Hiking
and Camping in the UK: Where to Go and What to Expect
If you’re considering a
hiking and camping trip in the UK, you’re in for a treat.
With its stunning scenery, beautiful castles and ruins, and rich
history, Britain is an ideal place to get away from it all. However,
there are some differences between hiking and camping in North
America and in the UK. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect.
Expect to cross private
property. In North America, the law restricts where people
can camp. Most people camp in state and national parks. However,
there just isn’t as much open space in Britain. Farms and
pastures take up much of the rural landscape. In the UK, you will
probably spend much of your trip on someone’s private property.
This doesn’t mean you can’t
explore the countryside. Rights of public access are very important
in Britain. If someone has a trail on his property, right-of-way
laws require him to keep it open to the public. Even Tony Blair,
who has a trail running through the front yard of his country
house, isn’t above the laws of public access.
Signs posted along most trails
will tell you how much access you can have. Sometimes you can
leave the trail and explore the surrounding countryside. At other
times, you’ll be expected to stay on the path. When in doubt,
don’t leave the trail.
Expect to meet livestock.
Farmers in the UK raise sheep, cows, and other livestock. If your
trail cuts through a fenced-in pasture, leave the gate as you
found it. Don’t climb a fence to avoid opening a gate—you
could damage the fence. Go through the gate or use the stile instead.
It’s important to respect
the people and animals you meet along the way. Don’t tease
or approach cows or sheep—animals can be unpredictable.
If a farmer is herding a group across your path, stay out of the
way until he has passed.
Expect to see people.
And buildings. And towns. In America, most campers don’t
consider it “real” camping if their site is near civilization.
American hikers treasure views that look out on unspoiled wilderness.
In Britain, many trails wind through towns. The views you see
will include villages, church steeples, houses, and castles. You’re
never alone when hiking in Britain—the next village is often
just over the hill.
Expect a different camping
experience. It’s easy to hike for days in the UK
without camping at all—just walk from town to town, staying
in bed-and-breakfasts along the way. However, if you’re
planning on camping in the UK, you have two options: a paid campsite,
called a “camping and caravanning” park, or wild camping—pitching
your tent anywhere that looks good.
If you decide to go to a camping
and caravanning park, bring as few tents as possible. You’ll
often be charged per tent, not per campsite. At some UK campsites,
you can actually rent tents or even mobile homes, so you won’t
have to carry your own in.
If you’re considering wild
camping, you should know where it’s allowed and where it’s
not. In North America, wild camping is illegal in most places.
The UK tends to be more relaxed about it. In Scotland, wild camping
is allowed across the board. In England and Wales, it’s
technically a criminal offense to camp on someone’s property
without permission. However, it’s usually tolerated, as
long as you camp in a remote spot, don’t draw attention
to yourself, and leave everything as you found it.
Know the Country Code.
If you’re going hiking in Britain, you’ll be expected
to know the rules. The Country Code was written in the 1930’s
for visitors to rural areas. Hikers in Britain follow it to this
day. Here is the modern version:
• Plan ahead for your trip
and obey all signs.
• Leave gates and property the way you found them.
• Respect plants and animals. Pack out all your litter.
• Keep your dog leashed at all times.
• Be very careful with fire.
• Be considerate of others.
Camping in Britain is a great
adventure, and there are hundreds of things to do. Here are just
a few ideas that are fun, kid-friendly, and very doable for family
groups.
The Cornish Coast.
Stretching over 250 miles, this is a long walk—just choose
a stretch of beach and get started! This hike in Southwestern
England includes mild weather for most of the year, spectacular
cliff top views, and castles and standing stones along the way.
It’s great for a family with older kids who love to explore.
The Ridgeway.
This ancient Neolithic trail rambles for just under 90 miles through
the North Wessex Downs and Chiltern Hills. It’s easy walking
through quaint villages—most with comfortable bed-and-breakfasts
if you’d rather skip the camping.
Northumberland National
Park. This national park includes Hadrian’s Wall
and many Roman ruins. It’s also a lovely region of gently
rolling hills and beautiful views. It’s got plenty of easy
day-hikes, bike trails, and pretty spots for family picnics.
Glastonbury Abbey and
Glastonbury Tor. This is a great trip for King Arthur
fans. Local legend says the Abbey is King Arthur’s final
resting place, and the Tor is the original location for Avalon.
A hike up to the top of the Tor will reward you with beautiful
views of the Somerset countryside.
Whether you’re planning
a tough hike with stunning views or a ramble across gently rolling
countryside, the UK has what you’re looking for. Prepare
well for your trip and follow the Country Code, and you’re
sure to have a fun and memorable vacation.
Contributed By Jennifer
Williamson
