World · India Bureau
Gaming Shed With 18-Foot Table Wins Britain's Top Competition
A bespoke tabletop gaming shed built by Chris Otterburn and friends in Lancashire has claimed Britain's Shed of the Year title for 2026. The structure, which cost over £2,000 to construct, features an expansive gaming surface and serves as a memorial to a friend lost to cancer.
LSN India ·

The gaming shed, created by Otterburn and his circle of enthusiasts in the northwestern English county, has earned recognition from Britain's prestigious annual Shed of the Year competition. The structure showcases thoughtful design, incorporating an 18-foot gaming table as its centrepiece alongside dedicated storage solutions and a tea-making station to support extended gaming sessions.
Beyond its recreational purpose, the shed holds deeper significance for its builders. The space incorporates a memorial dedicated to Scott Forrest, a member of their gaming community who passed away from cancer before the shed's completion. The tribute reflects how the group sought to honour their friend while creating a lasting venue for their shared passion.
The competition recognises exceptional sheds across Britain, celebrating structures that demonstrate craftsmanship, creativity and functionality. Otterburn's gaming shed distinguished itself among entries by combining practical design with emotional resonance, resulting in its selection as the year's standout example.
The shed represents a growing trend of purpose-built recreational spaces among British hobby enthusiasts, where tabletop gaming communities establish dedicated venues for their activities. The award underscores how such spaces can serve dual purposes—providing functional gathering places while creating meaningful community focal points.