bay - White Accents'
Sadolin 'White' Wood Stain
Please note that all colour shown are indicative only and will vary depending upon the light on the day the photo was taken. Additionally all screens will display the image differently. If exact colour is essential then please order a sample pot.
We recommend OPTIONAL Demidekk Ultimate log cabin paint range which can be colour matched to suit. See examples in
our photo gallery. Jungle Green Paint
Burlesque Paint
Spicy Brown Paint
Lapis Lazulia Paint
Please note that all colour shown are indicative only and will vary depending upon the light on the day the photo was taken. Additionally all screens will display the image differently. If exact colour is essential then please order a sample pot.
We recommend OPTIONAL Demidekk Ultimate log cabin paint range which can be colour matched to suit. See examples in
our photo gallery. Painted Options
L Shaped Cabin
Multi Room Log Cabin
Show Rooms
Please note that all colour shown are indicative only and will vary depending upon the light on the day the photo was taken. Additionally all screens will display the image differently. If exact colour is essential then please order a sample pot.
Which Type of Log Cabin Is Right for You?
Log cabins are extremely versatile garden buildings and can provide anything from a compact garden retreat to a substantial home office, hobby room or multi-room building. The best choice depends less on finding the biggest cabin and more on deciding how you intend to use the space, how often you will use it and whether features such as insulation or separate rooms are important.
| Log Cabin Type | Ideal Uses | Why It Might Be Right for You |
| Compact Log Cabin | Relaxing, reading, hobbies, occasional home working or extra garden space | You want a proper garden room but have limited garden space or want to keep your overall budget lower |
| Medium Log Cabin | Garden office, hobby room, gym, studio, entertaining or family space | You want enough room for furniture, desks or equipment without allowing the building to dominate your garden |
| Large Log Cabin | Large office, games room, gym, entertainment room, studio or substantial leisure space | You need a genuinely spacious additional room and have sufficient garden space for a larger building |
| Insulated Log Cabin | Regular home working, hobbies, studio use or spending longer periods inside throughout the year | Comfort during colder weather is important, and you expect to use the cabin more frequently than a traditional summer retreat |
| Multi-Room Log Cabin | Office plus storage, hobby room plus store, separate work areas or multi-purpose family space | One large open room would not suit your needs, and you would benefit from separate areas within the same building |
| Cabin & Shed Combination | Garden room plus tools, bicycles, mower or equipment storage | You need both a comfortable garden room and practical storage but do not want two separate buildings |
| Corner Log Cabin | Relaxing, entertaining, reading, hobbies or making use of an awkward garden corner | You want to make better use of a corner position while creating an attractive focal point in the garden |
| Bespoke Log Cabin | Offices, studios, gyms, leisure rooms or layouts with particular size and design requirements | Standard dimensions or layouts do not fit your garden or the way you intend to use the building |
Why Choose a Log Cabin?
A log cabin provides considerably more than basic garden storage. With solid timber walls, double glazing, and a wooden floor, it can create a substantial garden room for relaxing, working, exercising, entertaining, or enjoying hobbies.
Our log cabin range includes compact garden cabins through to much larger buildings, with apex and pent roofs, corner designs, multi-room layouts and cabin-and-shed combinations. Bespoke designs, insulation, coloured finishes, base construction and installation services are also available.
Reasons a Log Cabin Might Be Right for You
- You need more usable space but do not want to extend your house.
- You want a dedicated home office away from distractions inside the home.
- You need somewhere for hobbies, crafts or creative work.
- You want a garden gym or exercise room.
- You need a larger entertainment or family space.
- You want a more substantial building than a traditional summerhouse.
- You would benefit from separate rooms for different activities.
- You want the option of adding insulation for more regular use.
- You need a bespoke size or layout to suit your garden.
Which Log Cabin Should I Choose?
| Your Main Requirement | Our Starting Recommendation |
| Relaxing and enjoying the garden | Compact or medium log cabin |
| Home office | Medium insulated log cabin |
| Gym or exercise room | Medium or large log cabin |
| Hobby or craft room | Medium log cabin |
| Large entertainment or games room | Large log cabin |
| Two different uses within one building | Multi-room log cabin |
| Garden room plus secure storage | Cabin & shed combination |
| Making use of a garden corner | Corner log cabin |
| Regular use during colder months | Insulated log cabin |
| Unusual dimensions or a particular layout | Bespoke log cabin |
Think About How You Will Use Your Log Cabin
If your cabin will mainly be somewhere to relax during warmer weather, you may not need the same specification as someone working from the building five days a week. A smaller or simpler cabin can therefore provide better value when occasional leisure use is the priority.
If you intend to use the cabin regularly as a home office, studio or hobby room, consider insulation from the outset. The log cabin range offers insulation options, and specifying the building around its intended use before installation is generally preferable to trying to upgrade it later.
For a Home Office
Choose a cabin with enough space for your desk, chair, storage and other equipment while leaving comfortable circulation space. Double glazing is standard across the range, and you should consider insulation if you intend to work inside regularly during colder weather.
For Hobbies or a Studio
Think about the equipment you will use as well as the amount of floor space you need. Artists may prioritise natural light, while model makers, crafters and other hobby users may require substantial wall space for shelving and workbenches.
For a Garden Gym
Check the internal dimensions and headroom carefully before choosing your cabin. Allow enough room around exercise equipment to use it safely and comfortably rather than choosing a building based solely on whether the equipment will physically fit inside.
For Leisure and Entertaining
A medium or larger cabin can create a comfortable garden lounge, games room or entertainment space. Plan the positions of sofas, tables, and other furniture before choosing the building size so the finished room doesn't feel overcrowded.
For More Than One Purpose
Consider a multi-room log cabin when you need genuinely separate spaces. This can be particularly useful for combining an office with storage, creating separate hobby areas or keeping garden equipment away from a comfortable leisure room.
Log Cabin or Cabin & Shed Combination?
If you still need somewhere for bicycles, garden tools, a lawnmower or outdoor furniture, avoid sacrificing part of your new garden room to storage unless that is genuinely what you want.
A cabin-and-shed combination provides separate leisure and storage areas within one structure. This can be particularly useful in smaller gardens where installing both a standalone log cabin and a separate shed would take up too much space.
Do You Need an Insulated Log Cabin?
Insulation becomes more important as the amount of time you intend to spend inside increases. For occasional warm-weather leisure use, it may not be essential. For regular office, studio or hobby use, particularly during colder months, an insulated specification is much more worthwhile.
Remember that insulation is only part of creating a comfortable garden room. Consider the building's glazing, floor, roof, ventilation, heating, and overall specification together, based on how you intend to use the space.
The Simple Answer
Choose a compact or medium log cabin if you want an attractive and versatile garden retreat without taking up excessive garden space.
Choose a larger log cabin if you want a substantial office, gym, studio, games room or entertainment space.
Choose an insulated log cabin if you expect to spend longer periods inside throughout the year.
Choose a multi-room or cabin-and-shed design if you need different activities or storage kept physically separate.
Choose a bespoke log cabin if the available space, appearance or layout you need cannot be achieved satisfactorily with a standard design.
The best log cabin is not necessarily the largest or most expensive model. It is the building whose size, layout and specification match how you will actually use it. Browse our log cabins and compare the different designs before deciding.
Why Trust 1st Choice Leisure Buildings?
Choosing a garden building is an investment, so it's important to buy from a company you can rely on. At 1st Choice Leisure Buildings, we've been helping customers find the right garden sheds, summerhouses, log cabins, garden offices and workshops
since 1979 when
Robin Antill opened the doors. As a
family-run business, we believe in offering honest advice rather than a hard sell. We take the time to understand what you need and help you choose a building that suits your garden, your budget and the way you plan to use it.
Our approach is reflected in our
4.9 Trustpilot rating, where customers regularly mention our friendly, helpful service. We only work with manufacturers we trust, selecting buildings that offer good quality, durability and value for money. Most are made from
FSC®-certified timber and built to cope with the British weather. If you'd rather see a building before you buy, you're welcome to visit one of the
UK's largest garden building display sites. 1st Choice – Known For Quality – Loved For Design - Since 1979
Being able to compare different models and talk things through with our experienced team helps many customers make the right decision. Since 1979, we've supplied over 50,000 buildings across the UK, building our reputation on quality products, straightforward advice and customer service you can depend on. We are always available to meet your needs or requirements so
contact us NOW if you would like help or advice.
We live quite far away; is it really worth visiting our show rooms? Absolutely!
We strongly urge anyone looking for a new building – whether it's a new garden shed, summerhouse, workshop, garage, or a full garden room – to
visit and inspect the quality in person before committing to any purchase.
Seeing the craftsmanship, materials and finishes for yourself is the best way to make a confident and informed decision.
Whilst we cannot display everything we offer, we have carefully selected around 80 different buildings that allow us to demonstrate almost every feature, design option, and construction detail in one form or another.
This allows you to compare styles, sizes and specifications, ask any questions you may have, and find the building that best suits your needs.
So, yes, it is absolutely worth visiting.
Click here to see what buildings on display. If you are unsure then
why not walk through our site virtually using our walk through tour below (or
click here to open in a new full screen window). Create extra space in your garden with a high-quality timber log cabin from 1st Choice Leisure Buildings. Whether you need a garden office, hobby room, gym, studio, entertainment space or somewhere to relax, our log cabins combine substantial timber construction with a wide choice of sizes, designs and optional upgrades.
Our range includes 44mm log cabins and 70mm log cabins, insulated log cabins and bespoke designs, with apex and pent roof styles available. Our cabins include wooden floors, with double glazing as standard, and options including professional installation, roof and floor insulation, painted finishes and base construction.
We have been helping customers choose garden buildings since 1979, so if you are unsure which cabin, size or specification will suit you, our experienced team can help.
Browse our log cabins for sale, request a quote, or visit our Surrey display site near Guildford, Woking and Ripley to see our buildings in person.
Find the Right Log Cabin for Your Garden
A log cabin can provide considerably more than additional garden storage. With the right size, wall thickness and insulation, it can become a practical extension of your home and a space you can enjoy throughout much or all of the year.
The best specification depends primarily on how you intend to use the cabin. A garden office used five days a week has different requirements from an occasional summer retreat, so it is worth deciding how you expect to use your new cabin before choosing its size and specification.
Log Cabins for Garden Offices
Working from home becomes much easier when work has its own dedicated space. A garden log cabin can create a separate office away from distractions in the house without requiring a conventional home extension.
For frequent or year-round use, consider a cabin with 44mm or 70mm walls, double glazing and roof and floor insulation. You will also need to consider electricity, heating, internet access and the position of windows and doors when planning your garden office.
Log Cabins for Hobbies, Studios and Gyms
A cabin can provide the additional floor space needed for hobbies that have outgrown the spare room or garage. Depending on the design and specification, garden cabins can make excellent craft rooms, workshops, music and art spaces, home gyms and studios.
Think carefully about the equipment or furniture you intend to put inside before choosing the dimensions. Allowing additional space around desks, exercise equipment, workbenches or storage can make a significant difference to how comfortable the finished cabin feels. Our log cabins by size section can help you compare the available dimensions.
Log Cabins for Relaxing and Entertaining
If your priority is leisure rather than work, consider the outlook from the cabin as well as its internal dimensions. Larger glazed areas can help create a bright garden room, while double doors provide easy access to a patio or seating area.
Depending on your garden and preferred design, you can choose from traditional apex log cabins, contemporary pent log cabins, corner cabins, L-shaped cabins and other configurations.
Which Log Cabin Should I Choose?
Choosing a cabin becomes easier once you decide how frequently you will use it and what you want to do inside. For occasional leisure use, concentrate on size, glazing, position and value. For a garden office, consider insulation, wall thickness, electrics and natural light. Hobby and craft rooms need sufficient floor space and storage, while home gyms require careful consideration of internal dimensions, headroom and the equipment you intend to install.
If you expect to use your cabin frequently throughout the year, consider 44mm or 70mm walls combined with roof and floor insulation. Larger or multi-room cabins can work well when you need a multifunctional space, while bespoke cabins may be more appropriate for unusual gardens or where particular dimensions are required.
If you are unsure, tell us what you want to use your cabin for rather than simply choosing based on dimensions. Our experienced team can help you identify an appropriate specification.
44mm or 70mm Log Cabin – Which Is Best?
Wall thickness is one of the most important specifications to consider when comparing log cabins. Both 44mm and 70mm cabins can provide substantial garden rooms, but the best choice will depend on the building’s size, intended use, insulation and your budget.
44mm Log Cabins
A 44mm log cabin is a strong all-round choice and is suitable for many garden offices, hobby rooms and leisure spaces. The substantial interlocking timber walls provide considerably more solidity than a lightweight garden building. Combine them with double glazing and roof and floor insulation when you expect to use the cabin regularly during colder weather.
70mm Log Cabins
Our 70mm log cabins use thicker interlocking timber walls for increased solidity and improved thermal performance. They are particularly worth considering for larger buildings and cabins that will be used frequently as offices, studios, gyms or leisure rooms.
However, wall thickness is only one part of creating a comfortable year-round cabin. Heat can also escape through the roof, floor, doors and windows, which is why insulated log cabins and good glazing should be considered when regular year-round use is important.
Can a Log Cabin Be Used All Year Round?
Yes. A properly specified garden log cabin can be used throughout the year. For regular winter use, we recommend considering the building as a complete package rather than relying on thick timber walls alone.
Important features include substantial interlocking timber walls, double-glazed doors and windows, roof insulation, floor insulation, an appropriate dry heat source, good ventilation ( to reduce condensation) and a properly constructed, level base. Insulation is useful during summer as well as winter because it helps reduce heat transfer through the building.
If year-round use is important to you, explore our insulated log cabins and discuss your intended use with us before ordering. It is usually easier to incorporate the appropriate specification when the cabin is being built than to upgrade it afterwards.
Insulated Log Cabins
Our insulated log cabins can be specified with insulation options to make them more comfortable for regular use. Roof and floor insulation is particularly important because these are significant areas of potential heat loss. Combined with substantial timber walls and double glazing, insulation can transform a garden cabin into a much more practical year-round room.
Insulation is particularly worth considering for a garden office, hobby room, studio, gym, entertainment room or any cabin that will be heated regularly. Our team can explain the insulation options available for the cabin you are considering.
Bespoke Log Cabins
Sometimes a standard-sized cabin does not work for a particular garden. That is why bespoke options are available across many of our log cabin designs. Depending on the range, it may be possible to alter dimensions, layouts and other elements to create a cabin better suited to your available space and intended use.
Bespoke design can be particularly useful where you need to accommodate an unusual garden shape, existing landscaping or a specific internal layout. Speak to us about what you are trying to achieve, and we can explain the options available.
Apex or Pent Roof Log Cabin?
Both roof styles can make an attractive garden building, but they create noticeably different appearances and may suit different garden settings.
Apex Log Cabins
An apex log cabin has a roof that rises towards a central ridge and provides the familiar traditional cabin appearance. It works particularly well where you want your new building to have a classic garden-room character.
Pent Log Cabins
A pent log cabin has a roof that slopes in one direction and generally creates a more contemporary appearance. Pent cabins are popular for modern garden offices and studios where clean, simple lines are preferred.
Your choice may also be influenced by the position of the building and planning considerations, so look at the complete dimensions of any cabin before ordering.
What Base Does a Log Cabin Need?
A good log cabin needs a firm, flat and level base capable of supporting the complete building. This is not an area where it pays to cut corners. An unsuitable or uneven base can affect how the building sits and may lead to problems with doors, windows and the cabin structure.
The appropriate base will depend on factors including the cabin’s dimensions, weight, ground conditions and the site itself. Base-building options are available, and we can advise you about preparation before installation.
Do Log Cabins Need Planning Permission?
Many garden log cabins can be installed without making a planning application because they may fall within permitted development rights. However, this is not automatically the case for every cabin or property.
The rules can depend on factors including the building’s overall height, its position relative to boundaries, the amount of land covered by outbuildings and whether your property is in a designated area or subject to additional restrictions.
Intended use also matters. A garden office or leisure room is not necessarily treated in the same way as accommodation intended for sleeping or independent residential use. You should therefore check the current requirements applying to your property before ordering if there is any doubt.
We offer cabins designed to remain below 2.5m overall height, which can be useful where height restrictions close to a boundary are relevant.
Professional Log Cabin Installation
You do not necessarily have to build your cabin yourself. We offer professional installation as an option across our log cabin range. Having the building assembled by an experienced team removes much of the work involved and helps ensure that it is constructed correctly.
Depending on your requirements, we can also help with related services including base construction, insulation, electrical work, painted finishes and site surveys. Available services vary according to the cabin and location, so please ask us for details when requesting your quotation.
What We Have Learned About Log Cabins Since 1979
1st Choice Leisure Buildings has been helping customers choose garden buildings since 1979. One of the most important lessons from that experience is that the best cabin is not necessarily the largest or most expensive one. It is the building whose size, specification and position match the way its owner will actually use it. We have compiled a log cabin buying guide.
1. Decide How You Will Really Use the Cabin
A summer retreat used occasionally has very different requirements from an office occupied five days a week. Decide how you expect to use the building before choosing its specification.
2. Do Not Underestimate the Importance of the Base
Even an excellent cabin needs to sit on a suitable flat and level foundation. Getting the base right at the beginning can help prevent problems later.
3. Think Beyond Wall Thickness
44mm and 70mm walls are important, but if winter comfort matters, think about the roof, floor and glazing as well. A cabin should be considered as a complete structure when planning for year-round use.
4. Allow Enough Internal Space
Do not choose solely from the external dimensions. Think about desks, sofas, gym equipment, cupboards and other furniture and allow enough space to move comfortably around them. You can use our log cabin size categories to narrow down suitable buildings.
5. Think About the Cabin’s Position Before Ordering
Consider the view, sunlight, access, neighbouring properties, maintenance space and the direction in which doors will open. These decisions can have as much impact on your enjoyment of the cabin as the building itself.
Why Buy Your Log Cabin From 1st Choice Leisure Buildings?
A garden log cabin is a significant purchase, and comparing buildings purely on headline price can make it difficult to see important differences in specification and service. At 1st Choice Leisure Buildings, we focus on helping you choose a cabin that suits your garden, budget and intended use.
Established Since 1979
We have decades of experience supplying garden buildings and understand the questions customers need answered before making a decision.
Double Glazing as Standard
Our log cabin range includes double-glazed doors and windows as standard, helping improve comfort and making the buildings more suitable for regular use.
Wooden Floors Included
Our cabins include proper wooden floors rather than treating the floor as an unexpected extra. Check the specification of your chosen cabin for full details of everything included.
Professional Installation Available
If you would rather leave construction to experienced installers, professional installation is available on our log cabins.
Insulation Options
Roof and floor insulation options can make your cabin considerably more comfortable for regular year-round use.
Bespoke Options
Many cabins can be adapted to suit particular dimensions, layouts or requirements, giving you greater flexibility when a standard design is not quite right for your garden.
Base Building and Other Services
We can help with practical aspects of your project including base construction and, depending on your requirements and location, other services such as electrics.
See Log Cabins Before You Buy
Buying a substantial garden building from photographs alone is not ideal. You can visit our Surrey garden building display site at Sutton Green, between Guildford, Woking and Ripley, where you can see buildings in person, examine the construction and talk through your requirements with our experienced team.
Frequently Asked Questions About Log Cabins
What Is a Log Cabin?
A garden log cabin is a timber building constructed using interlocking timber wall logs rather than lightweight panel construction. The resulting walls create a substantial garden building suitable for uses ranging from leisure and hobbies to garden offices and studios.
What Wall Thickness Should I Choose?
For regular use, 44mm is a good all-round wall thickness, while 70mm log cabins provide an even more substantial structure and improved thermal performance. If you intend to use your cabin throughout winter, consider roof and floor insulation as well as wall thickness.
Are Your Log Cabins Double Glazed?
Yes, double glazing is standard across our log cabin range.
Do Your Log Cabins Include a Floor?
Yes. Our cabins include wooden floors. Check the individual cabin specification for complete details of what is included with a particular model.
Can I Insulate a Log Cabin?
Yes. Insulation options are available, and roof and floor insulation are particularly worth considering when a cabin will be used regularly throughout the year.
Can I Use a Log Cabin as a Garden Office?
Yes. Garden offices are one of the most popular uses for substantial log cabins. For frequent use, consider double glazing, insulation, electrics, heating, internet connectivity and the position of the cabin in your garden.
Can You Install My Log Cabin?
Yes, we can arrange professional installation for your log cabin. Prices and availability vary depending on the cabin you choose and where you live. Have a look at the individual product page for more details, or get in touch with us for a quote.
Do I Need Planning Permission for a Log Cabin?
Many garden cabins can fall within permitted development rights, but this depends on the building, its location, your property and its intended use. Always check the requirements applicable to your property if you are unsure.
How Long Will a Log Cabin Last?
A quality timber log cabin can provide decades of service when it has a suitable base, is correctly installed and receives appropriate ongoing maintenance. Its lifespan will depend on construction quality, location, weather exposure and how well the timber is protected.
What Maintenance Does a Timber Log Cabin Need?
Exterior timber needs protection from weather and UV exposure. Inspect and maintain the protective paint or treatment periodically, keep the building and surrounding area clear of persistent damp and vegetation, and regularly check the roof, doors, windows and seals.
Is a 44mm Log Cabin Warm Enough in Winter?
44mm timber walls provide useful thermal performance, but for comfortable regular winter use we recommend considering roof and floor insulation, double glazing and suitable heating as a complete package.
Is a 70mm Log Cabin Better Than a 44mm Log Cabin?
Not necessarily for every customer. A 70mm cabin provides thicker, more substantial walls and improved thermal performance, but a well-specified 44mm cabin may be entirely appropriate for many garden offices and leisure rooms. Your intended use, cabin size, insulation and budget should determine the best choice.
Can I Have a Bespoke Log Cabin?
Bespoke options are available on many of our log cabins. Contact us with your required dimensions and intended use, and we can advise what is possible.
Can I See Your Log Cabins Before Ordering?
Yes. Visit our garden building display site at Sutton Green Garden Centre, Whitmoor Lane, Sutton Green, Guildford, Surrey GU4 7QA, conveniently located between Guildford, Woking and Ripley.
Need Help Choosing Your Log Cabin?
With dozens of cabins, different dimensions and a range of specifications available, you do not have to work everything out yourself. Tell us the approximate space available in your garden, what you intend to use the cabin for, whether you expect to use it throughout winter, whether you require installation and your approximate budget.
Our experienced team can then help you narrow down the most suitable options. Browse our log cabins for sale, compare log cabins by size, configure your preferred cabin for a quotation, contact us for advice or visit our Surrey display site to compare garden buildings in person.
From £5,467
