We’ve always enjoyed camping. Ever since we had our first experience in the New Forest. Even with Ponies helping themselves to the food in our tent – we were hooked. I don’t know whether it’s the non-stop fresh air the whole time we’re camping, the comfort food or the camp fires, there’s just something about it.

I appreciate that camping is not for everyone, and don’t for one second think that we camp anywhere that doesn’t have a shower and a throne, but if you haven’t tried it I would highly recommend giving it a go at least once. It’ll give you a chance to properly get away, and who wouldn’t want to give lighting a fire a go? Plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to gorge on s’mores!

If pitching your own tent, though, isn’t your thing, or you need a bit more luxury, then why not try Glamping? A few weeks ago, we experienced our first bell tent in Cornwall after booking a stay at Cornish Glamping Bells a months prior. We didn’t know whether we’d still be able to go due to COVID, but because we were going to be the only ones on the campsite we were able to go ahead as planned.

Glamping Bell Tents

Cornish Glamping Bells is located near to Praa Sands in Cornwall, which is between Helston and the main town of Penzance. Close to the main Helston Road, the campsite is tucked away from the main road but close enough to access the coast. So much so, you can see the sea in the distance.

Set amongst peaceful farmland, the location boasts limited light pollution, which means you’re likely to spot shooting stars at night. The only sound you’ll hear is the crackling of the campfire (which, if you haven’t heard me talk about it already, is made out of an old washing machine drum!).

The campsite itself can sleep two families (2 adults, 2 children per tent) and is close to local beaches and towns. There’s a petrol station down the road, which stocks all the basics – including firewood and charcoal – and in the same direction is the most incredible Chip Shop. The beach is a 2-3 minute car journey or a 20-30 minute walk, and the main town is around 15/20 minutes away and features three main supermarkets.

It’s the most perfect location.

What’s On Site?

On the field are two bells tents and a permanent yurt where the kitchen and dining area is. Outside is the opportunity for further seating – one additional bench, logs for sitting around the campfire and a hammock – and there’s a delightful little wooded area down the bottom; tyre swing and woodland den included!

At the bottom of the hill is also where you’ll find the toilet shed and shower area, which was a pleasant surprise when we arrived! Plugged into the host’s property – which is at the other end of the field and feels completely separate to where you are – is a handy electric coolbox for chilled items.

In addition, there’s also off-street guest parking per tent, which is a short walk away from the main camping area.

The Yurt

Inside the yurt is where you will find the main kitchen area, which includes a gas cooker and all your kitchen needs – from pots and pans, plates, bowls and cutlery, to platters and utensils. It’s incredibly well-equipped! There’s also a seating area for family meals, and a rustic bar area for when the children are asleep!

It’s an incredibly spacious area and a welcome place when we had the occasional bit of drizzle. The area also boasts a generous sized ‘dry tent’ which offers a further table and storage. There’s also lots of goodies inside for the family to borrow throughout their stay, from body boards to garden games.

Finally, if you don’t fancy cooking on gas, why not give BBQ a go as there’s a Tripod BBQ available to use too!

The Bell Tents!

Although the outside space is gorgeous and rustic, it really is second to the Bell Tents themselves.

Let’s start with the important bit – the beds! Each bell tent has a double pallet bed, as well as the option for extra roll out beds for the children, although when we visited T had his own pallet bed as well which fit comfortably. Around the beds are thick rugs, as well as plenty of storage options in the form of crates. There’s also a generously stocked tray of goodies; from face masks and lotions, to a lantern and a fully charged battery pack (which the hosts are happy to charge and replace once empty).

There’s also further seating inside if the weather gets too much, as well as lots of soft furnishings such as blankets and throws scattered throughout.

If you haven’t guessed already, this was rustic camping heaven. Not only has everything been thought of, but it’s the little things that made a huge difference when it came to our experience. For example, if you forget to bring any entertainment with you, but don’t want to go outside – don’t worry – the hosts provide lots of things to entertain; from wooden games to magazines, inside the tent.

There’s also ample soft lighting throughout the campsite, but especially inside the tent, so don’t worry if you forget your torches.

The Shed and Shower Area

Going to Camp Bestival for the past few years, we’re pretty used to showering outside and visiting outdoor loos, but nothing quite prepared me for this.

Just like the yurt and the bell tents – the hosts have made their cleansing area just as beautiful as their living spaces. Outside, the shed is decorated accordingly, with rustic finishing touches such as solar lighting, chalkboards, and plants. Inside it’s even prettier, thanks to fairy lights, tiled and wooden flooring, and bathroom matts.

With plenty of room for the family to get changed after a shower, there’s also a selection of toiletries available to use. There’s also lots of useful extras; such as a large mirror and hooks to dry clothing. Visiting this area at night wasn’t as bad as expected, as the shed is surprisingly draught free.

The outdoor shower was new experience for me to say the least. Whilst you’re showering outside, you’re completely enclosed for privacy, making it relatively easy to use. The important thing to know though is that the shower is hot!

Local Area

As mentioned, there’s plenty to see and do in the local area, in addition to Penzance. There’s St. Michael’s Mount, which is a National Trust location, and is one of many National Trusts in the area. There’s also a number of beaches to explore and other places to walk and explore.

Driving past Penzance, you’ll eventually reach the famous Lands Ends, and in the other direction there’s Lizard Point! Other family attractions nearby include Flambards Theme Park, and if you’re on your way back to Sussex, Kent or London, then there’s the Eden Project.

For our first time Cornish Glamping, it certainly wasn’t a bad one. If anything, it’s made us want to come back and do it all over again. Whilst I enjoy pitching our own tent and decorating it, there’s certainly something about arriving with a pre-made tent with all the trimmings!

Our hosts; Donna & Harvey, were the best, and certainly made us feel welcome. It was a home away from home. I miss it already.

If you fancy booking, or checking out what else the Cornish Glamping Bells they have to offer, I’ve popped their details below:

Have you been Cornish Glamping before? Do you prefer Glamping to regular camping? If you’ve never done Glamping, why not?

Comment below!