Does Leave No Trace apply in the UK or is it just for American wilderness?

It applies, but with caveats. The core mindset of minimising your impact is universal, but some principles don't translate well since Britain's countryside is managed, privately owned, and shaped by centuries of human activity rather than pristine wilderness.

How far away from water should I dig a cathole for human waste?

At least 60 metres from any water sources, trails, or campsites. Dig it 15–20 centimetres deep, and in some high-use or sensitive areas, you'll need to pack it out entirely.

Are campfires allowed under Leave No Trace principles?

They're not forbidden outright, but strongly discouraged. Fires leave permanent scars, deplete habitat when you gather wood, and risk getting out of control — a camping stove is the better option.

Respect the Countryside

Leave No Trace

Leave No Trace is a set of outdoor ethics designed to minimise human impact on wild places — plan ahead, stay on trail, pack out rubbish, leave what you find, minimise campfire impact, respect wildlife, and be considerate of others. It originated in American wilderness but translates unevenly to Britain's managed countryside.

25 July 20267 min read