Evocative things aren’t they, conjuring up thoughts of hideaways, secrets and fun. Even today however in some parts of the world, tree houses represent a way of life, although due to necessity rather than romance. Some jungle tribes live high up in the canopy of the forest to gain more light and avoid certain animals, but sometimes also to avoid other tribes – especially those who do a spot of head-hunting in their spare time, hhm – not very romantic at all.

Gladly for the rest of us, tree houses have a more recreational role to play in our lives and hold an almost magical attraction. When we were children if we didn’t have a tree house we really wanted one – creating dens away from grown-ups seemed to be one of our prime objectives! And when we reach adulthood this need for a hideaway remains, except this time we are seeking somewhere to take time out and relax – and what could be a more magical space to do this in than a grown-up tree house with all the comforts of home.

Though it is difficult to pinpoint when the first tree house was built for fun rather than function we may well have our Victorian forbears to thank for these whimsical structures. With their fondness for follies and invention they may well have started a trend that has since developed into a fully fledged business, tree houses are being commissioned for personal office spaces, luxury garden dens and glamping holidays. Tree houses can now be highly sophisticated and have more luxuries and facilities than our own homes – they have certainly evolved from a few old planks fixed around a crevice of a garden tree and a bit of canvas tarpaulin as a roof! Tree houses that are built for glamping holidays are built to very high standards and are subject to strict regulations, usually being built around or near to a tree rather than in it, which makes the tree house safe for occupation and reduces impact on the tree itself. Like us, you may be concerned about potential adverse affects to the trees and will be reassured to know that modern construction methods are particularly eco-conscious. A whole range of new fixings and methods have been designed specifically to ensure a minimal impact on the tree and ensure maximum safety of the tree house occupants. Design-wise, only budget and imagination set the limits! Today’s tree house designs are wonderfully imaginative, from clean, contemporary lines right through to the classic fairytale turrets – there are some fantastic designs being created. More people are now commissioning their own tree house dens in their gardens for either their children to play in or for themselves as quiet spaces and around the world, tree houses are being built as unusual and amazing glamping holidays. And what a unique experience they are, the fantasies of our childhood hideaways are brought to life with luxury and comfort thrown in. Being elevated within the boughs of greenery, amidst a leafy canopy with birdsong literally outside your window is one experience we will surely not forget.