How to Heat a Garden Timber Cabin in the UK: Cheapest Practical Options Explained

Heating a garden timber cabin in the UK can be surprisingly efficient when the right system is chosen. Many homeowners assume a cabin will be expensive to heat or difficult to keep warm in winter, but with proper insulation and a suitable solution, a cabin can feel just as comfortable as a modern house. Below we break down the most practical and affordable options, with real‑world examples and UK‑specific guidance.

Start With the Basics: Insulation First

Before choosing a heater, make sure your cabin is insulated to a reasonable standard. Even the most efficient heating system will struggle if heat escapes through thin walls or poorly sealed windows.

Walls: Mineral wool or PIR boards between studs.
Roof: At least 150–200 mm insulation; most heat escapes upwards.
Floor: Rigid insulation between joists or under subfloor.
Windows & doors: Double glazing and proper sealing.

A well‑insulated 12–20 m² cabin can typically be heated for less than £1 per day in autumn and around £1.50–£2.50 per day in winter (depending on tariff and usage).

Electric Panel Heaters (Cheapest to Install)

Electric convector or panel heaters remain the most popular choice in the UK because they are easy to mount, inexpensive and fast to warm up a small cabin. They work well for offices used during daytime hours.

Cost: £40–£150 for a good unit.
Pros: Quick to install, thermostat‑controlled, ideal for small spaces.
Cons: Heat rises quickly and cools quickly once turned off.

Example: A 2 kW panel heater can comfortably heat a 15 m² cabin even on cold winter days.

Oil‑Filled Radiators (Most Comfortable Heat)

Oil‑filled radiators maintain temperature more steadily than panel heaters. They continue radiating warmth even after switching off, making them perfect for cabins used for long work sessions or evening relaxation.

Cost: £60–£200 depending on size.
Pros: Silent, safe, stable heat; great for well‑insulated spaces.
Cons: Slower to warm up; heavy if portable.

Example: Many UK customers use a 1.2–1.5 kW oil radiator in garden offices and report stable temperatures throughout the day.

Infrared Heating Panels (Most Efficient for Daily Use)

Infrared heaters warm people and objects directly rather than heating the air. This makes them extremely efficient in smaller cabins, especially those used intermittently.

Cost: £90–£300 per panel.
Pros: Low running cost, removes damp, comfortable radiant heat.
Cons: Works best when strategically placed; not ideal for large open cabins.

Example: A 600–800 W infrared panel mounted on a wall or ceiling can heat a 10–14 m² cabin for very low daily cost.

Small Wood‑Burning Stoves (Traditional & Powerful)

For rural properties or larger cabins, a compact wood burner offers unbeatable heat output. Many customers choose this option for weekend lodges or year‑round annexes. Installation, however, requires proper ventilation and a flue.

Cost: £400–£900 for a small approved stove (plus installation).
Pros: Strong heat, cosy atmosphere, ideal for remote cabins.
Cons: Requires logs, chimney, annual servicing; not suitable for all gardens.

Example: A 4–5 kW stove can comfortably heat a 25 m² insulated cabin even during freezing temperatures.

Air‑to‑Air Heat Pumps (Cheapest to Run Long‑Term)

Mini split heat pumps are becoming more popular because they offer heating and cooling in one system with energy efficiency far above electric heaters. They are an excellent choice for cabins used daily or as living annexes.

Cost: £900–£1,600 installed.
Pros: Lowest running cost, fast heating, cooling in summer.
Cons: Highest upfront cost; requires an outdoor unit.

Example: A 2.5 kW heat pump typically costs £0.20–£0.40 per hour to run, depending on tariff and ambient temperature.

Running Cost Comparison (Typical UK Winter)

Assuming a small cabin used 3–4 hours per day:

Infrared panel: ~£0.45–£0.80 per day
Oil radiator: ~£0.70–£1.40 per day
Panel heater: ~£1.00–£2.00 per day
Heat pump: ~£0.30–£0.60 per day
Wood stove: Depends on log price; typically cheapest if wood is local

Practical Tips for UK Homeowners

Use a plug‑in thermostat for precise control.
Add thick curtains or blinds to reduce heat loss at night.
Consider a small dehumidifier in winter to prevent damp.
Place heaters on timers to warm the cabin before you enter.
Use draught‑excluders around doors for older cabins.

Conclusion

The cheapest and most effective way to heat a garden cabin in the UK is to combine good insulation with the right heating system for your usage pattern. For daily use, infrared panels or heat pumps offer the best efficiency. For occasional or rural use, small wood stoves provide unbeatable comfort. With the right setup, any cabin can stay warm, dry and comfortable 365 days a year.