Dens are a fantastic way for youngsters to engage in immersive imaginative play while staying active and exploring the great outdoors. Our den making kits help build an appreciation of nature while supporting independence and encouraging critical thinking skills. In this blog post, we share some of our brilliant new den kits that are ideal for outdoor play this spring and summer as well as how to build your very own den.
Whether you are building a fortified command bunker, a secret playhouse or a simple cosy hangout spot, we’ve created this blog post to guide you through your next den building adventure.
You will need:
- Branches
- Ground Sheet
- Tarpaulin or Waterproof Material (enough to cover your den)
- Den Making Pegs
- Rubber Mallet
Optional Extras:
- Bunting
- Fairy Lights
- Girl Power Sign
- Pillows, Cushions & Blankets
- Commando Bunker Sign
- Camouflage Net
- Sandbags
- Games & Activities
- Tasty Snacks
1. First things first, if you are building in local woodland or your back garden, you need to find the perfect sturdy tree to build your den against. Look for a tree with lots of nooks as this will help keep your sticks in place when you start building.
2. Once you have found the perfect location to build your den, you can place your ground sheet. This is an essential piece of kit when building in the great outdoors as it will keep you dry. Secure it to the ground using the den pegs and the rubber mallet.
3. Next step is to gather together a selection of different sized branches, sticks and twigs to form the frame of your den. Begin by placing larger branches to create a solid foundation then fill any gaps in the frame with smaller twigs and leaves.
3. If you are worried about the inclement British weather spoiling your fun you may want to waterproof your den. Using a tarpaulin or any other large waterproof material, drape this to cover the entire den and secure it in place using the den making pegs and mallet.
4. Now it’s time for the fun part, decorating your den! There are no limits to the imagination here as dens are a fantastic way to engage in immersive imaginative play. If you are a soldier running a command base from your den then why not add the Commando Bunker sign, a camouflage net and a few sandbags.
5. Some battery powered fairy lights, colourful bunting and comfy cushions will give a magical cosy ambience to your den. Be sure to proudly display your girl power sign to show them who’s boss! Finally, don’t forget to bring along your favourite tasty snacks as well as games, books and activities for an extra adventurous playtime!
Our Den Kits
You can easily create the ultimate outdoor den with our range of den building kits! Perfect for adventurous kids, our den kits come with everything you need to create your very own outdoor hideaway. The versatile build your own den kits can be suspended and tied to trees, pegged into the ground or even brought indoors. There is no wrong way to build this den meaning lots of opportunities for kids to practise problem-solving and teamwork!
The Ultimate Den Kit
This army-inspired den kit comes with everything you need to create your very own outdoor hideaway and even includes a camo rucksack for easy transport and storage.
Ultimate Den Kit Contents:
- Large Camo Rucksack
- Camo Ground Sheet - 1.2m x 1.8m
- Camo Tarp - 1.8m x 2.4m
- Camo Net - 3m x 1m
- Den Making Pegs
- Rubber Mallet
- 2x Sandbags
- Compass
- Paracord
- Union Jack
- Command Bunker Sign
- Hammock
The Girl Power Den Kit
Prepare for an awesome outdoor adventure with our den building kit that is perfect for adventurous girls! This Girl Power Den Kit comes with everything you need to create your very own outdoor hideaway and even includes a haversack bag for easy transport and storage.
Girl Power Den Kit Contents:
- Blue Haversack
- Camo Tarp - 1.8m x 2.4m
- Blue Camo Net - 1.5m x 2m
- Den Making Pegs
- Rubber Mallet
- Rope Twine - 10m
- Bunting - 10ft
- Girl Power Plaque
The Essential Den Kit
Just like our Ultimate Den Kit, The Essential Den Kit is army-inspired and comes with everything you need to create your very own outdoor hideaway and even includes a canvas haversack bag for easy transport and storage.
Essential Den Kit Contents:
- Haversack
- Camo Ground Sheet - 1.2m x 1.8m
- Camo Tarp - 1.8m x 2.4m
- Den Making Pegs
- 2x Sandbags
- Union Jack
- Command Bunker Sign
- Paracord
- Waterproof Notebook
- Camo Face Paint
The Adventure Den Kit
Prepare for an awesome outdoor adventure with our den building kit. This Adventure Den Kit comes with everything you need to create your very own outdoor hideaway and even includes a haversack bag for easy transport and storage.
Adventure Den Kit Contents:
- Haversack
- Camo Tarp - 1.8m x 2.4m
- Den Making Pegs
- Compass
- Paracord
- Drinks Bottle
- Hammock
You can browse our entire range of den kits here.