Wild camping offers the perfect escape. Leave the crowds and the noise behind, reconnect with nature and discover your very own private spot. The choice of view is unlimited! The laws of wild camping are different in each party of the country – for example, wild camping is generally legal in Scotland, but in England, Wales and Northern Ireland it is only legal if you obtain the landowner’s permission. Failure to ask permission can result in punishment in the UK, such as a fine. Is wild camping safe? Look out for wildlife signs on nearby roads to be aware of any animal habitats in the area, particularly in mating or nesting seasons. The right to roam law allows you full access to public land provided you are respectful to nature and leave no trace behind. In addition, there are two specific rules international visitors should be aware of. Lake Ringedalsvatnet on the Trolltunga hiking trail. The number-one rule for responsible wild camping is ‘leave no trace’: your camping spot should look exactly the same when you leave it as on arrival.

If you’re just cooking dehydrated food you won’t need to bring pots and pans as you just need to add boiling water. But if you want to cook a larger feast, you’ll need some pots and pans. However, I’d steer clear of these wherever possible, because they take up a lot of space. You’ll always need cutlery though so don’t forget that! But at its heart, camping is supposed to be about simplicity and getting closer to nature. That’s what wild camping offers, and in these unsettling times, that’s never been more important. Is wild camping legal? Now a map and compass aren’t always necessary, depending on where you’re wild camping, but if you’re doing a particularly challenging hike, you won’t want to leave home without these in your wild camping kit list. This compass comes complete with full instructions so if you don’t already know how to use one, why not use this as a good opportunity to learn? You must stay at least 150 metres away from private property, such as inhabited houses, cabins or private campgrounds. You can also not stay in the same place for more than one night.

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The roads will be snow and ice covered. Get the best winter tyres for your vehicle and remember snow chains which are compulsory on some roads. It’s also vitally important to let someone know where you are planning to go – even if it’s just a rough location. Where should I camp? But no matter where you’re heading, you’re bound to have a great time, so long as you’re properly prepared and ready to face the elements! After a few hours of tiring yourself out ploughing through the countryside, you need to find somewhere to sleep. This is the important bit. You’re looking for some flat, dry ground in a discreet and sheltered place as far away from the footpath as possible. A water source nearby would be handy and, of course, a wonderful view in the morning would be perfect, but it’s not essential. Focus on all the other factors first. The only place you can legally wild camp in the UK is in Scotland and in Dartmoor (although there are some restrictions – more details here).

Wild Guide Lake District and Yorkshire Dales (inspiring book with lots of adventure ideas in the region)But if you do decide to light a fire, make sure it’s done as safely as possible. Pay attention to No Campfire signs and never build it on vegetation; instead scatter some gravel, dirt or sand to create a fire bed. Gather fuel – twigs and branches – from the surrounding area but never cut anything from trees or bushes. Let the fire burn out completely to lessen the impact on the environment. National Express also run coaches to various towns in the Lake District. Parking in the Lake District In this wild camping Lake District guide, I will cover everything you need to know to get you started. My goal is to get more people outdoors adventuring…so I hope my advice will make that a little easier! Dartmoor National Park is once again the only place in England where wild camping is officially permitted. Following a legal ruling in July 2023, wild campers on Dartmoor no longer need to seek the permission of individual landowners before pitching up. Be considerate. You probably wouldn’t want someone pitching up next to your bedroom window or on your village green, so try to keep inconspicuous where possible.

Streams and rivers are shown in blue, which is useful for cooking and boiling to drink, but don't forget the rules about toilet waste. Wild camping is a superb way to experience the beauty of nature in a fun and economical way, with many locations that are free to camp in or have a very small charge due to facilities.It’s all about getting away from the stresses of the daily grind for a night or two and exploring the vast, beautiful wilderness that still exists in the UK. You could either hike in, camp and then hike out. Or do a multi-day trip, camping in a different spot each night. If it is your first wild camp, I’d suggest doing an overnighter first to test all your gear correctly before committing to something bigger.