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Festivals and outdoor events are all about atmosphere, flow, and guest experience. Whether you’re planning a small independent festival, a private celebration, or a multi-day outdoor event, bell tent hire offers a flexible, visually striking solution that works across a wide range of sites and event styles.

This guide explains how bell tents are commonly used at festivals and outdoor events, what to consider when planning layouts, and how to get the most from your setup.

Why Bell Tents Are Popular at Festivals

Bell tents have become a staple of festivals and outdoor gatherings because they strike the right balance between practicality and atmosphere. They:

• Create instant visual impact
• Feel welcoming and informal
• Work well on grass, fields, and temporary sites
• Can be installed in clusters or villages

Unlike rigid structures, bell tents support the relaxed, social feel that festivals are known for.

Common Festival & Outdoor Event Uses

Bell tents can serve many purposes at festivals and outdoor events. (You can find more examples across our event planning guides)

Guest Accommodation

One of the most common uses for bell tents at festivals is on-site accommodation. They’re ideal for:

• Crew and staff accommodation
• Artist or performer areas
• VIP guest camping
• Family-friendly festival zones

Providing comfortable on-site accommodation helps events run smoothly and reduces reliance on off-site hotels or transport.

Chill-Out & Social Spaces

Bell tents work exceptionally well as:

• Chill-out lounges
• Shaded daytime spaces
• Late-night social areas

Furnished with rugs, cushions, lighting, and low seating, they give guests somewhere to relax away from the main stages or busy areas.

Bars, Workshops & Activity Areas

At festivals and outdoor events, bell tents are often used for:

• Small bars or cocktail spaces
• Workshops and talks
• Creative or wellness sessions
• Quiet zones

Their circular shape naturally encourages interaction and conversation.

Bell Tents vs Traditional Festival Structures

While marquees and stretch tents still have their place, bell tents offer some clear advantages.

Atmosphere

Bell tents:

• Feel organic and intentional
• Blend naturally into outdoor settings
• Require minimal styling to look good

This makes them ideal for events that prioritise experience over formality.

Layout

Flexibility

Bell tents allow organisers to:

• Create villages or zones
• Spread guests across a site
• Avoid overcrowding in one central structure

This improves guest flow and overall comfort.

Practical Setup

Bell tents:

• Are quicker to install than complex builds
• Can adapt to uneven ground
• Work well alongside stages, food areas, and other structures

This flexibility is particularly valuable on temporary or rural sites.

Planning Bell Tent Hire for Festivals & Outdoor Events

Good planning makes all the difference.

Understand How Each Tent Will Be Used

Before booking, decide whether tents will be used for:

• Sleeping
• Socialising
• Staff or crew
• Activities or workshops

Clear planning ensures the right mix of tent sizes and layouts.

Consider Capacity & Spacing

​Bell tents work best when:

• Guest numbers are realistic
• Walkways between tents are planned
• Emergency access is considered

Multiple smaller tents usually work better than fewer large structures.

Think About Comfort & Facilities

Depending on the event, you may need:

• Flooring
• Lighting
• Heating
• Power access

An experienced hire company can advise on what’s appropriate for your site and audience.

Weather Planning for Outdoor Events

UK weather is unpredictable, but bell tents are designed for outdoor use.
High-quality bell tents are:

• Waterproof
• Well-ventilated
• Suitable for multi-day events

With the right setup, they remain comfortable across changing conditions.

When Bell Tent Hire Makes the Most Sense

Bell tent hire is particularly well suited to festivals and outdoor events when:

• You want to create a relaxed, social atmosphere
• Guests are staying on-site
• Visual appeal matters
• The site is temporary or rural

We regularly supply bell tents for festivals, as well as weddings and private celebrations corporate events, and brand activations.

Final Thoughts

Bell tent hire gives festival and outdoor event organisers a versatile way to create welcoming, functional spaces that enhance the overall experience. From accommodatibon and lounges to workshops and activity areas, bell tents adapt easily to the needs of modern outdoor events.

If you’re planning a festival or outdoor event and want to explore how bell tents could work for your site and audience, get in touch to discuss your plans.