This is solid wood, and it's really great!  I love the design and the way it's put together is very secure and strong.  I'm really happy with it because after the kids outgrow it it will have a good resale value because of the solid wood construction.  It fits kids from about preschool age to age 9 or 10 depending on their size.  I'm very pleased with it and feel it's a good value for the price.