A grassy backyard at sunset features a round metal firepit and grill, a hot tub with the Four Bells logo on the left, and a white geodesic dome tent on the right. Tall trees border this pet friendly, luxury glamping retreat under a partly cloudy sky.

Luxury Glamping with a Wagging Tail: A Stay at The Four Bells

If you’re looking for a countryside escape that combines the beauty of nature with the comforts of a boutique hotel, then The Four Bells Glamping near Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk should be at the top of your list. Nestled among peaceful fields and rolling countryside, this award-winning glamping retreat offers the perfect balance of relaxation, luxury and outdoor adventure.

A grassy campsite at The Four Bells features two large white canvas tents, a wooden hot tub, a central fire pit, and a long table with chairs. Enjoy luxury glamping in this peaceful, pet friendly outdoor setting framed by trees and blue sky.

I recently stayed in Santa Maria, the site’s dedicated dog-friendly bell tent, and from the moment I arrived, I knew this wasn’t going to be an ordinary camping trip. Designed with comfort and practicality in mind, Santa Maria offers everything you need for a memorable getaway while ensuring your four-legged companions are just as welcome as you are.

As a dog owner, one of my biggest concerns when travelling is knowing my dogs are safe. Santa Maria completely solved that worry with its fully enclosed private garden, allowing my dogs to explore, play and relax without any fear of escaping. It meant I could truly switch off and enjoy my holiday, knowing they were secure and happy.

Inside the beautifully furnished bell tent, every detail has been thoughtfully considered. The luxurious king-size bed was incredibly comfortable, dressed with quality bedding that made for a fantastic night’s sleep. Unlike traditional camping, there was electricity, Wi-Fi, a Smart TV and a cosy wood-burning stove, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, especially during the evening. After a day exploring the local area, lighting the log fire and curling up in such stylish surroundings felt wonderfully indulgent.

A man in a light blue shirt and white shorts stands at the entrance of a cream-colored tent at Four Bells, holding the door flaps. Inside this luxury glamping retreat, a cozy bed, sofa, dresser with jars and plant, and pet-friendly dog await.
A flat-screen TV on a wooden stand displays an image of gondolas at sunset in Venice, evoking the luxury glamping vibe of Four Bells. Three unlit candles sit to the left, with greenery outside the window’s geometric white frame.
A man in a pale blue shirt and hat sits on the edge of a bed inside a pet-friendly tent at The Four Bells, petting a large, curly-haired dog while a small dog lies beside them. White bedding, wooden furniture, and soft lighting complete this luxury glamping retreat.

A white outdoor bathtub fills with water beside a dark wooden wall at Four Bells Luxury Glamping. Wild plants and an open field stretch behind the tub under a clear evening sky, with fading sunlight on the horizon. Pet friendly for your furry companions.

Stepping outside revealed another highlight of the stay—a private hot tub. Surrounded by peaceful countryside, soaking in the warm water while listening to birdsong and watching the sun go down was nothing short of magical. It was the perfect place to unwind with a drink in hand and appreciate the tranquillity that makes Suffolk so special.

A glowing blue hot tub sits in the foreground at night. In the background, Four Bells’ cozy geodesic dome tent and pet friendly touches create a welcoming luxury glamping atmosphere, with string lights twinkling under the dark sky.
A woman with wet, wavy blonde hair and a subtle smile relaxes in a bright blue tub at Four Bells, enjoying a luxury glamping experience. She has light skin, defined eyebrows, and wears a delicate necklace. Green leaves and a wooden log set the outdoor scene.

The outdoor seating and fire pit added another dimension to the experience. As darkness fell, we enjoyed sitting around the fire beneath the stars, embracing the slower pace of life that glamping encourages. It offered all the charm of camping without sacrificing comfort.

Two cast iron pans sit over an open fire pit at The Four Bells luxury glamping site. One pan holds chunks of chicken, while the other contains sliced bell peppers and onions. Glowing red embers provide heat, with green grass and concrete in the background.

Although my stay in Santa Maria was unforgettable, The Four Bells Glamping offers several unique accommodation options to suit couples, families and groups. Alongside the dog-friendly Santa Maria are a selection of beautifully furnished luxury bell tents and glamping accommodation, each individually styled to create a memorable countryside retreat.

One of the features that really sets The Four Bells apart from many other glamping sites is the exceptional private bathroom facilities. Rather than sharing communal washrooms, every accommodation has its own dedicated toilet and shower room, offering guests privacy and convenience rarely found when camping. The bathrooms are modern, spotlessly clean and finished to a very high standard, adding to the feeling of luxury throughout the stay.

Modern restroom at The Four Bells with light wood flooring, two square vessel sinks on a wooden countertop, wall-mounted faucets, large mirror, beige lower wall tiles, and a white door. Recessed ceiling lights provide bright, even illumination. Pet friendly.

The site has been carefully designed to offer peace and privacy, with each tent positioned to make the most of the stunning Suffolk countryside. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, a family or with friends, there is an accommodation option to suit everyone.

The location is also ideal for exploring the historic town of Bury St Edmunds, with its beautiful Abbey Gardens, independent shops, restaurants and rich heritage, making it easy to combine countryside relaxation with sightseeing.

A man in a black shirt and dark pants sits on a wooden bench in front of a stone wall. His curly-haired light brown dog, with a wagging tail, sits on the grass. The outdoor scene features lush green grass and tall trees in the background.
A grand, spacious church nave with tall, white stone arches and wooden pews. The ceiling is dark wood with intricate patterns. Stained glass windows line the walls—an atmosphere as welcoming as a pet friendly Luxury glamping retreat.
A man in a blue vest stands on a pet-friendly sidewalk, holding a curly-haired dog’s leash. Behind him is a “DAVIDS Men’s Hairdressers” sign with scissors, parked cars line the street, and old-style buildings frame The Four Bells in the distance.

For dog owners, Santa Maria is a real gem. Finding accommodation that genuinely caters for pets can be difficult, but this glamping retreat goes above and beyond. The secure enclosed space meant my dogs had as much fun as I did, making the holiday enjoyable and completely stress-free.

Prices start from around £150 per night and stay the same all year round, with no price hikes in the summer, offering excellent value for such a luxurious experience. With king-size beds, private hot tubs, stylish interiors, dedicated private bathroom facilities and breathtaking surroundings, every detail has been carefully considered.

A cozy dome-shaped room at The Four Bells offers luxury glamping with a geometric white frame, plush bed, wooden sofa, faux fur throw, and a small plant on the bedside table—and it’s pet friendly too.

Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend away, a family break or a relaxing escape with your canine companions, The Four Bells Glamping delivers an unforgettable experience. It perfectly combines the charm of camping with the comforts of luxury accommodation, making it one of Suffolk’s hidden gems.

I left feeling refreshed, relaxed and already planning my next visit. For anyone wanting to experience glamping at its very best, Santa Maria and The Four Bells offer a truly special escape that exceeds expectations in every way.

Picture of Sue Moxley

Sue Moxley

Sue Moxley is Elysium Lifestyle Magazines Cofounder and Editor in Chief.

She is one of the UK's leading beauty experts. Starting her career as a photographic model, she worked her way around the world. This later led to her becoming a makeup artist on Photographic Shoots and TV Commercials and making up some of the worlds top celebrities.

Sue later became the Beauty Editor of the Sun Newspaper and launched her makeup brand “Famous” into Superdrug Stores Nationwide. She has presented several TV makeover shows and appeared on television as a beauty expert and regularly contributed to Netmums and The Huffington Post.

Sue progressed into Aesthetics and has clinics in Essex and Norfolk. Having always had a passion for anything Anti Ageing, she specialises in Anti Ageing Treatments and also in natural skincare treatments.

Her line of Pro Tools is available on her website and Amazon.

Few people in British beauty can claim to have lived every side of it. Sue has.

Learn More About Sue Moxley: Four Decades at the Top of British Beauty
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