Yurt Finance for Campsites and Caravan Parks
Yurts remain one of the most flexible and low-impact forms of glamping accommodation in the UK.
Asset finance enables campsite and caravan park operators to invest in yurts and supporting
infrastructure while preserving cash flow and responding quickly to changing guest demand.
Introduction
Yurts were among the original pioneers of the modern glamping movement in the UK. Their circular
design, connection to nature and adaptable layouts made them an attractive alternative to tents,
appealing to guests seeking comfort without sacrificing an outdoor experience.
Today, yurts continue to play an important role within the rural tourism landscape. While the sector
has evolved toward more permanent and solid structures, yurts remain popular due to their flexibility,
relatively low installation impact and ability to be upgraded with modern amenities.
For campsite and caravan park operators, yurts provide an accessible entry point into glamping or a
complementary accommodation option alongside pods, shepherd’s huts and lodges. Asset finance allows
these units to be deployed quickly and scaled in line with demand.
The Growth of Luxury Yurt & Hut Glamping in the UK
The UK luxury yurt and hut glamping sector is experiencing sustained growth, driven by changing travel
behaviour, lifestyle shifts and a renewed focus on wellbeing and nature. What began as a summer-only,
niche offering has matured into a year-round, premium accommodation market.
Post-pandemic travel patterns have accelerated domestic tourism, with many consumers now viewing
glamping as a primary holiday choice rather than a short escape. Yurts, alongside huts and pods, have
benefited from this shift—particularly where sites have invested in higher-quality interiors and
private facilities.
Key Growth Drivers
- The Experience Economy: Guests increasingly prioritise unique, immersive
experiences over traditional hotel stays, with glamping offering nature combined with comfort. - Post-Pandemic Behaviour: Domestic travel restrictions created lasting interest
in UK-based holidays, with glamping now seen as a “proper” break. - Wellness & Sustainability: Growing focus on mental health, nature, and
eco-tourism has strengthened demand for low-impact rural stays. - Social Media Influence: Instagrammable interiors, fire pits and scenic settings
drive visibility and aspiration. - Remote Working: Flexible working patterns enable longer stays and off-peak
bookings.
Shifting Preferences: From Canvas to Comfort
While traditional canvas yurts remain popular, guest expectations have shifted. Many operators now
focus on upgraded yurts or complementary solid structures to support year-round trading.
- Increased demand for electricity, heating and private bathrooms
- Use of insulated liners, solid floors and weather-resistant materials
- Integration with decking, outdoor seating and private facilities
- Expansion into huts, pods and treehouses alongside yurts
Market Dynamics and Future Outlook
The glamping market is now valued in the hundreds of millions and continues to grow. Operators report
higher average spend, longer booking lead times and strong demand from a wide demographic range—from
millennials and young families to couples and older travellers.
Looking ahead, continued innovation, higher-quality guest experiences and integration with on-site
food, wellness and corporate retreat offerings are expected to drive further growth.
Types of Yurts Used at Campsites
Traditional Canvas Yurts
Classic yurts offering a close-to-nature experience, often paired with shared facilities and popular
on seasonal or entry-level glamping sites.
Upgraded Insulated Yurts
Enhanced yurts featuring insulation, electricity, wood burners and private washrooms, suitable for
extended seasons.
Luxury Yurts
High-spec yurts with private bathrooms, kitchens and bespoke interiors, positioned alongside other
premium glamping accommodation.
UK Finance Options for Yurt Investment
Asset & Equipment Finance
Asset finance is commonly used to fund yurts and associated equipment. It allows campsite operators to
spread the cost of accommodation assets while preserving working capital.
Yurt-related assets commonly funded include:
- Manufactured yurts and frames
- Internal fixtures, furniture and appliances
- Heating, lighting and electrical systems
- Decking, platforms and outdoor features
Types of Asset Finance Used
- Hire Purchase: Suitable where long-term ownership is desired.
- Finance Lease: Offers flexibility to upgrade or sell at the end of the term.
- Operating Lease: Useful where yurts form part of a rotating accommodation mix.
- Business Contract Purchase: Lower monthly repayments with a final balloon payment.
Business Loans
Business loans can support non-asset elements such as groundworks, utilities, landscaping and planning
costs.
Refinance Solutions
Existing assets can sometimes be refinanced to fund expansion into yurt accommodation.
How Gable Business Finance Supports Yurt Investment
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funding flexible, asset-backed glamping projects. We understand how yurts fit within broader site
strategies and evolving guest expectations.
- Access to specialist asset finance lenders
- Advice on structuring finance for seasonal and year-round use
- Funding aligned to rural tourism income patterns
- Support for phased or pilot glamping developments
Case Studies: Yurt Finance in Practice
The following examples are anonymised and provided for illustrative purposes only.
Case Study 1: Entry into Glamping with Yurts
Business type: Touring campsite
Funding need: Three insulated yurts
The operator wanted to test glamping demand without major planning impact.
Solution: Hire purchase for yurts and internal fit-out
Outcome: Strong bookings and confidence to expand.
Case Study 2: Luxury Yurt Upgrade
Business type: Boutique glamping site
Funding need: High-spec yurts with private bathrooms
The site repositioned itself toward higher-end guests and longer stays.
Solution: Asset finance combined with a business loan
Outcome: Increased nightly rates and year-round occupancy.
Case Study 3: Rural Estate Diversification
Business type: Diversified rural estate
Funding need: Two luxury yurts
The estate sought a sustainable, low-impact accommodation option.
Solution: Finance lease with flexible end-of-term options
Outcome: New revenue stream with strong guest appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Asset Finance for Yurts
Can yurts be funded through asset finance?
Yes. Manufactured yurts and associated equipment are commonly funded through asset finance.
Are yurts suitable for year-round use?
Modern insulated yurts with heating can operate year-round.
What are the benefits of asset finance for yurts?
Low upfront costs, fixed repayments and the ability to scale accommodation in line with demand.
Are there risks to using asset finance?
Long-term commitment and potential repossession if repayments are not maintained.
Can start-up sites finance yurts?
Many lenders will consider start-ups where assets have strong resale value.
Gable Business Finance
Yurts provide a flexible, scalable and low-impact route into the growing glamping market. Asset
finance allows campsite operators to invest confidently while protecting cash flow.
Gable Business Finance is a specialist in campsite, caravan park and wider rural business finance. We
support rural tourism, agriculture, leisure, food production and land-based enterprises through
tailored funding solutions including asset finance, business loans, commercial property finance and
refinancing.
With deep sector knowledge and access to specialist lenders, Gable Business Finance helps rural
businesses capitalise on long-term glamping trends and build resilient, sustainable income streams.