SCARY CAR CAMPING Trip In Wales | Lake Vyrnwy Camp & Cook UK

[@BrendanExplores]

What do you think? Should I pay more attention to these no camping signs or just keep living the free life? 👍 I think you already know what I think 😉😎 Here is a link to my Patreon if you would like to support me and help put a bit of fuel in the tank 🙂🙏 www.patreon.com/brendanexplores

[@Chris-Caddy]

Keep living the free life!

[@BrendanExplores]

@@Chris-Caddy yes! 😁

[@aaronellis6870]

The free life is better , try llyn brianne 😌

[@BrendanExplores]

Absolutely 🙂 thanks for the recommendation mate 👍

[@abbyarnold4477]

Keep living . I park at Dennys , Ihop or other 24hr establishments with plenty of light .

[@KevinNordstrom]

I'm always strapped when camping. It's not the four legged animals that are a danger, but the two.

[@BrendanExplores]

Couldn't agree more but sadly in the UK we are not allowed to defend ourselves

[@kingsknightuk]

@@BrendanExplores my axe to chop wood disagrees with you lol

[@Mgbn78]

@@BrendanExplores we are allowed to defend ourselves and we can. We do not need to be cowards with assault rifles, we have knives, axes, hammers and various other tools.

[@napukapu]

@@Mgbn78 Yeah, while the roadman just shoots you.

[@healthyliam6803]

@@Mgbn78 you get 5 years if you get caught carrying a knife 😂

[@janetharrod2750]

Not had the Knock, but some likely lads tried my passenger door handle at about midnight when I was fast asleep right next to it!! Scared the life out of me, as it sounded like someone hammering on the door panel. I held firm and didn't move and nothing came of it. They moved on. Moral of the story....Always remember to lock the doors once you're in.

[@BrendanExplores]

Oh really?? That would really freak me out.. glad it didn't deter you from camping 👍. Yeh, I'll never forget to lock my doors after this experience. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment 🙂

[@ads2829]

You can use the seat belt as a makeshift emergency 2nd lock for over night if you're worried. There's plenty of KZbin videos on how to do it. Or alternatively you can measure out the distance from either door and buy a chain that goes through both handles and lock it with a padlock.

[@suedesignable]

Take your seat belts and loop them thru the door handles and then into the seat belt lock. So if someone succeeds in opening the door they won’t get it open very far and you can get moving fast.

[@mickharrison9004]

For sure lock the door 😂

[@lioneljonson161]

Keep a small axe in the car. Show it and a big smile to any f***er who tries your door. There’s no law against having an axe in your car. Legit wardens and police won’t try to get in, they’ll knock.

[@cepsaa]

Sometimes a lone car might mean that a walker has got into trouble somewhere and not returned.

[@BrendanExplores]

That's a fair point to be honest 👍

[@AliKhan-mo5ow]

Not with blacked out windows?

[@WilderhopeAdventures]

A lost hiker would say something...in my mind it's a dogger!

[@Jatakker]

Maybe announcing yourself would be for the best next time if you were just checking

[@McFraneth]

@@WilderhopeAdventures The parked CAR may be seen as belonging to a lost hiker... The car that arrived to check out was possibly the land owner's, or staff of theirs.

[@marcuscompton3772]

I would never make contact with someone that late unless its an emergency. Wouldn't it be great if people were just left alone.

[@BrendanExplores]

Couldn't agree more mate 👍

[@allieandmaria]

Some 25 years ago, I got the 'coppers knock' while overnighting in the car at Flamborough Head. I was told to move on, so simply drove 200 yards out of the car park and parked on the road between other cars - hidden in plain sight...

[@BrendanExplores]

Nice one 👍 yeh if I was told to move on, I would do the same. No hassle just find another spot, CBA with the drama 😅. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment 🙂

[@danielmoore3602]

Yeah flamborogh heads a no go overnight just park outside thorneick bay round the corner ;)

[@timfaulkner852]

I lived the van life for 12 yrs, loved every min, had the same experience a couple of times, I later found out that a lot of these beautiful places in the sticks, are doggin hot spots 😮🤭if anyone had bad intentions they would have attempted to break in, stick with it enjoy the fabulous memories attached 👌👍

[@BrendanExplores]

Thanks for the comment mate 🙂 yeh your right, since this video it hasn't happened again since other than my friend knocking at 4am lol

[@poppyjohnson-hd7jt]

I would have said doggin to its realy common out in the sticks

[@estellegrove4853]

Brendan there are no laws that you cannot sleep in your car in the U.K. the signs are up to discourage, just to keep the amount of people sleeping in their car to a minimum. But these signs are not legally binding. If the police knock it’s probably just to check on you as they have no jurisdiction to move you unless your car is a hazard. Wherever you can be prosecuted for no insurance or road tax means that you are entitled to park up and sleep for as long as you want. The Highway Code actually suggests a sleep after every 2 hour drive. Stand your ground if anyone tells you otherwise. No bill has ever been passed that a company (including local councils) can forbid a legal vehicle parking if they’ve paid for a ticket. Happy camping! 🤗

[@BrendanExplores]

Very true 👍 I've heard some horror stories though with locals smashing car windows etc... But to be fair, I'm not exactly parked outside someone's house so I should be ok. I hate seeing no overnight parking signs up, especially when the view is so beautiful. let's hope they don't bring in even stricter laws anytime soon 🤞. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment 🙂

[@estellegrove4853]

@@BrendanExplores 🤗

[@PippetWhippet]

It’s not that there’s a law saying “Sleeping in your car is illegal”, it’s that the landowner can set the terms of the use of their land. If they put a sign up, saying “no sleeping in your car in this car park” - as long as the sign doesn’t ask you to break the law, then that’s a valid term. It’s also a valid notice for trespass purposes. It counts as having been asked to leave in uk law. So by sleeping in your car overnight in a place with signs up saying “no sleeping in your vehicle”, or “no overnight parking”, you are trespassing. It’s not a criminal affair, but it is illegal. It gives the police the power to tow your car, evict you with force etc if you meet one of the other requirements of the new bill - making a smell that someone says is offensive would be enough for example. That said, you could just drive out of the car park in the many hours it would take to organise a tow or negotiate with you to leave voluntarily before getting hands on. However. Do you have a knife in your car? Now it’s aggravated trespass, and this is a criminal matter. It would take a real jobsworth to want to press charges, but there are some real jobsworths out there. And the police don’t really have a choice in the matter if a complaint comes in. I’m not trying to put you off doing what you do, I think staying quiet was the correct thing to do and you handled it very well. I personally think you’re great, and hope you keep on doing what you do. However, don’t fall into the sovereign citizen mindset where you start to deny what you are doing and what your rights are. Understand that you are trespassing, and it is technically aggravated trespass and do not listen to anyone who tells you otherwise, sovereign citizens will be attracted to your channel like flies and if you let them, they will brainwash you into their sad little cult. If you ever find yourself disputing whether you are a person, or studying the Magna Carta and consulting with blacks law dictionary, or trying to differentiate between driving the commercial activity and captaining your road vessel along the public right of way… you need a reality check, it’s almost too late!

[@adavies1752]

@@PippetWhippet what a sad country we have become Basically criminals at every turn The lunatics have taken over the asylum

[@Critchy39]

My brother works in the police service and said there’s no way they’d knock without identifying themselves. I predict either a park rangers or a chancer Beautiful video by the way, lovely scenery and perfectly shot :-)

[@BrendanExplores]

Yeh I thought that as well, I think your right 👍. Glad you enjoyed the video and I hope you like the rest 🙂

[@geraldandrew3289]

​@@BrendanExplores I know this reply is twelve months on but now I've seen it, I live near to this location, you should have gone up to the hotel car park, but park up late, the hotel is a pub aswell some customers leave their vehicles overnight, to passed to drive, your overnight visitor was probably a local making an asshole of them selves doggers are few and far between in these part's more like sheep shaggers.

[@thebaldyorkshireman9019]

I had a similar experience last night. I think it could be opportunist, seeing if anyone is in the vehicle. You'll get a lot of people leaving their vehicles there to go off and wild camp.

[@BrendanExplores]

Oh really? Glad to know I wasn't the only one 👍 yeh your probably right

[@kelligreer3975]

WOW, Wales is beautiful. Nothing like Kansas City. We have gorgeous places in the US but that just seems magic fairy book dreams.

[@BrendanExplores]

Thank you mate and yeh it was a pretty amazing place to be honest 🙂

[@dwaynepipe7801]

Wales Scotland England and Ireland have many magical spots to camp.

[@josephnicholson1819]

You can always try seat belt trick for extra safety by put seat belt through door handles if you don’t do so already

[@BrendanExplores]

Ahh yes I have seen others mention that actually 🙂 thanks 👍

[@SSZaris]

You could literally be in the middle of nowhere and there's just got to be someone out there who wants to ruin your privacy. I really want to know the thought process of someone who sees someone doing everything in their power to keep to themselves, and then thinks "yea, I'm going to go annoy them". Assuming it wasn't the ranger. Here in NZ at the very least the ranger will just leave a ticket on your window. They won't harass you while you sleep. But there's plenty of nosy c&^ts here too 😅

[@BrendanExplores]

I know what you mean mate 👍 just wish everyone could get on with what there doing and let everyone else get on with what their doing. No harm in anything that I do so see no reason to come and ask questions and harras people

[@SSZaris]

@@BrendanExplores I don't mean to be negative. At the end of the day it's all part of the fun. Loving your videos bro ☺️

[@twpsy634]

Or maybe it was just a concerned ranger. My nephew found a young man alone in a car in Wales who had shot himself through the mouth.

[@maddie.b1]

@@dylanlowry9883 This isnt NSW haha 😅

[@Delabane]

In the UK it's impossible to get away from people in the car, find the most isolated place to park the car and some fucker will turn up at 3:00 in he morning and do something weird like just sit there for 15 minutes with engine and lights on full beam. Makes me want to scream FUCK OFF.

[@onlyvans.life23]

I live local, the ranger is very on the ball he lives in the stone house by the cafe and doesn't miss a thing.. the flies kill me every time, we went down the dirty track on the far end all was well until I pulled out the cooking gear the dogs were getting mobbed we were so I decided bug out pardon the pun...

[@BrendanExplores]

Ahhh right 👍 thanks for the heads up

[@MegaSusanc]

So beautiful out there Brendan. Thank you for sharing your awesome adventures. Ya bet it is scary when someone comes knocking on your vehicle in the middle of the night. Keep adventuring GOD BLESS YOU

[@wormwood6424]

A bit of sad history too is the lake was perpose built and therefore had a whole villiage removed and flooded....that's the part they leave out🤨

[@BrendanExplores]

Aww yes I did see something about that online.. I also heard from someone saying it's a ghost town under there we well 👻

[@wildforesthome6563]

I'd invest in a couple of little wireless cameras that could link to your phone, any noises outside could easily be investigated without giving your presence away

[@BrendanExplores]

That's a great idea, I might look into that 🙂 thanks for watching and leaving a comment 👍

[@G_T_C_2024]

The police tend to check up on random cars parked up .. we used to sleep about in the car when younger .. quite often you would get the police tap on the window and ask if everything OK and leave .. sometimes just the torch in the window and they leave. (( especially if vehicles not registered local ))

[@BrendanExplores]

That's a fair point, could of been anyone but you never know 👍

[@TheMacMaster]

Good video. Came up in my stream. Enjoyed it. 🕶️

[@aaronellis6870]

I’ve had a similar experience but they didn’t knock they tried the doors instead 😫

[@BrendanExplores]

Jeez!! Really? That's creepy. I would of really sh@t myself if that happened

[@bennyswales8245]

Always carry a bit of 2by4 piece of wood mate just in case

[@BrendanExplores]

Not a bad shout buddy 👍

[@Waynes_Travels]

Cracking scenery again mate, Wales is just full of epic spots. Yeah that knock would be scary but don't let it put you off, things like that teach us lessons.

[@BrendanExplores]

Thank you buddy 👍. It's a beautiful spot and yeh it was a bit unnerving but your right, it won't put me off future camps 🙂

[@moddenby4525]

I have an alarm on my car you can activate via remote you find in situations like you where in comes in handy people often turn and run another direction if I set off after knocking

[@BrendanExplores]

That's a good idea! I'll look into getting something similar 👍

[@kdean9537]

Hi Brendan, beautiful drone shots, really lovely countryside! That was pretty unsettling having someone knocking on your car, I would have thought police or ranger they would have identified themselves. Glad you're okay. Good to see you remembered your ridgemonkey, your meal looked delicious, that's my favourite BBQ meal! Have a wonderful week! Thanks for sharing, take really good care of yourself, stay safe! Please give Mika a cuddle for me! Much love Kathy x 💖

[@BrendanExplores]

Hey Kathy, yeh the food was great and I loved this location 🙂 glad you enjoyed the video and I think it was a park ranger most probably. Glad I was left alone in the end 👍. Have a great week 😁

[@theronin365]

Why didn't you just ask who it was?

[@paulalston3963]

@@theronin365 Because the whole thing is bullshit thats why.

[@Bananas331]

Just a thought, if you have a trail camera set it up outside facing the car overnight.

[@BrendanExplores]

That's a great idea! Thanks for that 🙂👍

[@Merciuh]

I've just got a caddy maxi camper and Lake Vyrnwy was going to be my first camp next weekend because I wanted to try out my new kayak too. Not sure if I'll sleep right by the lake now!

[@BrendanExplores]

Go for it mate and maybe park up a little bit away from the lakeside to give you safe peace of mind 👍 I won't let this stop me but I'll be taking extra precautions in future 🙂

[@abdaloser]

My observation is these secluded areas are perfect for people to break into cars as the owners are away hiking, i think they knocked to check youre in there and id say your black outs bleed light so when your led light turned on they saw you were occupying the car.

[@BrendanExplores]

Yeh your probably right to be fair 👍 I'm glad they decided to leave in the end

[@MK-CELER-ET-AUDAX]

Good job they didn't nick your camera you left on the floor and used it in the morning. 😊 CELER ET AUDAX ​@BrendanExplores

[@L117music]

I think it was doggers at that time in the morning, but i think you need a back up plan to get out of a situation like that gain. just in case they turn out to be thieves or worse.

[@BrendanExplores]

Yeh I agree, I need a plan b at every park up I think 👍 just to be safe

[@ForeverSweetx3]

What are doggers? I'm not from the UK

[@beaulieuonnp593]

@@ForeverSweetx3 People who meet for sex in cars or like to be voyeurs

[@nforne]

​@@ForeverSweetx3 If you haven't already figured it out, search KZbin for "Peter Kay car share dogging". Good luck.

[@davidgibbings6085]

I was on hold from Devon in wales in the gona peninsula and the two aircraft were red arrows training ,👍

[@BrendanExplores]

Oh wow! Would of love to of seen them but I had a good show above me in this one as well 🙂👍

[@grunge_surf_witch_uk9130]

As a woman I think I wouldn’t rest I’d prob drive off after, worried they comeback. I’d feel like a sitting duck. Glad your ok scary stuff!! I think it’s the police they would say!

[@BrendanExplores]

Yeh, I understand that to be fair. I was worried they would return but glad it turned out well. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment 🙂👍

[@wayne.s]

What a glorius place and breathtaking views.

[@BrendanExplores]

It really is beautiful 🙂

[@KJ-ol5kh]

That’s my fear for parking in those spots. You don’t know what type of nut case is driving around in the dark. By the way, do you have a portaloo? A lot of complaints about “wild” campers is the toilet mess some people leave behind. P. S get one of those powerful torches and shine it right back at them. Those type usually don’t like to be identified.

[@ModoOverland]

Nice channel! I saw your profile on Instagram and came here on KZbin. I’m from Brazil. Hugs.

[@BrendanExplores]

Ahhh nice one! 🙂 Thanks for coming over and checking out the channel 👍 welcome to the family!

[@richardwatts1314]

THANK IT GOOD TO UN WIND FROM LIFE.HOPE U THE BEST.RICHARD

[@BrendanExplores]

Thanks mate 🙂👍

[@richardwatts1314]

@@BrendanExplores YOUR WELCOME.

[@willstonvelo8100]

Best to leave no trace of the person that knocks on the van in the night

[@BrendanExplores]

😂😂 yeh good advice lol

[@scottishalwaysdixie1638]

There's plenty of different cctv cameras that discreet for your vehicle ? That way u get alerts when it picks something up # keeps a safer aswell as catching our wildlife at night... 👍🏻

[@BallisticBurns]

We live in a van about 30 miles from Vrynwy, sadly there’s quite a bit of this kind of aggressive behaviour towards to camping overnight round here.

[@BrendanExplores]

Ahhh right, any idea who it might of been? I didn't look out and I'm not sure if rangers patrol? 👍

[@TheSebiestor]

I've worked for Yorkshire dales national parks, and rangers DO NOT work/patrol in the middle of the night

[@Searchdog1972]

@@TheSebiestor , in the Lakes there are night patrols to enforce the No Camping signs in various areas

[@JazzFunkNobby1964]

@@Searchdog1972 Can't you say you're a Gypsy and to piss off or else.

[@JazzFunkNobby1964]

Could have been fuel thieves. Drill a hole in your fuel tank and steal your diesel. Car alarm doesn't even go off.

[@NikkiEvernight]

Idk, I'd be thinking they might come back with tools or a tow rope. Careful mate, find a way to be able to slip into the front without getting out, and always park with space to escape!

[@BrendanExplores]

Yeh good advice 👍 I was worried they would return hence the lack of sleep that night

[@blackporscheroadster6415]

Been to Lake Vyrnwy many many times. Those large picnic tables often get visited by bright orange Chaffinches which are not scared of humans. I was there with my late father once eating some sandwiches in about 2013 and about six Chaffinches just appeared on the table eating our bread. The reason you got the knock is that is a very conspicuous park up. Those picnic benches are a very popular spot. I would have parked in a more 'stealth' spot at the very far end of the lake. Also, Lake Vyrnwy is haunted. It is said that from twilight onwards the 'removed' residents of the 'drowned' village rise up out of the water. I'm guessing they are not overly fond of English 'stealth' campers too.

[@BrendanExplores]

Oh wow, I bet that was lovely 🙂. Yeh it wasn't the most stealth place to be fair but it was beautiful. I'm glad you told me that story now and not before I went 🤣🤣

[@blackporscheroadster6415]

@@BrendanExplores I was at Lake Vyrnwy late one Summer's evening many moons ago and it was before it was so popular like it is now, so there wasn't anyone about. It did start to feel very creepy and had a haunted vibe. People have seen spirits rise up out of the water.

[@kevinthomas5992]

Visited Lake Vrnwy a little while ago . Very nice and .check out chapel Lawn camp site. Lovely hillfort to check out.

[@BrendanExplores]

It's beautiful isn't it 🙂 I'll check it out 👍 thanks for the info

[@TomAndJoeVlogsTJOutdoors]

Another week, another superb video. I agree, anything over a tenner for a hair cut don’t bother haha. Intense through the night though, made for a good watch. Well put together video and great drone footage, class. 👍🏻

[@BrendanExplores]

Thanks guys 🙂👍 and yeh I've never paid more than a tenner for a hair cut lol. It was hard to get back to sleep to be fair but I managed it 🙂

[@adriankingdon3055]

I heard somewhere that if you have problems with your spout that Manual do a treatment for it.

[@BrendanExplores]

They do a variety of male focused treatments 🙂 👍

[@pcat1378]

If ever questioned tell them you are having a break as advised to do by the Police as you have driven far and felt tired. You pulled over in a safe and quiet spot.

[@BrendanExplores]

Yeh that's a good way to get away with it 👍 might be hard to explain the bed though 😉

[@pcat1378]

@@BrendanExplores Nothing illegal about being comfortable The biggest mistake everyone makes is giving to much info away.... I have stopped to rest...NO COURT on the land would convict you of anything for taking a break from driving.... People talk to much.

[@boatingmanchester]

Had to chuckle when your cooking your lunch and the wedding photos are being taken 4ft away :)

[@BrendanExplores]

Yeh it was a bit surreal but lovely as well 🙂 beautiful spot for some 👍

[@survival-sam]

Wow, that would be super scary !!!! Makes me glad I do my stealth camping in the wild.

[@BrendanExplores]

Yeah it did scare me to be fair. I've done some stealth camping in the hills and it makes me feel much safer 👍

[@MrLandyman123]

I used to stop out in an old landrover, I'd have dinner somewhere then 10 pm shoot off into the legal byways and find an unused gateway or wide clearing. Never got knocked in 15 years, I have woken up with a dog walker peering at me through the back window though.

[@survival-sam]

@@MrLandyman123 Had to read twice , as I miss read peering as peeing !!!! now that would wake you up in a hurry :) 😀😃

[@killieguyno1]

sounds like a coppers knock!!

[@BrendanExplores]

It does doesn't it! I thought that

[@fleep79]

Camped on top of that waterfall last year, was absolutely amazing. Stunning views. 💪🙏

[@BrendanExplores]

Nice one! In a tent a take it? What was the acces like? Did you get disturbed? 👍

[@HeavenCurtis-cn4oy]

Beautiful area to visit! I've never had kabobs but they looked delicious! Glad you are ok and nothing came of the rude awakening! Lovely video.

[@loneoutdoorsman]

Very likely to have been the local ranger doing the rounds of the car parking spots. If it was the Police they would have kept knocking and actually have identified themselves. In both cases the worst thing that can happen is being asked to move on. I've had three knocks over the years, and they've all been decent and polite (as I was to them) and just asked me to move onto another spot. I wouldn't be put off by it though, although makes you jump at the time it's not too bad :)

[@BrendanExplores]

Yeh I thought that as well. I didn't even know they had patrols but I definitely won't be letting it get in the way of camping again 🙂. Like you say, what's the worst that can happen 👍

[@blackporscheroadster6415]

@@BrendanExplores What's the worst that can happen? Inbred locals pitch up and roll your van into the lake. I'm guessing you haven't seen the films Straw Dogs or Deliverance?

[@majordelays4909]

What defensive weapon do you carry to ward off evil spirits ?

[@OrdinaryJoe12]

If there is military stuff about it could have been M.O.D. doing security checks, I got checked by plain clothes army when camping up a scottish lochside once.

[@gavinhaynes5632]

A ranger would have identified them selfs as a ranger, by law.

[@kimgoodwin5469]

Nice videos. I also film my trips. But I stay in hotels . I’m set to convert my 4x4 into a camper next year and hopefully I can go back and tour wales again.

[@easygoer1234]

First off it would be so scary leaving someone come upon you at night like that. And also I'm from the US and I wish we had beautiful green places like they do there.it's all sagebrush and sand here.

[@BrendanExplores]

It was scary to be fair and I would love to travel the US one day with the family 🙂 hopefully one day 👍

[@GaryPiazza]

But we do have that green stuff here. Have you been to the Pacific Northwest?

[@terfz]

Or anywhere along the east cost, especially New England

[@mohork]

First thing you do is, look at your front windscreen. You might got a ticket.

[@BrendanExplores]

Luckily I didn't have anything on the car in the morning 👍 thankfully

[@mohork]

@@BrendanExplores I worry about that every morning I live like you do full time.

[@BrendanExplores]

@@mohork oh wow, out of choice or? What car do you use?

[@mohork]

@@BrendanExplores I have a Toyota Estima. It's low profile tyres, 455 watt solar panels, 5x100 amp batteries, DVD player TV, with kitchen in rear with a choice to have a double or single bed, I chose a single bed. Epever MPPT Solar charger. Single front seat drivers side. Rear left side seat is wooden as I made a fold up lounge seat. Got 2 fishing poles with sticks, lpg gas for my cook top stove, even put the solar panels on top of my car roof racks. My TV aerial rotates 360°. It's like a mini RV in it. I live in New Zealand. Even got a fridge/freezer and I use it as a footstool. I bought the car because I did not want to pay rent anymore. For the same price I just go drive somewhere and get a window with a view.

[@fireflyrobert]

The answer is cctv on the outside - not so much for security but to see who is out there.

[@BrendanExplores]

Good point and I agree but maybe it would give away the stealth aspect too much.. to add, I have no source of power either in the car but I appreciate the suggestion 👍

[@SheriffCartman]

Another fact, the reservoir is used to keep the river Severn topped up (along with Clywedog) because of the dry weather at the moment. Scary to get knocks, probably rangers, I would have thought they would still announce themselves though, or at least said “no camping allowed” as they left. They don’t know who is in the car though; you could be a large aggressive man for all they know, if you don’t get out they could assume your wild camping in the hills I guess, but your fabric in the windows would suggest your inside. Worst they can do is ask you to leave, even with the new law your fine if you leave. What did those signs say though? Everything is illegal these days, better to just ask for forgiveness afterwards in most cases as long as your not on a farmers drive. I think even if you asked permission to stop anywhere, it would likely be a “no” even if they didn’t mind, cos it might make others think it’s ok. The Elan Valley is a designated dark sky site and they promote doing Astro photography there, so they would expect cars left in the lay-bys into the night really I would imagine as photographers would be out until the early hours.

[@BrendanExplores]

Yeh you would think they would announce themselves as well but it could of been anyone. I would of loved to of done some astrophotography I'm Elan, beautiful spot 🙂 thanks for watching and leaving a comment 👍

[@JazzFunkNobby1964]

What new law?

[@lynetteharris5832]

Just found your video. Love them. Really love your accent. I am in wiscinsin Usa.

[@BrendanExplores]

Thanks Lynette 🙂 glad your enjoying the channel 👍

[@PixiesChannel12345]

What a wonderful spot that was /I really need to visit Wales one day, At least you remembered the Ridgemonkey this time lol Guess what? I now have one with the link you provided in your last video it's awesome, I've bought quite a few different things to get car camping done right lol so here's hoping for some more car camping videos.

[@BrendanExplores]

It really is a epic spot mate and such a shame that it has so many no overnight parking signs... Makes for a great camp spot. Yeh, I'll never forget the ridgemonkey ever again 😂😂. Hope you enjoy your ridgemonkey and thanks for using my link 😁👍

[@darrenfranklin3569]

If the carpark is on a regular military training flightpath then it might be security checking vehicles.

[@dannyboy7715]

I think you'll find the knock was the police checking to see if it was an abandoned vehicle.

[@BrendanExplores]

It could well of been, your right 👍

[@keithrock939]

Stick some exterior cameras on outside of your car front and back maybe better if you stick on roof rack and box and mount cameras on all sides. Have a safe journey God bless

[@colinootnaboot8256]

You need to come to Scotland the only rule we have is leave no trace.

[@BrendanExplores]

And that's the way it should be 👍 can't wait to travel to Scotland one day 🙂 thanks for leaving a comment mate

[@82michalko]

Where is the parcel shelf fold out table from please? I'd like that for my Ford galaxy. Thank you

[@BrendanExplores]

@@82michalko hey, I actually made that folding kitchen table from ply wood and a detachable pole 🙂

[@82michalko]

@@BrendanExplores well done, great idea. I'd like to know how to attach the top of it. Does the pole fit onto the side grooves where the parcel shelf normally goes? Cheers

[@BrendanExplores]

@@82michalko I actually have a video of my installing it on my channel 🙂 here's the video 👍 kzbin.info/www/bejne/fqSTlHiaZdOMfck

[@rock2946]

Have you ever thought of getting black curtains to cover the back? That way when headlights shine into your car, then they won't reveal you.

[@BrendanExplores]

I've actually got a curtain I put up but I'll take a look at that you suggested 🙂 thanks mate 👍

[@Jfp45]

I live not far from the lake. It's nice to cycle round

[@McFraneth]

Possibly the game-keeper or the owner of the land, knocked, and assumed the owner was off somewhere. This is why I only went wild camping once, in the Corbières in France. Nearly died of fright when we saw headlights coming towards us along the track. Never again. We picked a spot by a natural spring surrounded by poplars, in the middle of vineyards. I didn't sleep the entire week I was so frightened at night. I'd say, don't camp where it's not allowed. You don't want to piss off the landowners. There are plenty of people with land who let campers stay the night. That's better.

[@BrendanExplores]

Yeh it could of been 👍 and I agree, you definitely get a better night's sleep when your allowed to stay somewhere. Problem is in the UK most places that are worth camping for a night and now banned... Which leaves very little places to actually stay. Shame really but I'll keep plodding on 🙂

[@McFraneth]

@@BrendanExplores If you ever have the opportunity, France has a network of farms and rural properties that allow overnight camping. It's rough and ready, but authentic. Real working farms or vineyards. If you go in the autumn you can ever do the vendanges and make some money. Backbreaking work, but plenty of people meet their partners that way. Winemakers are desperate for grape harvest crews in France. The vendanges last about three weeks. You'll get really fit as well as the men carry the baskets on their backs that the women empty the trugs of grapes into.

[@paulvickers3800]

Me and 2 friends camped in Peak District and early one morning I spotted 2 guys carrying a bin liner look like a body shape, told one mate fck they got a body he never slept rest of the camp trip..

[@BrendanExplores]

Jesus.. that would scary the living daylights out of me lol

[@mchristiansen137]

Abso-freakin-lutley beautiful scenery!! I would have done a ground stealth camp out there. Seems like there was plenty of cover to back into the bush and set up a small camp. Give me a can of beans and sausages, some bread and a cold drink, and I would be in heaven!! I would imagine with all the stealth car/van/truck videos out, people are more keen to spot you. Just be careful, You guys put out a awesome lot of scenery there, and I would hate to have to go back to watching stock videos of places, and some droning voice in the background! lol

[@BrendanExplores]

Thanks very much mate 😁 yeh I did some tent camping last year, it was brilliant 👍. The car is so much more comfortable though 😉. I'm glad you like the videos mate and I hope you enjoy my future adventures 👍

[@maverickmaverick6124]

That is why don’t block car seat to back in an emergency you have to go out to drivers seat . Blocking back area to front seat is always bad idea in camping car or bus

[@BrendanExplores]

Yes I agree 👍 I can just about get into the front without getting out the car though so in a n emergency I can get away

[@OnAMissionForAdventure]

After seeing the views and free parking 🤫 I'm going to visit very soon 😎 great content 👌 you've earned a sub from me

[@BrendanExplores]

Thank you mate 👍 welcome to the family 🙂 it really was an amazing trip 😁

[@OnAMissionForAdventure]

@@BrendanExplores thank you 👍 happy adventures 😎

[@Dr-Sy]

You gotta be careful around ere boyo, make sure you stay on the path, Don't wonder from the path.

[@MyVagabondAdventures]

My goodness I’d have bricked and bugged well out of there with that knock 😂 thankfully they just left you alone in the end. Fantastic video and amazing views too, drone shots are epic too 👍🏻 ATB Russ

[@BrendanExplores]

Cheers mate, great camping with you this weekend 👍. Yeh, I was glad I braved it out in the end because I would of been driving around all night looking I reckon

[@MyVagabondAdventures]

@@BrendanExplores Great weekend camping with you too 👍🏻 it’s been a good one. And yeah it wouldn’t have been fun driving around all night, you did the best thing and stayed. As far as anyone knew you could have been in the hills camping. Saying that not far from where you was is wales best road ever! And there’s parkups too

[@steves3760]

Don't worry about the haircut, I cut my own. #4 or #5 guard and a right and left ear taper. I can't believe how much a cut is in the U.S. where I live.

[@BrendanExplores]

Nice one 👍 yeh it's crazy how fast costs are going up in the UK at the moment...

[@nellmoose85]

That was definitely a police man knock. I'm from Wales and know 100% the bang of the local 'fuzz'

[@BrendanExplores]

It did sound "official" lol

[@andysutils]

Wow . What the heck is that BBQ food enclosure called you put on your stove. Where do you get one?

[@BrendanExplores]

That's called a ridgemonkey and I have a link to the exact one I use in the video description 🙂👍

[@andysutils]

@@BrendanExplores ah brill thanks.

[@wanderingoutyonder]

Yikes! What a wake up in the middle of the night!

[@BrendanExplores]

Tell me about it! Nearly sh@t my pants lol

[@bkj3769]

Hi brendon where did you get kebab cooker from your cooking looked very tasty

[@BrendanExplores]

Hey buddy 🙂 glad you liked it, it's called a ridgemonkey and I have a link to it in the video description if that helps 👍

[@courtsandmeeks]

Watching this from the passenger seat on our journey back north after the festival - so lovely meeting you. Great video mate and yes we can confirm those kettles are a bit shit 🤣 we had an orange one and the plastic nozzle where the water pours out melted and it started going all over the worktop more than in the mug. It sadly found itself a bin shaped coffin. Hope to catch up again sometime. Courts 🧡

[@BrendanExplores]

Nice one guys 🙂 it was lovely meeting you both as well 👍. What did you guys as a replacement kettle out of interest? Hopefully it's not too long before we catch up again 😁

[@courtsandmeeks]

@@BrendanExplores we went for a big boy le creuset kettle afterwards 🤣 I'd always wanted one and since we aren't living in a country cottage anytime soon we just said f*** it.

[@BrendanExplores]

@@courtsandmeeks why not! 😂 I'll have to have a look at some replacements at some point because I don't think it will be long before it fails again lol

[@Cruella-Deville]

You’ve got the “what”

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Keep living the free life 👍 I think silence was a good strategy that paid off. If you had responded then it goes to the next stage where whoever it was starts telling you what to do. I don’t think it was the police, I have knocked a few vehicles in my time and we always used to clearly state we are the police and I would turn my own torch on myself to show that. As for the second vehicle with it’s headlamps on, that has happened to us a few times. I put that down to a driver just making up their mind what to do next. Could be a courting couple who didn’t expect to see your vehicle and they are as spooked as you. They keep their lights on as plunging into darkness is scary for them. Kebabs looked great 😁👍

[@BrendanExplores]

Thanks both! 🙂 Yeh the free life it is 😁. I must admit I was a bit spooked and for a second I thought about saying hello but as they didn't say anything or announce who they were I didn't fancy poking my head out to the unknown. Yeh that second vehicle could of litterally been anyone but the adrenaline was pumping so I though it was the local axe murderer at the time 😂. I'll be parking in a spot thats suitable for a quick escape next time 👍

[@goldilocks913]

@@BrendanExplores l was told many times whilst training as a lorry driver that it is essential to set yourself to get out of a warehouse when you can . Works in lots of different scenarios it seems! New subscriber 👍

[@BrendanExplores]

@@goldilocks913 thanks buddy 🙂 welcome to the family 👍

[@fieldsman3307]

Probably just the local welsh dross, no shortage of them in Powys, my advice is if camping in wales a pickaxe handle is the essential item to pack.

[@kenworthing472]

Beautiful videography, Brendan! It was great to watch your drone footage. Who do you think the knockers were at that time of night? Cops, or disgruntled locals, or just idiots out on the pi*s? Scary, brutha! I hope that you never need to use it, but it might be an idea to carry something in your car to protect yourself with. Take care, Brendan.

[@BrendanExplores]

Thank you Ken 👍 I do love a good drone shot 🙂. I think the knocks were probably from a park ranger as I think the police would of announced themselves. I do have a couple of things handy when I camp 😉 only problem is....in the UK even a desert spoon is classed as an offensive weapon lol

[@NoMoreHeroesPunkPostPunk]

@@BrendanExplores Aah! .. Good point!. Those spoons .. gotta watch for them ;) Well, here's hoping that sort of thing doesn't happen again to you. Happy Car Camping to you, Brendan!

[@LeisureBit]

Lovely walk around to the waterfall. Great drone footage of the reservoir - quite an impressive dam. Looked tasty chicken skewers. Looks like a fabulous spot you chose. Looked a bit spooky when the car turned up and woke you. You never know what folks are up to do you. Enjoy the rest of your weekend, all the best, David & Rachel 👍

[@BrendanExplores]

Thanks guys! Appreciate you watching and leaving a comment 🙂. It is a lovely spot but it was unfortunate to have that experience and see those signs. The skewers were amazing, cooked them about 10 times at home since lol. Hope you enjoy my future adventures 😁

[@kimperkins6144]

Oh...the dreaded knock in the night...this has happened to me...and it's always been "authority" ppl...it's a terrible feeling..but don't let it stop u...your videos are wonderful and beautiful...and u r delightful company.

[@BrendanExplores]

Yeh I was scared I'm not gunna lie but it won't stop me 🙂👍

[@broadkamikaze]

That was weird and a bit scary especially as your alone. Some odd people lurking about at night . Maybe next time lower the window a bit and point the shotgun at them 🤣 But on the plus side I bet this video gets the most views. 😃

[@BrendanExplores]

Yeh it was a very strange experience as they said nothing at all but knock. I've got to try and think about ways in which I cnlan protect myself, even if it's just adjusting my parking positions so I can make a quick getaway in future. Yeh your right lol

[@wakingwild8884]

@@BrendanExplores Always be pointing in the right direction for a quick getaway. Always keep your keys in the same place and I always keep my trainers by the pedals ready to slip on quickly in an emergency.

[@BrendanExplores]

@@wakingwild8884 solid advice that 👍 you never know what the night brings

[@twpsy634]

@@BrendanExplores Although if you were a young girl being held against your will in the car you'd be glad of the chance to cry for help.

[@lynnb8587]

Just subscribed and loved watching your video and looking forward to many more x

[@BrendanExplores]

Thank you very much, welcome to the family 🙂 hope you enjoy the future videos 👍

[@multipreach2674]

Should have beefed them pal.

[@BrendanExplores]

😂😂 I was scared sh@tless lol

[@TheNomadicTrader]

Try putting a hand-written sign in the front windscreen saying "car won't start, gone to get help" or something similar!

[@BrendanExplores]

Yes mate! Great idea 😁 bit like "tax in post" 😂👍

[@TheNomadicTrader]

@@BrendanExplores haha, yep that's the one. I use it when I wild camp and have to leave my car in a lay-by

[@davidmoore9385]

The UK is beautiful but the mentality is sad , nothing is free , so glad I left.

[@BrendanExplores]

I agree on both points you made... Such beauty here but the restrictions are crazy!

[@darrenwilliams2921]

Good spot you chose , I've stayed in the hotel there and I think the lake is owned by Welsh Water .

[@BrendanExplores]

Cheers Darren and yeh I think it is 👍 nice hotel but I fancied a free night by the lakeside 😁

[@welshman64]

If it’s was the police , I think they would have said “it’s the police”. Good luck or it’s just a person pissing about .🚙🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿⛺️

[@BrendanExplores]

Yeh I agree 👍 I think it was the rangers that patrol the area to be fair. Thankfully they left me alone afterwards

[@lucienhikingdroneflying2543]

know how you feel mate. I've done that too. in a parking lot in the forest near Kootwijk NL, overnight stays are not permitted there. but because it is far from the road, I still took the chance. I expected it to be completely quiet. So I got that wrong 😳 and was sent away at 1 am by local police. who also knocked first without saying anything, which is anything but nice. I immediately left and went to sleep somewhere else.

[@Toltecgrl]

This is the third camping video I've watched where somebody comes knocking at times like 2 or 3 in the morning. Who in the right mind goes knocking on people's cars or campers? Who are these idiots? Nobody goes and knocks on somebody's house windows at that time of day. So why do they think it's okay to do that to campers? And what could they want at that time? Smh

[@BrendanExplores]

I totally agree 👍 unless a car or van has been parked up for 3+ days why knock? Makes no sense. Let people be and be happy 🙂👍

[@joes6088]

What, in a place that says no overnight parking or camping? Any number of people would consider knocking on a car or camper door, even if it’s only to disturb your night as penalty for ignoring the no parking signs.

[@Toltecgrl]

@@joes6088 well how about minding their own business?

[@joes6088]

@@Toltecgrl how about they live there and are fed up of constantly finding their locality scattered with rubbish and waste from overnight campers?

[@seanbirss1816]

The worst part is not being able to see what’s going on outside. I’ve got a wee WiFi battery camera that I set if possible pointing at my vehicle.

[@simonh6371]

Years ago I was car camping in a forest in mid Wales and someone came knocking on the windows at 2am. I ate his liver with some baked beans and orange juice, for breakfast.

[@BrendanExplores]

😂😂😂 nice one 👍

[@lollipop84858]

No you didn't.

[@colinootnaboot8256]

Had one if those kettles but after a good bit of use it started leaking from the bottom ring (join)

[@BrendanExplores]

Oh really? Damm, looks like I'll be having to buy some more silicone 😂 thanks for watching and leaving a comment 👍

[@sharonc6505]

Amazing View! 🏞 thank you for taking time to Show us this Wonderful place 🤗 and the beautiful Waterfall 🦋That was Creepy the knock !? Please Be Safe for sure! that was Crazy 😳😮 also your hair looks good! 💇‍♂️

[@BrendanExplores]

My pleasure Sharon 🙂 glad you enjoyed it 👍. Yeh it's made me think twice about parking in these sort of places but there tend to be the most beautiful. Might have to up my stealth game 😂. Thanks 😁

[@tooyoungtobeold8756]

Great intro, funny for me, scary for you though. I thought you were cooking the wedding breakfast there - such a lot of food. Very brave flying your drone over water.

[@BrendanExplores]

Thanks 👍 yeh it was a creepy experience but well worth the views, it was a beautiful spot 🙂 thanks for watching and leaving a comment 👍

[@Dee-B82]

Wow that was a bit scary think you did the right thing in staying put Brendan 👏 x Nice to see the ridge monkey not being left behind 😉 Kebabs looked ace 👌🏽 That view tho 😍 I could sit there for hours listening to that running water, another great camping vid there 👍🏼xx

[@BrendanExplores]

Thanks Dee 👍 and yes I remembered it this time 😂😂. It was a beautiful view only spoilt by those horrible signs. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment as always 😁

[@sobeit1927]

In Spain in the 80’s 3 lads came into my camper at 2 in the morning . I went berserk and scared them to death , they legged it whilst swearing at me and calling me a nutter . Lol . It was quite freaky .

[@NickyDunn]

Hiya. Happy Thursday. Found your channel from Charlie's comments. Love your sponsor. Love that. It will help many. Gorgeous scenery. Love the sound of the water. I could sit there all day. Beautiful. Gorgeous waterfalls. Lovely stone wall. Gorgeous views. Love the drone footage. Wales is gorgeous. Nice older footage. The bridge is spectacular. Your wife. Where is she when you travel? If that is not rude to ask. Definitely beats what is on the telly. Gorgeous views. Your dinner looked good. Scary. Glad they left.

[@BrendanExplores]

Yes this little adventure was a good one and a beautiful location as well 🙂. One of my favourite camps this was, even if I did get disturbed in the night. Believe it or not, I only get out camping every other week, so I'm at home with my family most of the time which is nice. I'm hoping to bring my family on some more camps this year with some updates to come on the channel