Yes, your shed does need a base. This is to give it a solid, level foundation. Open soil will not help with the longevity of the shed itself or the contents within. The best materials to use to make your shed base are concrete, natural stone or wood.
Windermere
Windermere is a town and civil parish in the South Lakeland District of Cumbria, England. It has a population of 8,245 enhancing to 8,359 at the 2011 Demographics, and lies regarding half a mile (1 km) east of the lake, Windermere. Although the community Windermere does not touch the lake (it took the name of the lake when the railway line was built in 1847 as well as the station was called "Windermere"), it has actually currently expanded along with the older lakeside community of Bowness-on-Windermere, though both keep distinguishable community centres. Tourist is preferred in the town because of its closeness to the lake as well as local scenery. Boats from the piers in Bowness sail around the lake, several calling at Ambleside or at Lakeside where there is a restored railway. Windermere Resort opened at the same time as the train. The civil parish contains both towns, the town of Troutbeck Bridge to the north and a number of communities, consisting of Storrs to the south and also Heaning to the east. Belle Isle and part of the lake are also within its boundaries.