Wild Camping Under the Clear Cold Soul-Shaping Sky Video

The Long Mynd in Shropshire has always been a favourite destination for wild camping, photography, and soaking in the untouched beauty of the English countryside. This time, I ventured out to Yearlet Hill, braving the winter cold for a night under what can only be described as a "soul-shaping sky”, after reading this in my latest Dostoevsky novel.

A Warm Welcome to Winter Camping

Mid-January greeted me with an unexpected shift in temperature. Just a week prior, I was battling -10°C across the valley on Caer Caradoc, yet this trip began with a surprising +9°C. Despite the weather's generosity, I found myself regretting the choice of thermal trousers as the steady climb up Town Brook's shady valley quickly worked up a sweat.

The path soon delivered me into sunshine, casting a golden glow across the landscape and igniting my red beard like a Viking on a mission. The climb to Yearlet's summit, though short at just over two miles, offers views that stretch far beyond its modest 465-meter elevation.

Pitching Up on Yearlet Hill

After reaching the summit, I was greeted by light winds, cirrus clouds streaking the skies, and the occasional flyover by Eurofighter jets—a surreal combination of natural beauty and mechanical power. The hill, while modest in height, is rarely quiet even in winter. I crossed paths with two fellow hikers, a busy day for this time of year.

As the sun began its descent, I scouted for the perfect spot to pitch my tent. Thirty meters from the summit, I found an almost flat, welcoming patch of grass. My time-lapse camera was set to capture the sunset, a sequence I hoped would later complement the night's astrophotography.

A Sky Full of Stories

The clear night sky, dotted with stars and planets, was the highlight of this trip. Sitting on the summit stones with a warm orange drink in hand, I watched the last hues of sunset fade into darkness. The high-level clouds added texture to the scene without obscuring the stars, and I marvelled at the sheer tranquillity of the moment.

I spotted a distant tent on Ashlet Ridge, a rare but reassuring sight for someone who seldom sees other campers in this part of the world. Sharing this experience—even from afar—felt like a quiet nod to the camaraderie of those who seek solace in the wilderness.

Wild Camping in England: Legal or Not?

One question that often comes up in my comments is the legality of wild camping in England. Technically, it’s not permitted without the landowner’s consent, as most land here is privately owned. However, many of us who enjoy wild camping practice the principle of “Leave No Trace,” ensuring we leave the land as pristine as we found it.

Would someone confront me about my tent on the Long Mynd? Perhaps. But realistically, the effort required to enforce such rules in remote areas makes it highly unlikely. As long as we’re respectful and mindful of our impact, wild camping in England remains a quiet rebellion against the chaos of modern life. I talked about this in the video.

Reflections Beneath the Stars

As the night deepened, the temperature dipped toward zero. Meatballs and noodles warmed me as I reflected on the day and the privilege of escaping into nature. The solitude, the stars, and the sweeping views made every step worthwhile.

Wild camping is more than just pitching a tent; it's about reconnecting with the land, the sky, and yourself. Nights like these remind me why I do it—why I brave the cold, the sweat, and the occasional curious comment online.

Until Next Time

Yearlet Hill, with its soul-shaping skies and sweeping vistas, delivered another unforgettable experience. If you're considering a winter wild camping trip, Shropshire’s hills are a fantastic choice—just remember to pack wisely and embrace the unexpected.

For more adventures, tips, and a peek at the video of this trip, head over to my YouTube channel or explore my website for updates. See you out there!