Beyond by Gelert Meridian 8 Family Tunnel Tent - Apologies Out Of Stock

This really is a monster of an 8 person family tent, and the main difference between this and the 'Corvus' is the layout, and internal space. Despite the frames sturdy looking it is not constructed of tubular metal, but light weight fibre glass. The layout is 4+2+2 and even with all berths in place, it's got a whopping 7.6m² of communal space. Should the weather turn out a disappointment, then not only do you have plenty of room to hide out in, but with 5000mm hydrostatic head protection, even in a squall you are going to be snug as a bug in a rug with the fullest protection form the rain.

Assembly of such a large tent is made easier with colour coded poles (how long did it take tent manufacturers to figure that one out!). It is made from quality materials, so it is robust and more importantly, it's durable and although it's not exactly cheap, you are getting your money's worth. When the sun is out you can relax under one of the two panel doorways that can be converted into sun canopies. Additional features include a fire retardant polyester fly sheet, electric cable access point; and multiple ventilation points.

Vango Colorado 800 DLX Family Tent - 2010 Model - £319.99 - Apologies Out Of Stock

This 8 man tent is from the new Vango 2010 range which incorporates a highly protected fully sewn in ground sheet. The layout (4+2+2) means that when you do open the porch up(if it's not raining), you get a massive communal space for socialising cooking, and basically having a good time. The tent is erected by flysheet first, which is a relatively new, and arguably better way of doing things.

Both of the two doors have insect mesh which is a bonus in these days of wind blown mosquitoes. For those concerned about the weather, there is 3000mm hydrostatic head protection to keep the rain at bay, and if the weather is a bit inclement, you can enjoy the view through the tents many windows.

The setting up of the tent is aided with a colour coded pole system, and the average set up time is 35 minutes. Inner berths can be removed for extra space if there are not 8 people in the tent and the pre-angled fibreglass pole make the tent lightweight for storage and transportation. It also comes with a repair kit, which is an added bonus that some manufacturers neglect.