Overview
Borrowdale, one of the most dramatic valleys in the Lake District, is the setting for this two-day wild camp, with outstanding views towards Scafell Pike, England's highest mountain. Carrying everything you need for the weekend, you'll journey through classic Lakeland landscapes and climb into the high fells before spending a night under canvas in a carefully chosen spot.
Rather than camping on the busy summit of Scafell Pike itself, your guide uses local knowledge to choose a more rewarding mountain journey, selecting camp locations that offer better shelter, real scenery and views across the Scafell massif, Great Gable and the surrounding fells. Along the way you'll develop practical backpacking, campcraft and mountain skills while experiencing a quieter side of the National Park than the honeypot routes see.
With small group sizes and the support of an experienced Mountain Leader, this trip suits first-time wild campers and experienced hillwalkers alike. Expect rewarding mountain walking, peaceful evenings in the fells, and the particular satisfaction that comes from carrying everything you need and sleeping immersed in one of England's finest mountain landscapes.
About
Gallery
Your Guide
With over 40 years in the field, Michael is a qualified Mountain Leader and Rock Climbing Instructor with deep experience in technical climbing, navigation, expedition logistics, and outdoor education. His guiding has taken him across Europe's mountain regions, into the Canadian backcountry and on expeditions in the Himalayas, and he brings that international breadth to every trip he leads for GBAC. He is known for calm authority, technical precision, and a genuine enthusiasm for helping people grow in the mountains.
Itinerary
Location
Things to keep in mind
FAQ
Do I need previous wild camping experience?
No. This trip is suitable for walkers who are new to wild camping. Your Mountain Leader will provide guidance on campcraft, equipment, route planning and living comfortably in the hills throughout the weekend.
How fit do I need to be?
You should be comfortable walking for two full days on mountain terrain while carrying a loaded backpack. The route includes steep ascents and descents, rough ground and variable weather conditions.
How much will my backpack weigh?
Most participants carry between 12–18kg depending on their equipment, food and water. We can provide advice before the trip to help you keep your pack weight manageable.
Can I hire equipment?
Yes. Our GBAC gear bundle can be added to your cart during checkout.
Where do we camp?
Wild camp locations are chosen by your Mountain Leader based on weather, ground conditions and the needs of the group. We use discreet, low-impact campsites in accordance with responsible wild camping practices.
What happens if the weather is poor?
Mountain weather can be highly changeable and experiencing a range of conditions is part of the adventure. Routes may be adjusted to suit conditions, but trips will normally proceed unless the weather creates an unacceptable safety risk.
Is food included?
No. Participants are responsible for bringing their own food, snacks and drinks for the duration of the trip. Guidance will be provided before the event to help with meal planning.
Is it legal to wild camp in the Lake District?
Not in the way you can in Scotland, or on Dartmoor. England has no general right to wild camp, so strictly it needs the landowner's say-so. In practice it's long been tolerated across the high fells provided it's done properly: up on the tops rather than the valley floor, well away from roads and enclosed farmland, small tents, pitch late and leave early, one night only, no fires, nothing left behind.
That's exactly how we run it. Your Mountain Leader knows this ground and knows which pitches are appropriate and which aren't, and we follow Lake District National Park and National Trust guidance on responsible wild camping. You don't have to work any of it out yourself — but you'll go home knowing how, which is half the point of coming.
Rent the kit you need. From £45.Four-season tent, −12°C sleep system, mat, liner & pillow — cleaned, packed and ready. Just add it to your cart during checkout.See what's included →