Tree house ideas
Tree house ideas, from children's dens with rope bridges to timber hideaways for grown ups.
Planning your tree house
A good tree house is built around the tree, not into it. Specialist builders use bolts and floating brackets that let the tree move and grow, and many add posts beneath so the tree carries less weight.
Think about how it will be used. A children's den needs safe rails and an easy ladder, while a tree house for guests needs insulation, power and a proper staircase.
Common questions
Do you need planning permission for a tree house?
Small tree houses are often permitted development, but height limits apply and permission is usually needed if it overlooks neighbours, is used to sleep in, or the tree is protected by a preservation order.
What tree is best for a tree house?
Mature, healthy hardwoods such as oak, beech and sycamore are best. An arborist should check the tree before building.