Wild camping legality in the UK varies by location. Generally, it is legal in most of Scotland and Dartmoor National Park in England, while in the rest of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, it requires landowner permission. Note – true wild camping means you are unlikely to have access to any facilities eg. a toilet or tap.

England:

  • Dartmoor National Park: Wild camping is permitted without landowner permission, but with certain restrictions like not in vehicles or large groups. 
  • Other areas: Wild camping is generally illegal without landowner permission. 
  • Lake District: While not officially designated for wild camping, the authorities are generally tolerant of responsible wild campers who follow “leave no trace” principles on higher ground – setup in the evening, pack away at dawn.

Wales:

  • Wild camping is generally illegal without landowner permission. 
  • Brecon Beacons National Park: Some local farms and estates permit wild camping; it’s best to check with the park authority. 
  • Snowdonia and Exmoor: Permission from landowners is generally required for wild camping. 

Scotland:

  • Wild camping is generally permitted under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, which grants the public the right to be on most land for recreational purposes but not in vehicles or next to roads etc. Read the act for more detail.
  • Restrictions: There are some byelaws in place, particularly around Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, and on enclosed land. 

Northern Ireland:

Wild camping generally requires landowner permission. 

Important Considerations:

  • Leave No Trace: Regardless of location, always practice “leave no trace” principles to minimize your impact on the environment. 
  • Respect: Be respectful of the environment and other people using the land. 
  • Local Regulations: Always check for local byelaws or restrictions before camping, especially in National Parks. 

Not quite ready to wild camp but want to experience something similar, with access to a basic toilet, a tap and a nearby parking place??

The Nearly Wild Camping Club offers this type of wilder camping – wild camping with permission (for a small fee):

www.nearlywildcamping.org