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We are looking for something that is going to last us several years, and as a total camping novice I would REALLY appreciate any advice!!!

We are a family with two very young children who really likes their space.  So an 8-berth would be fantastic, as it would give flexibility for taking friends of the kids with us in years to come, and give extra storage in the meantime.

As the kids are young, I want them sleeping next to us, not opposite, so no vis-a-vis style tents.  Having just come back from our first camping weekend (in a VERY cheap tent to see how we got on), I love the look of the tunnel-style, with bedrooms at the back, large living area in front, and definitely an outside porch area for cooking / storing bikes, etc.

We don't have a trailer, so it can't be too massive (we do however have a S-Max so big boot space).

Budget-wise, ideally we want to spend less than £500, but if that won't buy us something that will last, then we'd be prepared to go higher.  We're after quality and space.

Fussy, moi?  ;-)

Thanks in advance to anyone kind enough to reply!!

Vango Maritsa 700?

http://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/product-reviews/vango-maritsa-700-tent-2012-p201940

It should tick most of the boxes, though Vango seem to have suffered with quality control on this tent. If you have a big budget like that, I would go for a steel or alloy poled tent rather than fibre glass. If you really want quality, I was going to suggest looking at poly-cotton tents such as Outwell Lake range, or Kampa classic range, though, they will fill the boot of your C Max. And, you may have to stetch a bit further with your budget.

Thank you SO much - I have had a look at all of these, they are exactly the kind of thing we're looking for.  So far I think I am quite taken with the Vango range, as they seem to be by far the smallest packed up and yet seem to tick all the boxes.  They are also under our budget, so there'd be money left to buy some gear!!  Although I understand that there may be a compromise on quality - but some of the others will literally take up our whole boot.

You are all complete stars....keep the recommendations coming!!!

Another tent to consider, but above your price range unless you get an end of season bargain would be the Outlwell Vermont LP.

It's only a six berth but it's a big six berth with plenty of space, a great porch / awning and also has a wardrobe with hanging rail.

When there's just the four of you, there will be plenty of space in the bedroom areas for clothes storage.