That's a good idea of Geoffs, using a pod. Wait untill next year when the weather is a bit better. As novices, less hinderance due to weather, to try out your tent. You do not want to pitch your tent first time in this awefull weather, trying to tackle a tent like yours in the wind, then possibly finding out is not as water right as it should.
It might be more cold than you think, realising the bedding was not as adaquate as you thought. The tent may not be as warm as you think, harder to heat.
As Val said in a previous post, bedding and equipment is suseptable to dampness, with it being very damp.
Too many things could go wrong.
Even the experienced camper can get caught out.
Heath63
------------- New Year: Hesketh Bank
Feb/March: Red Squirrel
March: lakes
June: Morecambe
Aug: Lake District(not camping camping)
October: Red Squirrel
Thanks for all the input folks, quite overwhelmed by the community here all willing to help. We have opted for a bunk barn in the end, at least we've managed to get away! Went for 8 mile wLk this aft and weather has been getting much worse , would not have liked the stress of worrying I about our huge tent 'taking off' . Will save the tent for the spring I think. Thanks again folks.
I think you made the right decision and you did managed a getaway. Taking advantage of no kids, Bliss.
For my child. I am willing to give him awayat the moment.
Heath63
------------- New Year: Hesketh Bank
Feb/March: Red Squirrel
March: lakes
June: Morecambe
Aug: Lake District(not camping camping)
October: Red Squirrel
Usually by the end of October the big tent has gone away and the little 3man (cozy) has come out. Unfortunately after 17yrs said tent is well past it's best and until a replacement is snuck past "her who must be obeyed" winter camping has been curtailed............. I did look at a very nice Hilleberg Nallo 4 gt today though, £800 is a bit difficult to sneak out of the account though!!!!!!