Quite small and yet perfectly formed, our 8ft wide polytunnels are a popular choice for domestic use, for gardens, allotments and other little community spaces. No matter how much growing space you have you always want more but an 8ft wide polytunnel is easily big enough to allow you to grow food all year round. Just choose the length of tunnel you require - we recommend going for a tunnel that is as long as you can fit in your space - there is always something more you will want to cram in! Then just click on any extras you may wish to buy. Not sure what's included? Click on 'What's In The Kit' to find out what you need to know.
Polytunnel extras will not only allow you to make the most of your space, maximise yield and make your life easier, they can also allow you to get some great savings with our bonus save scheme. Buy extras such as base rails, crop bars, sliding doors or staging and you can save up to 20% on your purchase. 8ft wide polytunnels are great value for money, allowing you to cut costs on feeding your family. With these bonus savings, they are even better for your household finances.
One of the most popular sizes in the entire range, the 8ft model with 3ft 3in (0.99m) high straight sides provides the growing space and air circulation that is essential for a wide range of plants, particularly those that are tall or are usually grown on staging.
Technical Specification
| Width | 8ft (2.44m) |
|---|---|
| Hoop Spacing | 5ft (1.53m) |
| Overall Height | 6ft 8in (2.03m) |
| Straight Side | 3ft 3in (0.99m) |
| Head Room (15cm from side) | 4ft 5in (1.34m) |
| Hoop Diameter | 1in (25.4mm) |
| Steel Specification | E370 Galv High Tensile |
| Door Opening Width | 2ft 3in (0.69m) |
| Door Opening Height | 6ft (1.83m) |
| Distance over Hoop | 18ft (5.48m) |
| Door Frame | 3in x 2in (75mm x 47mm) |
| Inner Door | 2in x 2in (50mm x 50mm) |
We have two construction guides for our 8ft Wide Polytunnel Model.
8TR for polytunnels who require the cover to be buried in a trench. 8BR for polytunnels that have Base Rails eliminating the requirement for digging a trench
If you are experiencing problems with your polytunnel construction, our construction team are available to answer your questions and help in whatever way they can. Simply call 01282 601253 on week days between 9am-5pm...PLUS weekend cover on 07801 601253, between 9am-5pm or contact us. Alternatively, you can visit our construction resources website at polytunnels.co.uk.
We haven’t stopped there, we know many people build their polytunnels at the weekend or over a bank holiday when our office is closed, so we have also produced a series of Polytunnel Construction Videos. This collection of videos can be viewed anytime, on your home computer, and even your phone for when you are in the thick of things constructing your polytunnel.
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Jamie Cooper
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Verified order
Easy to install does what it says on the tin |
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Rachel
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Verified order
Very difficult to install. |
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PJ May
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Verified order
Most people only build one poly tunnel for themselves in their life time. First tunnels supply the support info, manual, videos and telephone back -up that is only just second best to them actually build the bloomin' thing for you! Everything arrives logged and itemised and all you need, apart from the tools, is there down to the last nut and washer. Following the instructions step by step could be done by a simple robot. The only problems occur when you think you might have a better way of doing things! It's like the old joke about the most dangerous nut in a car is the one behind the steering wheel. |
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michael kelly
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Verified order
This is my second from first tunnels and it's even better - it's the service that counts. |
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Stephen Brookman
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Verified order
Excellent quality. Robust materials. Easy assembly. Comprehensive instructions. Very good buy. |
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ANNE JACKSON-WILD
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Verified order
Review of tunnel under previous heading very satisfied |
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vicky trotter
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Verified order
Fab . Good quality. Gone for super therm poly sheet as I think it's worth spending that bit more on it |
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Anne-Marie MacGregor
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Verified order
Almost finished putting this up so haven't had a chance to try it out. Seems smaller than I imagined, but sure it will be fine. Could possibly have done with more P-clips - we ordered an extra 12, but then we possibly have more gales here in Orkney than on the mainland. |
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Mr Gibson
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Verified order
A good quality Product which was erected by me over 4 days |
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Wendy Hammond
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Verified order
Brilliant so easy to put together |
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Dave Hamilton
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Verified order
Still early days yet but the polytunnel is excellent and feels very sturdy. |
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Frances McNeill
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Verified order
Great polytunnel only down side is it took 3wks for it to be completely delivered so had to wait to erect it other than that a fantastic buy |
We supply Timber Hinged Doors at each end, Anti Hot Spot Tape, and of course the Framework to support our 200 micron Smart Clear Polythene cover.
A trench will need to be dug around the perimeter of the Polytunnel to secure the structure in place. Don't under estimate how long & tiring, digging this trench can be - Eliminate the requirement of this trench by ordering Base Rails. This alternative 'Ground Fixing' method and other useful additions such as Sliding Doors, Ventilation, etc, can be added, please see our Optional Extras.
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 polythene 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 five year guarantee.
FOR USE WITH All crops where heat is important such as bedding/annual plants, propagation houses & over wintered vegetable production.
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 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 = 95%
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
This high quality Polytunnel film has been designed specifically for the UK where low light levels are common. This film allows 90% light transmission allowing through more of the light spectrum used by plants. It also scatters light entering the polytunnel. This UV stabilised film is 200 microns (800 Gauge) and is supplied with a five year guarantee.
FOR USE WITH All crops which are frost hardy, where you don't need to introduce heat, such as over wintered nursery stock, hardy herbaceous perennials, or where the poly tunnel is only to be used for summer production of vegetables or flower crops.
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 Clear 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.
Smart Clear = 95%
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 Clear = 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.
Smart Clear = N/A
Strength at Break
The load on a tested sample when it breaks. This is expressed in Pascals or MPa.
Smart Clear = MD24/TD23
Elongation at Break
The strain on a tested sample when it stretches. This is also expressed in Pascals or MPa.
Smart Clear = MD660/TD820
Creep
As the weather changes becoming hotter or colder, so the Polythene expands and contracts. Creep is the terms used to express this.
Smart Clear = 5
Dart Test
A test to measure the impact strength on a test piece of plastic, using a weighted falling 'dart'.
Smart Clear = 450
This specialist film reduces light transmission to 65%, and ultimately the temperature inside the structure. This film is most useful where sun scorch is a problem for growers. It is also suitable for animal husbandry applications and other stock and storage houses where a great build up of heat is not ideal. This UV stabilised film is 180 microns (720 Gauge) and is supplied with a five year guarantee.
FOR USE WITH Animal Husbandry structures and those plants that would normally grow under a shade canopy.
bpi.visqueen is a division of British Polythene Industries plc - one of Europe's leading manufacturers of polythene film products. Their products are used by Farmers, vegetable, fruit and flower growers across the globe and are all designed to help the grower create their own 'climate for success'.
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
This green net incorporates durable flat tape threads and double lockstitch tearproof technology and is used as a windbreak or shade product to protect those hardier and specialists plants. This net has proven its durability in the toughest of conditions and also provides excellent protection against insect and birds. 50% density.
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.
Unique to First Tunnels... We offer the option of the hoops of your Polytunnel to be supplied in a two or four piece design - Read the 'Pros and Cons' of each type, below...
Four piece hoops have smaller sections making delivery easier and cheaper whereas two piece hoops have larger sections that require bigger, more expensive transportation.
When ordering your polytunnel, time and consideration should be given to thinking about precisely where the delivery will be made. A 12ft x 25ft polytunnel would typically consist of about 10 items and weigh 160kg in total. The largest items of your delivery will be the hoops.
A delivery to your home might sound convenient, but please consider how you will transport the parts to site. Our four piece hoops will fit into the avarage family saloon, the two piece hoops will require a van. Obviously, the bigger the polytunnel, the larger the hoop sections.
Four piece hoops are the modern and customer focused approach with added hoop joint strengtheners. Just as strong if not stronger than the traditional two piece hoop. However the two piece hoop, doesn't require hoop joint strengtheners and is the favoured design for many suppliers, it is a lower cost to produce and quicker and easier to manufacture.
A 2 piece or a 4 piece hoop?
Without getting too techy...A two piece hoop has one joint in the centre. Granted the number of joints in a four piece hoop is three but by spanning the two outer joints with heavy duty, steel joint straighteners this undoubtedly makes a four piece hoop as strong, if not stronger as the conventional two piece design. These Hoop strengthening joints are included as part of every complete Polytunnel kit, they are not required to be ordered extra like some competitors who also provide four piece hoops.
See these strength joints in action. View our 4 piece hoop withstanding an Atlantic storm with 60mph+ winds.
When constructing, joining four pieces takes a tiny bit longer than joining two pieces.
It's true... constructing a four piece hoop does take longer, perhaps 1-2 minutes per hoop for the average person. And like anything the more you do the quicker you become. So choosing two piece hoops might shave about 10 minutes off the complete build time of a typical 12ft x 25ft polytunnel and 10 minutes is less time than you'll spend making a brew.
Four piece hoops are a quality solution engineered, tested and produced with the customer in mind. Two piece hoops are a solution for an easier manufacturing process.
Why do we do a four piece hoop? - It's not cheaper, neither is it more profitable for us.
So Why...Authentic reviews from actual customers are an important resource for improving and addressing the needs and wants of our customers...We listened, you suggested a four piece hoop (for many reasons), we made it happen, and now you simply decide which you prefer..two piece, or four.
It's not AS easy to supply a four piece hoop - we have to roll the four profiles, swage each end (to slot back together) and then supply additional fixings and storm strengthening joint, not to mention the Q clips (all included at no extra charge). A two piece hoop is easier from a manufacturing point of view, but we aren't here for ourselves we are here for you.
We must be doing something right...check out our customer reviews.
We have five options available. Foundation Tubes can be driven into the ground (if the polythene is to be trenched) alternatively you can use Anchor Plates. The Screw Anchor can be used if ground conditions are suitable. If you have a solid base of concrete or timber then Base Plates will be required.
We have three options available. The Trench method requires a trench digging all around the perimeter of the tunnel approx. 30cm wide and no less than 40cm deep. Quicker and easier than trenching the cover, are Base Rails, which are available in Timber or Aluminium versions.
We have two options available. Crop Bars are attached to every hoop apart from the first and last, Twin Support Brace runs down the full length of the tunnel, either side of the central ridge, both are ideal for hanging baskets, suspending canes/nets & crops.
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.
Ground Cover inhibits the growth of annoying weeds. Acting as an excellent sub-base for use with bark, mulch or gravel. Ground Cover provides total floor coverage, supplied with metal staples.
Staging introduces a work surface at the ideal height of 75cm, significantly adding growing space. Complete with brackets, allowing you to attach a worktop (not supplied) of your choice.
Polythene Care Kit contains 1 roll of 4 inch repair tape and a 2.5 litre container of Algon Organic.
Overhead Irrigation comprises a water pipe suspended below the central ridge. Supplied with a header pipe, down tubes, sprinklers, inline tap, pressure regulator and hose connector. 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.
Automatic Overhead Irrigation is supplied with the added advantage of a weather resistant, battery operated hose end water timer. Essential for those days when you just can’t be there to operate the system manually.
All Polytunnels supplied come complete with two doors. We have hinged and sliding door options...
The top panel is covered in Shade Net to allow ventilation whilst the lower half is covered with polythene to prevent low level draughts.
The Outer Door Frame is 75mm x 47mm, whereas the Inner Door is 50mm x 50mm. All timber used is FSC® certified.
We also offer a DIY option...make your own doors. If you prefer to build your own bespoke doors - you can exclude the doors and timber end frames and receive a discount.
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 Outer Door Frame is 75mm x 47mm, whereas the Inner Door is 50mm x 50mm. All timber used is FSC® certified.
We also offer a DIY option...make your own doors. If you prefer to build your own bespoke doors - you can exclude the doors and timber end frames and receive a discount.
When you buy one of our Polytunnels you will receive a Free Polytunnel Lucky Bag, consisting of the following:
The two best selling Polytunnel books by Andy McKee and Mark Gatter.
Crop wheel, a wealth of growing information...when to sow, grow, harvest and a really useful measuring device too.
Polytunnel planner, the essential monthly planner packed full of tips and advice.
Tomato seeds, specially selected to help you get your polytunnel growing...they taste yummy too.
Polytunnel Growing Guide, will take you through a whole 12 months of activity in your polytunnel.
At First Tunnels, we really like to reward our customers. Every time you buy a commercial polytunnel or a domestic polytunnel from us, we will offer you great bonus savings based on the value of the goods you are buying. Of course we want you to choose us, for all your polytunnel needs – from the basic structures to all the add-ons that make life just that little bit easier. But with this bonus save scheme, what is good for us is also good for you. The more you buy from us, the greater the discount you will receive on the items you have bought.
There is no need to get out your calculator to work out how much you can save – an intelligent basket system will calculate the savings that will apply on the goods you have chosen while you shop – doing the hard work so you don't have to. If you have almost spent enough to qualify for our great bonus save, you will be informed and will have the option of including another small, useful item in your order and making even bigger savings.
Items such as base rails, sliding doors, crop bars and staging can all improve your polytunnel experience – purchasing them alongside your polytunnel can now help you save money too!
No. When we tell you that you can get great savings, that is what you will get. Our prices are already fair and competitive and these discounts mean even better value for money on our great polytunnels and polytunnel related products.
All you need to know is that bonus savings can only be made when one of our commercial polytunnels or domestic polytunnels, however large or small, is included in your purchase.
No matter whether you are buying a small polytunnel for your garden or allotment or a far larger commercial polytunnel for your business, smallholding or farm, you make great savings of up to 20% on your purchase!
Unfortunately, we cannot offer savings on accessories and polythene covers ordered separately, if a Polytunnel is ordered then there is no limit as to what you can order and save.
We’re a close-knit bunch of skilled professionals who take an enormous pride in the quality and versatility of our products, But we’re enthusiasts too - we use our own products, and that means we’ve introduced lots of improvements and innovations over the years…based on first-hand everyday practical experience. We work hand-in hand with top growing experts. We even have our own allotment for some seriously hands-on gardening, often accompanied by communal summer and winter barbecues because all work and no play would be very dull!
Reviewed by you, Followed by you, Liked by you and listened to by us. We have a strong online polytunnel community, 35k Facebook Fans, 10k Twitter Followers and over 3m YouTube Views. Our community of dedicated, passionate Polytunnel gardening friends, love to share their sowing tips, growing hints and harvesting secrets with each other. But more importantly for you, as a customer or a potential customer, you can post your comments in all their glory or gory details. Come and join the Polytunnel family.
Our six man construction team has a wealth of polytunnel construction knowledge and are more than happy to share tips and advice with any of our customers. Many of the team have been quite literally 'hands on' developing the First Tunnels vast array of construction videos and in depth instruction guides. Our construction team are available to answer your questions and help in whatever way they can. Simply call 01282 601253 on week days between 9am-5pm...PLUS weekend cover on 07801 601253, between 9am-5pm.
We are proud of our products and the time that we have put in to making sure that all our products are first class. We understand that purchasing a polytunnel is a considerable investment, and whilst we have lots of help and advice on this site, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and blog pages many people like to compare and contrast before they commit their hard earned cash to buying. To this end we have compiled a list of the most common questions and provide 10 top reasons why First Tunnels Polytunnels is the top choice.
Part of the fun of owning a polytunnel is picking the brains of people who really know how to make the most of the real growing potential. So we're making it easy for you...with some of the best brains in the business! This site now includes features, produced exclusively for First Tunnels by Andy McKee and Mark Gatter - best-selling authors of 'How to grow food in your Polytunnel' and 'The Polytunnel Handbook'. We also have videos from BBC’s Gardeners’ Question Time presenter, Paul Peacock. We also have a host of growing guides from Sam Youd, presenter & judge for the Royal Horticultural Society & Tatton Park Head Gardener.
What better way to learn about company dependability, product quality and customer service than to hear it straight from other consumers? By giving customers the opportunity to share their First Tunnels shopping experience, we believe this is the best reflection of our companies’ product and service. To help reinforce credibility, popularity and reputation, we have subscribed to not one, not two...but THREE independent review companies. We value all feedback, good, bad or ugly and hope to build a long lasting relationship with our customer, through our high quality products and friendly service, to ensure they do not hesitate to order again and again with First Tunnels in the future.
