FAQ’S

Which sizes do canvas bell tents come in?
A 4m bell tent is suitable for up to 2-3 people to sleep in.
A 5m bell tent is a luxurious space for 2 people, and can sleep up to 6 people.
A 6m bell tent suits large groups or families and can sleep up to 8-10 people.
How many people can a canvas bell tent sleep?

A 4m bell tent can sleep up to 4 people, but is more suited to a maximum of 3 people.
As a lounge space, it can comfortably seat up to 8 people on the floor.
A 5m bell tent can sleep up to 6 people, but is more suited to 4 people.
As a lounge space, it can comfortably seat up to 12 people on the floor.
A 6m bell tent can sleep up to 8 people, but is more suited to a maximum of 6 people.
As a lounge space it can comfortably seat up to 20 people on the floor.

How do you set up a bell tent?
The following are the instructions to set up a Stylish Camping Co Canvas Bell Tent:

Lay the tent out flat, with the groundsheet attached.
Ensure the tent is pulled taut all the way around and the door is facing the desired direction.
Insert groundsheet pegs in the peg tabs all the way around the tent using a mallett.
Unzip the doors of the bell tent.
Walk the unfolded centre pole into the bell tent and insert the top of the pole into the centre of the roof peak.
Lift the weight of the canvas up with the top of the centre pole, whilst sliding the bottom of the pole into the centre of the groundsheet. Ensure the pole is centred and not on an angle.
Walk the length of A-frame into the tent, and fully extend once inside. Insert the spike at the top of the A-frame pole into the small hole above the doorway. Place the feet of the A-frame pole into the floor pockets either side of the doorway.
Secure the A-frame pole with the tent ties.
Place the raincap on the spike of the A-frame outside of the tent.
Zip up the doors.
Secure the front 3 guy ropes with pegs, following the seam lines of the roof, then secure the back and side guy ropes all the way around, and check tension. Guy ropes should be approx 1 metre in length to the peg.

Are bell tents easy to set up?
Bell tents are one of the easiest styles of tent to set up and generally takes around 15 minutes. See instructions above.
How do I choose the right bell tent?
Decide which size of bell tent you need, based on purpose, the number of people it needs to accommodate, and the pitching space available.
Decide which weight canvas suits your needs best, based on usage and climate.
Buy from a reputable and knowledgeable supplier, that offers a warranty and local returns.
Are canvas bell tents heavy?
They are not the lightest of tents, and are heavier than a nylon tent. They can weigh upwards from 25kgs, dependent on their size.
Can you set up a canvas bell tent permanently?
Bell tents are classed as a semi-permanent structure. They are not recommended for permanent use, however if you do set yours up permanently a raised timber base is recommended to protect the lower parts of the tent from mould. A roof protector will also help to protect the canvas from UV rays, tree sap, bird droppings and extreme weather.
Are bell tents waterproof?
Canvas does have some natural water resistance, however buying a canvas bell tent that has been pre-treated with waterproofing is recommended. Alternatively you can apply waterproofing to the canvas yourself. Pre-treated canvas need to be ‘activated’ before first use by getting the tent wet for the first time. You may see a small amount of water inside the tent during this process, but it will be the only time. Once the waterproofing is activated your tent should no longer let in any water.
What happens if I pack my canvas bell tent away wet?
If you pack canvas away wet or damp, mould will start to grow on the canvas after about 48 hours, and will continue to spread unless it is treated and removed. Always ensure the canvas is allowed to completely dry within 48 hours.
How do you heat a bell tent?
A wood burner stove can be installed into a bell tent for additional heating. If you have access to power, you can place an electric heater inside the bell tent.
What wind rating do canvas bell tents have?
Generally bell tents are rated up to 80kph. They are extremely sturdy tents in windy conditions, but you must ensure the guy ropes are tight and secure otherwise you risk ripping the canvas.
Which weight of canvas is recommended for a bell tent?
If your bell tent is for occasional camping at weekends, and you aren’t heading to cold climates, a lighter weight canvas from 285gsm up to 320gsm will suffice.
A middleweight 320gsm canvas suits most purposes. It provides more strength and protection from the elements than the lightweight canvas, but doesn’t weigh quite as much when you’re lifting it. It’s a good compromise for warmth, weight, and longevity.
The middleweight 320gsm canvas is also ideal for glamping hire businesses, who aren’t setting tents up on a permanent site. They provide durability for regular use, and for most weather conditions, and dry more quickly than heavier canvas.
If you are camping in colder climates, or setting up your bell tent permanently, you may wish to choose a heavier canvas, from 360gsm upwards.
What should I do if my bell tent rips
You can apply a flexible waterproof repair tape to canvas, or alternatively a canvas repairer may be able to sew the rip.
Which groundsheet style is better on a bell tent?
A zipped-in groundsheet (ZIG) allows you to completely remove the floor of the tent from the canvas. This can help when cleaning the tent. You can also remove the floor for picnics so the tent appears as a ‘floating roof’.
A sewn in groundsheet (SIG) means the floor is permanently attached to the canvas and cannot be removed, which can make cleaning and repairs more difficult.