Adventure off grid with a camping road trip in the North East of England

The North East of England is an underrated gem for getting off grid and back to nature.

Boasting some of the wildest countryside in England, the heather-covered North York Moors, dark skies of Kielder Forest and 21-metre cascade of High Force waterfall, make it a stunning location for a road trip in your 4x4 camper truck or campervan.

If you’re looking for inspiration, the popular Northumberland 250 route will take you on an epic 250-mile adventure through the sparsely populated Northumbria National Park, right up to the Scottish borderlands and over the three-mile causeway to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.

And you can stay overnight in some amazing off-grid camping locations, too.

Can I wild camp in the North East of England?

Wild camping might not be permitted in the North East, but that’s not going to stop you getting far off the beaten track.

Our friends at Off Grid Camp have rounded up some of the best, remote off-grid spots for overnight stays.

Whether it’s a hilltop overlooking the Cheviot Hills or a secluded woodland near Hadrian’s Wall, you can enjoy a wild, off-road adventure with the landowner’s full permission.

When camping at these locations, you must agree to:

  • be self-sufficient: I will not expect toilets, bins, water or any facilities unless these luxuries (!) are offered by the individual Off Grid Camp locations.
  • leave no trace: I will take all rubbish away with me and leave no trace. Not even a rogue tissue, burnt fire mark or unnecessary tyre tracks.  
  • 'The Poo Pledge': Where no facilities are provided, I agree to bring a shovel or to have a self-contained toilet and ensure that there is no evidence of my business for future campers.  
  • drive responsibly and within your capabilities: I will liaise directly with landowners and adhere to their requests.

Epic wild camp locations in England's North East

Pay to wild camp legally in Off Grid Camp locations like these.
£25 membership is discounted for our hire customers, and free to those who buy a demountable camper.

Northumberland

Two camping areas offer stunning Cheviot Hills views and sunsets, just half a mile from Northumberland 250.

Hexham

Nestled in Northumberland’s largest ancient woodland, this peaceful retreat offers a serene escape in nature.

Harrogate

Located in Nidderdale’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, our site is minutes from Pateley Bridge.

Malton

Phen Farms offers tranquility near Jedburgh, with two lochs and breathtaking views of the Cheviot and Eildon hills.

Kilburn

Set atop the North York Moors, this hilltop offers spectacular views, including Britain’s largest White Horse.

Hutton Rudby

Our site in Leven Valley features 28 acres of woodland, with pitches just 20 meters from the river.

Roadtrips taking in the best of the North East England...and its wild camp spots

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