The Book of the Bothy

Author Phoebe Smith shares her favourite 'stone tents', offering personal recollections alongside practical advice for planning visits, understanding bothy etiquette, and enjoying the surrounding landscapes safely. This comprehensive guide celebrates bothies across the Scottish Highlands, Dumfries and Galloway, Northumberland, the Lake District, Snowdonia, Mid-Wales and the Brecon Beacons, including iconic locations such as Taigh Seumas a' Ghlinne in Glen Coe, Ben Alder Cottage, Shenavall, Warnscale Head and Greg's Hut. Packed with routes and mapping to each bothy, practical guidance on packing, facilities and safety, plus the author's personal memories and anecdotes, this book brings each location to life. You'll also discover the history of the Mountain Bothies Association, wildlife spotting opportunities and the traditions associated with these remote shelters, highlighting the cultural and natural richness of the UK's wild places. Whether you're planning your first bothy stay, seeking expert advice for safe and enjoyable visits, or simply drawn to stories of life in remote shelters, this book opens a window into the UK's wild landscapes and the enduring appeal of these simple refuges. It invites you to experience solitude, adventure and the quiet beauty of the natural world with just a roof, a fire and the landscape around you.