If your ideal camping trip involves finding a remote spot where you can freely admire the breath-taking mountains and moors, find some semblance of peace, and learn a bit of history while you’re there, we highly suggest heading to England for a wild camping adventure.
A word of caution, though. This isn’t something you can do on a whim, especially if you’re a beginner. Traditional camping involves careful planning and preparation—the same goes for wild camping, but with a few added precautions.
These include where you can set up your tent for the night or how you should behave to avoid attracting unwanted attention.
If you want to learn more, we’re here to provide beginners with a rundown of the ins and outs of wild camping in England.
What is wild camping like?
Simply speaking, wild camping involves staying anywhere outside of an official campground. It can be up in the hills or down in the valleys, near riverbanks, or deep in the forests. You can do it within the comforts of an RV or walk the rest of the way with just your wild camping tents and other essential supplies on your back.
More and more people want to try wild camping each year because of its captivating blend of thrill and serenity. However, if you will manage to pick the right spot and timing, its growing popularity won’t take away the opportunity to set your own pace and seek the hidden gems of the wilderness.
When should I go wild camping in England?
Many English wild camping spots can be enjoyed all year round, so more often than not, your timing depends on whether or not the landowner will accept your request. Yes, it’s all too tempting to skip this step and just head to your chosen camping spot without seeking permission.
We don’t recommend this, especially among beginners. It’s always best to get approval from the landowner first as a sign of respect.
What we do suggest is going wild camping in the same areas at different times of the year. A scenic lake will look quite different when it becomes blanketed with snow. You might also get the chance to encounter various types of plants and wildlife that can be found in the area only during certain seasons.
Where to wild camp in England
One of the first steps for an unforgettable outdoor adventure is picking the right location. Things become a little bit more complicated when wild camping around England because it is technically illegal, except in specific areas of the Dartmoor National Park.
To save you some time and effort, we’re going to introduce you to the best wild camping destinations that you should consider.
Wild camping England map
For a quick overview, check out the map above for our recommended areas for wild campers. Remember, staying in most of these places is illegal unless you receive explicit permission from the landowner.
We will highlight later in this section where you can wild camp legally as long as you remain respectful and observe the golden rule of wild camping.
Wild camping North England
Whether you’re thinking in terms of geography, culture, or climate, the northern portion of England is quite distinct from the rest of the country. It is a mountainous region that borders Scotland and lies between the North Sea and the Irish Sea.
We highly recommend bringing warmer and waterproof camping gear because Northern England is cooler and wetter than most of England.
You can also find here half of the ten English national parks, including two of the most popular wild camping destinations: the Lake District and the Peak District. Expect the area to have fewer trees, but that doesn’t take away the beauty of the moody lakes, craggy valleys, and verdant fenlands that characterize the region.
Wild camping North East England
This area is notable for its historic coastlines and scenic hills. It has a milder temperature because of the nearby sea, but winters can still be rather frosty in its hilly camping locations.
A visit there will not be complete without heading to Lindisfarne, an island filled with religious landmarks, lighthouses, and a small castle. Others opt for a challenge by hiking up The Cheviot, which is the highest point in north-eastern England.
Wild camping North West England
North west England is an interesting mix of rural charm and urban conveniences. Though it is the third most populated region, you can still find solitude and peace in its national parks and three locations designated as “Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.”
The region is also home to the largest natural lake in the country—Windermere in the Lake District. If you prefer hiking, the highest point is Scafell Pike, standing at 978 meters.
The temperature in north west England falls within the average weather in the country. Winters can be rather cold and frosty though in the peaks of the Lake District and Pennine Hills.
Wild camping South England
London might be the first place you think of when you hear South England, but it’s far from the only tourist hotspot in the area. The southern coastline is dotted with amazing beaches, rolling countryside, and other historical sites that should be part of your list of places to wild camp in England.
While it is not as elevated as its northern counterpart, this area still offers challenging hiking trails in the Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks.
Summers can be pleasantly warm in south England, but they can become particularly warm during the months between May and September. Winters also tend to be on the milder end of the spectrum because of the surrounding seas.
Wild camping South East England
As the third largest region, the south east has something to offer for almost all kinds of wild campers.
Those who want to go on nature adventures should check out the two national parks in the area—the New Forest and South Downs National Parks. Travellers will be in awe of the region’s most beautiful natural landmarks, such as the White Cliffs of Dover and Surrey Hills.
Food lovers will also have their fill with the local produce, dishes, and drinks found in the various towns and counties in the area.
Since it is one of the warmest regions in the country, you can enjoy truly wild camping trips in south east England because you don’t have to constantly worry about extreme weather conditions.
Wild camping South West England
South west England has a unique charm for its rich folklore that dates back to the legends of King Arthur. Therefore, if you’re envisioning your English adventure involving the moors, ancient castles, or mysterious hills, this region is your dream wild camping destination.
Travellers who are not keen to seek permission from the landowners will be glad to know that this area offers locations in Dartmoor that are open to wild campers. Nonetheless, remember to read through the guidelines of this national park because it remains to be an active training ground for military exercises.
The weather in south east England can be described as oceanic. That means you can expect higher temperatures during summer and cooler winds during winter. The area also experiences several rainy days throughout the year.
Wild camping South Coast of England
The English southern coast is lined with exceptional natural beauties and heritage sites that pique the interest of tourists looking for an idyllic summer holiday.
Wild campers should also consider exploring the southern coast because there is a wide array of things to discover. The most famous is arguably the Jurassic coast, a World Heritage Site that starts in Exmouth and stretches to Dorset.
Taking photos of the land formations there would likely be worth the trip already, but you’d also get to learn more about the prehistoric treasures that lie below its sandy beaches.
The southern coast is the sunniest place in England, so remember to pack extra UV protection. It can also be rather windy, especially on the small islands near the coast.
Wild camping East England
East England is mostly flat so it is popular among campers who enjoy cycling and walking through its picturesque landscapes.
Though it does not have any national parks, the Norfolk Broads can be a good alternative. As the largest protected wetlands, you can explore its lakes and rivers while also watching the diverse bird species that inhabit the area.
Other East England attractions that wild campers will likely find interesting include the Norfolk Coast, which is another “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty” and the Ashridge Estate.
In terms of climate, East England is considered the driest region in the country. It has mild summers and winters and is significantly less windy than its neighbours.
Wild camping West England
This area is best for travellers who prefer strolling through fascinating gardens or exploring the woodland trails. It also serves as the home of prehistoric stone circles, including the Stone Henge, a World Heritage Site.
The city of Bath is worth visiting, too. But if you want a memorable outdoor experience, head to the Bath Skyline, which offers stunning views of the city and surrounding farmlands.
The weather in this area is rather pleasant for most of the year. The winters, however, can be quite cold, wet, and long. Therefore, we suggest visiting West England sometime during late spring until autumn to best enjoy the sites and day trips.
FAQs about wild camping in England:
It is generally safe to wild camp in England, provided that you have done your research about the areas you will visit. Doing so will ensure that you are well prepared for the unpredictable aspects of the trip, as well as the potential risks associated with camping, such as dangerous terrain, extreme weather conditions, or wild animals.
In most cases, you will be asked to leave by the landowner. That means you should pack up right away and make sure that you don’t damage anything or leave any waste. Legal charges and fines tend to occur only if you put up a fight and refuse to listen to the demands of the owner or the local authorities.
Stealth camping refers to the practice of pitching your tent and staying in the area without drawing the attention of anyone else. For example, many covert campers start setting up only when it’s dusky and leaving before the sun rises. They also avoid lighting bonfires while also minimizing any noise they might make.
Start Planning Your Dream Wild Camping Trip in England
Whether you fancy yourself as an intrepid explorer, a history buff, or a solemn nature lover, England can be the ideal destination for your first forays into wild camping. With its diverse selection of grand national parks, historical landmarks, and scenic coastlines, there is truly something for everyone there.
Now that you have a better idea of where and when you should try wild camping in England, the next step is to plan and prepare for the trip. Pay careful attention to the geography and climate of your chosen area so that you can pack the right camping gear.
Do further research on the regulations and customs to ensure that you will remain safe and respectful throughout the trip.
Lastly, don’t forget to pack your camera and extra batteries because you will surely have plenty of sights and memories to capture during your wild camping adventure in England.