View More Summerhouse Images
Click on images below to see larger versions of summerhouses
Click on images below to see larger versions of summerhouses
l Click on images below to see larger versions of summerhouses
Click on images below to see larger versions of summerhouses
Click on images below to see larger versions of summerhouses
Click on images below to see larger versions of sumerhouse shed combos
Click on images below to see larger versions of combination garden rooms with shed
We recommend OPTIONAL Demidekk Ultimate log cabin paint range which can be colour matched to suit. See examples in
our photo gallery.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.
Summer Houses For Sale
Beautiful garden summerhouses for relaxation and entertaining. Perfect outdoor retreat with windows and comfortable space. Free assembly available throughout England.
FREE Installation
Toughened Glass
Bespoke Options
Base Building Option
Summerhouse Showroom
Wooden Floor & Roof
Double Door Option
Apex or Pent
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. With more than 47 years' experience and over 50,000 buildings supplied across the UK, we've built 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). View More Summerhouse Images
Click on images below to see larger versions of summerhouses
Click on images below to see larger versions of summerhouses
l Click on images below to see larger versions of summerhouses
Click on images below to see larger versions of summerhouses
Click on images below to see larger versions of summerhouses
Click on images below to see larger versions of sumerhouse shed combos
Click on images below to see larger versions of combination garden rooms with shed
We recommend OPTIONAL Demidekk Ultimate log cabin paint range which can be colour matched to suit. See examples in
our photo gallery.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.
Summer Houses
Bespoke Summer Houses Designed for Modern Garden Living
A summer house is a stylish timber garden building that extends your living space into the outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful garden retreat, a home office, hobby room or somewhere to entertain family and friends, a bespoke summer house offers a practical and attractive solution without extending your home.
At 1st Choice Leisure Buildings, we’ve been designing and manufacturing bespoke timber summer houses since 1979. Every building is made to order, allowing you to choose the size, design, layout and finish that best suits your garden and lifestyle.
1st Choice Tip… Keep shrubs at least 600mm away from timber walls.
Did you know? Toughened safety glass is a standard feature in our summer houses, offering extra durability.
Summer House vs Garden Room
Many customers compare summer houses with insulated garden rooms.
Both create valuable garden living space, but they are usually designed with slightly different priorities in mind.
Comparison between a summer house and a garden room | Summer House | Garden Room |
| Traditional timber garden building | Highly insulated modern building |
| Well suited to relaxation, hobbies and entertaining | Designed primarily for regular year-round use |
| Available in traditional and contemporary styles | Usually designed with a contemporary appearance |
| Insulation can be added as an optional upgrade | High levels of insulation are normally included as standard |
| Flexible and highly customisable | Typically supplied to a higher all-season specification |
Many of our bespoke summer houses can be upgraded with insulation and double glazing. This provides many of the benefits associated with a garden room while retaining the traditional character of a timber summer house.
1st Choice Tip… Don’t place a summer house directly beneath large trees..
Did you know? Most summer houses can be customised with different sizes, roof styles, windows and paint colours to suit your garden.
Summer House vs Shed
Although both are timber garden buildings, they are designed for very different purposes.
A garden shed is primarily intended for storage, while a summer house is designed as a space for people to spend time in.
Some summer houses include a separate storage section, but the main room is created to be comfortable, welcoming and suitable for leisure or work.
If you need both storage and living space, a combination summer house and shed can provide the best of both.
1st Choice Tip… Open windows for 15–20 minutes after using the building in winter.
Did you know? Good ventilation is just as important as insulation for keeping your summer room comfortable.
Summer House vs Log Cabin
Summer houses and log cabins are often compared, although their construction and appearance can be quite different.
Summer Houses
Summer houses generally have a lighter timber construction and a bright, open appearance. They are particularly well suited to relaxing, entertaining and occasional home working.
Log Cabins
Log cabins use thicker, interlocking timber walls and have a heavier, more substantial feel. They are often chosen for larger buildings or spaces intended for regular all-season use.
Our team can help you compare the options and decide which type of building is most suitable for your garden, intended use and budget.
1st Choice Tip… Bespoke window and door positions can dramatically improve natural light and privacy without increasing the footprint.
Did you know? Combination models offer both relaxing space and built-in storage.
Summer House Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right summer house is about more than selecting a style you like. The size, intended use, construction, glazing and optional insulation all play an important role in how comfortable, practical and long-lasting your garden building will be. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a space to entertain, a hobby room or a home office, understanding the key features will help you make the right choice.
With a wide range of designs, sizes and customisation options available, it’s worth considering how you plan to use your summer house before making your decision. This guide covers everything you need to know, from choosing the right size and roof style to planning permission, maintenance and installation, helping you find the ideal summer house for your garden.
1st Choice Tip… Choose your summer house based on how you’ll use it, not just its appearance.
Did you know? Insulation can make your summer house comfortable year-round.
What Is a Summer House?
A summer house is a timber garden building designed primarily for leisure and everyday living rather than storage. Unlike a traditional garden shed, it offers larger windows, improved natural light and a more comfortable interior, making it suitable for relaxing, working from home, entertaining guests or enjoying your garden in every season.
What Can a Summer House Be Used For?
One of the biggest advantages of a summer house is its versatility. Depending on the size and specification you choose, it can be used as:
- Home office
- Garden retreat
- Art or music studio
- Home gym
- Games room
- Reading room
- Guest entertainment space
- Hobby room
Can You Use a Summer House All Year Round?
Yes. Many modern summer houses are designed for year-round use. Choosing an insulated model with insulated walls, roof and floor, together with double glazing, helps maintain a comfortable temperature during both summer and winter. Adding electricity and heating makes the building suitable for use as a home office, studio or additional living space throughout the year.
How Do You Choose the Right Summer House?
Consider how you intend to use your summer house before choosing a design. Think about the available space in your garden, the amount of natural light you would like, whether you need insulation for year-round use, and features such as double doors, verandas, side storage or contemporary glazing. Selecting the right size and layout now will ensure your summer house continues to meet your needs for years to come.
Why Choose a Summer House?
A summer house gives you extra space without the cost and disruption of extending your home. It can be used as a quiet place to unwind, a home office, a hobby room, or a place to spend time with family and friends.
Some of the benefits include:
- Creating a relaxing space away from the house.
- Making better use of your garden all year round.
- Providing extra room for work or hobbies.
- Adding character and interest to your outdoor space.
- Offering a cost-effective alternative to a home extension.
Many of our summer houses can also be customised with different sizes, layouts and optional upgrades to suit your garden and the way you plan to use the building.
Are Summer Houses Worth It?
For many people, the answer is yes. A well-built summer house creates extra living space that can be enjoyed for many years. Whether it’s somewhere to relax on summer evenings or a practical space for hobbies and home working, it’s an investment you’ll use far more often than you might expect.
How Much Does a Summer House Cost?
The price of a summer house depends on its size, design and specification. Larger buildings, premium timber, double glazing and bespoke options will naturally increase the cost.
When comparing prices, it’s worth checking what’s included. Delivery, installation, timber treatment and optional upgrades can vary between manufacturers, so looking at the overall package often gives a better indication of value than the price alone.
1st Choice Tip… Choose insulation and double glazing for a comfortable summer house you can enjoy year-round.
Did you know? Many summer houses are suitable for year-round use.
Choosing the Right Size
The ideal size depends on both the space available in your garden and how you plan to use your summer house. Smaller buildings are perfect for relaxing with a book or enjoying the garden, while larger models provide space for comfortable seating, dining furniture, hobbies or even a home office. If your garden allows, choosing a slightly larger building can provide valuable flexibility as your needs change over time.
Choosing the Right Style
The style of your summer house should complement your home and garden. Traditional apex summer houses feature a pitched roof that creates generous headroom and a classic appearance. Pent summer houses offer a clean, contemporary design and work particularly well where space is limited, or the building will be positioned close to a fence or boundary. If you’re making the most of a compact garden, corner summer houses provide an attractive space-saving solution.
1st Choice Tip… Choose slightly larger if possible for extra flexibility as your needs evolve.
Did you know? Corner summer houses maximise space in smaller gardens.
Choosing the Best Location
Where you position your summer house can have a significant impact on how often you use it. Consider the amount of natural sunlight throughout the day, your views across the garden and how easily the building can be accessed from your home or patio. A well-positioned summer house will feel more comfortable, practical and inviting throughout the seasons.
Windows, Doors and Natural Light
Large windows help create a bright, welcoming interior while allowing you to enjoy views of your garden. It’s also worth considering the position of doors, particularly if your summer house is located near a patio, pathway or seating area. Many of our summer houses can be customised with different window layouts and door positions to suit your garden better.
Using a Summer House All Year Round
Modern timber summer houses are no longer just for summer. With insulation, double glazing and suitable heating, many homeowners enjoy their garden building throughout the year as a home office, hobby room, reading space or somewhere to relax whatever the weather. Choosing the right specification from the outset can make your summer house a practical extension of your living space.
Customising Your Summer House
Many of our summer houses can be tailored to your individual requirements. Depending on the model, you may be able to choose different sizes, window layouts, door positions and finishes to create a building that fits naturally into your garden. We also offer painted summer houses, contemporary designs and summer house and shed combinations to suit different styles and requirements.
1st Choice Tip… Position your summer house for sunlight, easy access and year-round enjoyment.
Did you know? Many summer houses can be customised to suit your garden.
Professional Installation
Many of our summer houses are suitable for self-assembly, while our experienced installation team can professionally install many of our buildings free of charge. Professional installation ensures your summer house is assembled correctly and ready to enjoy, giving you complete peace of mind from day one.
If you’d like help choosing the right summer house, please contact our team or complete our online quote request form. Our experienced team will be happy to recommend the best summer house for your garden and requirements.
1st Choice Tip… Enjoy free professional installation on many summer houses for a hassle-free, perfect assembly.
Did you know? Many summer houses include free professional installation.
Why Choose a Timber Summer House?
Timber has long been the preferred material for quality garden buildings thanks to its natural appearance, strength and durability. A well-built timber summer house blends beautifully into almost any garden while providing a comfortable and versatile space to relax, entertain or work from home. With regular maintenance, a quality timber building can provide many years of enjoyment, making it an excellent long-term investment for your garden.
Looks Great in Any Garden
One of the main reasons people choose timber is its natural appearance. Whether your garden is traditional or contemporary, a timber summer house blends in beautifully and can be painted or stained to suit your style.
Comfortable Throughout the Seasons
Timber has natural insulating properties, helping to keep your summer house cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This makes it a practical space for relaxing, hobbies or working from home.
Strong and Long Lasting
A quality timber summer house is built to withstand the British weather. With regular treatment and simple maintenance, it will continue to look good and perform well for many years.
Easy to Maintain
Timber is easy to care for and can be repainted or re-treated whenever needed. If parts become damaged over time, they can often be repaired or replaced without having to rebuild the whole building.
Quality Timber Summer Houses
At 1st Choice Leisure Buildings, our summer houses are manufactured using quality timber and are available in a wide range of styles and sizes. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax, a hobby room or extra garden space, there’s a summer house to suit your needs.
1st Choice Tip… free professional installation on many summer houses for a hassle-free, perfect assembly.
Did you know? Timber naturally helps regulate indoor temperatures all year round.
Summerhouse Planning Permission and Year-Round Use
Before buying a summerhouse, it’s worth understanding the planning rules and how you can legally use it. Most summerhouses can be installed without planning permission, provided they meet permitted development rules. However, there are exceptions depending on the building’s size, its location, and your property.
Do You Need Planning Permission for a Summerhouse?
Most summerhouses do not require planning permission, as permitted development rights cover them. However, permission may be needed if your summerhouse exceeds the permitted size or height limits, or if your property is listed or located within a conservation area.
For more information, read our Summerhouse Planning Permission Guide.
Can You Use a Summerhouse All Year Round?
A summerhouse can be enjoyed throughout the year, especially if it has insulation, double glazing and heating. Many people use them as garden offices, hobby rooms or somewhere to relax in every season.
However, a summerhouse is not normally intended to be lived in as permanent accommodation. If you’re looking for a building to use every day as an extension of your home, a fully insulated garden room or log cabin may be a more suitable option.
1st Choice Tip… Check planning rules before buying to avoid unexpected restrictions or permission requirements.
Did you know? Most summerhouses don’t need planning permission.
Preparing the Perfect Base for Your Garden Building
A solid, level base is one of the most important parts of any garden building installation. Whether you’re buying a summerhouse, shed, garden room or log cabin, the right foundation helps ensure the building remains stable, weather-resistant and long-lasting. A poorly prepared base can lead to movement, water ingress, sticking doors and windows, and may even reduce the lifespan of your garden building. Before installation, it’s important to choose the right type of base for your garden and ensure it is built to the correct size and level.
How to Build the Right Base for Your Garden Building
There are several suitable foundation options, including concrete slabs, paving slabs, timber frames and specialist ground screw systems. The best choice depends on the size and weight of your garden building, the condition of your garden and your budget. Every base should be firm, level, well-drained, and, where recommended, slightly larger than the building footprint. Taking the time to prepare the correct base helps prevent future problems and provides a stable foundation for years of use.
If you’re planning to build the base yourself, our detailed guide explains the different base options, step-by-step construction advice and practical tips to help you get the best results.
Read our complete guide to building a summerhouse and garden building base.
Professional Base Preparation and Additional Installation Services
If you’d rather leave the work to experienced professionals, we can help. Through our trusted network of recommended specialists, we can put you in touch with experienced contractors who provide base construction, painting, insulation, electrical installations, decking, building removal and other related services. Every contractor we recommend has been carefully selected based on their experience and quality of workmanship, giving you added confidence throughout your project.
Whether you need help preparing your site before delivery or adding finishing touches after installation, our team can point you in the right direction.
View our additional garden building services or contact us to discuss your project.
Ways to Use a Summer House
A summer house is one of the most versatile additions you can make to your garden. Traditionally designed as a place to relax during the warmer months, modern timber summer houses can also be customised with insulation, double glazing and electrical fittings, making them suitable for use throughout much of the year. Whether you need additional living space, a place to work from home, or a dedicated area for your hobbies, a summer house can be designed to suit your lifestyle.
Working From Home
A summer house provides a quiet workspace away from the distractions of the main house. With room for a desk, storage and office equipment, it creates a comfortable home office while helping maintain a healthy work-life balance. Garden studios are also popular with artists, photographers, musicians and other creative professionals who need a dedicated place to work.
Relaxation and Leisure
Many homeowners use a summer house as a peaceful retreat where they can read, practise yoga, meditate or enjoy views of the garden. Others create a comfortable garden lounge or entertainment room with sofas, a television or games area, providing an inviting space to unwind or spend time with family and friends throughout the year.
Entertainment and Socialising
A summer house can become the perfect place for entertaining guests. Whether you’re hosting family celebrations, garden parties or informal gatherings, the space can be furnished with comfortable seating, dining furniture or even a garden bar to create an attractive extension of your outdoor living area.
Hobbies and Creative Spaces
Whether you enjoy painting, sewing, photography, crafting, music, model making, or woodworking, a summer house provides a dedicated hobby room where you can work uninterrupted while keeping your equipment organised, secure, and protected from the weather.
Fitness and Wellbeing
Many people convert their summer houses into private home gyms or wellness studios. Having exercise equipment in your garden allows you to work out whenever it suits you without sacrificing valuable indoor living space or travelling to a gym.
Guest Accommodation
Larger summer houses can provide occasional guest accommodation, giving visitors a comfortable and private place to stay. While they should not be used as permanent accommodation without complying with the relevant planning and building regulations, they make an excellent guest retreat for family and friends.
Children’s Playroom
A summer house can also provide a safe and imaginative play space for children, helping to reduce clutter inside the home while giving them somewhere to enjoy games, arts and crafts, reading or creative play.
Customising Your Summer House
Many summer houses can be customised with different sizes, layouts, glazing options, roof styles, door positions and optional upgrades to suit your individual requirements. Whether you’re creating a home office, hobby room, home gym, or relaxing garden retreat, choosing the right design ensures your summer house works perfectly for how you intend to use it.
How Long Will a Summer House Last?
A well-built timber summerhouse should last 20 to 30 years or more if it is looked after properly. Its lifespan depends on the quality of the timber, how well it is maintained and the weather conditions it is exposed to throughout the year.
Many summerhouses come with warranties of up to 10 years, but these usually require you to treat the timber every year. In reality, regular maintenance is what helps your summerhouse stand the test of time.
Keeping Your Summerhouse in Good Condition
Looking after a summerhouse doesn’t take much effort, but a little maintenance each year makes a big difference. We recommend treating the timber with a good quality wood preservative or exterior stain, checking the roof felt for signs of wear, and making sure windows and doors remain weatherproof.
It’s also worth checking the building after periods of bad weather so that any small problems can be dealt with before they become more expensive repairs.
How to Prevent Condensation
Condensation is common in timber garden buildings, especially during the colder months. It happens when warm, moist air meets cold surfaces such as windows or roof panels. If left untreated, excess moisture can encourage mould and mildew.
The easiest way to reduce condensation is to keep the building well ventilated. Open the windows when possible, avoid storing damp items inside, and allow air to circulate freely. If you use your summerhouse regularly throughout the year, insulation and good ventilation can also help keep moisture levels under control.
If you’d like more advice, read our guide on preventing condensation in a summerhouse.
How to Make Your Summer House Comfortable All Year Round
A summer house can be much more than a place to enjoy warm weather. With the right insulation, heating, and decorative finishes, it can become a practical space for relaxing, working, or entertaining in every season. Whether you’re creating a home office, hobby room or peaceful garden retreat, investing in comfort and appearance will help you get the most from your summer house for years to come.
How to Insulate a Summer House
Good insulation is one of the most effective ways to improve the comfort and energy efficiency of a summer house. Insulating the floor, walls, and roof helps maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the year by reducing heat loss in winter and preventing excessive heat buildup in summer. It can also reduce condensation, improve energy efficiency and make your garden building suitable for year-round use.
Read our complete guide to insulating a summer house.
Choosing the Right Heating System
Once your summer house is insulated, selecting the right heating system will ensure it remains warm and comfortable throughout the colder months. Electric radiators, infrared heaters, oil-filled radiators and underfloor heating are all popular options, depending on how frequently you use the building and the size of the space. Choosing an energy-efficient heating solution can help reduce running costs while maintaining a comfortable environment.
Learn more about heating a summer house.
Summer House Paint Colours and Finishes
Refreshing your summer house with a new paint scheme is one of the easiest ways to transform its appearance. Soft neutral colours create a timeless, elegant look, while darker shades such as charcoal or forest green can make your garden building stand out as a striking feature. Bright contemporary colours can add personality, while natural wood finishes help your summer house blend beautifully with its surroundings. Choosing high-quality exterior paint also helps protect the timber from the elements and extends the life of your building.
Explore summer house paint ideas and colour schemes.
Key Areas We Cover Are As Follows
We supply and install summer houses across many towns and cities throughout England and beyond. Our local area pages include information about the summer houses we offer in your area, along with directions to our Surrey show site, where you can view a wide selection of buildings and speak to our experienced team. Choose your nearest location below to learn more and plan your visit.
From £1,520
