Mongolian Yurt

 

It’s always useful having that extra bedroom, whether it’s for visitors staying the weekend or to use as a home office. If all your bedrooms are already fully utilised, then provided your property is suitable and you have a hefty budget, you could add an extension. The problem is, what can you do if an extension is out of the question?

Mongolian Yurt

 

Yurts have been used by Nomadic tribes in Central Asia for nearly three thousand years, being erected and dismantled every few months, in order to find new pasture for the livestock. Of course they are now a popular glamping experience in the west. It consists of lattice walls, roof piece, pillars and lots of padding/insulation. The walls are not always full height, however the higher central area makes it more convenient and reduces the need to stoop.

They are lovely and spacious, with plenty of room for a proper bed, so there’ll be no cursing from a deflating lie-low in the middle of the night. A sleigh bed, such as the Solid Oak Windermere, would look perfect and very inviting. Although the Mongolians use rugs for the ground, some hardwood flooring would add a real touch of luxury. You can even install a wood-burning stove, making it completely cosy and romantic. Yurt prices start around £2,000 but for an all-season, Mongolian ger, you should expect to spend around £3,500 to £5,000.

Romany Wagon

 

Straight out of a folk tale, these beautifully decorated, horse-drawn wooden caravans can still occasionally be seen on quieter roads, slowly meandering through the countryside. They also provide tranquil and snug accommodation in your garden. Although quite compact, they allow for a comfy, raised bed, seating and storage space. Some models have a stove for winter use. While you can park them on the grass, it’s best to have it on hard standing. The downside to this traditional caravan is that they aren’t cheap. Even those needing restoration can still cost a few thousand but they are absolutely wonderful for use as a spare bedroom, study or relaxation area, as they look beautiful inside and out.

Camping Pod

 

Marketed as eco-friendly, camping pods should be constructed entirely from biodegradable or recyclable materials. They are designed to be warm in winter and cool in summer, and even the smallest will take a double bed that converts into a dining area. Extra pod sections can be added, to give additional rooms. Far better than canvas for protecting against the elements, you’ll think you’ve been transported to the Shire. Prices vary tremendously, depending on whether they’re hand-built and delivered intact, or one of the cheaper, flat-packed versions, which start from around £5,000.

 

 

Whichever option you choose, your guests should hopefully enjoy their little hideaway in the ‘great outdoors’, even if that means your postage stamp garden.