Why Choose Yurt Specialists?
Engineering the Perfect Blend of Mongolian Tradition and British Durability
When you invest in a yurt, you aren’t just buying a tent; you are investing in a long-term structure that must withstand the elements. At Yurt Specialists, we combine the spiritual heritage of authentic Mongolian craftsmanship with modern engineering designed specifically for the damp, windy climates of the UK and Europe.
1. Advanced Materials for a Demanding Climate
A traditional yurt is built for the dry Mongolian steppe. To make it thrive in the UK, we’ve upgraded every component to handle moisture and wind.
- The Ultimate Breathable Canvas: Most providers use 12oz canvas. We use a heavy-duty 13.75oz polyester/cotton canvas. Crucially, it is silicone-treated rather than plastic-coated. This allows the yurt to “breathe,” preventing condensation while ensuring rain beads off instantly.
- Fast-Drying Insulation: Our insulation is a specialized 8mm sheep’s wool blend. It is the fastest-drying material on the market, wicking moisture away from the interior to prevent the mold and dampness common in cheaper alternatives.
- Triple-Layer Window System: Our windows feature a fine insect mesh, a Velcro-fastened clear PVC layer for draught exclusion, and an outer insulated cover. This ensures you stay warm in winter and bug-free in summer.
2. Unrivaled Structural Integrity
The strength of a yurt lies in its frame. We follow traditional methods but use premium timber and high-end finishes to ensure longevity.
- Steam-Bent Willow Walls: We use traditional willow for the Khana (lattice walls), joined with genuine rawhide. This creates a flexible yet incredibly strong skeleton. In fact, many of our yurt sizes are so structurally sound they are self-supporting, requiring no central poles.
- The Crown (Toono): The heart of your yurt is hand-painted with traditional motifs and sealed with high-grade, water-resistant varnish to prevent sun damage and rot.
- Glazed Timber Doors: Unlike simple zipped openings, our yurts come with solid, hand-painted timber doors fitted with secure padlocks and glazed windows to maximize natural light.
3. The Natural Thermostat
Thanks to the unique properties of mixed sheep’s wool, your yurt remains a sanctuary in every season. The wool fibers trap air to provide warmth during British winters while reflecting external heat to keep the space cool during the summer. For added peace of mind, all our felt is insect-repellent treated to protect against moths and pests.
4. Expert Support from an Oxford-Based Family Business
We are a small, dedicated team based in Oxford, and we pride ourselves on being more than just a shop. We are your partners in this journey.
- Bespoke Advice: Not sure about planning? Need help with a timber base design? We provide expert guidance tailored to your specific site.
- Pitching Day Support: We provide comprehensive instructional videos and are available via phone to talk you through your first build.
- Long-term Maintenance: We stock a full range of spare parts and offer professional guidance on re-proofing to keep your yurt looking new for years to come.
Experience the Quality in Person
We believe you need to feel the thickness of the canvas and the quality of the timber for yourself. We invite you to visit our show yurt in Oxford to see our craftsmanship up close.