Guide to Wild Camping on Kinder Scout

Guidance for Wild Camping on Kinder Scout.

I try and offer a guide to wild camping on Kinder Scout in all my posts. This week, I received an email from somebody requesting helpful advice, so I decided to write a post specifically aimed at visitors who are looking for guidance on wild camping on Kinder Scout. There are many ways to walk up Kinder Scout, but the following information highlights my preferences.

Parking for Kinder Scout

There are several options for parking to access Kinder Scout. Parking in Edale is relatively limited and the available spaces can fill up fast on busy days. Parking for Kinder Scout will depend on where you plan to start your hike. My preferred hike up kinder is via the start of The Pennine Way, so I always park at Edale Car & Coach Park, Water Meadows, Hope Road, Edale, Hope Valley S33 7ZQ.

I find the car par charges very reasonable. If you are planning to camp on Kinder Scout you have the option to pay for 24 hours parking at a cost of £7 (correct as of 26-09-2020). There are other parking time options available.

Car Park Charges

Mon-Sun – All-day

1 Hour £1.60

2 Hours £2.50

4 Hours £4.00

10 Hours £6.00

24 Hours£7.00

I have parked in the Edale Car & Coach Park for the past 5 years without any issues. I park there with peace of mind without having to worry about whether my car is safe. There is also a toilet in the car park. Always best to have a try before you set off. You would not want to get caught short!

My Preferred Route up Kinder Scout

My preferred hiking route up Kinder Scout is from the start of the Pennine Way. Why, because it provides easy access from the car park, the scenery is memorising, and you also have the option to take two routes when accessing Kinder Scout from The Pennine Way.

The route begins opposite a beautiful village pub called The Old Nags Head (they serve a great pint of cider). You access The Pennine Way directly over the other side of the road.

After a short walk along a tree-lined path, you will come across a gate. At this point the route forks into two. The route on the left will continue along The Pennine Way towards Upper Booth, then on to Jacobs Ladder. Although this is equally a beautiful hike up Kinder Scout, I prefer to follow the route on the right. Taking the route on the right will lead up to Grindslow Knoll, my favourite place to wild camp on Kinder Scout.  See image below. Depending on your fitness level, this route may be tough for some. There are parts that can be challenging.

Things To Consider

There are many things to consider before hiking and wild camping on Kinder Scout, but I think the three most important things to consider are making yourself familiar with the area, the weather, and clothing.

Know the Area

I think it is vital that you research the area you plan to explore. There are many ways you can familiarise yourself with an area before you visit. Google Maps is your friend. My advice would be to always take a map and a compass. If you do not own a map or a compass, I would advise you to buy both and learn how to use a compass.

Check the Weather Forecast

We all know that the weather in the UK is a bit hit n miss, so it is vital to keep your eye on the weather forecast. I have experienced first-hand when low cloud descends on the summit of Kinder Scout. If you are not familiar with the area or cannot use a compass, this can be a very daunting experience. Always check the weather forecast.

Take the Correct Clothing

Having the correct clothing plays a vital part in being comfortable and warm while hiking and wild camping on Kinder Scout. As mentioned previously, checking the weather forecast is a must. This will not only play a part in keeping you safe, it will also dictate what clothing you should wear, and the clothing you should pack in your bag. I have hiked up Kinder Scout in the past were I have been very comfortable wearing a t-shirt, but as the night pulled in I’ve had to wear a down jacket to keep warm.

Is it Legal to Wild Camp in The Peak District?

I get asked this question a lot. In a word, no! The National Parkland is privately owned, and you are not permitted to wild camp in the Peak District without permission from the landowner. Technically breaking the law. There is a saying amongst us “wild campers”…… leave no trace. What that means is, always leave the area as you found it. Always take away your rubbish!