Home

   Log in or Register



Insurance Quotes
forums Campsite Search Comp Directory tips virtual brochure Profile
Tent and Awning Reviews Competitions Caravans and Motorhomes For Sale Shopping Diary Advent Calendar

Advertisement

Message Forums

Welcome Guest Register Login Search The Forum Posts Since Last Visit
 Reception - All Forums
   Camping under canvas -  Tent talk. Advice, info and recommendations
Share   Post on X / Twitter  Share on Facebook  Email  Printer Friendly Version Print
Subject Topic: Tent choice
Page:  1  2  3 Post Reply Post New Topic
25/8/2018 at 11:10am
 Location: None Entered
 Outfit: None Entered
View Tupik's Profile View Profile   Reply to Tupik Reply   Quote Tupik Quote  
Joined: 13/8/2017

Standard Member
Standard Member

Forum Posts:   78
Tent Reviews:   2

Site Reviews Total: 0
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

Quote: Originally posted by seanfdh on 19/8/2018
We have a Robens Fairbanks if you're thinking bell tent(ish). Very pleased with it. Deffo unbothered by wind.



I have one of these too and would second the comments by Sean. Very quick to put up, you can stand up easily, plenty of room. Unlike cheaper fibreglass poled tunnel tents or the smaller cheaper Quecha tents, bell tents will stand up to high winds. They're very sturdy and come in lighter weight polycotton like the Fairbanks.

Witnessed a Quecha tent almost blowing away during a storm this year when camping, and a tunnel tent partially collapse when it's fibreglass poles broke in a high side-wind.

Neil... Attwoolls most certainly do sell bell tents. They sell the Robins range which were up in their new show-marque on the front left of the main entrance to the main building. I had a walk around the Robens Klondyke just 8 weeks back there.

Post last edited on 25/08/2018 11:15:21


Don't forget to leave a review of all tents you've used, for a chance to win fantastic prizes

New! Please upload a photo of your tent to the Tent Showcase!


25/8/2018 at 11:29am
 Location: None Entered
 Outfit: None Entered
View Neilstait's Profile View Profile   Reply to Neilstait Reply   Quote Neilstait Quote  
Joined: 01/9/2017

Standard Member
Standard Member

Forum Posts:   71

Site Reviews Total: 0
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

Tupik you are correct in the respect of attwools selling the Robens range I meant more the traditional bell tents. I have looked at the Robens and quite like the Robens field station which I know is in polyester and I am going to check if attwools do it


25/8/2018 at 11:47am
 Location: None Entered
 Outfit: None Entered
View Tupik's Profile View Profile   Reply to Tupik Reply   Quote Tupik Quote  
Joined: 13/8/2017

Standard Member
Standard Member

Forum Posts:   78
Tent Reviews:   2

Site Reviews Total: 0
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

I don't think they do Neil, at least I've not seen one there. There was a sale on not long ago on the Fairbanks which I got for just £260 in an on-line sale in June which was cheaper in price to the polyester one. They're currently discounted to around £345 but a few places may still be offering them cheaper.

Either way, you won't be disappointed with Robens quality or value I think.


25/8/2018 at 12:21pm
 Location: None Entered
 Outfit: None Entered
View Neilstait's Profile View Profile   Reply to Neilstait Reply   Quote Neilstait Quote  
Joined: 01/9/2017

Standard Member
Standard Member

Forum Posts:   71

Site Reviews Total: 0
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

The fieldstation I have seen at 275 with another further discount of 10 percent but it was out of stock . It is very good value compared with the Robens polycotton ones if you compare a polycotton of the same size


Don't forget to leave a review of all tents you've used, for a chance to win fantastic prizes

New! Please upload a photo of your tent to the Tent Showcase!


25/8/2018 at 1:03pm
 Location: Yorkshire
 Outfit: None Entered
View lidds0's Profile View Profile   Reply to lidds0 Reply   Quote lidds0 Quote  
Joined: 24/8/2009

Diamond Member
Diamond Member

Forum Posts:   4494

Site Reviews Total: 57
Site Reviews 2024: 7  
Site Reviews 2023: 10 
Site Reviews 2022: 1  
Site Reviews 2021: 4  
Site Reviews 2020: 1  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 8  
Site Nights 2024: 37
Site Nights 2023: 48
Site Nights 2022: 20
Site Nights 2021: 9
Site Nights 2020: 2
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 8

The door slope and height on the Fieldstation will let rain in when it's open (I suspect that's why they've put a zip in the groundsheet, so you can fold it back in this more vulnerable area).

You'll get condensation with it being synthetic,particularly noticeable if you choose not to buy/use the inner. Top vents are all well and good for helping to keep a tent cooler in hot weather but you really need lower-level vents for airflow and to limit condensation - particularly in a synthetic tent - and I don't see very many on the Fieldstation?

With it being a teepee and not having any wall height, you lose inner space, so although it's a 4.5m footprint it'll probably have the same amount of usable space as a regular 4m bell. Also, pegging is different to on a bell tent because of this and you've got longer guys. Which do you prefer?

Pack size and weight is good though (and a lot less than a 4m, or even a 3m bell).

It reminds me of the now discontinued Vango Peace. That was available at considerably less money as it was a single skin with associated condensation issues.

Personally, for what you want it for, I'd go for a better quality, sturdier 3m bell, for around the same price. You won't need an inner and the door won't let so much water in when opened. Pegging is more simple on a bell, I reckon.

Post last edited on 25/08/2018 13:10:17


Advertisement



25/8/2018 at 1:55pm
 Location: None Entered
 Outfit: None Entered
View Neilstait's Profile View Profile   Reply to Neilstait Reply   Quote Neilstait Quote  
Joined: 01/9/2017

Standard Member
Standard Member

Forum Posts:   71

Site Reviews Total: 0
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

Which 3m bell tent manufacturer do you advise there seems so many ?


25/8/2018 at 2:44pm
 Location: Yorkshire
 Outfit: None Entered
View lidds0's Profile View Profile   Reply to lidds0 Reply   Quote lidds0 Quote  
Joined: 24/8/2009

Diamond Member
Diamond Member

Forum Posts:   4494

Site Reviews Total: 57
Site Reviews 2024: 7  
Site Reviews 2023: 10 
Site Reviews 2022: 1  
Site Reviews 2021: 4  
Site Reviews 2020: 1  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 8  
Site Nights 2024: 37
Site Nights 2023: 48
Site Nights 2022: 20
Site Nights 2021: 9
Site Nights 2020: 2
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 8

They're all much if a muchness nowadays as most are made in China. Ours, years ago, was from Belltent, they're the same as supplied by Obelink in Holland (who may no longer supply the UK since Belltent is the sole supplier here).

If and when you're pretty much decided on a bell tent, why not start a new thread 'Which Bell Tent?' and ask for opinions and recommendations? I'm sure lots of regular posters will enjoy posting pics to highlight their views.


Don't forget to leave a review of all tents you've used, for a chance to win fantastic prizes

New! Please upload a photo of your tent to the Tent Showcase!


25/8/2018 at 2:50pm
 Location: Yorkshire
 Outfit: None Entered
View lidds0's Profile View Profile   Reply to lidds0 Reply   Quote lidds0 Quote  
Joined: 24/8/2009

Diamond Member
Diamond Member

Forum Posts:   4494

Site Reviews Total: 57
Site Reviews 2024: 7  
Site Reviews 2023: 10 
Site Reviews 2022: 1  
Site Reviews 2021: 4  
Site Reviews 2020: 1  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 8  
Site Nights 2024: 37
Site Nights 2023: 48
Site Nights 2022: 20
Site Nights 2021: 9
Site Nights 2020: 2
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 8

Quote: Originally posted by john,mel,3kids! on 23/8/2018
I have a 5m Bell tent, it's excellent but also canvas



I've just had a look at the place you purchased from - Camping Under The Stars, in Keighley? - I think this must be a relatively new company? Do they have a tent display? The website is interesting.

To the OP: if you take their 4m bell spec as a starting point for comparison, you shouldn't go far wrong:

Canvas
285gr/m2 Water & Mould resistant ,
UV resistant flame retarded and waterproof .
Colour – Beige / Sand

Groundsheet
540gr/m2 ripstop PVC . Colour – Beige / Sand, double welded at stress points for extra durability.

Centre Pole
32mm spring loaded tubing with a loop welded onto top section for a light.

A Frame
22mm spring loaded tubing.

Pegs
Extra strong galvanised pegs that wont rust.

4M Tent Dimensions
Door Height – 1.53m

Centre height – 2.5m

Side Walls – 0.6m

Floor Diameter – 4 metre

Weight – 26kg approx

Bag size 1mx35cmx35cm approx

Alternatively, Soulpad have a good reputation:
3000 hybrid (reduced)

If you're just planning on using a single airbed or SIM a 3m will be fine and will keep the cost down a bit. If you'll be using a double bed then you'll need at least a 4m.

Enjoy choosing (this bit is supposed to be part of the fun!).

Post last edited on 25/08/2018 15:31:20


25/8/2018 at 6:06pm
 Location: west yorks
 Outfit:  Vango inspire 600xl 5m bell tent
View john#mel#3kids!'s Profile View Profile   Reply to john#mel#3kids! Reply   Quote john#mel#3kids! Quote  
Joined: 30/8/2010

Platinum Member
Platinum Member

Forum Posts:   859
Tent Reviews:   6

Site Reviews Total: 5
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

The soulpad bell tent is what set me off on my journey, I bought from camping under the stars because it is a small bell tent supplier, not one of the big boys so to speak. I would rather have that personal touch than be just another sale.
To the op, a 3m bell tent will not leave you much head room either side of the centre pole, a 4m might just serve you a little better


25/8/2018 at 8:35pm
 Location: None Entered
 Outfit: None Entered
View Neilstait's Profile View Profile   Reply to Neilstait Reply   Quote Neilstait Quote  
Joined: 01/9/2017

Standard Member
Standard Member

Forum Posts:   71

Site Reviews Total: 0
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 0  
Site Reviews 2018: 0  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 0
Site Nights 2018: 0

For a single person with a small VW golf and camping on my own would you recommend the Soulpad 3000 ultra lite , hybrid or the 4000


Advertisement



25/8/2018 at 9:24pm
 Location: Suffolk
 Outfit: Very variable
View Caligula's Profile View Profile   Reply to Caligula Reply   Quote Caligula Quote  
Joined: 11/6/2016

Platinum Member
Platinum Member

Forum Posts:   1272
Tent Reviews:   41

Site Reviews Total: 4
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 2  
Site Reviews 2018: 1  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 8
Site Nights 2018: 5

4 metre tent is very large for one although Soulpads walls are low, limiting that space, Material is on the lighter side at 285 g compared to some others (below).
They have a showroom in Norfolk, but can be a little diffident about welcoming visitors.
Belltent Uk, Camping under the Stars, Blacks of Greenock,Pukka tents, Dusky Deer, all their belltents come Universally well thought of, as far as I am aware.
If on my own, I'd have thought, as others have suggested, a 3 metre tent, or the prior mentioned RobensFairbanks or Gelert Navajo 4, if you can find the latter, a more suitable tent. (One on Gumtree)
As in all things, it is horses for courses, and only you can appreciate your usage and wants.
Several people have found SoulPad fine, others haven't?


Don't forget to leave a review of all tents you've used, for a chance to win fantastic prizes

New! Please upload a photo of your tent to the Tent Showcase!


27/8/2018 at 11:29am
 Location: Suffolk
 Outfit: Very variable
View Caligula's Profile View Profile   Reply to Caligula Reply   Quote Caligula Quote  
Joined: 11/6/2016

Platinum Member
Platinum Member

Forum Posts:   1272
Tent Reviews:   41

Site Reviews Total: 4
Site Reviews 2024: 0  
Site Reviews 2023: 0  
Site Reviews 2022: 0  
Site Reviews 2021: 0  
Site Reviews 2020: 0  
Site Reviews 2019: 2  
Site Reviews 2018: 1  
Site Nights 2024: 0
Site Nights 2023: 0
Site Nights 2022: 0
Site Nights 2021: 0
Site Nights 2020: 0
Site Nights 2019: 8
Site Nights 2018: 5

Quote: Originally posted by Tupik on 25/8/2018
I don't think they do Neil, at least I've not seen one there. There was a sale on not long ago on the Fairbanks which I got for just £260 in an on-line sale in June which was cheaper in price to the polyester one. They're currently discounted to around £345 but a few places may still be offering them cheaper.

Either way, you won't be disappointed with Robens quality or value I think.



Excellent review on review pages, thank you Tupik. Recommended read.........




In order to post a reply you will need to register, or if already registered please log in here

  Prev       Next

Jump To Page:  1  2  3

Quick Links - All Forums - Tent talk. Advice, info and recommendations - Top of Page

Printer Friendly Version Printable version      Share   Post on X / Twitter  Share on Facebook  Email


Latest News, Discounts and Competitions  see all...














4465 Visitors online !

Free UKCampsite.co.uk Window Sticker  -  Recommend to Friend  -  Add a Missing Campsite

[Message Forums]  [Caravan Sites & Camping]  [Company Listings]  [Features / Advice]  [Virtual Brochure]  [Shop!]
[Reception]  [Competitions]  [Caravans & Motorhomes For Sale]  [Event Diary]  [Contact Us]  [Tent Reviews



Please note we are not responsible for the content of external sites & any reviews represent the author's personal view only. Please report any error here. You may view our privacy and cookie policy and terms and conditions here. All copyrights & other intellectual property rights in the design and content of this web site are reserved to the UKCampsite.co.uk © 1999 - 2024


Advertisement


Advertisement


UKCampsite.co.uk
2024 Advent Calendar


Advent Calendar

24 Daily Prizes PLUS a Christmas Day Star Prize worth £999

Request a Reminder