A GUIDE TO WILD CAMPING
IN THE UK
IN THE UK
Holiday accommodation is expensive these days, isn’t it? Soaring room rates, cleaning fees, and booking fees - it all adds up. There must be an antidote – an inflation-proof, supply and demand defying solution out there.
What if we told you there was a million-star hotel without the price-tag - a promised land where the cost of a night’s stay was the same as a please and a thank you. This place we speak of, ladies and gentlemen, is wild camping.
Say sayonara to inconvenient check out times because wild camping offers a unique way to connect with the natural world and enables you to bed down amongst breathtaking landscapes, from rugged coastlines to tranquil forests and rolling hills. We’ve created this handy guide which explores the essentials of wild camping in the UK, including legalities, equipment, safety tips, and the best places to pitch your tent. Enjoy your stay.
What if we told you there was a million-star hotel without the price-tag - a promised land where the cost of a night’s stay was the same as a please and a thank you. This place we speak of, ladies and gentlemen, is wild camping.
Say sayonara to inconvenient check out times because wild camping offers a unique way to connect with the natural world and enables you to bed down amongst breathtaking landscapes, from rugged coastlines to tranquil forests and rolling hills. We’ve created this handy guide which explores the essentials of wild camping in the UK, including legalities, equipment, safety tips, and the best places to pitch your tent. Enjoy your stay.
UNDERSTANDING THE LEGALITIES
While wild camping is legal in Scotland under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, it is generally not permitted in other parts of the UK without landowner permission. Always research the area you plan to visit and respect the guidelines in place to preserve the environment and be sure to seek permission.
While wild camping is legal in Scotland under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, it is generally not permitted in other parts of the UK without landowner permission. Always research the area you plan to visit and respect the guidelines in place to preserve the environment and be sure to seek permission.
ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT:
a) Tent: Choose a lightweight, waterproof tent suitable for the unpredictable UK weather. Ensure it is easy to set up and durable enough to withstand varying conditions.
b) Sleeping bag and mat: Invest in a good quality sleeping bag suitable for the season. A sleeping mat or pad adds insulation and comfort.
c) Cooking equipment: A portable stove, cooking utensils, and lightweight pots and pans are essential for preparing meals in the great outdoors.
d) Navigation tools: Carry a map, compass, and, if possible, a GPS device to navigate unfamiliar terrain.
e) Clothing and footwear: Pack appropriate clothing for the season, including waterproof outer layers, warm layers, and sturdy boots for hiking.
f) Lighting: A headlamp or torch is crucial for manoeuvring around camp during the night.
g) First aid kit: Carry a well-stocked first aid kit with essentials like plasters, bandages, antiseptic, and any personal medications.
a) Tent: Choose a lightweight, waterproof tent suitable for the unpredictable UK weather. Ensure it is easy to set up and durable enough to withstand varying conditions.
b) Sleeping bag and mat: Invest in a good quality sleeping bag suitable for the season. A sleeping mat or pad adds insulation and comfort.
c) Cooking equipment: A portable stove, cooking utensils, and lightweight pots and pans are essential for preparing meals in the great outdoors.
d) Navigation tools: Carry a map, compass, and, if possible, a GPS device to navigate unfamiliar terrain.
e) Clothing and footwear: Pack appropriate clothing for the season, including waterproof outer layers, warm layers, and sturdy boots for hiking.
f) Lighting: A headlamp or torch is crucial for manoeuvring around camp during the night.
g) First aid kit: Carry a well-stocked first aid kit with essentials like plasters, bandages, antiseptic, and any personal medications.
SAFETY TIPS:
a) Notify someone: Inform a friend or family member about your camping plans, including your intended location and duration of the trip.
b) Pitch your tent wisely: Choose a flat and elevated spot to avoid potential flooding. Avoid fragile or protected habitats and consider wind direction.
c) Leave no trace: Respect nature and leave your camping spot as you found it. Dispose of waste properly, including human waste, using biodegradable bags and burying it at least 30 cm deep.
d) Be aware of wildlife: Familiarize yourself with any local wildlife, such as snakes or ticks, and take appropriate precautions. Store food securely to avoid attracting animals
e) Check the weather: Monitor weather forecasts before and during your trip. Be prepared for changing conditions and adjust your plans accordingly
f) Water sources: Carry enough water or bring a water filtration system to purify water from streams or rivers. Do not contaminate water sources
a) Notify someone: Inform a friend or family member about your camping plans, including your intended location and duration of the trip.
b) Pitch your tent wisely: Choose a flat and elevated spot to avoid potential flooding. Avoid fragile or protected habitats and consider wind direction.
c) Leave no trace: Respect nature and leave your camping spot as you found it. Dispose of waste properly, including human waste, using biodegradable bags and burying it at least 30 cm deep.
d) Be aware of wildlife: Familiarize yourself with any local wildlife, such as snakes or ticks, and take appropriate precautions. Store food securely to avoid attracting animals
e) Check the weather: Monitor weather forecasts before and during your trip. Be prepared for changing conditions and adjust your plans accordingly
f) Water sources: Carry enough water or bring a water filtration system to purify water from streams or rivers. Do not contaminate water sources
BEST PLACES FOR WILD CAMPING IN THE UK:
a) Scottish Highlands: Scotland offers some of the most stunning wild camping opportunities, particularly in the Highlands. The Cairngorms National Park and the Isle of Skye are popular choices.
b) Lake District: With its picturesque lakes and majestic mountains, the Lake District in England is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Areas like Wasdale and Langdale are great for wild camping.
c) Snowdonia National Park: In Wales, Snowdonia National Park offers breathtaking scenery, rugged peaks, and beautiful lakes. Camp near Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales.
d) Dartmoor National Park: In the heart of Devon, Dartmoor National Park allows wild camping with certain restrictions. Explore the open moorland and discover its hidden gems.
e) Brecon Beacons National Park: In South Wales, Brecon Beacons National Park offers stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and rolling hills, making it an excellent spot for wild camping.
a) Scottish Highlands: Scotland offers some of the most stunning wild camping opportunities, particularly in the Highlands. The Cairngorms National Park and the Isle of Skye are popular choices.
b) Lake District: With its picturesque lakes and majestic mountains, the Lake District in England is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Areas like Wasdale and Langdale are great for wild camping.
c) Snowdonia National Park: In Wales, Snowdonia National Park offers breathtaking scenery, rugged peaks, and beautiful lakes. Camp near Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales.
d) Dartmoor National Park: In the heart of Devon, Dartmoor National Park allows wild camping with certain restrictions. Explore the open moorland and discover its hidden gems.
e) Brecon Beacons National Park: In South Wales, Brecon Beacons National Park offers stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and rolling hills, making it an excellent spot for wild camping.