Shire Bespoke Log Cabins

With roots dating back to 1945, Shire has become Britain's foremost creator of bespoke garden buildings. The advantageous position adjacent to Wisbech Port enables direct timber importation, ensuring premium materials for their made-to-measure log cabins. As specialists in bespoke garden buildings, Shire's expansive 23-acre production complex includes sophisticated timber processing facilities and modern joinery workshops, ideal for crafting truly personalised log cabins. Their master artisans transform the finest spruce timber into bespoke garden retreats meticulously designed to your specifications. Each made-to-measure log cabin represents British manufacturing excellence, combining traditional woodworking heritage with contemporary precision and craftsmanship. It creates unique outdoor living spaces perfectly suited to your garden and lifestyle.

Flexible Summerhouse

Bespoke Log Cabin Features

With a Shire Log Cabin, you can start with a style you love and make it your own. Change the roof, choose Georgian or plain glazing, add more windows, move the doors, or include a partition for extra flexibility. Whatever adjustments you need, we can adapt the design so your cabin fits perfectly with your garden and lifestyle.

  • Tailored to Your Space: Adjust size, shape, and style to perfectly suit your garden.
  • Personalisation Options:Select roof styles, windows, doors, verandahs, insulation, and more.
  • Optimised for Use: Use your log cabin year-round, whether for relaxation, a garden office, or added storage.
Explore Customisation Options

Design Your Ideal Log Cabin

Every element is chosen by you, with options across structure, finishes, and features.

  • Roof Styles: Select from Apex, Reverse Apex, or Pent roof designs to achieve the perfect balance of aesthetics, natural light, and functionality for your garden space.
  • Verandah and Overhangs: Design a covered outdoor area that provides shelter from the elements. Add a side canopy, either fully open or partially open with one or two sides.
  • Additional Rooms: Our made-to-measure log cabins allow partitions to be added, allowing you to create multiple rooms within the space.
  • Windows and Doors: Choose UPVC on 44mm log cabins and above. Add toughened glass, or change the layout. Want more or fewer windows? Another door? Bespoke log cabins let you adapt the design to truly suit your needs.
  • Floor & Roof Finishes: Strength and finish options to match any garden setup.
See Design Options
Shire Summerhouse

Customisation Process: How It Works

We can help you create the perfect log cabin design. Our team can guide you through the various options available in our Shire range.

Phone Consultation

Step 1: Consultation

Call, email, or book an appointment to visit our show site, where we'll discuss your needs, preferences, and the overall process. Contact us to get started.

Phone Quote

Step 2: Quote

Receive a free quote detailing our bespoke process and background information on elbec, including construction, delivery, and installation specifics.

Summerhouse Design

Step 3: Design Proposal

We can provide drawings for the Shire log cabin - design fee applies to these models. A written quote is free of charge; a fee applies for CAD drawings.

Pricing and Payment Plans

We understand that investing in a log cabin is a big decision, so we offer various payment options to make it as convenient as possible. Whether you prefer to pay upfront or opt for a more flexible finance plan, we have solutions to fit your needs.

Payment Options

Explore Finance Options
Purchasing

Your Choices in Bespoke Log Cabin Models

Corner Summerhouse

Choose from our Unique Ranges

  • Shire Elm Log Cabin: 19mm logs, modern pent roof, optional side shed, double doors.
  • Shire Marlborough Log Cabin: Modern pent roof, Georgian-style glazing, double doors, 28mm interlocking logs.
  • Pent Roof Log Cabins: Choose from the Emneth and Edgefield.
  • Side Storage Log Cabins: Opt for the Bourne.
Explore Our Ranges

FAQ and Next Steps

How long does the process take?

The process, including delivery and installation, usually takes between 10-14 weeks.

Is planning permission required?

Planning permission rules vary by location. We recommend checking with your local authority to see if permission is needed.

Many log cabins in the UK fall under "permitted development" rights, meaning no formal planning permission is required if specific conditions are met:

Size:
  • If within 2 metres of a boundary, the height should not exceed 2.5 metres.
  • If more than 2 metres from a boundary, height can be up to 4 metres for dual-pitched roofs or 3 metres for flat roofs.
Location:
  • The log cabin must be placed in the rear garden, not in front of the main elevation of your house.
Footprint:
  • Outbuildings, including the log cabins, should not exceed 50% of your garden's total area.
Use:
  • The log cabin should be for purposes incidental to the main house, such as a garden office, storage, or leisure space, and not as a separate dwelling.

Contacting Your Local Authority:

Before starting your project, we recommend checking with your Local Planning Authority (LPA). They can provide location-specific guidance and confirm whether you need planning permission or qualify for permitted development rights.

What Size Log Cabin Do I Need?

Opt for the largest log cabin that fits within your space and budget-you'll always find a use for extra room. Consider its purpose, whether for work, hobbies, or relaxation. For added versatility, explore our log cabins with multiple rooms.

What Should I Consider When Choosing a Location for My Log Cabin?

Choose a location with at least 18 inches of clearance around all sides for assembly and maintenance access. Consider roof overhangs and clear nearby shrubs or trees, factoring in future growth. A sheltered location is ideal for the best longevity.

How Should I Prepare a Base for My Log Cabin?

A solid, level concrete base with a slight slope prevents water buildup and ensures stability. We don't recommend slab or shingle bases as they can settle unevenly. Base preparation guidelines are available upon request. We also offer a Ground Screw option.

What Tools Do I Need to Build My Log Cabin?

For assembly, you'll need a drill, hammer, electric screwdriver, rubber mallet, sandpaper, cutting knife, tape measure, step ladder, pencil, saw, damp-proof strip, silicone sealant, lock oil, spirit level, and string for alignment.

Does the Log Cabin Need to Be Treated?

Our Shire Log Cabins are supplied untreated, allowing you to customise finishes. Treat the exterior after assembly for protection and oil hinges regularly.

Do You Offer an Installation Service?

Yes, we offer installation across most of the UK with the experienced team from Shire.

How Is the Delivery of My Log Cabin Arranged?

The teams at elbec and Shire will keep you informed throughout your bespoke log cabin journey. From initial order confirmation to delivery scheduling and installation updates, we ensure clear communication at every stage. Have questions? Our friendly customer service team is readily available by phone or email to provide prompt assistance.

  • Shire: Within 20 working days, Shire will text you to confirm your delivery date.

How Is the Delivery and Installation of My Log Cabin Arranged?

  • Shire: After the order, you'll receive a text to book assembly terms; the delivery team will follow up with an installation date.

How Easy Are Log Cabins to Assemble?

Assembly is straightforward, with easy-to-follow instructions. For questions, elbec's customer care team is here to help.

Can I Have Electricity in My Log Cabin?

Yes, but we recommend hiring a qualified electrician for safe installation. If you require electrical installations alongside Shire's assembly service, please notify elbec in advance. It will help us to properly integrate electrical work into the assembly schedule if applicable, ensuring your chosen electrician can complete their installation efficiently and safely. Early coordination ensures a seamless process for your bespoke log cabin.

Please note: If you use Shire's assembly service and plan to install electrics in your building, you must inform elbec in advance. This may need to be planned into the assembly process to allow your electrician to carry out their work at the appropriate time.

Customised Log Cabin Costs

Our partnerships with leading UK and European manufacturers allow us to keep costs competitive without sacrificing quality.