Wild Camping in Eskdale

I am stone deaf with British Sign Language and a very experienced fell walker for 45 years all over UK.

I am now moving on to first time wild camping just for one night or two in the Lakes to start with. Having read all your questions and answers about wild camping, I am still not clear. How do I know which land belong to landowner?

I saw people pitching their tents on road side along the Hardknott Pass road near the Roman Fort, how about that? It is legal?

Can I pitch my small mountain tent near River Esk and near the place called Brotherilkeld? Who own that land? What if landowners are not in their house and where do I ask?

I hope you will answer the questions. Thanks, Ian

Ian Funnell, Preston


A. Just because you see other people doing something does not mean it is legal - though you might ask them if they have permission to wild camp.

We cannot comment on whether you may or may not wild camp in any particular location other than reiterate the advice given below.

Hope this helps

Mike (Editor)


A. Hi, My son wanted to go up Scafell Pike this summer, so rather than go with the hoardes from Wasdale or Borrowdale etc we walked up the Esk and camped overnight by Sampson's Stones, before continuing to the top the following morning. Much more of an expedition feel to it. There was one other tent pitched in the area. I don't think anyone is going to object to 'wild' camping in this type of location providing you move on after a day or two and leave no sign of your passing. I have always had a trust (hopefully not misplaced) that camping gear should be safe in such a location. Ours was certainly untouched upon our return from the Pike. When we have had doubts we have secreted our gear into a bin liner and stached it behind a convenient boulder. The upper reaches of Eskdale are a stunning place - it has an almost scottish feel to it. The lonely summit of Pen above Little Narrowcove is a superb vantage point, much more peaceful than its loftier and well known nighbour. Go and enjoy ! Peter

Peter Atkinson, Whitehaven


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