If a 26ft wide polytunnel is exactly the right width to help you make the most of your space then you have come to the right place. Polytunnels are the perfect solution to a range of problems faced by growing businesses and can be fantastic value for money. If you are a commercial grower then you may already know how important it is to make the most of the land area available to you. One of these 26ft wide polytunnels can help you do just that.
The more additions you make, the better your bonus savings will be. We are not trying to make you buy things you do not need but merely want to make sure that you have a polytunnel ideally suited to your needs from the get go. Add all sorts of useful things such as base rails, sliding doors, staging and crop bars to make sure that you can get growing straight away.
From £3,123.00
Configure your polytunnel
Your first big decision when choosing a Polytunnel is almost always…”What size is ideal?”. But there’s other important factors to take into consideration…”What type of cover do I want?”. It might not sound like something to give a lot of thought to, but the cover you choose will affect your day-to-day Polytunnel management, what and how you grow. We have 4 options to choose from…
Our most popular polythene cover incorporates an additive that increases its Thermic efficiency, yet still retains 90% light transmission. In simple terms the diffused polythene sheet helps trap and preserve higher temperatures inside the structures for much longer – in heated structures, a 15-20% fuel savings can be achieved. A beneficial side effect of this added additive is that light entering the polytunnel is diffused – scattering light evenly throughout the structure. This UV stabilised film is 200 microns (800 Gauge) and is supplied with a seven year guarantee.FOR USE WITH All crops where heat is important such as bedding/annual plants, propagation houses & over wintered vegetable production.
7m wide – 1.29kg per linear m
9m wide – 1.66kg per linear m
11m wide – 2.03kg per linear m
15m wide – 2.77kg per linear m
Please note – to help identify the polythene type and validate the guarantee, a series of numbers and letters are intermittently printed on the polythene sheet. The printing will appear approximately 1m from the side which will normally be buried into the ground or trimmed off.
Don’t know how big a sheet you need? Use our Polytunnel Cover Calculator.
For discounted products please see our Clearance section, many sizes available.
Please note – to help identify the polythene type and validate the guarantee, a series of numbers and letters are intermittently printed on the polythene. The printing will appear approximately 1m from the side which will normally be buried into the ground or trimmed off. Please retain a small piece containing the letters and numbers to validate the warranty. View the terms of the Guarantee here.
Our polythene is exclusively sourced from Sotrafa in Spain, the world’s biggest producer of horticultural film with an enviable reputation for quality thanks to exhaustive testing in the demanding weather conditions of Almeria.
First Tunnels are the sole distributor of Sotrafa products in the UK, and we are proud to work with the global leader to deliver the best possible products for our customers. UK suppliers make cheaper alternatives, but the quality simply doesn’t compare.
Although guaranteed for 7 years against its biggest threat of sunlight degradation, when fitted correctly, it is not uncommon to hear our polythene covers have lasted in excess of 10 years.
View the terms of the Guarantee here.
Sunlight is the biggest enemy of polythene. While it’s essential for the wellbeing of whatever you’re growing, it also ‘kills’ polythene in much the same way you can find old discarded crisp packets lose their colour and become very brittle. First Tunnels polythene covers are developed and tested in the extreme conditions to give optimum performance and are UV stabilised to prevent the polythene from breaking down prematurely.
What is a KLy?
A Kilo-Langley is the measure of Solar energy radiated in 1 year. It varies from a minimum of 60 KLy in the Polar regions to 120 KLy in warm regions, and to a maximum of 200 KLy in the African desert. Southern Spain receives about 140 KLy whereas the UK receives about half of that, just 78KLy.
Our Super Therm polythene is 800 gauge/200 micron and made up of 3 layers for outstanding strength and performance.
We use a 3 layer polythene made of exceptional quality material, which has a hugely beneficial thermal effect.
The common misconception about polythene is the more layers, the better the product. Unfortunately this isn’t true. More layers simply hide poor quality films, which are sandwiched inside a very average inner and outer skin. The result of these multi-layer (often called 5 or 6 layer) films is a noticeably poorer all-round performance – the thermal effect is significantly decreased.
Total Transmission of Visible Light
The amount of available light entering the polytunnel through the film. Measured as a percentage of total light.
Super Therm = 90%
Diffusion
The scattering of direct light entering the polytunnel ensuring no shadows, so all plants receive equal light. Measured as a percentage of total light.
Super Therm = 30%
Thermal Effect
A pocket of additives within the layers of the film that ensure and maintain a stable and optimum temperature within the polytunnel, especially during the night when it is colder.
Super Therm = 85%
Strength at Break
The load on a tested sample when it breaks. This is expressed in Pascals or MPa.
Super Therm = MD24/TD23
Elongation at Break
The strain on a tested sample when it stretches. This is also expressed in Pascals or MPa.
Super Therm = MD920/TD920
Creep
As the weather changes becoming hotter or colder, so the Polythene expands and contracts. Creep is the terms used to express this.
Super Therm = 5
Dart Test
A test to measure the impact strength on a test piece of plastic, using a weighted falling ‘dart’.
Super Therm = 5
FOR USE WITH Animal Husbandry structures and those plants that would normally grow under a shade canopy.
9m wide – 1.50kg per linear m
15m wide – 2.49kg per linear m
Please note – to help identify the polythene type and validate the guarantee, a series of numbers and letters are intermittently printed across the polythene.
Don’t know how big a sheet you need? Click here to use our Polythene Calculator.
For discounted products please see our Clearance section, many sizes available.
Please note – to help identify the polythene type and validate the guarantee, a series of numbers and letters are intermittently printed across the polythene. View the terms of the Guarantee here.
Our polythene is exclusively sourced from Sotrafa in Spain, the world’s biggest producer of horticultural film with an enviable reputation for quality thanks to exhaustive testing in the demanding weather conditions of Almeria.
First Tunnels are the sole distributor of Sotrafa products in the UK, and we are proud to work with the global leader to deliver the best possible products for our customers. UK suppliers make cheaper alternatives, but the quality simply doesn’t compare.
Although guaranteed for 5 years against its biggest threat of sunlight degradation, when fitted correctly, it is not uncommon to hear our polythene covers have lasted in excess of 10 years.
View the terms of the Guarantee here.
Sunlight is the biggest enemy of polythene. While it’s essential for the wellbeing of whatever you’re growing, it also ‘kills’ polythene in much the same way you can find old discarded crisp packets lose their colour and become very brittle. First Tunnels polythene covers are developed and tested in the extreme conditions to give optimum performance and are UV stabilised to prevent the polythene from breaking down prematurely.
What is a KLy?
A Kilo-Langley is the measure of Solar energy radiated in 1 year. It varies from a minimum of 60 KLy in the Polar regions to 120 KLy in warm regions, and to a maximum of 200 KLy in the African desert. Southern Spain receives about 140 KLy whereas the UK receives about half of that, just 78KLy.
Our Smart White polythene is 720 gauge/180 micron and made up of 3 layers for outstanding strength and performance.
Total Transmission of Visible Light
The amount of available light entering the polytunnel through the film. Measured as a percentage of total light.
Smart White = 65%
Diffusion
The scattering of direct light entering the polytunnel ensuring no shadows, so all plants receive equal light. Measured as a percentage of total light.
Smart White = N/A
Thermal Effect
A pocket of additives within the layers of the film that ensure and maintain a stable and optimum temperature within the polytunnel, especially during the night when it is colder.
Smart White = N/A
Strength at Break
The load on a tested sample when it breaks. This is expressed in Pascals or MPa.
Smart White = MD23/TD22
Elongation at Break
The strain on a tested sample when it stretches. This is also expressed in Pascals or MPa.
Smart White = MD630/TD770
Creep
As the weather changes becoming hotter or colder, so the Polythene expands and contracts. Creep is the terms used to express this.
Smart White = 5
Dart Test
A test to measure the impact strength on a test piece of plastic, using a weighted falling ‘dart’.
Smart White = 700
Green knitted monofilament net with a mesh size of 2mm by 3mm and produced from polyethylene threads. Designed to withstand extreme weather conditions. Suitable as a windbreak, it will protect plants and seed beds from wind, frost or strong sunlight. The green netting provides 50% density and offers a 6 to 8 year life expectancy.Don’t know how big a sheet you need? Click here to use our Sheet Calculator.
For widths up to 3m wide, please click here.
Tildenet is now considered to be one of the major brands of netting and textile manufacturers in the world. Exporting to over 100 countries, providing an extensive range of products for markets such as construction, sport and horticulture. Tildernet supply and manufacture extruded nets and meshes for all kinds of applications.
Although guaranteed for 5 years against its biggest threat of sunlight degradation, when fitted correctly, it is not uncommon to hear our net covers have lasted in excess of 10 years.
View the terms of the Guarantee here.
Anti Hot Spot Tape is included with the polytunnel kit and comes with enough tape to cover all the hoops. This self-adhesive foam tape ensures protection of your polythene cover against hot spots and preventing heat degradation. This helps to extend the life of the polythene cover and maintain the durability of your structure.
First Tunnels always uses Anti Hot Spot Tape when constructing polytunnels.
A key factor to consider when purchasing your Polytunnel is “What type of foundation is best for my site?”. It might not seem like a big choice, but selecting the right foundation will make all the difference to the strength and stability of your Polytunnel. Whether you’re installing on soil or a solid surface such as timber or concrete, it’s important to choose the right option for your setup.
We have three options available. Foundation Tubes can be driven into the ground they will require concrete and if you have a solid base of concrete or timber then Base Plates will be required.
Foundation Tubes feature a swaged end, designed for use with our range of Polytunnels. For optimal stability and performance, the Foundation Tubes must be securely set in concrete during installation. This creates a stable and durable foundation that prevents shifting, enhances wind resistance, and maintains the alignment of the Polytunnel structure over time.
We suggest using concrete that is 1 part cement and 5 parts aggregate. We also recommend ‘PostCrete’. This ready-made mix is supplied in 20kg bags and you simply add water. Approximately three bags per hole will be required.
Please note: Base plates should be used only when installing on an existing timber surface.
If you’re sitting your Polytunnel onto timber you’ll need a combination of base plates and base rails. Base Plates are a quick and easy method of installation, designed to create ‘Feet’ for the framework of a Polytunnel.
Please note: Base plates should be used only when installing on an existing concrete surface.
If you’re sitting your Polytunnel onto concrete you’ll need a combination of base plates and base rails. Base Plates are a quick and easy method of installation, designed to create ‘Feet’ for the framework of a Polytunnel.
We have two options available. We provide Base Rails, which come in two durable materials: Timber and Aluminium.
The Timber Base Rail is a practical and reliable solution for securing your polytunnel cover quickly and effectively. Made from high-quality, treated timber, these rails provide a natural and sturdy framework around the base of your tunnel.
Designed to resist weathering and rot, the timber is specially treated to withstand outdoor conditions, ensuring long-lasting durability and strength throughout the growing season and beyond. The timber rails are easy to handle and install, making them an excellent choice for gardeners who prefer traditional materials or who want a cost-effective option without sacrificing performance.
The Aluminium Base Rail offers a premium, durable solution for securing your polytunnel cover with minimal effort and maximum strength. Made from high-grade, corrosion-resistant aluminium, these rails provide a sleek, long-lasting framework that withstands harsh weather conditions without warping, rusting, or deteriorating over time. Their rigid construction ensures your polytunnel cover remains taut and securely fastened, even in windy or challenging environments.
Designed for versatility, the Aluminium Base Rail system allows you to clamp or fasten your cover firmly without the need for trenching, reducing installation time and labour. Ideal for growers seeking a long-term, robust solution, aluminium base rails combine strength, weather resistance, and ease of use, making them the go-to choice for demanding growing conditions.
Every First Tunnels Polytunnel is designed and built to withstand gale-force winds and heavy snow. Occasionally, customers ask if their Polytunnel can be made even stronger or adapted to support extra wires, nets, or hanging baskets.
To enhance your Polytunnel’s performance, we offer two robust options. Crop Bars are fitted to every hoop except the first and last, providing strong attachment points, while the Twin Support Brace runs the full length of the tunnel on either side of the central ridge. Both options are ideal for hanging baskets, suspending canes or nets, and supporting crops. They also help strengthen the structure, providing extra protection against heavy winds on particularly exposed sites.
Strength, Stability, and Versatility for Your Polytunnel
Boost the performance of your polytunnel with our durable Crop Bars, securely fixed across the hoops above head height. Designed for versatility, they provide the perfect framework for suspending wires, canes, nets, or even hanging baskets — helping you make the most of your growing space.
Not only do Crop Bars maximise growing potential, but they also reinforce the structure, adding valuable strength and stability against heavy winds in more exposed locations. For optimal support, Crop Bars are attached to every hoop except the first and last — ensuring a secure, professional finish to your tunnel.
Reinforced Strength from End to End
Running the full length of the tunnel on either side of the central ridge, the Twin Support Brace acts as another robust framework of support for your structure. This reduces movement and stress on the frame, evenly distributing weight and pressure for enhanced rigidity and long-term durability. The result is a more resilient and secure tunnel, capable of withstanding the demands of both heavy use and challenging weather.
We have three options available. Side Ventilation is a fixed rail (Timber or Aluminium) underneath which, is fixed a net windbreak, allowing ventilation and air flow. In addition we also have Timber Side Ventilation & Screen, which allows the net to be covered through the use of a screen, which can be lowered/raised, helping control temperature and air flow. Please note, the Screen is not compatible with Aluminium. All options available, for one or both sides.
This option allows you to install a screen that can be progressively lowered or raised, giving you precise control over the airflow within your Polytunnel. By adjusting the screen, you can optimize ventilation around your plants, helping to prevent overheating and humidity build-up, while still shielding the root system from the effects of wind chill.
Please Note: This system cannot be used in conjunction with Aluminium Base Rails.
This option is created by replacing the lower portion of the Polytunnel cover with a 50% shade ventilation net. A timber side rail is fitted partway up the side of the Polytunnel, to which the net is attached, while the bottom of the net is secured into a base rail.
Please note, this provides a permanent source of ventilation, allowing continuous airflow into the Polytunnel.
This option is created by replacing the lower portion of the Polytunnel cover with a 50% shade ventilation net. An aluminium side rail is fitted partway up the side of the Polytunnel, to which the net is attached, while the bottom of the net is secured into a base rail.
Please note, this provides a permanent source of ventilation, allowing continuous airflow into the Polytunnel.
Our durable, tear-resistant Ground Cover is designed to effectively suppress unwanted weed growth inside your polytunnel. UV-protected and built to last, the Ground Cover provides total floor coverage for the base of your First Tunnels polytunnel.
UV-protected and built to last, the Ground Cover provides total floor coverage for the base of your First Tunnels polytunnel. It comes supplied with metal ground staples (spaced approximately 6ft apart) to securely fix it in place. Featuring advanced ripple weave technology, it offers excellent water dispersion and is easy to clean—just hose it down. Integrated grid lines also make pot placement quick and accurate.
Our Staging legs provide a practical and convenient work surface at the ideal height of 75cm, making it perfect for potting, planting, and general garden tasks. By lifting your workspace off the ground, it significantly increases your usable growing area—ideal for creating a more efficient and organised environment inside your polytunnel or greenhouse.
The Staging legs come complete with strong, durable brackets that allow you to securely attach a worktop of your choice (worktop not supplied), giving you the flexibility to customise it to your specific needs and preferences. Whether you choose timber, metal, or another suitable surface, this system offers both stability and versatility for growers of all levels. Designed with both functionality and space-saving in mind, it’s a smart addition to any growing setup.
120cm Staging Support
A. Staging Width – 120cm (47in)
B. Height – 75cm (30in)
C. Manufactured from 50.3mm Steel
This bundle includes 1 roll of 2 inch, 3 inch and 4 inch repair tape —perfect for quick and effective patching of small to large tears in your polytunnel cover. Also included is a 20 litre container of Algon Organic, a natural, chemical-free solution ideal for cleaning outdoor surfaces, helping to remove algae, moss, and grime without harming plants, pets, or the environment.
The First Tunnels system features 15cm downtubes incorporating a weight to make sure it hangs true, and an anti-drip device with stable sprayer which keeps the spray lines primed and ready for instant start-up. The triple line design incorporates 6 inline taps, that allows each half spray line to run in isolation creating 6 zones. We have also added a master inlet tap that can operate all lines at once, giving you total irrigation control throughout your Polytunnel. This design also helps with any low pressure issues, allowing you to finely tune the distribution of water to your exact needs.
This complete kit is ready to go, just connect a hose and you’ll be amazed how quickly it will pay for itself in terms of time, money and improved productivity.
The Overhead Irrigation System is designed for efficiency, convenience, and ease of installation. It incorporates a triple line spray line which is suspended below and to either side of the central ridge of the polytunnel growing area or structure, allowing for even water distribution over a wide area.
This system comes complete with a header pipe, durable down tubes, precision-engineered sprinklers, an inline tap for flow control, a pressure regulator to maintain optimal performance, and a hose connector for fast and simple setup.
For added convenience, the Automatic Overhead Irrigation System includes a robust, weather-resistant, battery-operated hose-end water timer. This smart addition allows for fully automated watering schedules, making it the perfect solution for busy growers or times when you’re away from the site.
The timer ensures your plants or crops receive consistent, timely irrigation—even if you’re not there to operate the system manually. With a 9v alkaline battery (not included), your Timer will function reliably for approximately one year. Even more reliable: a low battery level will be indicated to you. That way you know when the battery has to be replaced.
All Polytunnels supplied come complete with two doors (Front & Rear). We have hinged and sliding door options. If you would prefer to build your own doors you can exclude the doors and the timber end frames from your polytunnel order.
Our Double Hinged door provides an opening of 7ft 6in wide x 7ft high (2.3m x 2.1m). Our Hinged Doors are supplied with a Polythene panel. Ventilation is easily controlled as you can leave any gap of your choice with our ‘Unique’ ground bolt locking system.
The End Frames are supplied with 100mm x 47mm pressure treated timber. Comprising, two upright posts, measuring 3m long, and a door lintel measuring 3m long. A double-row of timber battens is included, ensuring your main polytunnel cover is held securely onto the Frame.
All timber used is FSC® certified.
Our Double Sliding door provides an opening of 6ft 10in wide x 7ft high (2.08m x 2.1m). All door panels are covered with polythene, ventilation is easily controlled as you can slide the doors open to leave any gap of your choice. Sliding doors sit securely on the doorframe, flush to the polytunnel, and out of harm’s way.
The End Frames are supplied with 100mm x 47mm pressure treated timber. Comprising, two upright posts, measuring 3m long, and a door lintel measuring 3m long. A double-row of timber battens is included, ensuring your main polytunnel cover is held securely onto the Frame.
All timber used is FSC® certified.
When you buy one of our Polytunnels you will receive a FREE Polytunnel Lucky Bag, consisting of the following:
How to Grow Food in Your Polytunnel All Year Round – by Andy McKee and Mark Gatter.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced grower, this book is packed with invaluable advice to help you make the most of your polytunnel. It’s a comprehensive guide that will turn your tunnel into a productive, year-round growing space.
The First Tunnels Crop Wheel has been developed in collaboration with experienced polytunnel gardeners to bring you all the essential information you need in one convenient tool. Wondering when to sow? What soil type is best? How far apart to plant? How long seeds take to germinate? The Crop Wheel provides answers to these questions — and more — for over 35 of the most popular crops. PLUS… it also doubles as a measuring tape, making crop spacing and planting even easier!
Your month-by-month companion for a full year of successful growing. This guide takes you through 12 months of tips, tasks, and advice to keep your polytunnel productive all year round.
Tomatoes are one of the most popular crops among polytunnel gardeners — and for good reason! In fact, we can’t recall visiting a single polytunnel that didn’t have at least a few tomato plants growing inside. So, what better way to help you kick-start your polytunnel gardening than with some top-quality tomato seeds? Plus, our Top of the Crops online guide has everything you need to know about growing them — so there’s no excuse not to get started right away!
When you add a Polytunnel to your basket, you will have the option to save your basket to your account so that you can checkout later. You can also download a PDF quote to share.
If you would prefer not to create an account just yet, email your configuration to you or your friend.
Bonus Save – Buy More, Save More.
At First Tunnels, we think saving money should be as easy as growing peas in a pod. That’s why we’ve created our Bonus Save scheme: the more you spend on a domestic polytunnel or commercial polytunnel, the more you save…up to 20%!
No need to whip out a calculator (we’ve done the hard work). Our clever basket system tots up your discount as you shop, and if you’re just shy of the next saving level, it’ll give you a friendly nudge. Add something handy like base rails, sliding doors, or crop bars, and suddenly you’re bagging bigger savings too.
And the best bit? There’s no catch. Our prices are already competitive, but Bonus Save means you get even more value for money on everything you buy with your polytunnel. Whether it’s a small tunnel for the garden or a mighty commercial structure for your farm, you’ll be reaping discounts as well as harvests.
The only rule: savings apply when your order includes a polytunnel. If purchasing more than one Polytunnel, the larger of the Polytunnels will be used to calculate your discount percentage. Accessories and covers on their own don’t qualify, but bundle them with a tunnel, and the savings sprout up across the lot!
Please see our returns and refunds policy below, and feel free to contact our friendly team on 01282 601253 or by email [email protected] with any further questions.
You can return goods to First Tunnels under the following conditions: –
Please be aware that as a customer you are responsible for returning any unwanted goods.
For further information – please refer to clause 7 of our Terms & Conditions. You can contact us during office hours by phone and email.
We will cover the cost of a return if: –
We will accept the return of goods that aren’t in their original packaging.
A 26ft (7.92m) Polytunnel is as big if not bigger than some small buildings. These structures are also more exposed to wind and weather so we increase the material we use accordingly. The key component of any Polytunnel is the hoop structure. On this Polytunnel the diameter of the galvanised steel hoops is increased to 60mm. Add a side ventilation system, and this is an absolutely perfect garden centre or nursery solution.
| Width | 26ft (7.92m) |
|---|---|
| Hoop Spacing | 6ft (1.83m) |
| Overall Height | 12ft (3.66m) |
| Straight Side | 3ft 3in (1m) |
| Head Room (15cm from side) | 6ft 3in (1.9m) |
| Hoop Diameter | 2¼in (60.3mm) |
| Steel Specification | E370 Galv High Tensile |
| Door Opening Width | From 6ft 10in (2.1m) |
| Door Opening Height | 7ft (2.13m) |
| Distance over Hoop | 41ft 5in (12.5m) |
| Door Frame | 4in x 2in (100mm x 47mm) |
| Inner Door | 3in x 2in (75mm x 47mm) |
| Base Rail | 3in x 2in (75mm x 47mm) |
All of our Polytunnels come with a printed copy of the assembly instructions. However, we encourage you to visit our dedicated construction portal at construct.firsttunnels.co.uk before making a purchase. There, you’ll find comprehensive instructions and downloadable videos, ensuring you’re fully informed about the assembly process and what to expect from your Polytunnel.
Complete Build Videos
We’ve produced a series of in-depth videos that walk you through the entire construction process, from the basic setup to every available option. These videos are designed to guide you step-by-step, giving you a clear understanding of the time, effort, and craftsmanship involved in building one of our Polytunnels.
Polytunnel Delivery Information
Commercial Polytunnels will be despatched within 5-7 working days.
For Blue areas on the map delivery is FREE.
For Red and Orange areas on the map, please see the chart to determine your shipping charges.
Please note, the cost of delivery for customers in Eire includes a £50 customs clearance charge which we pay in advance on your behalf, ensuring there are no unexpected costs upon import.
| Postcode | Price |
|---|---|
| PO (Isle of Wight) | £200 |
| BT | £200 |
| EIRE | £250 |
| IM | £190 |
| JE | £290 |
| GY | £290 |
For all other areas within Europe, please proceed to the checkout for a shipping quote. Should your country not be listed, please contact us for a shipping quote.
If you would like information about delivery of our other products, view our delivery page.
The Monthly Crop Guide covers year-round tips, maintenance, and what to plant & harvest.
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Top of the Crops is your go-to guide for crop success, whether you're a beginner or an expert.
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This guide has everything you need to get started with polytunnels.
Buyers Guide
We’ve made 'handy-cam' videos to help you build your polytunnel anytime.
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