Howff Scotland Bothy Map

Howff is a mobile-first map for finding Scotland bothies and shelters, including MBA, estate, informal and emergency shelters.

MBA markers link to the official MBA website and carry no current or descriptive information. Howff publishes details for non-MBA records.

Scotland bothy map Howff
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Before you go

The Bothy Code

Bothies are unlocked shelters maintained by volunteers and tolerated by landowners. That arrangement only holds as long as people use them properly. If they don't, bothies get locked, demolished, or handed back. These aren't suggestions.

  1. Leave no trace. Carry out everything you carry in. That includes food scraps, packaging, and ash from the fire. If the last people left a mess, leave it cleaner than you found it anyway.
  2. Don't overstay. Two or three nights maximum. Bothies aren't a base camp or a free holiday cottage. Other people need shelter too — don't monopolise it.
  3. No large groups without permission. Groups of six or more must get written permission from the landowner before using an MBA bothy. Turning up mob-handed without asking is the fastest way to get a bothy closed.
  4. Respect the building. Don't cut living trees for firewood. Don't damage fixtures or fittings. Don't light fires anywhere but the fireplace. Report damage to the MBA — don't ignore it.
  5. Handle waste properly. Most bothies have no toilet. Bury human waste at least 30 metres from the bothy and any water source, using a trowel. Pack out sanitary products — never bury them.
  6. Respect the estate. You are a guest on someone's land. During stalking season (August–October) check local notices and avoid disturbing deer management operations. Leave gates as you find them.
  7. Share the space. You cannot book a bothy and you cannot turn anyone away. If it's full, make room or camp outside. Bothies belong to everyone equally.

Based on the MBA Bothy Code. Consider joining or donating to support the volunteers who maintain these shelters. Howff is an independent project, not affiliated with or endorsed by the MBA.