Quote: Originally posted by armchaircamper on 26/8/2010
Just remember it's significantly cooler up here than in London!!
How much cooler, realistically? - The weather forecast always seems to have Aberdeen at a degree or 2 cooler than the south, but in reality I know windchill makes this more. I'm taking a 0c (comfort) sleeping bag and lots of layers so I should be fine.
Quote: Originally posted by crayfish on 20/8/2010
Getting set to do this in a couple of weeks - I need to plan my food though. Ideally I would like to be able to pitch somewhere within ~30 mins walk of some kind of a shop for basic supplies so I don't have to carry 3 days of stuff with me. Braemar looks like this may be possible.
I also need to get a new tent - my blue Vango Orchy 500 might look a wee bit out of place :P. I loved the look of the Coleman Avior x2 but it only comes in a rather garish green colour that doesn't blend in very well - currently I'm looking at the Vango Tempest 200 - any other recommendations?
to Gordon, I live in London so everywhere is far by train and bus, if I'm going to do scotland a couple of extra hours on a bus won't make much difference. I'm planning to take the overnight caledonian sleeper to Aberdeen (arrives 07:45) and then bus from there. Gives me plenty of daylight to scout for a decent pitch.
Can't advise on wild camping but a couple of bits on the subject of the sleeper...if you know what date you want, check out the bargain berths on the Scotrail website - there are massive savings to be had and I suspect at this time of year you stand a chance of getting a twin berth to yourself as well. Also, don't be tempted by the seated coach as far as Aberdeen - it's just too far for any degree of comfort, the extra for a berth is well worth it on the longer journeys. Also, the Doric Arch pub next to Euston station always used to do two or four pint carry-outs of any of their real ales - always made a nice start to the journey, getting on board with one of those!
Oh, and if the sleeper runs late and hyou are looking like missing your connection, notify the steward on the train - they wll either try to hold the bus, or failing that if there's not another bus practical for you to use they will arrange a taxi - we had a taxi from Inverness all the way to Kyle of Lochalsh once because the sleeper arrived 20 minutes too late for the connecting train and we were on our way for a ferry!
Have fun!
Have fun!
------------- If you go camping to "get away from it all" - why take it all with you?
Quote: Originally posted by armchaircamper on 26/8/2010Just remember it's significantly cooler up here than in London!!
How much cooler, realistically? - The weather forecast always seems to have Aberdeen at a degree or 2 cooler than the south, but in reality I know windchill makes this more. I'm taking a 0c (comfort) sleeping bag and lots of layers so I should be fine.
Eastern side of Scotland is significantly colder than the west. I'd be wanting a 3 season bag if I was heading to the East at this time of year I think. Have you got thermals to wear in bed? A thin fleece blanket won't take up much space but would give you an extra layer if you needed it. Alternatively how about a fleece liner - I believe they effectively add a season to a sleeping bag when they're used in addition.
------------- If you go camping to "get away from it all" - why take it all with you?
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Wild camping on your own
