Lawford Poultry Coop Review: Raised Coop With Practical Features

Lawford Poultry Coop Review

Choosing the right chicken coop is one of the most important decisions you will make when keeping chickens. In this review, we take an in-depth look at the Lawford 4 to 8 Hen Poultry Coop and Run, exploring its design, features, suitability and practicality for backyard chicken keepers in the UK.

Design and build quality

The Lawford Coop has a classic raised design that not only helps protect your flock from damp ground but also makes access easier for cleaning and egg collection. The coop itself is manufactured from treated timber, although additional treatment is strongly recommended to help protect the wood from damp weather, mould and general wear.

With its apex roof and neat wooden panelling, the Lawford presents a traditional look that will fit comfortably into most British gardens. It is delivered flat-packed for home assembly and includes all required panels, fixtures and fittings.

Size and flock suitability

While marketed as suitable for 4 to 8 hens, the practical flock size depends greatly on the size and breed of chickens you intend to keep. The manufacturer’s maximum capacity estimate (8 hens) only applies to smaller breeds or bantams. For standard hybrid layers, a more realistic capacity would be 3 to 4 hens to allow proper space, welfare and comfort, especially if you are using the integrated run without additional extension.

The internal dimensions are quite compact:

• House width: 81 cm (100 cm with roof overhangs)
• House length: 93 cm (104 cm with roof overhangs)
• House height: 156.5 cm

The attached run is:

• Run width: 81 cm (87 cm with roof)
• Run length: 113 cm (117 cm with roof)
• Run height: 99 cm

Given these dimensions, many keepers may wish to purchase or construct an additional run extension to allow for more free-ranging space.

Features and usability

Despite its compact size, the Lawford coop includes several helpful features that make daily chicken care straightforward:

• Pull out cleaning tray: This allows for quick and easy removal of waste, making cleaning less labour-intensive.
• Ventilation: Adjustable vents on the gable end help maintain good airflow and reduce moisture build-up, which is essential for chicken health.
• Nesting box: The side-mounted nesting box is well-designed with a lift-up lid for simple egg collection. It measures 70 cm wide and can accommodate two comfortable nesting spaces.
• Perches: The coop includes internal perches to provide proper roosting space overnight.
• Multiple access points: Doors on both the house and the run allow easy access for feeding, cleaning and flock management.

Weather protection and durability

The solid timber structure offers good weather resistance when properly treated. The manufacturer advises additional treatment after assembly. When treating timber for chicken housing, it is important to use an animal-safe wood preserver.

The wooden roof over both the house and run provides reliable protection from rain and light snow, although some keepers may choose to add additional waterproof covers to the run during extreme weather.

Practical considerations

The compact size and raised design make the Lawford suitable for smaller gardens or backyard spaces. Its height makes internal access comfortable for most keepers, and being able to stand underneath parts of the house allows chickens to take shelter from rain or sun.

One recurring observation from user reviews is that, while the coop itself is secure and well-designed, it may feel cramped if you are keeping more than 3 or 4 hens without providing additional run space. Thankfully, the design lends itself well to being extended with extra runs or fencing.

Flat pack assembly is generally straightforward with basic DIY skills and can typically be completed within a few hours.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Raised design improves access and hygiene
• Pull-out tray simplifies cleaning
• Includes perches, vents and nesting box
• Compact footprint ideal for smaller gardens
• Expandable with additional run space
• Traditional wooden appearance

Cons:

• Limited internal space for larger flocks
• Requires additional weatherproof treatment
• Supplied flat packed (may not suit all buyers)

Conclusion

The Lawford 4 to 8 Hen Poultry Coop is a practical, compact solution for new or small-scale chicken keepers. Its raised design, integrated features and charming wooden finish make it a suitable option for those with limited space who plan to keep a small flock of hens or bantams. However, for keepers aiming for more than 3 or 4 standard hens, adding extra run space will be necessary to ensure proper welfare. With suitable ongoing timber treatment and minor extensions, this coop can serve as a secure and manageable home for your backyard chickens.

For more information, visit All Cooped Up’s Lawford Chicken Coop page.

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