Find the Top Tent Types Used in the UK

Jun 13, 2025

Think Brits love talking about the weather? Try tents. The tunnel tent tops the UK charts—roomy, rainproof, reliable. But with everything from speedy pop-ups to cosy glamping pods or tents, there’s more to the story. Want the best fit for your next trip? Let’s pitch into it.

The Clear Winner: Why the Dome Tent Reigns Supreme

What Makes the Dome Tent So Popular?

Dome tents remain a firm favourite in the UK. Known for their reliable structure and resilience in rough weather, they’re built to handle everything from wind to snow.

Their curved shape helps shed rain and snow while maintaining stability. It's no surprise they're one of the most trusted designs on the market.

They suit casual campers and regular adventurers alike.

Beige canvas bell tent with mesh front doors and arched windows, pitched on a grassy area and shown on a white background.

Unbeatable Versatility: From Backyards to Campgrounds

The dome tent’s simple pole structure makes pitching it quick and straightforward. Whether you're camping with mates or setting up in your garden with the kids, it gets the job done without stress.

Its flexible design allows use in a wide range of environments.

Key Strengths: Ease of Setup, Affordability, and Freestanding Design

Dome tents are freestanding, meaning they don’t need to be pegged down to hold shape. This makes them ideal for uneven ground or quick setup.

They’re also typically more affordable than more complex tent types. Add in their low weight and compact packed size, and you’ve got a solid all-rounder.

Common Use Cases for a Dome Tent

Perfect for weekend trips, festivals, or beginner-friendly stays at established campsites. You’ll often find them used by solo campers, couples, and small families.

Some models even offer porches or small awnings for extra storage.

Beyond the Dome: Defining Popularity by Camping Style

For Family & Car Camping: The Rise of the Cabin Tent

Family tents focus on comfort, space, and easy living. Cabin tents offer tall ceilings, multiple rooms, and layout flexibility, making them ideal for car camping.

Many glamping tents and pods borrow from this design—focusing on luxurious touches and home-like convenience.

Waterproof materials, strong poles, and quick-pitch systems make setup less of a chore.

For Backpacking & Thru-Hiking: The Focus on Ultralight Tents

Backpackers need lightweight and compact tents. Every gram counts when you’re hiking for days.

Ultralight tents use strong yet minimal materials. Many pack down to the size of a large water bottle.

Despite their small size, they’re durable and fast to pitch—especially handy when you're setting up in rain or fading light.

For Large Groups & European Camping: The Appeal of the Tunnel Tent

Tunnel tents are a hit across Europe, especially in regions with unpredictable weather like Scotland or Northern Ireland.

They provide excellent internal space with headroom to stand. Ventilation is usually strong, reducing condensation on wet nights.

Setup takes a little longer than dome tents, but the extra comfort is worth it for longer stays or family trips.

Other Widely-Used Tent Types to Know

The A-Frame (or Ridge Tent): The Classic Design

The A-frame tent is the traditional camping silhouette—straightforward and dependable.

It offers a stable structure but has less internal space and headroom than modern designs. Still, it’s appreciated for its retro charm and simplicity.

You’ll see it less commonly now, but it's still a viable option for light-duty camping.

The Pop-Up (or Instant Tent): The Ultimate in Convenience

Pop-up tents are all about speed. Twist, toss, and you’re done.

They’re popular with festival-goers and spontaneous campers who prioritise convenience. While they don’t offer much in the way of durability, they shine for one-night stays or summer weekends.

Their small packed size makes them easy to transport.

Beige canvas glamping tent with large clear windows and open entrance, set up on a green field with bare trees in the background.

The Geodesic Tent: The Choice for Extreme Weather

Geodesic tents use overlapping poles to form a dome-like structure. They’re exceptionally strong and handle high winds or snow with ease.

Common among mountaineers and cold-weather explorers, they offer security in extreme environments.

They are heavier and more expensive, so not ideal for casual trips—but a must for high-stakes adventures.

So, Which Tent Type is Right For You?

Assessing Your Primary Camping Needs

First, decide what you need most—comfort, portability, or weather resistance. Are you solo, with family, or going off-grid?

Think about how often you’ll camp, and how far you’ll carry your gear.

Balancing Space, Weight, and Weather Resistance

Dome tents offer a balanced mix of features. Tunnel tents excel in space and weather protection. Pop-ups are great for occasional use.

Glamping tents and pods? Perfect when comfort is the top priority.

There’s no one-size-fits-all—but there is a best fit for your lifestyle.

Rectangular canvas glamping tent with open front and cosy interior setup including seating and pouffes, pitched in a dry grassy area surrounded by pine trees.

Matching the Most Popular Style to Your Adventure

Short hike? Grab a lightweight trekking tent. Festival? Go pop-up. Rainy group trip? Tunnel tent.

And if you're craving a touch of luxury, glamping pods and canvas bell tents bring comfort without ditching nature.

Choose smart, pack light (or pack luxe), and enjoy the adventure ahead.

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