Garden Play Equipment · Accessories & Add-ons
Playhouses & Wendy Houses: What Else You'll Need
By the Nest & Yard editorial teamUpdated 2026-08-093 min read
Our pick: the 3 Sprouts Kids Play Tent, Ages 3 to 10, Recycled Fabric, Checkered Beige | indoor playhouse; playroom bedroom use; pretend play space; reading nook; cozy hideaway; room decor; imaginative play. — the best Playhouses & Wendy Houses we tested, from £37.95.
When setting up a playhouse or wendy house in your garden, it’s important to consider more than just the main structure itself. Accessory items such as protective covers, replacement parts for windows and doors, and additional play accessories like cooking sets or storage bins can enhance both durability and fun. For example, the Little Tikes Cape Cottage offers interactive features that promote physical development, while options from 3 Sprouts and Smoby provide versatile indoor and outdoor use with recycled materials and engaging themes.
See the full range in Playhouses & Wendy Houses.

#1 Pick
Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse - With Working Doors, Windows & Shutters - Interactive - Active Play Promotes Physical Development - Indoor or Outdoor Use - Tan- Plastic
Currently unavailable
Pros
- Working doors, windows and shutters encourage imaginative play
- Sturdy plastic construction built for years of outdoor use
- No assembly tools required, ready to play quickly
Cons
- Large footprint needs a decent amount of garden or patio space

#2 Pick
3 Sprouts Kids Play Tent, Ages 3 to 10, Recycled Fabric, Checkered Beige | indoor playhouse; playroom bedroom use; pretend play space; reading nook; cozy hideaway; room decor; imaginative play.£37.95
Pros
- ✅ 𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗬 𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘 𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗬 𝗦𝗣𝗔𝗖𝗘: This vibrant tent for kids can be set up in minutes and includes hassle-free setup instructions, making setup and storage a breeze, ideal & convenient for busy parents. It collapses flat for storage and wipes clean easily. It can be moved from room to room, or brought along on visits to friends and family, ensuring the fun never has to stop.
- 🚀 𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗠𝗜𝗨𝗠 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬 𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗨𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘: All 3 Sprouts products are quality and safety tested to ensure we meet or exceed all guidelines for children’s products. Designed with safety in mind and to withstand rigourous play, our indoor & outdoor tent is made with non-toxic, sustainable and soft, yet sturdy materials that ensure it's both child-friendly and long-la
Cons
- Full specification not confirmed on the listing — check before buying

Currently unavailable
Pros
- Smoby Sweet Corner Playset, inspired by a takeaway treat shop
- Features takeaway counter, customisable menu board and 'Sweety' shop sign
- Inside, play with the pancake station, mechanical ice-cream machine and customer sale station
- Includes 18 fun accessories: 1 x plat, 1 x fork, 1 x knife, 1 x spoon, 1 x mug with lid, 1 x frying pan, 2 x pancakes, 1 x sugar pot, 1 x sprinkles jar, 2 x ice-creams, 4 x cashier receipts, 1 x credit card reader, 1 x credit card.
Cons
- Assembly required, dimensions may be large.
- Limited accessories compared to other play sets.

#4 Pick
Backyard Discovery Maple Leaf Cedar Kids Outdoor Playhouse | Snack Bar | 100% Cedar Wood, Play Kitchen, Snack Bar Window, Half Door, Outdoor Garden Playhouse, Children's Cubby House£279.00
Pros
- SUNLIT PLAY SPACE: Wide windows allow plenty of natural light and fresh air while providing visibility for parents with added spacious side window, perfect for serving up snack time treats and drinks
- READY FOR FUN: Includes a play kitchen with toy sink, hob, cookware, utensils, cordless phone, and working doorbell to inspire imaginative play and will keep the kids entertained all day long
- HINGED HALF DOOR: Child-friendly, functional half door adds a realistic touch while creating a welcoming space and working doorbell included
- WINDOW PLANTERS: Charming flowerpot holders beneath front windows are perfect for little gardeners (flowers and flowerpots not included) to brighten up your outdoor space and personalise the playhouse
Cons
- Flowers and pots are not included.
- Doorbell may require occasional maintenance.
FAQ
Do I need to buy additional flooring for my playhouse?
Yes, most playhouses come without flooring, so you'll need to purchase or construct a suitable base.
Can I use regular garden soil in the playhouse?
Regular garden soil might be too heavy and could cause uneven surfaces; consider using a lighter material like gravel instead.
What kind of lighting options are there for my playhouse at night?
LED fairy lights or solar-powered lights are popular choices as they are energy-efficient and easy to install.
Do I need to buy paint or varnish for the exterior?
Painting or varnishing is recommended to protect the wood from weather damage, especially in more exposed locations.
What about ventilation in a playhouse?
Ensure there are adequate gaps around the roof and sides for air circulation to prevent moisture buildup.
How do I secure the playhouse against strong winds?
Check if corner braces or anchors come with your playhouse; otherwise, consider purchasing them separately to ensure stability.
Should I buy any furniture for inside the playhouse?
While some playhouses may have a basic bench or table included, additional furniture like chairs or small tables might be needed.
What about safety measures for the windows in a wendy house?
Consider adding storm-proof shutters to protect against accidental breakage and enhance security.
Do I need specific tools to put it together?
Most playhouses come with basic assembly instructions, but you might need a screwdriver or hammer for final adjustments.
What about outdoor cushions for comfort?
Adding outdoor cushions can make the space more inviting and comfortable, especially for extended use.
In depth
When setting up your playhouse or wendy house for your little one, there are several accessories that can enhance its appeal and functionality without breaking the bank. One of the first things to consider is weather protection, as these structures often spend a lot of time outside. A good quality awning can provide shade during sunny days and keep rain at bay, ensuring your child's playhouse remains comfortable and dry throughout the year. While many wendy houses come with an awning included, it's important to check if this is part of the standard accessories package.
Ventilation is another crucial aspect to consider. Proper air circulation can prevent heat buildup inside the playhouse, making it more inviting for extended periods. You might want to look at adding some small windows or a mesh screen to allow fresh air in while keeping out insects and debris. Again, whether these features are included with your wendy house depends on the manufacturer, so it's worth checking what comes standard before you buy.
Safety is paramount when setting up a playhouse for children. Ensure that any corners are rounded and free from sharp edges to prevent injuries. Adding non-slip flooring can also be beneficial, especially if the ground around the playhouse might get wet or slippery. Many manufacturers include basic safety features in their product packages, but you may need to add your own non-slip mats or rubberised flooring pads.
Lighting is another category that many parents overlook. A simple LED light installed inside the playhouse can help it become a more inviting space for nighttime adventures and play. While some wendy houses come with lighting as standard, others do not, so this might be something you need to add yourself. Just ensure that any lighting solution is child-friendly and safe.
Storage solutions are also essential. A small storage box or cabinet can help keep toys and other items organized inside the playhouse without cluttering up your outdoor space. Many playhouses come with a basic storage area, but if yours does not, consider adding a separate storage unit to keep things tidy and accessible for your child.
Finally, do not forget about security measures. A padlock or chain can help secure the door of the wendy house, ensuring that it remains locked when not in use and preventing unauthorized access. While some playhouses may come with basic locking mechanisms, additional security features are often necessary to provide peace of mind for parents.
In summary, while many wendy houses come equipped with essential features such as awnings, windows, safety measures, lighting, storage areas, and sometimes even padlocks or chains, there are several other accessories that you might need to add yourself. By considering these additional items when planning your child's playhouse setup, you can create a safe, functional, and enjoyable outdoor space for hours of fun and imagination.
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-08-09.