Wild Camping In The North East

Wild Camping in Northumberland

What You Need to Know Before You Go 

If you're dreaming of a rugged escape beneath the stars, wild camping in Northumberland might be calling your name. With its vast, open landscapes, dark skies, and peaceful remoteness, Northumberland offers one of the most dramatic natural backdrops in the UK for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're seeking solitude, stargazing, or a deeper connection to nature, this region of the North East is a camper’s paradise. But before you pitch your tent on a remote hillside, there are a few things you should know about camping in the North East — and why choosing a friendly, well-equipped campsite like Herding Hill Farm can offer the best of both worlds.

So, what is wild camping?

Wild camping is an overnight stay, not on a designated campsite – finding a pleasant location off the beaten track that allows you to experience the rugged and natural camping experience. On many occasions you can find a perfect spot, away from the crowds, often with the best views or the closest beach or shoreline. Specifically, wild camping is in a tent but the term has grown in recent years to also refer to camping in a campervan or a motorhome. 

Is wild camping in Northumberland legal?

Technically, wild camping in England, including wild camping in Northumberland, is not legally permitted without the landowner’s permission. While it’s more accepted in Scotland, England has stricter rules, and camping on private or protected land (like parts of Northumberland National Park) can lead to fines or being asked to leave. However, in many parts it is tolerated and a common-sense approach is taken provided the principles of “Leave No Trace” are respected and landlord permission is sought. If you do wild camp in Northumberland please be aware that there is always the risk of being moved on, especially if it is considered that you are causing an obstruction. In some places in Scotland a small donation to the landowner if requested and there are local projects to open up public spaces overnight to campervans or motorhomes. In these cases you should always restrict your stay to one-night only and never over-stay your welcome. The key is to camp discreetly, respectfully, and with minimal impact. Please note that the National Parks Authority currently forbid wild camping within any National Parks of England and Wales. 

The Appeal of Wild Camping in the North East 

Northumberland is home to some of the UK’s most breathtaking landscapes — from windswept beaches and heather-covered moorland to rolling hills and ancient ruins. Its remoteness makes it an ideal place for people seeking solitude, adventure, and star-filled skies. In fact, the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park is one of the best places in Europe to see the Milky Way. If you're looking for that off-grid experience, wild camping might seem like the perfect option. However, wild camping also means no toilets, showers, cooking facilities, or protection from the unpredictable North East weather — and that’s where campsites in the North East like Herding Hill Farm come in.

Opt for a campsite if you can

Nowadays there is such a large number of camp sites in picturesque locations that we would always recommend you use these first before you consider wild camping. Large or small, 5-star facilities or basic amenities, there is usually something for everyone, particularly given the increasing number of certified sites (generally open seasonally for five pitches or less). The campsites in the North East have all the facilities you need, as well as a warm welcome and normally offer great local advice to visitors. Plus, if you stay and play you are contributing to the local rural economy and hospitality sectors. 

Why choose our Northumberland campsite instead? 

Located just a stone’s throw from Hadrian’s Wall, Herding Hill Farm offers the ideal blend of natural beauty and comfort. You can enjoy the freedom of camping in the North East countryside with the added luxury of: 

• Camping in Northumberland: Spacious pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes, as well as Northumberland camping pods
• Luxury glamping pods with hot tub 
• On-site amenities including heated shower blocks, sauna, and even a BBQ hut 
• Dog friendly amenities including a hot water dog wash, scenic dog walk and secure dog exercise field
• Dark sky stargazing without leaving the site 
• Easy access to walking trails, Hadrian’s Wall, and local wildlife 

Wild Camping in Scotland & Northern Ireland

Whilst the “freedom to roam” was formalised in the Land Reform (Scotland) Act, 2003, this Act permits wild camping on most enclosed land, but excludes motorised vehicles and therefore does not apply to campervans or motorhomes. Wild camping in motorhomes/campervans has historically been tolerated in some remoter parts of Scotland but unfortunately, the significant growth in popularity of motorhomes – especially on routes such as the NC500 – has created issues in particular hotspots due to the effect on the environment and overall infrastructure. 

Certain Scottish islands don’t allow campervans or motorhomes at all, since they lack the infrastructure to accommodate vehicles of that size. Loch Lomond is subject to Wild Camping byelaws throughout the National Park between March and September in order to protect the loch shores meaning that camping is only permitted in certain areas. When travelling to a specific area you should research what is available before you travel to avoid placing unnecessary burdens on the local community and infrastructure.

Wild camping is only legal in Northern Ireland if you have been granted permission by the landowner and every bit of land is owned by a private individual, but the Northern Ireland Forestry Service issues camping permits at some of its sites. 

Is wild camping safe? 

Wild camping, if done correctly and respectfully, is completely safe. Just be sure to take the usual precautions and ensure that your vehicle and your belongings are secured at all times. Always let someone know where you are, what you are doing and when you will return. If you don’t feel safe, or are worried about finding a spot every evening, then perhaps wild camping isn’t for you and you should head to a campsite instead. The UK is blessed with some amazing campsites in the North East in some beautiful spots. 

Explore the Best of the North East  

From the windswept Northumberland coastline to the historic beauty of Hadrian’s Wall, camping in the North East offers endless possibilities for adventure. Whether you're after the isolation of wild camping or the welcoming atmosphere of campsites in the North East, there’s something here for every type of camper. Why not base your adventure at Herding Hill Farm? With our breathtaking surroundings, luxury facilities, and easy access to the best of Northumberland, you’ll have everything you need for a memorable camping experience — wild or not.

Wild Camping Guidelines - Leave no trace

Anyone camping in the wild should follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code or the Leave No Trace policy. Your wild camping trip should leave no impact on the landscape and should never disturb the environment or wildlife around you. Please leave the area pristine for everyone to enjoy. Whether you choose to go fully wild or book a pitch at one of the many campsites in the North East, responsible camping is essential. Here are a few tips for camping sustainably in Northumberland:

• Avoid overcrowding - move on to another location if it’s already a busy spot
• Blend with your surrounding as much as possible and avoid becoming an eyesore to others
• Be discrete - try to camp out of sight and away from houses or farms where you might disturb their privacy
• Do not camp in enclosed fields of crops or farm animals  
• Park up late and leave early - never outstay your welcome - wild camping is for 1 night stays only
• Do not drink alcohol to ensure you can drive away if requested or required to  
• If asked to move, always be friendly and polite
• Choose your toilet carefully – away from open water – and never leave any debris; bury what you can with a shovel. Take away all feminine hygiene products
• Don’t light any fires, even if there are signs that fires have previously been lit in the same area. Lighting fires can not only be dangerous but will also spoil the landscape and leave a trace of your visit
• Ensure that any flames are extinguished thoroughly before you retire for the evening  
• Never cut down or damage trees or other vegetation
• Camp alone and be quiet to enjoy the peace
• Always pick up any litter and leave the area as you found it
• If in doubt, ask the landowner. Their advice just might help you find a better camping spot 

Book Your Northumberland Camping Getaway Today 

Whether you’re planning a hiking trip, a family holiday, or a stargazing weekend, Herding Hill Farm offers the perfect base for exploring everything Northumberland has to offer. Ditch the stress of wild camping (without losing the adventure) and book your pitch or pod today.