Bell tents in Watergate Bay

For those looking to escape the crowds of Newquay, the golden sands of Watergate Bay lie just to the north. Life in Watergate Bay is all about the beach. Stroll along the sea cliffs, take to the water to swim or stand-up paddleboard, or enjoy kite-surfing along the 2-mile long sands, then grab dinner at a restaurant with views of the ocean. Summertime is peak season for swimmers and campers, with lifeguard patrols from May through September, and several campsites to choose from. For surfers, the biggest swells hit the shore in winter—just don’t forget your wetsuit!

97% (144)

Top-rated campgrounds

For those looking to escape the crowds of Newquay, the golden sands of Watergate Bay lie just to the north. Life in Watergate Bay is all about the beach. Stroll along the sea cliffs, take to the water to swim or stand-up paddleboard, or enjoy kite-surfing along the 2-mile long sands, then grab dinner at a restaurant with views of the ocean. Summertime is peak season for swimmers and campers, with lifeguard patrols from May through September, and several campsites to choose from. For surfers, the biggest swells hit the shore in winter—just don’t forget your wetsuit!

97% (144)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Pleasant Streams Farm Camping

91%

(70)

67 units · Tents, Glamping · St Austell, England

Lakeside camping with streams, rope swings and farmyard animals in rural Cornwall

2. Camp De Lank Cornwall

100%

(6)

35 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · St Breward, England

Bell tents and pitches close to Bodmin Moor and the Camel Trail

3. Glamp or Camp at Magical Mena Farm

100%

(63)

16 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Bodmin, Cornwall, South West England

Easily accessed camping on a 15-acre farm, with family facilities and a vast amount of wild space to explore

4. Stones and Stars Boutique Glamping

2 units · Glamping · England

Escape to "Stones and Stars" - a brand new boutique glamping site with 5-10 tents surrounded by nature in a peaceful quarry on the edge of two lakes. Named after the star Sirius, this 5m luxury Bell tent has comfy bedding and everything you need to reconnect with nature. Explore nearby sandy beaches, forests and the vibrant maritime city of Plymouth or the remote Dartmoor. Charming communal areas and brand new luxury showers and toilets. Nature, comfort and adventure awaits!

5. Ruby Country Camping

100%

(30)

6 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Highampton, England

A natural, spacious meadow campsite perfect for exploring North Devon and Cornwall

6. West Kellow Yurts

95%

(22)

8 units · Glamping · Cornwall, South West England

A small glamping site on a family farm in Cornwall, set just outside the idyllic seaside village of Polperro

7. Wylde Valley Camping

97%

(16)

132 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Bude, Cornwall, South West England

8. Surf Pods and Camping at Atlantic Farm

88%

(66)

50 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Bude, Cornwall, South West England

Glamping near Bude, with eye-catching eco-pods, a staggering treehouse for couples and traditional tent camping

9. Pattacott Farm

100%

(14)

31 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Cornwall, South West England

Simple Cornish camping on a working farm, within reach of Bude's beautiful beaches

10. Exclusive use Cornish Eco-Glamping

100%

(6)

4 units · Glamping · Liskeard, Cornwall, South West England

An exclusive-hire site for riverside wild glamping in an ancient Cornish woodland

11. Belle Camping Cornwall

100%

(26)

5 units · Glamping · Cornwall, South West England

Bell tents with sea views on the Lizard Peninsula

12. The Paddock Wildcamp Glamping

100%

(10)

4 units · Glamping · Cornwall, South West England

Adults-only bell tents on an off-grid site with campfires near the North Cornish coast

13. Ekopod Glamping Site Cornwall

100%

(3)

1 unit · Glamping · England

Come “glamping” in Cornwall at award winning Ekopod, where you can relax in our luxurious pods, nestled in a beautiful rural landscape. Our tranquil glamping site is the perfect escape. Situated in beautiful countryside on the edge of Bodmin Moor we are still close enough the A30 and Atlantic Highway to make us a perfect base for exploring Cornwall. For extra relaxation, a wild spa is available to book on site (extra cost). During the day explore the North Cornwall beaches, or head to Bude, Boscastle, Tintagel, Port Isaac or The Eden Project. At night head back to your beautiful tent for alfresco dining by your stream and enjoy views of the milky way in this dark skies area.

14. Coastal Glamping @ Tregantle Farm

100%

(13)

3 units · Glamping · Cornwall, South West England

Quiet bell tent glamping within walking distance of Sharrow Beach and Whitsand Bay.

15. Foxglove Field (adults only)

88%

(8)

3 units · Glamping · Cornwall, South West England

Boutique, adult-only, glamping in Cornwall, within walking distance of Marazion and St. Michael's Mount

16. Heydaze Camp

5 units · Glamping · England

Hobby Farm with converted barn and outbuildings. Alpacas, hens, geese, ducks, quail. Dogs. Small natural spring fed lake.

17. Halgarrack Farm Hideaway

2 units · Glamping · Redruth, Cornwall, South West England

We are an informal and friendly site in a gorgeous part of Cornwall. These bell tents are located in a peaceful five-acre field, so there's ample space to spread out, explore and play. The field faces the west, so it catches lots of sunlight and is a great spot for watching the sky light up in pinks and oranges as the sun sets in the evening Sustainability and nature is at the heart of what we do here, so we wanted to find a way that we could make your stay unique and eco friendly without compromising on comfort. We have turned a horsebox into a shower block complete with a composting loo! Everything you see on the site has been made from upcycled and repurposed materials. All of the tents are decorated slightly differently with vintage and antique pieces, making them truly unique and one-off! This farm is centrally located, making all of Cornwall very easy to explore. Both the north and south coasts of the county can be reached in about a quarter of an hour, so you can nip up to Gwithian to catch the surf before heading south to the much-loved foodie town of Porthleven.

18. Cornish Skies Glamping At Chy Mor

5 units · Glamping · Redruth, Cornwall, South West England

Well set-up bell tents on a smallholding in Cornwall

19. Soul Meadow Glamping

2 units · Glamping · St. Agnes, Cornwall, South West England

A secluded Bell Tent set in two scenic acres of meadow in St Agnes, Cornwall. Exclusive use, with walking distance to the beach and coast, excellent pubs/restaurants, cafe and village amenities. Glampers have private use of the entire meadow and facilities, with parking. The meadow is vehicle free. Just park up at the site entrance (hard standing) and borrow a wheelbarrow to trundle your luggage. It’s a 30 metre walk from your car. There is a private bathroom with flushing toilet, basin, mirror and shower. Also a tap outside with basic open air washing up area. The tent is very spacious, sleeps 2 people with room to relax. It comes with real beds, bedding, lighting, kitchen equipment, stove, a picnic table. Beds are made up before you arrive. There is no electricity, but a power station can be supplied to charge devices. The emphasis is on a quiet natural stay, a great based to access to the vibrant village of St Agnes and surrounding areas. If you want to embrace outdoor life and unplug it will suit you.

Camper favorites in and near Watergate Bay

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Ekopod Glamping Site Cornwall

100%

(3)

1 unit · Glamping · England

Come “glamping” in Cornwall at award winning Ekopod, where you can relax in our luxurious pods, nestled in a beautiful rural landscape. Our tranquil glamping site is the perfect escape. Situated in beautiful countryside on the edge of Bodmin Moor we are still close enough the A30 and Atlantic Highway to make us a perfect base for exploring Cornwall. For extra relaxation, a wild spa is available to book on site (extra cost). During the day explore the North Cornwall beaches, or head to Bude, Boscastle, Tintagel, Port Isaac or The Eden Project. At night head back to your beautiful tent for alfresco dining by your stream and enjoy views of the milky way in this dark skies area.

Coastal Glamping @ Tregantle Farm

100%

(13)

3 units · Glamping · Cornwall, South West England

Quiet bell tent glamping within walking distance of Sharrow Beach and Whitsand Bay.

Foxglove Field (adults only)

88%

(8)

3 units · Glamping · Cornwall, South West England

Boutique, adult-only, glamping in Cornwall, within walking distance of Marazion and St. Michael's Mount

Heydaze Camp

5 units · Glamping · England

Hobby Farm with converted barn and outbuildings. Alpacas, hens, geese, ducks, quail. Dogs. Small natural spring fed lake.

Halgarrack Farm Hideaway

2 units · Glamping · Redruth, Cornwall, South West England

We are an informal and friendly site in a gorgeous part of Cornwall. These bell tents are located in a peaceful five-acre field, so there's ample space to spread out, explore and play. The field faces the west, so it catches lots of sunlight and is a great spot for watching the sky light up in pinks and oranges as the sun sets in the evening Sustainability and nature is at the heart of what we do here, so we wanted to find a way that we could make your stay unique and eco friendly without compromising on comfort. We have turned a horsebox into a shower block complete with a composting loo! Everything you see on the site has been made from upcycled and repurposed materials. All of the tents are decorated slightly differently with vintage and antique pieces, making them truly unique and one-off! This farm is centrally located, making all of Cornwall very easy to explore. Both the north and south coasts of the county can be reached in about a quarter of an hour, so you can nip up to Gwithian to catch the surf before heading south to the much-loved foodie town of Porthleven.

Cornish Skies Glamping At Chy Mor

5 units · Glamping · Redruth, Cornwall, South West England

Well set-up bell tents on a smallholding in Cornwall

Soul Meadow Glamping

2 units · Glamping · St. Agnes, Cornwall, South West England

A secluded Bell Tent set in two scenic acres of meadow in St Agnes, Cornwall. Exclusive use, with walking distance to the beach and coast, excellent pubs/restaurants, cafe and village amenities. Glampers have private use of the entire meadow and facilities, with parking. The meadow is vehicle free. Just park up at the site entrance (hard standing) and borrow a wheelbarrow to trundle your luggage. It’s a 30 metre walk from your car. There is a private bathroom with flushing toilet, basin, mirror and shower. Also a tap outside with basic open air washing up area. The tent is very spacious, sleeps 2 people with room to relax. It comes with real beds, bedding, lighting, kitchen equipment, stove, a picnic table. Beds are made up before you arrive. There is no electricity, but a power station can be supplied to charge devices. The emphasis is on a quiet natural stay, a great based to access to the vibrant village of St Agnes and surrounding areas. If you want to embrace outdoor life and unplug it will suit you.

Stories from the community

M

Melody

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Belle Camping Cornwall

The bell tent was wonderful and the whole site is well designed and kitted out. The views of the Lizard from the campsite are beautiful and there is easy access to both the coast path and the nearby villages. Michelle and the site guys were friendly and helpful. Belle camping exceeded our expectations. And the Friday night pizza was amazing!

A

Amara

August 2025

4 nights at Belle Camping Cornwall

Glamping at Belle vue was amazing! We had such a wonderful holiday. The campsite is beautiful and Michelle and everyone there were wonderful hosts thank you so much

G

Georgina

August 2025

With pets

4 nights at Exclusive use Cornish Eco-Glamping

Staying on Phil's land was an entirely wonderful experience. The camp has been thoughtfully built and has everything that you need for a great camping experience. Phil was friendly and helpful and is clearly managing the area in a very responsible, conservation focused way. We will 100% be back and would 100% recommend it to anyone!! Thank you very much Phil!

C

CeriJones

August 2025

Weekend Trip to The Paddock Wildcamp Glamping

Absolutely lovely long weekend. The tents were so clean and cwtchy. Ren was very lovely and easily contactable if needed. Short drive away from Perraporth. My boyfriend and I loved our stay and will definitely be coming back! Thank you again Ren!

M

Michaela

August 2025

With pets

1 night at Belle Camping Cornwall

We had the most wonderful stay glamping in the beautiful bell tent! From the moment we arrived, Michelle gave us a fantastic welcome – she was incredibly accommodating and full of helpful local knowledge about the area. The tent itself was perfect – warm, spotlessly clean, and really well set up. It felt like a cosy home-away-from-home, and we settled in straight away. The surrounding area was absolutely stunning, with the tent fields overlooking the breathtaking Cornish coast – waking up to that view was truly special. Our dogs loved it too! They settled in quickly and had such a lovely time exploring. The location is ideal – just a short distance from Cadgwith Cove, the Lizard Peninsula, and the iconic Kynance Cove. One of the great added touches was the on-site catering van, which served up delicious breakfasts and evening meals – super convenient and tasty! We can’t recommend this place highly enough. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and full of thoughtful touches that made our stay extra special. Thank you so much for having us, Michelle – we’ll definitely be back!

K

Kaleigh

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Ekopod Glamping Site Cornwall

This is a beautiful site in a beautiful location but if you’re staying in the bell tent then wrap up! We stayed in August and everything is still damp and wet in there. I didn’t meet the hosts, but thankyou for a peaceful weekend!

C

Claudia

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at Belle Camping Cornwall

Michelle's beautiful bell tent is well named. She was the perfect host, provided in the tent everything you could want.. lights, games a barbecue too! we'd forgotten our coffee pot.. but not to worry, she provided everything a camp chef would need! The tent came with a toolbox too and she refreshed the ice boxes for us daily too. Lovely beds and setting was perfect..wr watched tje moonrise over the sea just across the field with her tip off, stunning. Great tips on where to swim etc.. the flushing toilet is a treat too! Car can be parked next to tent for extra convenience. Good vibes and comfort too!

R

Rosalind

August 2025

With pets

4 nights at Glamp or Camp at Magical Mena Farm

The bell tents are beautiful and come with everything you need - pots, pans, a kettle, a stove and cool box. Tent looks out over playground and children loved it. Campsite is high up with gorgeous views but can be windy so bring warm clothes! Will return!

The Lilly Pad -Emperor Bell Tent next to lake

Nicole

August 2025

With kids

7 nights at Pleasant Streams Farm Camping

Very spacious, quiet, well maintained campsite. The bell tent was very well equipped and the outside kitchen covered with a tarp was very convenient. Everyday frozen cooling elements are provided for the cool box. Great service! Lesley and Tony were super friendly and helpful. The kids had lots of fun playing and could wander on their own around the campsite. Can recommend staying here!

K

Kezia

August 2025

3 nights at Ekopod Glamping Site Cornwall

We had a great time staying in Tylda at Ecopods. An absolute beautiful location right down on the river. The bed was big and very comfortable and the amenities in the barn were great. A great location for a base especially if you have a car but even if you don't St Clether holy well is only about 20 mins walk. For anyone staying in Tylda just a warning that it's down quite a steep slope so bear that in mind when packing 😊

M

Margareth

July 2025

3 nights at Belle Camping Cornwall

Nice campsite with only four bell tents. Cosy and Nice ! Clean bathrooms and hot showers. Great food truck on campsite.

M

Murren

July 2025

3 nights at The Paddock Wildcamp Glamping

What a lovely gem of a campsite! We came with quite a few things that we didn't need when we found how well laid out and stocked the campsite is! Ren is a lovely host and was very helpful during our three night stay. If you are looking for a bit of peace and quiet within walking distance of Perranporth and their gorgeous beaches then stay here!

s

simon

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Belle Camping Cornwall

From the first message, Michelle was so accommodating. The directions (including helpful pics) were spot on. On arrival the tent was lovely, clean and well equipped. The views across the field to the sea were spectacular. There are ‘proper’ toilets and showers exclusively for the glamping tents. The food van ‘coastal cravings’ was a lovely touch. I had pizza the 1st night and Mac n cheese (with pulled pork) the 2nd! Then a full English for breakfast both mornings! Proper glamping!! The site is a very short walk from the SW coastal path for the walkers out there. Lizard one way and Cadgwith the other. Beautiful views which ever way you turn. Be prepared for hills. They can be steep. Although the pub and lobster rolls at the bottom of the hill to Cadgwith will make it worthwhile! Thank you Michelle (and Will) for being so welcoming.

K

Kirstie

June 2025

2 nights at Ekopod Glamping Site Cornwall

Tranquil and private. Very comfortable. Just lovely.

A

Ashley

May 2025

3 nights at Belle Camping Cornwall

Beautiful belle tents in an even more beautiful setting. If you are looking to explore south Cornwall then you would do well to stay here. Fantastic hosts who not only provide outstanding camping & glamping services but also operate an amazing food truck onsite too. Waking up to a beautiful scene with a bacon sandwich & great coffee made my stay!

M

Maddie

May 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Belle Camping Cornwall

Michelle is an incredibly helpful woman with an amazing campsite? We stayed in one of the belle tents and would absolutely come again! It’s right on the coastal path and a beautiful short walk to the closest village. The catering van is open breakfast, lunch and dinner which is super convenient and the amenities are cleaned daily.

J

Jack

May 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Exclusive use Cornish Eco-Glamping

From start to finish, an amazing experience in a quaint, secluded setting. Phil was a top bloke and ran us through the set up on arrival. 100% would recommend 👍

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Bell tents in Watergate Bay guide

Where to go

Northwest Coast

West of Watergate, Cornwall’s north coast is wild and windswept. The surf Mecca of Newquay is one of the region’s busiest hubs, while further south, St Ives is surrounded by sandy beaches and seaside holiday parks. Coastal hikes don’t come more spectacular than the South West Coast Path, which runs the entire length of the Cornish coast.

Northeast Coast

Sweeping headlands and rocky coves line the coast east of Watergate Bay. Enjoy sea-cliff walks along the Trevose Head Heritage Coast, spot sea-birds swooping along the shore, or take in the views from Pentire Point. Further north, discover the legacy of King Arthur at Tintagel Castle or hike up the High Cliff, Cornwall’s highest point.

South Coast

St Austell, Falmouth, and Fowey are the headline acts of the ‘Cornish Riviera’, a 30-minute drive south of Watergate Bay. Camping options range from family-friendly holiday parks to glamping in a luxury yurt, but whichever you choose, the beach is never far away. Don’t miss a visit to the Eden Project, famed for its giant rainforest biomes.

Bodmin Moors

Misty moorlands and ancient standing stones tempt intrepid hikers away from the coast to the Bodmin Moors. Visit in the summertime to hike amid fields of purple heather, picnic by Golitha Falls, then pitch your tent at a hillside camping ground. Look out for native ponies grazing the hillsides along the way.