Chris Otterburn’s friends constructed an 18‑foot gaming haven called Otty’s Hobby Shed 2.0 in the Lancashire countryside, and the structure was crowned Britain’s 2026 Shed of the Year. The shed, which houses a massive tabletop, storage for miniature figures, and a tea‑making station, also contains a memorial wall honouring Scott Forrest, a friend who died of cancer before the building was finished.
Dave, who entered the project into the competition, said the shed’s victory was a tribute to the camaraderie forged during its construction. "Chris would never have submitted it himself," Dave told Shedworking. "It’s become where we meet every week, enjoy our hobby, make endless cups of tea and remember Scott."
The competition, now in its twentieth year, drew entries from across the UK, but Andrew Wilcox, founder and head judge, singled out Otty’s Hobby Shed 2.0 for its craftsmanship and emotional resonance. "It perfectly captures what Shed of the Year is all about," Wilcox remarked. "It’s an outstanding build, but it was the story behind it that made it our overall winner."
Otterburn, who expressed pride in the recognition, said the award means more than a trophy. "Winning Shed of the Year is an incredible honour and means so much to everyone who’s been part of this journey," he said. "What started as a hobby project has become a place for friends to gather, enjoy our shared passion and remember Scott. It’s far more than just a shed."
The final ceremony will hand over the prize, and the winning shed will be displayed in the national exhibition that follows the competition, giving visitors a chance to see the unique blend of engineering and remembrance that earned it top honours.