Garden Bar Ideas: How to Convert a Shed into a Pub Shed

Creating a garden bar involves converting a standard garden shed into a dedicated space for entertainment. While it may sound ambitious, this guide walks you through each stage of the transformation. You’ll need to plan the layout, weatherproof the structure, build the bar itself, and ensure all electrics are safe and functional.

A well-built garden shed is ideal for this kind of conversion, giving you the chance to design a personalised space for socialising or unwinding alone. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying your own retreat, a garden bar brings the atmosphere of a pub into the comfort of your own garden.

What Exactly Is a Garden Bar?

Definition: A garden bar is a repurposed structure, often a shed or outbuilding, that’s transformed to resemble a pub or bar environment.

Purpose: It becomes a hub for socialisation and entertainment – a personal space just a few steps from your back door.

Features: Most include a bar counter, shelving or storage for drinks and glassware, seating, lighting, and access to power.

Materials: You’ll need a garden shed, timber or reclaimed wood, weatherproofing materials, and safe electrics.

Customisation Trend: Many shed bar owners now create highly personalised spaces with unique themes – from rustic beer taverns to tiki cocktail lounges.

Window Hatch Bars vs. Indoor Bars

Many bar sheds on the market consist of four walls where one of them has a built-on counter and an aperture through which to serve drinks. While serving drinks through a hatch can look charming, indoor bars tend to win out for comfort and longevity.

• They offer more countertop space and proper seating areas.

• You’re not exposed to wind, rain, or midges while you’re trying to enjoy your social event.

• They feel more like a real pub, encouraging guests to stay longer.

• You can always take drinks outside if the weather is nice.

Consider keeping the window for airflow and light, but put the main bar counter inside the shed where you can control the atmosphere.

Why Garden Pubs Are Popular DIY Projects

Since the rise of at-home entertainment trends, many homeowners have embraced garden improvements over nights out. Building a pub shed can be a cost-effective way to create an entertaining space, especially when compared with repeated expenses on social outings.

The rise in smart technology has also made it easier to upgrade these spaces with features like smart lighting, speakers, and climate control – making the garden pub usable year-round.

Your 6-Step Framework for Building the Perfect Shed Bar

Step 1: Plan & Prepare Your Shed Foundation

Ensure your shed is built on a solid, level base to avoid future structural issues. Clean it thoroughly and check for damp, pests, or structural damage before beginning any work. If you’re still in the market, explore our range of garden sheds — perfect for pub conversions — with models designed to offer a solid, level base and long-term durability.

Pro Tip: Check your local council’s planning portal for any rules on outbuildings, especially if you’re installing electricity or plumbing.

Planning Rules for a Pub Shed

In most cases, a garden bar won’t require planning permission — especially if it meets the following criteria:

• The structure is under 2.5m high at the eaves (and under 4m if it has a dual-pitched roof).

• It’s located behind the house and not forward of the principal elevation.

• It doesn’t cover more than 50% of the total garden space.

• It’s not used as self-contained living accommodation.

• It doesn’t include a raised platform or decking over 30cm high.

However, if you’re planning to add mains electricity or plumbing, or if you live in a conservation area or listed property, check with your local planning authority via the Planning Portal to stay compliant.

🔌 Running power underground via SWA (steel wire armoured) cable is common but requires Part P compliance and should be installed by a qualified electrician.

Step 2: Weatherproof for Year-Round Comfort

Start with a moisture barrier to prevent damp. Then insulate the floor, roof, and walls using options like rigid foam boards, rockwool for soundproofing, or foil-backed alternatives. Leave an air gap to minimise condensation.

Step 3: Run Electrics Safely & Legally

Any electrical installation must be carried out by a qualified electrician. Common requests include sockets, lighting, heaters, and power for fridges or sound systems.

Step 4: Design & Build Your Bar Unit

There are two basic bar design ideas:

• Wall-mounted hatch bar: Classic and space-saving

• Freestanding bar: Built with reclaimed pallets or shelving units

Budget Tip: Use a modular shelving unit as a base, then top with timber for a custom DIY bar.

Looking for a fast-track option? Check out our BillyOh Bar Counter – a pre-designed, freestanding unit that fits perfectly in most 8x6ft+ sheds. Made from durable timber and treated for outdoor use, it’s ready to stain or paint to suit your theme.

Step 5: Master Your Interior Decor & Theme

Choose a clear aesthetic – traditional pub, sports bar, cocktail lounge, etc. Use paint, lighting, art, and floor coverings to bring it to life. Install multiple light sources such as pendant lights and LED strips to enhance mood and functionality.

Step 6: Stock the Bar & Add Finishing Touches

Build a drinks selection that matches your theme. Add coasters, glassware, bar mats, or themed decorations. Consider entertainment features like a dartboard, small TV, or a Bluetooth speaker for music.

Common Pub Shed Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

• Damp or Musty Smell: Improve airflow with vents or windows. Check insulation and consider a dehumidifier. Leave the door open for a while if there is condensation inside.

• Not Enough Power: Plan your power requirements with your electrician early on.

• Poor Lighting: Layer lighting types for ambience and functionality.

• Too Cold in Winter: Install insulation and a portable heater. Blankets also help!

• Pest Problems: Seal gaps and maintain cleanliness.

• Planning Oversights: Check ‘Permitted Development’ rules. Sheds under 2.5m high usually don’t need planning permission but there are extra rules applied to where you can place it and how large it can be.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your garden shed conversion and get inspired! We want to see you getting involved with your own DIY project, creating a personalised space for your friends and family to forge unforgettable memories in. Remember, follow our easy-to-use six-step process to begin your own garden pub adventure.