Camping & Bell Tents

Canal Camping
Luxury waterside campsite & bell tents beside a quiet canal at Dilham Hall Retreats

If you’re staying in your own tent or trailer tent, enjoy the freedom and privacy of a spacious pitch. (We don’t demarcate the pitches.)

Or perhaps you’re thinking of hiring one of our family-size bell tents with fire pit and cooking utensils, table and chairs, and complete sets of bedding..

Bell tent dimensions are: Floor 28.3m2 (area), 6m (diameter); Centre pole 3.m (height); A-frame door 2.3m (width), 1.8m (height).

Experience Comfort by the Lakeside

However you choose to set up camp, we’ll provide the comfort and convenience of:

Immaculately maintained toilet facilities
Hot-water showers
Outdoor washing-up sinks
Rubbish bins for recycling and general waste
On-tap drinking water
Brazier for your campfire, with wood available to purchase on site
Launch site for your own canoe / SUP for gratuity donation of £5 / boat to help maintain the canal for the future
Hire a canoe for £50 per day (this can be included when booking or on the day)

There’s no extra cost for these provisions.

Escape to Waterside Campsite in the Heart of the Norfolk Broads

Situated in the heart of the Norfolk Broads, Canal Camping is a long way from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There are lots of footpaths and cycle tracks that can be picked up close by, and if you fancy getting a close look at water wildlife, why not hire a canoe and paddle around the local waterways. You might even spot a kingfisher.

We welcome well-behaved dogs, but we ask that they’re kept on a lead whilst on site. There’s a one-off payment of £5 per dog for the duration of your stay.

Minimum booking for camping bell tents: three nights (during off-peak season, two nights)

Check Availability

Our Story

Dilham Hall Retreats, owned by the Paterson family since 1949, offers a serene and sustainable countryside getaway in Norfolk. Luke and Louise Paterson, fourth-generation farmers, focus on eco-friendly farming and conservation, making the farm carbon-negative and producing green energy.

Dilham Hall Retreats provides a variety of nature-focused accommodations, including couples’ glamping, family glamping, and canal-side camping. Guests can enjoy a peaceful escape while reconnecting with the beauty of nature in a sustainable and tranquil environment.

Why Choose Camping Bell Tents at Dilham Hall Retreats?

Dilham Hall Retreats offers a perfect blend of nature and comfort with their spacious and cozy camping bell tents. Set in a serene part of Norfolk’s countryside, these tents provide privacy and relaxation for solo travelers, couples, or groups. Guests can explore the natural beauty of the area, enjoy outdoor activities like canoeing, or simply unwind in the peaceful surroundings.

With a focus on sustainability and a carbon-negative footprint, your stay supports eco-friendly practices while offering an authentic connection to nature. Relax, recharge, and let Norfolk’s beauty rejuvenate you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are pets allowed at Dilham Hall Retreats?

Yes, we welcome well-behaved dogs at the retreat. Dogs must be kept on a lead while on-site, and there is a one-off payment of £5 per dog for the duration of your stay to ensure a pet-friendly environment for all guests.

How large are the camping bell tents?

Our camping bell tents are generously sized, offering 28.3m² of floor space with a diameter of 6 meters. The center pole stands at 3 meters tall, while the A-frame door is 2.3 meters wide and 1.8 meters high, providing plenty of room for families or groups to enjoy.

What activities are available at the retreat?

Our waterside campsite offers a range of outdoor activities, including canoeing, paddleboarding, cycling, and walking trails. The nearby Norfolk Broads are perfect for exploring wildlife and enjoying peaceful scenic views. Canoes are available for hire, and there’s also a launch site for those bringing their own.

Can I bring my own canoe or paddleboard?

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own canoe or stand-up paddleboard (SUP). We have a launch site available for a gratuity donation of £5 per boat, which helps maintain the canal for future use.

Can I hire a canoe at Dilham Hall Retreats?

Absolutely! Canoes are available for hire at £50 per day. You can book this option in advance or upon arrival, allowing you to explore the peaceful waterways and wildlife, including the chance to spot a kingfisher.

Are campfires allowed at the campsite?

Yes, you can enjoy campfires during your stay. We provide a brazier for campfires, and you can purchase wood directly from our site to create a warm and cozy atmosphere as you relax by the canal.

How do I book a stay at the Canal Camping site?

You can easily book your stay online through our website. Choose from our available camping options, including bringing your own tent or staying in our fully equipped camping bell tents. Book early to secure your ideal dates for a peaceful, nature-filled retreat!