Wild camping — pitching your tent away from formal campsites — is one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences in the UK. But the rules are different depending on where you are.

The Legal Position

Scotland: Wild camping is legal under the Land Reform Act 2003. You have the right to camp on most unenclosed land. England and Wales: Wild camping is technically trespass but widely tolerated if you follow leave-no-trace principles.

The Wild Camping Code

Arrive late, leave early. Pitch on durable ground. Keep groups small. No fires on peat or near trees. Carry out all waste. Leave the site looking untouched.

Best Wild Camping Areas

Scottish Highlands, Lake District fells, Snowdonia higher ground, Brecon Beacons ridgelines, and the Pennine Way.

🚲 Combining wild camping with cycling? Bikepacking is growing fast in the UK. Our friends at Cycling Holidays UK cover the best routes for multi-day adventures.

🚴 Combining wild camping with cycling? Our cycling holidays guide covers bikepacking routes across Scotland and the Lake District.