Wild camping is the ultimate way of getting back to nature—you, your tent, and the great outdoors. But in the UK, where so much land is privately owned, you find it’s hard to locate spots where you can legally camp. That doesn’t deter it from being possible, though. With a small amount of knowledge and eyes open to the terrain, you will still find incredible wild camps around the country. This is where you should head and how to do it in a considerate manner.

Scotland: The Holy Grail of Wild Camping

Scotland is the UK’s undisputed wild camping champion. With the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, you can camp on most unenclosed land if you adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. This means camping in small groups, avoiding houses and roads, and leaving no trace.

For fabulous places, try:

Cairngorms National Park – Huge, wilderness landscape, ideal for brave walkers.

Knoydart Peninsula – The UK’s sole remaining wilderness, accessible only by boat or on foot.

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park – While some areas now require permits, there are still numerous places to camp freely.

England and Wales: Where It’s Mostly Off-Limits

Contrary to Scotland, legally, in England and Wales, wild camping is illegal unless the landowner gives permission. There are exceptions, though, where there is a tradition or bylaws permitting it on conditions.

Dartmoor: The Exception to the Rule

Dartmoor National Park is the sole place in England where wild camping is tolerated legally. You may camp in any of the authorized places under the Dartmoor Commons Act 1985 without a license beforehand. The rules are simple: camp for a maximum of two nights at a single spot, do not camp in enclosed fields, and camp more than 100m away from roads.

Lake District: Tolerated but Not Officially Allowed

While not permitted by law, wild camping within the Lake District is tolerated at times in remote, mountain areas far from the main roads. Provided you stay incognito, camp above top fell walls, and leave early, you should not be disturbed.

Snowdonia: Ask First

Snowdonia’s lovely scenery is a siren sight, but a lot of it is private land. While there is wild camping, it is better to seek permission from the owner or occupy one of the many remote campsites that give an almost-wild experience.

Northern Ireland: Permission Required

Wild camping in Northern Ireland is only allowed with the consent of the landowner. Therefore, you will have to do your research and get permission in advance. The Mourne Mountains do have some great secluded spots where landowners will usually agree, as long as you follow Leave No Trace.

“Almost Wild” Campsites: A Good Alternative

If you love the idea of wild camping but do not wish to take the risk against the law, there are many “near wild” locations in the UK. They will have minimal facilities—maybe only a compost loo and water, but a quiet, off-grid experience nevertheless.

Some of my favorites are:

Cefn Coed, Snowdonia – Woodland hideaway with access to good walking paths.

Red Squirrel Campsite, Glencoe – In the heart of the Scottish Highlands, with stunning scenery and a real wilderness experience.

Turner Hall Farm, Lake District – Basic, back-to-basic camp with mountain views and river-side pitches.

Wild Camping Etiquette: Leave No Trace

Wherever you wild camp, you should be mindful of the natural world. Make sure you follow these important principles:

Leave no trace – Take home all rubbish and leave the area as you found it.

Be small and unobtrusive – Camp in smallish groups, well away from trails and buildings.

Keep your stay short – Depart after a night or two to not damage the land.

Be fire-aware – Avoid having open fires except in a camp site; use a stove instead.

Last Thoughts

Wild camping in Britain is a little more planning than camping where you want, but it’s nice to be doing it. Scotland is the most laid-back, Dartmoor provides a law-abiding English option, and anywhere else you must be very careful. Wherever you are, camp sensibly so that these wonderful places are available to other walkers in years to come.

Now, pack your bags, find your place, and prepare to sleep under the sky.