A back garden pub shed is exactly what it sounds like: a purpose-built garden structure designed to recreate the atmosphere of a traditional pub at home. For people who love entertaining, relaxing outdoors, or simply having a private space to unwind, building your own pub shed can turn unused garden space into something genuinely special.

Before you buy timber or hang fairy lights, you need a plan.

At a Glance

If you’re short on time, here’s the core flow:

●      Decide on the vibe first — classic pub, sports bar, rustic taproom, modern cocktail lounge.

●      Measure your available space and check local regulations if needed.

●      Choose a shed structure that can support insulation and electrics.

●      Insulate properly for year-round comfort.

●      Build a sturdy bar counter with practical storage behind it.

●      Focus on storage and decor to make it feel authentic, not temporary.

Now let’s break it down properly.

Step 1: Choose the Vibe Before Anything Else

Every great pub has a personality. Yours should too.

Do you want:

●      A traditional dark-wood English pub?

●      A minimalist craft beer bar?

●      A sports-focused hangout with wall-mounted screens?

●      A cozy countryside snug with low lighting and warm tones?

Your vibe determines everything: paint color, flooring, lighting, furniture, and even the shape of the bar.

Think in terms of feeling. Is it lively? Intimate? Industrial? Once that’s clear, decisions become much easier.

Matching Shed Structure to Your Garden Space

Before ordering materials, measure carefully. Consider these factors:

●      Distance from the house

●      Access paths

●      Drainage

●      Sun exposure

●      Proximity to neighbors

A cramped shed packed with oversized furniture won’t feel inviting. Conversely, a large structure in a tiny garden can dominate the space.

Quick Comparison Table

Shed Type	Best For	Pros	Considerations
Timber Shed	Classic pub aesthetic	Warm, traditional look	Needs treatment against moisture
Insulated Garden Room	Year-round use	Comfortable, energy-efficient	Higher initial cost
Converted Summerhouse	Light, airy pub vibe	Lots of natural light	May need extra insulation
Modular Garden Cabin	Modern bar experience	Highly customizable	Requires solid base

Choose a structure that supports electrics and insulation if you plan to use it throughout the year.

Make It Comfortable: Insulation Matters

If you skip insulation, you’ll regret it in winter.

To make your pub shed usable year-round:

1. Insulate walls with rigid board or mineral wool.
2. Insulate the roof and floor.
3. Seal gaps around windows and doors.
4. Install proper ventilation.
5. Consider a safe heating source (electric heater is common).

Comfort is what separates a novelty shed from a genuine second living space.

Building a Proper Bar Counter

The bar is the heart of the pub shed.

A few principles of building a sturdy structure:

●      Height should typically sit around standard bar height (around 100–110 cm).

●      Use solid wood or durable plywood with a protective finish.

●      Leave enough depth for glassware and taps.

●      Reinforce from underneath — people will lean on it.

Behind the bar, include shelving for bottles and glass storage. Add under-counter cabinets to hide clutter.

Storage isn’t glamorous, but it keeps the space looking intentional rather than chaotic.

Organize Your Plans Before You Build

When you start collecting sketches, layout drafts, wiring diagrams, and materials lists, things can quickly become messy.

It helps to compile everything into one file so you’re not searching through multiple documents. You can use online tools to combine PDF documents to bring your plans and reference materials together in one organized place before construction begins. Keeping everything centralized reduces mistakes and keeps the project moving smoothly.

Storage: The Unsung Hero of a Great Pub Shed

A good pub shed hides its practical side. There are lots of options for hiding clutter and keeping things organized.

●      Under-bar cupboards

●      Wall-mounted shelving

●      Crates or built-in bench storage

●      Hooks for coats

●      Hidden cable management

Decor: Where the Magic Happens

This is where personality takes over.

You might include:

●      Vintage pub signs

●      Chalkboard menu wall

●      Framed posters

●      Fairy lights or pendant lighting

●      Bar stools that match your theme

●      A small drinks fridge

●      A dartboard or card table

Lighting is crucial. Avoid harsh overhead lighting. Instead, layer your lighting with wall lamps, warm bulbs, and subtle accents.

Small details — coasters, taps, custom signage — create authenticity.

Helpful Inspiration for Garden Projects

If you’re looking for additional inspiration or practical outdoor design ideas, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) offers guidance on garden buildings and outdoor spaces.

Even if your focus is the pub shed itself, considering how it integrates with the surrounding garden will elevate the final result.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need planning permission for a pub shed?

In many areas, small garden buildings fall under permitted development, but rules vary by location. Always check local regulations before building.

How big should a pub shed be?

For comfortable seating and a bar, many people aim for at least 8x6 feet (2.4 x 1.8 meters), though larger spaces allow for better layout flexibility.

Can I run electricity to a pub shed?

Yes, but electrical work should be done safely and, where required, by a qualified electrician.

What’s the most important element?

Insulation and layout. If it’s uncomfortable or poorly arranged, decor won’t fix it.

Creating your own back garden pub shed is about more than building a structure — it’s about designing an experience. Start with the vibe, respect the space you have, and build for comfort first. Add a solid bar, smart storage, and meaningful decor. Do it thoughtfully, and you won’t just have a shed — you’ll have your favorite place to spend time.