What is a Shepherd’s Hut and where do they originate from?
Let’s take a gentle wander through where they came from, what makes them special and why they’re finding their way into many gardens and holiday sites.
A little history behind the shepherd’s hut
Shepherds’ huts have been around for centuries, since the 16th century in fact. Back then, they were built as practical little shelters that allowed the shepherd to stay close to their flocks during the lambing season.
They needed something tough, warm and cosy to move across the fields, so the classic features we associate with huts today all had a purpose
A curved roof to handle all kinds of weather, Cast iron wheels to tow the hut wherever the flock moved, a timber wall to help with keeping warm and of course a small wood burning for heat and a hot meal. Inside, they were very cosy and cleverly organised, a narrow bed, some shelving, and an area for tools.
Everything a shepherd would need to get through long nights in the fields
Eventually, as farming developed with modern technology, these huts weren’t needed as much. Many were abandoned to the elements, but the charm never faded. Today, restored originals still can be found dotted around the British countryside. They have inspired the beautiful modern versions we now adore.
What made them so special?
Though they were small and simple, traditional shepherd’s huts were brilliant examples of smart design.
They were built to survive wind, rain, mud, and long days outdoors, all while keeping their occupants warm and sheltered.
Classic elements would include Strong cast iron wheels capable for the off-road element. A rounded roof would keep most weather at bay, as well as adding a charm that has carried through.
Built with a strong timber frame, giving a sturdy structure as well as helping with the thermal properties. Most huts would have a stable door incorporated that would be perfect for letting fresh air in as well as keeping the livestock out while keeping an eye on them.
They weren’t built to be fancy but were incredibly dependable. That practicality is part of the lure today.
How Shepherds’ Huts are used today
Fast forward to the present, and shepherd’s huts have taken on a whole new life. With modern insulation, electrics, plumbing and bespoke interiors. They’re now designed for year-round use; in fact, some people live in them permanently.
Here are some examples of what they are used for today.
The Glamiping market;
Shepherd huts are now widely used in the glamping industry due to their appeal. A lot of holiday goers are pulled to the warmth and cosiness of a shepherd’s hut, making it a great choice. Most have a full heating system, a fully kitted out kitchen, a shower room, and some big enough for a bath. They really are a home-from-home in a growing market.
Home Office, studio or garden room;
Shepherds’ huts make a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the main house. They really can become a sanctuary in your own garden. A lot of people are finding that a shepherd’s hut can be a great addition the their garden, a place that they can relax in and enjoy their surroundings. Alternatively, people have been looking for an answer to having an extra working area at home and have been drawn to shepherd’s huts due to their ease and practicality.
Extra Guest room;
A shepherd’s hut can become an overflow of your main house, creating a charming place for your guests to stay while not imposing on the main house.
Wellness Retreats;
We have seen the rise of Saunas, Yoga rooms, therapy spaces ect etc. Many of these businesses are using shepherd huts that really add to the experience.
Why a shepherd’s huts might be right for me
The beauty of a shepherd’s hut is that it can be personalised to what you would like it to be; there are no limitations.
There’s a reason shepherd’s huts have such a big revival. They tick so many boxes for home owners, land owners and business owners alike.
One hut can have many uses, like a home office, a guest suite, a glamping pod or a peaceful studio, and if your needs change, the hut can change with you.
The huts are easy to move, making them a great choice for homeowners for a garden room, because if they sell their property, they can take the hut with them. Also, with them being on wheels, they may require limited or, in some cases, no planning at all. They have a beautiful, timeless charm that fits into most backdrops. In short, whether you are planning a glamping business or a cosy garden getaway, a shepherd’s hut can fit into both situations with ease
The irony in this now is that with the profit in farming around the UK being in decline, Farmers are now looking to diversify their land and are reintroducing shepherd’s huts back into their fields for the purpose of glamping and maybe a farming experience. You could say that shepherd’s huts have now gone full circle and back where they originated.
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a shepherd’s hut. It could be the nostalgic charm, the curved roof, or the feeling of stepping inside a tiny space that instantly feels like home from home. Whatever it is, Shepherd’s Huts have gone from simple countryside shelters to some of the most loved and extravagant outdoor rooms in the UK.
If you’re thinking about creating a peaceful garden hideaway, adding a guest room, or even starting a glamping business, a shepherd’s hut might be exactly what you’re dreaming of
