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Wild camping in the UK: the rules explained

Wild camping in the UK: the rules explained

By the Canvasdale team · Last checked 21 October 2026

Rules: A guide to the rules, not legal advice. Rules differ between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland and between landowners and sites. Always check the official page linked here and get the landowner's or site's permission.

Check with the source. Rules differ between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland and can change. Follow the official page linked here, not our summary, and get the landowner's or site's permission.

On this page

The short answer
What the rules say
Getting permission
Leave No Trace
Official sources
FAQs

The short answer

What the rules say

Getting permission

Leave No Trace

Official sources

FAQs

Check before you go

The forecast for the site itself, the day before and on the morning you leave.
The site's rules on arrival times, dogs, noise, gas and pitch use.
Fire rules: whether fires, fire pits or BBQs are allowed, on the site and in the area.

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Canvasdale is an independent UK camping site for families, couples and first-timers. Every figure is a planning guide: check your kit maker's figures, the forecast and the site's rules before you go. We don't test products.

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