The Cabin
An Award-winning venue in Andover’s Diamond Wood
The Cabin was awarded CPRE Hampshire’s Sustainable Communities Award in 2023
Birds-eye view Cabin and surrounds, September 2026 [credit Leroy Forbes]
HOW THE CABIN WAS CREATED
It had been part of the vision for the wood from the outset to build an off-grid, sustainable classroom, field-study base, community and volunteer room, one that is sensitive to its surroundings and sits well in the landscape.
The portable cabin and shipping container were the beginnings 2013-18… Designs for a permanent structure were submitted, planning permission was approved, skilled craftsmen and builders appointed and, thanks to the generosity of our supporters, sufficient funds were raised to complete the first stage: the amazing timber frame and the roof (2021) and the floors and external walls (2022-3). A most special mention and our most heartfelt thanks go to The Carpenters Fellowship, without whom this amazing project would not have happened.
Escalating costs, however, meant that funds became very stretched… and, by early 2023, they had run out. Following further fundraising, building recommenced on the internal structure in late summer 2023. A very proud moment for everyone was when the Cabin was awarded CPRE Hampshire’s Sustainable Communities Award 2023.
Watch the wonderful video about the background to the build and its sustainability credentials, created by CPRE as part of the award.
Although a few elements still needed completing, the building became operational January 2024 and was officially opened by Hampshire’s Lord Lieutenant, Nigel Atkinson Esq,. in April. The next 12 months saw electrics completed and the kitchen fitted out; landscaping around the Cabin followed and a building control certificate was issued in early 2026.
Huge thanks and congratulations to everybody who has worked so hard over the past 7 years to get this amazing project to this point.
Read a report of the build June 2021 - March 2023
Funds are still needed to complete internal fixtures and fittings and for the final stage of landscaping, including improved security fencing
HIRING THE CABIN
The Cabin has a maximum capacity of 60 persons. Capacities can vary depending on the event or layout required.
Booking is available for 2-hour slots.
WhAT TO DO NEXT
Make a booking request via the booking form
Contact us for more information
We would like to thank everybody who has contributed via Global Giving and local fundraising events and the following funders and local businesses for their generous support:
