Sleeping Overnight Alone In A Remote Scotland Bothy

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Sleeping overnight in a remote Scottish bothy is something I've always wanted to experience so I hike to a bothy in Scotland to experience bothy life for the first time.
Mountain bothies in Scotland are unlocked shelters where it's possible to spend the night. They don't have amenities such as running water, food or toilets. It could be described as a slight level up from wild camping.
Join me for my first ever bothy night which turned out to be a little unnerving...
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WHO AM I?
If we haven't met before... Hi, I'm Ruth 👋 and I recently bought a campervan to travel my home country of Scotland after living overseas for 12 years. I’ve hardly seen anything or been anywhere in my home country Scotland and now is the time to change that!
P.S. Some of the links in this description are affiliate links that I get a kickback from.

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks for watching everyone! Would you stay overnight in a bothy like this? Don't forget you can use the code RUTH15 to get £15 off HOVERAir X1: bit.ly/4bKECIk (Valid until April 30th)

[@tubeWyrme]

I'm a Londoner so I'd be totally freaking out at the isolation and fear of deranged locals. Also, I noticed you said there was a saw, but no mention of an axe which I feel sure the bothy would normally be equipped with. What happened to the axe Ruth? Hmm...

[@thehighlandlife2023]

My husband has taken some of our daughters and stayed at a bothy they all loved it!

[@DrBLReid]

Miss Ruth, we just need you to visit us in Tennessee! You are a real sweetheart & your videos are wonderful! Your enthusiasm is contagious!

[@user-vo4ft8rj4g]

Nope. I'd be paranoid about the security. I'm guessing literally anyone could just walk in during the night

[@avalondreaming1433]

You have every right to feel scared. You are a braver woman than I staying in a remote cabin that you can not lock. I think I would bar the door by putting a table against it. I'd also carry a knife and some mace.

[@maryavatar]

I stayed in one in the 90s with a friend. A couple of hikers arrived, then three birdwatchers. We all got drunk on Glayva and cheap whisky and sang songs while we watched the sun set. Then we all fell asleep in one big pile. In the morning we all went our separate ways, and it’s one of my best memories.

[@ruthaisling]

Sounds like an amazing night!

[@user-sq9td8nu9i]

and you had a wee bairn

[@maryavatar]

@@user-sq9td8nu9i LOL, no. We were all female except one of the birdwatchers, and he was the first to pass into a whisky coma. 😂 The other two birdwatchers were his wife and daughter, so zero shenanigans of that sort were had.

[@rebekahsalt26]

Sounds brilliant x

[@hippo5346]

I find the "One big pile" aspect , somewhat disturbing !

[@sarahstrong7174]

People need to know that you need to identify a place & dig a little hole before it gets dark, otherwise people end up going to the toilet near the bothy because it is too dark to do much else. Plan ahead & create your toilet spot when you arrive. Make sure you have a torch so you can find your prepared spot. In the morning check that all is covered up with earth. No-one should be able to see anything except freshly turned earth.

[@ruthaisling]

Very good advice!

[@leejohnson3209]

And maybe a little sealable freezer bag for your used tissues to take home with you? Honestly, I cannot believe people sometimes...

[@philkfoto]

​@@leejohnson3209I agree best to have some recycled brown toilet paper, less conspicuous.

[@vivellasmum]

Truly awful that people left such a mess. I'd have to clear it up in the morning no way could I leave that, shocking & very sad :(

[@greenbunnyinabongo7299]

Some 💩 in their pillowcase but turn the pillow over to trap the fumes

[@damienmcleod2622]

Hi Ruth, My name is Damien. I've camped alone in many places in the US and Canada., encountering bears, snakes, and other critters. Sometimes I've been scared, but mostly not. I'm 78 now and my camping adventures are behind me but I'm enjoying reading about yours. Good luck and happy adventuring. Be safe, be well, have fun.❤

[@Veronica.A.]

I'm around 50 and like camping ( sometimes) . The animal sounds at night disturb the sleep, but nothing can beat the peacefulness and calmness of the night. I was a much more frightened and anxious camper during my early 20's, but life forced me to embrace everything that comes my way.

[@nikki7735]

More likely get attacked by a squirrel 🐿️ 😆

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks Damien! Sounds like fun adventures!

[@ambermayer7851]

I absolutely could not do this. I'd be up all night terrified.

[@Sabhail_ar_Alba]

Scotland's a safe country outside of Glasgow.

[@benedictearlson9044]

@@Sabhail_ar_Alba lol have you been to Cumbernauld?!

[@SOSensoryGardens]

Bit of a dump, sorry 😞

[@seyara1]

Same 😂 I've watched too many horror movies

[@larrydirtybird]

Especially a woman traveling alone. It seems to be awfully risky.

[@scottw.3258]

I stayed in this Bothy with a couple of mates. Some strange things happened that night. We kept hearing noises outside, as though people were outside waiting to come in. My mate went to the door, just to tell them to come in(in case they maybe didn't want come in because we were there), but there was no one there. We had a look around the Bothy, incase they'd maybe decided to pitch a tent round the back, but there was nothing. We settled down, made some food, and we heard the door latch. Thinking it was someone coming in, we readied ourselves to greet them, but no one came in. I got up to check the other room, but no one was there. Things like that happened all night. We got into our sleeping bags and fell asleep. When we wakened up though, our rucksacks were lined up against the room door, and our clothes had all been folded up and placed in neat piles on the table. Our mugs were turned upside down, and placed in front of the piles of clothes, and out cooking stove was disassembled and laid out neatly in front of the mugs. There's no way it was someone else, as, our rucksacks were blocking the doorway. A very strange night and odd morning.

[@paulchristie3306]

Your comment is exactly like the other guy's comment. Wtf ?

[@scottw.3258]

@@paulchristie3306 What other comment?

[@momohead35]

Yes, someone else said the same thing about staying at this Bothy. Clothes being neatly folded up. Need to find the comment.

[@scottw.3258]

@@momohead35 I scrolled through, and found the other comment...Woah!! That's eerily similar to what happened to us. That's absolutely mental, by the way. They slept in the other room. We slept in the room where all of this happened. So whatever it was, was in the room with us.

[@ruthaisling]

That sounds a very strange experience. I heard the strange noises too, but not the door latch. I knew I would never be able to sleep hearing them so that's why I put in the ear plugs. It was either that or going outside and walking back in the dark.....

[@cole2075]

I've always found the scottish highlands really eerie, especially at night. There is a calm serenity whilst being ominously hostile.

[@wandaritter5704]

I would love to go one-day!

[@archie1299]

I'm in love with the highlands, my favourite place on this earth. But I absolutely agree, it feels haunted. No matter where I went, what random bit of the forrest, or road track. Stand there in silence for a little while, and it feels like you're not alone.

[@wandaritter5704]

@@archie1299 woww

[@Priyanka77574]

It's absolutely haunted. Anyone who thinks otherwise is in denial.

[@Kstaann]

Lol

[@Pantherking916]

Personal opinion but I feel this is the true purpose of KZbin - to share experiences like this. To educate, to demonstrate something different. I have stayed overnight in the woods and a cemetery on numerous occasions & can honestly say, hand on heart, they were the most peaceful, joyful experiences of my life. Thank you for sharing this with us. Please stay safe always.

[@ruthaisling]

Thank you 🙏

[@thehighlandlife2023]

@panterking916 I totally agree! That’s why we share our family adventures here in the Scottish highlands to inspire others to do something different and take adventures! We recently shared a video of our own family bothy trip which was epic!

[@cindybarrett6868]

I would definitely try this.

[@michpratt1]

Ruth commented she was hearing noises at night and put her ear plugs in thinking it was paranormal-as another commenter mentioned who woke to find their clothes nearly folded, mugs upside down, and stove disassembled. I wish someone would stay here and leave a camera running all night! 👻

[@crunchyfrog555]

Pointless though as there's no evidence anything paranormal exists. Sure anyone can get freaked out, but that doesn't mean anything other than it being a you problem. It's cool to think about ghosts and such but they don't exist.

[@maimsahb]

If you leave camera running, they would know it and won't move things. I had all this in my house as well as in my mother's house. When a place is empty, these things will move in.

[@crunchyfrog555]

@@maimsahb Yeah right - that's mighty convenient or rather stupid isn't it? Consider this - you're a ghost. You are somewhat reticent to have people know you exist and only wan to appear to gullible people but not on camera? You see the excuse you're making here that doesn't add up?

[@robbiethepict2783]

I met a bloke from Germany in a bothy in Scotland. He was a prisoner of war and had a war pension from Germany and a UK pension,. He told me all about his life and love of Scotland since he was a POW. I was being eaten alive by midges and he went into the forest and came back with a shrub that kept them away. He also gave me advice that taking garlic capsules is a good anti midge repelent.

[@ruthaisling]

I'll need to try that!

[@colinrunciman5166]

Your a wee star Ruth, we are keenly awaitin, next adventure, rgds Newton Mearns, Glasgow

[@sarahstrong7174]

I would love to know the name of the shrub that deterred the midges, please, if anyone knows.

[@tobyaustin9638]

​@@sarahstrong7174 bog myrtle 😉

[@MikeMakesUK]

@@sarahstrong7174 No idea if it is the shrub in question, but crushed yarrow is supposed to act as an insect repellent.

[@francescawollaston2227]

Ruth you are super brave…. I don’t think I could stay by myself overnight in a Bothy….I was freaked out enough watching you 😂…well done.

[@Veronica.A.]

I camped during my early 20's and stayed in an isolated cabin and couldn't sleep the whole night properly as I felt ver vulnerable. Now, that im 50, I wouldnt mind doing it again as I feel more confident now.

[@mac1975]

Next January I am starting a whole year of bothy bothering. Staying in different bothys for 364 days. Will document it all. And yes deer cough.

[@ruthaisling]

What a fantastic thing to do!

[@Jablicek]

That sounds wild! I hope you have a brilliant year :)

[@thehighlandlife2023]

Wow that’s such a cool idea!

[@JohnCarroll-tm1jq]

Hope you post your adventures.

[@danman1809]

Make sure you bring along a year's worth of Architectural Digest and Pepto Bismol.

[@paulcooper6953]

This is definitely not something i would ever do (unless i had no choice). Being out in the middle of nowhere, in a house where the front door is literally open to anyone and everyone. The chance that there might already be people there and not knowing exactly who they were, or (as you said) not knowing if there was someone outside the window watching you. As for putting ear plugs in so you couldn't hear the noises, this would just freak me out even more. If someone was coming into the house i'd want to hear it, not just wake up to them (or it!) right in my face! I can see this being ideal subject matter for a really scary horror film. All i can say is, you are BRAVE!

[@jennytaylor3324]

Yep, the Bothy Witch Project!

[@ruthaisling]

Bothy witch project 😂😂

[@theotherside8258]

If i arrived at a bothy and someone was already there, I'd prefer they didn't have ear plugs in so they would know I'd arrived and there could be some mutual acknowledgement

[@cutekanjii]

Stupid more like. Although it's probably safer than certain parts of the city if it was an unlocked door with no curtains etc.

[@rtru9801]

Have none of you people ever heard of camping in tent, no locks

[@user-hs1hk7sy6j]

This bothy was a godsend on the Southern upland way which i completed 20 years ago.I had just endured one of the hardest days walk i have ever endured.Not because of the terrain but the awful weather strong winds and driving rain{it was July!}So glad to change into dry gear and cook some food.I will be leaving the MBA a legacy in my will.They are lifesavers.

[@ruthaisling]

The MBA is fantastic!

[@MD-st4wi]

Sleeping bags’ temperatures don’t tell you what temperature you’ll be comfortable in but only what temperature will keep you alive… So this summer sleeping bag will keep you alive at 0 degrees. Not warm ! Never hesitate to buy the warmest sleeping bag.

[@terrydanks]

Back in about 1967 I traveled the Haines Road in Yukon/Alaska. Slept in a Woods down-filled sleeping bag rated for minus 40 degrees. It was only about zero degrees C that night. I was exposed (no tent) on snow with a 1 inch foam "mattress." Damn near froze to death! So much for sleeping bag comfort "ratings?"

[@pageant1fd]

Sadly most men would not have the same fears that you ladies probably have in mind, and not just solo bothy users. That disgusting waste also tells one what some peoples low standards /lack of respect for their surroundings are amongst us. Thanks for sharing your brave adventure lass. Take care.

[@ruthaisling]

So awful that people leave a mess like that 😢

[@benedictearlson9044]

That's true but most men do feel fear of being attacked quite often, and rightly so as men are several times more likely to be killed by a stranger than women are. Also I'm sure most men would find this night alone in a bothy very unsettling too.

[@pageant1fd]

@@benedictearlson9044 I get that what you are saying but perhaps I’m naive as I live in a very safe rural area. But I’d love a night in a remote bothy or camp out in the wilderness and must add, I’m no braveheart!

[@johngerrard8912]

I have stayed in a few bothies in Scotland but never alone in fact I have never hiked alone. Adventures are 10 times better with friends. When it is completely dark outside you can reduce your anxiety but being completely dark inside too. The noises you were hearing was the heat from your fireplace expanding the chimney and the roof where the chimney passes through. The scariest thing in the wilderness is your vivid imagination.

[@kflecha1]

She is a hero 💗✨ I will be scared to be completely alone there I really admire her brave spirit ❤

[@homurastan2927]

this was amazing and so beautiful... but honesty there were times in this video where i genuinly thought this would've turned into a horror movie

[@vivellasmum]

OMG Ruth I don't know if you're extremely brave or completely crazy! Whichever you are amazing. No way I could have done that! Hats off to you 🤩

[@atifmanzoor63]

I’m thinking the same thing

[@midnightcat8262]

I don't blame her for being afraid or being nervous. I was like that too when I started working for Yellowstone National Park 😊

[@jodiescarcega1924]

I would feel safer in a camper van also with locks. In America I would probably carry a weapon with me.

[@jodiescarcega1924]

I would definitely not go by myself.

[@bonnie_gail]

I wouldn't have paid for such a place.

[@johnhowarth8822]

The closest I ever got to staying in Scotland like that was sleeping in a forest in a car in my teens many, many years ago. The deer do frighten the life out of you with their coughing and the rustling in the undergrowth caused by who knows what. At nearly eighty, too old to now try a bothy so I am an armchair adventurer enjoying your travels.

[@ruthaisling]

Good to know I'm not the only one who was startled by the deer coughing! Thanks for watching the videos!

[@jeanmccallum-xs8rk]

You could do it. Just take a couple of young, capable people with you.😊❤

[@bossman4025]

Camped all over Scotland and never heard a deer cough in my life 😂😂

[@katpat8197]

I forgot about the coughing! I think I would have turned around and ran back to my car at the sound of a cough in the woods!!!

[@davidca96]

I could listen to her talk for hours, such a pleasant voice/accent, lovely 🙂

[@JoshuahnJackstonburg]

Safe and beautiful. Scotland is very civilized.

[@sherrierollins3774]

You're very brave Don't think I would stay some place that I could not lock the door.

[@ruthaisling]

The no locks and no curtains were a bit scary...!

[@1gerard47]

Obviously you don't understand the Scottish people and our way of life peaceful till you get on our wrong side then your arse is butter 😅if you don't understand rather visit London .

[@jintsfan]

@@1gerard47There always has to be one.

[@emmajanewatts4388]

@@1gerard47everyone lives like this in Scotland don’t they 🙄

[@johnathanbotterell1926]

.....for me, the silence would be more overpowering than the isolation. A great piece of honest filming. You admitted you were scared, but you rose above it and conquered. Total respect. 😎☯️

[@ruthaisling]

Thank you 😊

[@1gerard47]

No danger in Scotland unless your looking for it.

[@lordpurchase9189]

Its good to see that it hasn't been vandalized, and it looks welcoming with some drinks and food that people have left plus a fire blanket on the wall.

[@cr1333]

Did you see the white feather drop out of nowhere at 18:27? Obviously someone was looking after you! 😊

[@lyallbaybum69]

I once met a beautiful Czech girl when staying at a remote bothy. We spent a long weekend together and ended up in a relationship. It was very romantic, even after it fizzled out after a few months of me returning to Edinburgh and her return to Czech republic.

[@ruthaisling]

You just never know!

[@boomrss1961]

Ruth, wow! You certainly pushed your boundaries! Good on you Ruth ❤ I’m a 5* panic pants. I could not even contemplate going! ❤🎉 to you

[@petersantoro6429]

​@ruthaisling you got some bottle girl good on you 👍❤️

[@petersantoro6429]

@lyallbaybum what was her name maybe I'll Czech her out 😂😂😂

[@merasmussen82]

She was your lover, but she ended up being your Czech mate.

[@chickenwallerfarm5765]

Im in the US but my Grandparents immigrated from Scotland when my father was very young. I would ex pat back to Scotland in a Heartbeat and join the bothy volunteers and live out the rest of my days fixing those gorgeous little places up. I am a historical carpenter here in the states, but given the age of the states I would just be a regular carpenter in Scotland....lol! Ive been back to visit family several times and my wife has family in Scotland as well. We met at a big Scottish festival in North Carolina. You make me homesick, Cheers!

[@ruthaisling]

That sounds great, I’m sure they would really appreciate your help!

[@philipwilkinson4747]

Hello Ruth I have just discovered your Chanel, Wow wonderful beautifully presented what a complete Joy thank you so very much stay safe on your travels. God bless you.

[@thewanderingamerican5412]

Yeah it gave me some insight into the fact that a night in a Scottish bothy is HELL! Thanks for the warning.

[@d.martinez-rodriguez333]

Great observation😂🤣

[@chrischarlton6542]

I know that bothy and have spent a night there with a friend. It is haunted and we experienced a strange happening. We also slept in the back room. As a precaution we balanced some empty tin cans on the door latch so if any person or animal managed to open the door they would fall to the ground and alert us. In the morning both our back packs had been opened and our clothes neatly folded and piled up in the other room. Also our empty coffee mugs had been placed upside down on the table. The tin cans were still on the door latch ! We have no idea how this happened.

[@dianaray1470]

Boo!

[@sersolo3112]

bullshit

[@vdussaut9182]

That laundry folding ghost can haunt my house every day of the week and twice on Sundays

[@vdussaut9182]

That laundry folding ghost can haunt my house every day of the week and twice on Sundays

[@paulchristie3306]

@chrischarlton. You must have been smoking some really strong gear.

[@michaelbruchas6663]

I used to feel anxious - camping out in my little tent many years ago - in State or National Parks in the US - when I was the only camper in an area. Wilderness versus city noises. Some people fall asleep in the quiet - I often couldn’t. If you ever Bothy-camp again - bring and donate candles. They gave YOU comfort - they will for someone else…

[@ruthaisling]

I definitely will bring candles next time! I had battery powered lights so hadn't considered bringing candles.

[@jeanmccallum-xs8rk]

Thank you Ruth for sharing your adventures. Please find a companion to travel with. Safer!

[@CT-uv8os]

Candles help absorb dampness. Especially in small areas. Peace!

[@Armageist]

18:26 - Nice anamoly floating down on the opposite side of the table. It changes shape so it wasn't a dust particle. Were there bugs in there flying around? 12:41 - Moth flying by so it was probably him enjoying all the lights and heat.

[@mdb8107]

The lack of moral among most people are the absolute main reason i NEVER stay at a place like this. I rather sleep outside in the wilderness where its fresh and clean! Take care Ruth!

[@junglejamesie]

I'm Scottish and I've been bothying for 20+ years. Fear is not an option. I've been to bothies on my own, met complete strangers and had a good nights blether around the fire. Bothy etiquette dictates there's always room for one more.

[@lois.17]

You’re a man. Runs different for women

[@cindynewburg4084]

No thanks !!!!!!!!! My favorite traveling partner is my sister but we either get a 2 bedroom suite or separate rooms. I need my own private space ( even tho we shared a room growing up ). The thought of sharing the same space with strangers ( without a bathroom ) is an absolute NO GO for me. But I did enjoy this video cause 100 % I will never go there myself so I appreciated that she did it for me.

[@Buckblacket]

​@cindynewburg4084 I think the older you get, the more you need your own bedroom.

[@thirtythreeflavors]

The world is a completely different place when you're in a female body.

[@ksweet696]

Yes. It's a whole different reality when you're a woman alone.

[@dinkone7943]

Please remember that people are pooping close to that water please don’t drink or cook with it

[@kathleengillespie5983]

Agreed . . . Curtains are needed.

[@cindynewburg4084]

NO WAY would I have stayed there alone without a gun and a dog !!! I especially would not put ear plugs in while I slept ... AND i would have put out the light and blocked the door the best I could. You are braver than me !!!

[@Eidann63]

I am exactly like you. I want to protect myself in every way and would no more go alone there or block my hearing with earplugs than I would fly to the moon! lol

[@rhampton10]

Im curious which country you are both from. No hate. Just curious.

[@ruthaisling]

Maybe the earplugs seem like a bad idea but I wasn’t scared of another person. If someone did come I probably would have been happy as they would have been a fellow hiker. I was blocking out the strange noises which I was suspecting to be paranormal activity but I’m not sure I believe in that….

[@RosemaryOltarzewski]

Not a chance would I have stayed there alone. Your braver than me😮. Please always travel with a companion, it's just not safe these days.Keep safe hunny. 😊❤

[@janicenewlan2295]

Yes sounds like a good idea to me.

[@SloopyDog]

Many years ago I was a civilian driver for the army. They had an old wooden school teachers' house on the moors in Northumberland. It was called the deer hut, as it had been used for culling deer. the army would rent it out for £2 per night to soldiers and civilian workers and their families. It had no electricity and an earth toilet. I absolutely loved going there. It was that remote you couldn't even get a radio signal. I could have happily lived there permanently. I hated going home back to the so-called civilised way of life.

[@ruthaisling]

That sounds amazing, I heard that’s a beautiful area too!

[@wandaritter5704]

I feel you ❤

[@mayankmuley1282]

Read your comment and made me wonder how's your life now? How young(or old) are you now, Sir/Mam?

[@SloopyDog]

@@mayankmuley1282 I am a 77-year-old male and am now in very poor health. I hate these times of greed and selfishness. We have gained a lot in the way of technology but we have lost many of the simpler pleasures we once had. I long to return to my childhood and the uncomplicated life I enjoyed. Children today are exposed to violent and explicit material on television and in the media, they don't get the chance. to enjoy their childhood as I did. I would hate to be born into these times, there is so much competition between children now. Who has the best phone, and who wears the most stylish clothes. I went to school with holes in my shoes and hand-me-down clothes, but nobody cared what you looked like, or if your father had a good job. They saw you as a friend.

[@marjazadow2501]

Your darn right I would be anxious,and more. But I would probably not go and stay without asking someone to share the experience with me. You are brave, it’s always worth it in the end. 🇨🇦

[@nobi9948]

自然の中で、誰でも利用できる小屋があるなんて素敵ですね👍

[@GK49245]

You did really well. The more you go solo outdoors, the more your confidence will improve. Your fear logic is understandable. Solo women on long distance trails have the same initial feeling. Nicely produced. Thanks for sharing

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks for watching! ❤️

[@ninjabobable]

I think you hit the nail on the head when you were getting ready for bed,when you said it's so remote..what's the chances of someone coming to this Bothy when you are there all alone..you are a hardy lass Rurh..you have a way bigger set than me..I couldn't do that..Kudos!!

[@Kitkatbreak3]

This video has started me down an exciting journey (watching your videos)! Thank you for taking us on this magnificent journey with you! We appreciate your artistry!

[@luvanimals5409]

Your such a strong and brave lady I cannot think of myself to be all alone in the middle of forest staying overnight in bothy .No not even in my dreams. Lots of love and best wishes for Ur next upcoming videos. Love 💕 from India Darjeeling

[@Yossarian921]

12:39 "I'm scared, I don't know why, I'm sure I'll be fine" Just as a giant fae looking moth flies by.

[@ruthaisling]

I think I was more scared of ghosts than moths 😂

[@Elizabeth-pi4qh]

Hi from Arizona! Are you certain that was a moth? My first thought was a fairy. ❤

[@ianmatthews3041]

​@@Elizabeth-pi4qhSee previous comments concerning Bears!

[@elizabethbrown8833]

​@@Elizabeth-pi4qh A Faerie 🧚‍♀️ aw I love that thought 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🤗

[@walksfromacountydurhambus6906]

There are no bears in Scotland. There are wild haggis. The Norwegian blue can be especially troublesome.

[@gordonmackenzie4512]

Nessie ate all the bears decades ago when nobody was looking 👀🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@datajunkie3382]

Ah yes the wild Haggis if you are really lucky you may get to see one speedily running around the mountains

[@ruthaisling]

😂😂

[@davidperrott5743]

It's easy to spot the haggis as their legs are shorter on one side. This enables them to walk easily on hillsides, albeit in one direction only.

[@dottester3039]

I live in England, Tesco does tinned Haggis, it simmers into mush, I like the taste it's nearly authentic. Handy filler when camping. (NO LEGS)

[@jlm3124]

I with a friend was once playing "Greensleeves" in the castle ruins, where Catherine Parr was imprisoned by Henry the 8th. It was thick fog. All of a sudden there was a raucous coughing behind us. Scared the living day lights out of us. It was a sheep.

[@peterjeffery8495]

From way over in Canada. We have huge tracts of Crown Land in Northern Ontario, some leased out by folks who hunt or fish in season. There you will find very rustic cabins that are used as shelters much like Scottish Bothys, i.e.never locked, equipped with wooden bunk beds, a stove, table and a few cupboards and travelers are free to make use of them temporarily when trekking/canoeing. On a canoe trip with some mates we portaged along a pathway between rivers and used one such shelter to eat our midday meal out of the rain. This one had a cupboard with a door that had not quite been closed. Leading from the cupboard was a trail of white powder that ran across the floor. Scattered through the trail from the cupboard we discovered a half dozen or so wee dead mice laying on their backs with what looked like puffy white mushrooms protruding from their stomachs. Turns out the last hunting party had left a box of instant just-add-add-water mashed potato mix and one corner of the box chewed away. The poor little mice looked kind of like hors d'oeurves that had fallen off of a platter. It was a bizarre sight!

[@ruthaisling]

What a story 🐭😱

[@robinferguson8911]

I know myself and no way would I have been able to stay there alone. I can camp in the forest by myself where I know that no one knows I'm there. But I would feel so vulnerable in a bothy alone where some crazy dude might be lurking nearby, peering in the windows. NO WAY. I felt your terror in my own belly just from watching the video. That said I would love to have the experience of walking up to one of these bothys (bothies?) and finding a group of lovely, fun, hikers already there, sharing drink and music and fire before snoring the night away next to each other in communal stranger bliss.

[@keithhunt4959]

Ruth, you know what you could have done, is put that wire mesh against the door, then if anyone opened the door they would have knocked it over. Alarm system. Yes, to answer your question, I suffer with anxiety when I have to go to a place I have not been too. The bravery award goes to Ruth. Excellent video. What is the next bravery thing you're going to do? ❤👍🤛

[@ruthaisling]

That’s good idea, I never thought of that! I think the next few videos will be more calm haha!

[@keithhunt4959]

Ruth. I think i may have stated this before, but i not sure. You are an Ambassador for your beautiful Scotland. You’re so empathetic when speaking about your journey and the places you visit. I always look forward to your videos, because they cheer me up. ❤🫶🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@MaggieTD]

I to suffer from anxiety when going to new places. No way could I do this especially alone. I'd be a bag of nerves.

[@donaldcook3112]

@@MaggieTD. . . Interesting response. Maggie, but just ‘why’ would that be-?..

[@donaldcook3112]

My question was asked with regard to : ‘Going to new places’.

[@davidreid2944]

You are so lucky I hope that you enjoyed the peace and tranquility

[@johncheah5029]

I enjoyed this video. I'm from sunny Malaysia n can only imagine the crisp cold air of Scotland. The views r indeed expansive n stunning. Here we have an abundance of shady trees that block the views somewhat. Thanks for sharing your little adventure at the bothy Ruth.

[@erwin8362]

Dear Ruth, what a blessing it must be to have Scotland as your home country!!! Scotland and it's islands are sooooooooooooooo stunning; it is beyond believe! I live in the most flat country someone can think of: The Netherlands (Hellevoetsluis (near Rotterdam)). But geologically speaking, there is luckily a very nice coincidence: Scotland is placed not too far away from Holland! I like to watch your videos and today i've learned about Bothies (never heard of before). Please show us more of your absolutely stunning home country, because Scotland deserves too be seen!!! Lovely greetings from The Netherlands.

[@mecx7322]

Netherlands is not boring, I find it very beautiful and exciting. Greetings from Warsaw

[@carraw3501]

Ive met many Dutch people hiking off the beaten track going back to the 80s. They seemed well ahead of us in knowledge of cross country Highland and Islands routes, and where the bothies were before the MBA went public with their location.

[@ruthaisling]

Glad you're enjoying the videos, thanks for watching!

[@t-worx4458]

I have scottish and Irish decendants in my blood line, and for some reason Scotland is so very endearing to me. Would love to experience Scotland one day! All the way from South Africa.

[@alisoncormack7506]

I absolutely love the Dutch towns. Canals, ducks, bicycles and the ancient townscapes. Just beautiful!

[@twotriumphs7398]

I am a male 6 ft 4 in tall and a biker and no way could i stay there on my own

[@strumminronin]

Finally, a man who speaks sense. Thank you.

[@jackcade68]

My father has a place in the States, NE Pennsylvania, the endless mountains. He has a meadow on top of a mountain. On moonless nights with clouds.... It's freaking terrifying! I would rather walk a mile in the worst neighborhood than walk across that meadow on those nights!

[@adambage]

I reckon you could - part of it is just getting used to how different the landscape is under the stars and being used to the typical noises. I do a lot of night hikes and it used to sh*t me right up in the beginning, especially when I was going through forests and woods. But you kind of get used to it if you do it a few times!

[@Veronica.A.]

​@@adambage yes, you do get used to it no doubt. I do a lot of night hikes too. Nothing can beat the calmness and stillness of the night.

[@paulwoodford1984]

It’s paradise there dude. You big Nancy lol

[@Chls05]

There’s no way, I would be absolutely terrified and so uncomfortable! You’re really brave, well done 👏

[@tgchism]

As a 60 year old man here in the U.S. I would not feel too safe depending on where it was. Unfortunately there are just too many bad people these days. I would really be afraid for a woman to be alone, so I think you were quite brave.

[@buffplums]

16:38 I keep thinking… “just light the bloody fire 🔥 “ lol 😂… you will nice and snug and warm and the light will comfort you xxx

[@gravellegb]

Have you seen Cecilia Blomdahl's channel from Svalbard in northern Norway? Whenever she leaves her home to stay in a remote cabin she has to bring a rifle to guard against polar bears. When I was a boy my father and grandfather used to take me trout fishing in our home state of Maine. We'd paddle Gramp's old wooden canoe three miles upstream to an old logging cabin, which was always kept unlocked. An American counterpart of a bothy!

[@ruthaisling]

I've watched a few of her videos but never knew that! I'd like to travel in America sometime, it sounds nice!

[@annajohns738]

I watch Cecilia too. She makes it clear that it is the law to carry a rifle in Svalbard when outside the town, to protect against polar bears but there are very clear instructions on when it can be fired. I.e. to warn the polar bear away rather than shoot it.

[@gravellegb]

When it comes to bringing food to a bothy you might consider MREs: Meals Ready to Eat. These are the field rations used by the American military. Unoficially they are called "Meals rejected by Ethiopians:"

[@donnalaplante6589]

Hi from Maine

[@yumb7712]

Thank you Ruth, for a scenic and also suspenseful adventure! From the cough in the woods, your uneasiness in such a desolate area, and the Bothy noises coming from inside. I am excited to watch more of your insightful videos. Well done on the drone footage of the Scottish countryside as well.

[@WildSheGoes]

I loved my night stay there a few years ago! So peaceful waking up and drinking coffee in the veranda area. Lovely video Ruth!

[@user-nu5xs8cj5t]

Ruth, you have courage, aren't you scared？Pay for your coffee in honor of your courage. ルースさん、勇気有りますね、怖くないのですか？勇気を称えてコーヒー代に☕😃☀️

[@ruthaisling]

小川さん、ありがとう。ご親切にありがとう！ ❤

[@charlesscaife4266]

The people that you need to be wary of, are back in the city. People who make the effort to travel outdoors are usually very friendly and kind. There are exceptions of course. Last year in a bothy in Knoydart had to ask a group of middle class English people to return to their tents so that the rest of us could get our heads down. (I am English by the way) The fire incidentally is referred to as the bothy TV. Regarding the exceptional amount of waste around your bothy, I have recently bought a small device from a chap in Connecticut in the USA, called a backpacking bidet. It's a small attachment you can put on a water bottle. It takes 1-3 years for paper to degrade. One's own waste far less. This device therefore is far more environmentally friendly. Will be checking its value on my next trip north in May. Best wishes. Keep posting your videos. C.

[@ruthaisling]

I think anyone I’d met there would probably have been great! That sounds like an interesting idea, let me know how you get on with it!

[@schex9]

People from my town were killed while camping in Arkansas

[@msjannd4]

​@@schex9Well, it *is* the "USA" - and I'm American.

[@10_rds_Fire_For_Effect]

I have a small portable Bidet (Pocket size). Much more hygienic than wiping and easy to use. Does a much better cleaner job. (Excuse the pun). Although, if you were outside in cold weather and the water in the Bidet bottle was freezing, that would be a shock.

[@charlesscaife4266]

Very sorry to hear about your townsfolk. Britain is a safer place than the USA, I think. We are not allowed to own guns except under very strict rules. I don't know anyone who has one and at 76 years of age I have never handled one. Similarly it is illegal to carry a knife. Although in our cities it is a problem with some youngsters. Best wishes. Charles.

[@RB-xj9kr]

Well, if you liked The end we start from, Jodie Comer was in Killing Eve and in the very last episode of the series they slept in a bothy, which is where I first heard the word bothy!

[@karlpower5476]

There's a certain charm to this type of building. The barren style adds a certain comfort.

[@dunderwood4444]

Safe travels 🥾 Friend. Blessings from Brooklyn NY. Thank you for these videos, Hyper therapeutic in my end. Your videos have motivated me to start LIVING my life. 15 Year's as a US Marine, many deployments. Learning to love myself and live life to the fullest #RESPECT.

[@ruthaisling]

I’m glad to hear you are enjoying the videos so much! ❤️

[@chrisfrench5304]

Growing to love this young lady and the videos . The scared look on that face whilst drinking that tea . made me want to run in and offer a hug lol . Ruth you are a true sweetie x TY for bringing us your travels x

[@user-ju4cd4tr8j]

Quite a few years ago, i went wild camping with my husband to Knoydart, we came across a bothy at Sourlies, I gave it a thorough springclean, but there's no way I would stay overnight in it, we pitched our tent outside instead. You are very brave. love watching your adventure xx

[@wisdomsquare6923]

Thank you for SHARING your adventure with us, Ruth! I'm so happy that YOU enjoyed it!

[@ruthaisling]

You are so welcome!

[@alyn4891]

Amazing!! Ruth doing a camping with Steve. Complete with a “Step 2”.

[@kathleengillespie5983]

Rock on Steve AND RUTH!!!!

[@yrv130]

Thanks for staying overnight in a bothy, so that we don't have to! 😁 It would be good fun with a couple of friends - although I'd want to tell ghost stories 👻👻👻

[@ruthaisling]

Maybe with others I wouldn't be so scared of ghosts haha

[@floatingfeather7]

I could see spirit with you in this video. I'm sure a lot of viewers would notice at least one or two orbs. I commend your bravery! 🌟 ⭐️

[@waleskab99]

I was just thinking about The End We Start From when starting the video, so funny she mentions it too. Greetings from Brazil!

[@Deborah-rq9qt]

I don’t go off road, but with the right company, someone capable and strong, I think I’d love it.

[@stephengrimmer35]

Spent weeks in bothies on Rhum in the 80's. Mice and rats are often a problem, leave snacks, dry goods etc in a biscuit tin. Good news, if there are mice there are rarely rats. Always try leaving more (wood, candles etc.) than you brought.

[@ruthaisling]

I’ll bring candles with me next time! I heard the bothy at Rackwick beach also had a rat!

[@scottw.3258]

That's a fallacy. If there's mice, there's a high chance there's rats too. I was always led to believe that rats and mice very rarely infested the same place at the same time. That was until a few years ago, where the place i was living had both. The exterminator told me it happens far more regularly than we could imagine. If you have mice, then they attract rats, so it's important to rid your place of mice as quickly as possible.

[@homecoming46]

I did notice all the droppings on the surfaces

[@konstantinosdespotopoulos1667]

Hi Ruth, thanks for sharing your great adventure! It reminded me many years ago when serving in the Army when i had to stay for three nights in an old abandoned school! That was the first time i had to sleep on my own without any of my fellow privates. And even though i had my personal riffle and ammunition, to be honest it was hard to sleep on the first night. It was my imagination. I would not it again i think, but that was a great adventure! Sometime being alone, is a great experience! Thanks , you're a brave woman! Good luck and God Bless you!

[@DelusionalJ]

Such a beautiful country, please be safe wherever you travel, sending lots of love from Japan

[@seabertotter4325]

You seem to be a nice and conscientious person. I wish you well.

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks 🙏

[@gerarddesmidt1546]

I loved this film! I learned so much from you. I recognized so much of your feelings and the way you handled them. Thank you so much, Ruth Aisling.

[@ruthaisling]

You are so welcome!

[@steventinsley5664]

Interesting adventure in a remote bothy all by yourself. I think anyone would be a bit scared & uneasy in a situation like this. Maybe when I was younger I would spend a night alone in a bothy but I would bring my big bowie knives with me and some pepper spray just in case some crazy person paid me a visit in the night.

[@Nice-places]

Ruth , you truly are the “ Bear Grylls “ of KZbin. I’m loving this video though to be honest I’m a bit scared myself 😂😂 The info about the drone is very useful and your footage during the day is breathtaking!!! Thank you so much 😎☀️

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks, glad to hear you enjoyed the video! Scotland with the drone always looks amazing!

[@donnamiller8780]

Please don't insult her by comparing her to Bear Grylis.

[@iandodd14]

You're braver than me. "Cabin in the Woods" sprang to mind straightaway.

[@RosemaryOltarzewski]

Omg yes. 😮

[@jt-rex6972]

Even if there are no bears, it's a good idea to carry bear spray when hiking in remote places because it's effective against all predators (4 legs AND more importantly the 2 legs ones).

[@ABee-jb9vz]

Bear spray doesn't exist in places without bears! I had to Google what it is

[@phoebeel]

Not true. It might have a different name but we have it in Germany, and I guess we only have like 5 bears in the Alps. But you can get bear spray in pet food shops and sometimes in big DIY stores (don't know the real word for it) it's not allowed to use it on humans but... That's literally the reason 70% of people buy it. That and to defend yourself against other animals​@@ABee-jb9vz

[@nygelmiller5293]

​@ABee-jb9vz However, I Love BEARS! I'm not staying if there's no bears!

[@pygmygiant]

Ha, definitely poor advice in the UK! Thoroughly illegal and classed as a firearm with the same sanctions.

[@thehighlandlife2023]

Totally agree! Even in the UK there are things you can get to use for protection

[@elvee7851]

Well done, you are a brave soul staying there by yourself in a remote area. I'm glad everything was okay though. Myself, I couldn't do that, I'm too distrustful of people. Cheers, i enjoy your videos!

[@user-he6de2fu5l]

Those are the kind of windows faces look in at!

[@andybrockbank3027]

Royston Vasey faces

[@ruthaisling]

I thought the same!

[@voiletwhitehorse]

In the middle of a typhoid lol ,

[@Steven-js8yk]

Dearest Ruth, it's wonderful to get out and have an adventure to see the beautiful countryside. That being said, we all have an internal alarm that tells us when there may be danger close by. Always trust your instincts in these cases and pay attention to your surroundings. You're truly a sweetheart and a perfect Lady! Thank you so much for sharing these moments

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks for watching the video!

[@alanguy-nj3vc]

Hi I love your videos I really love Scotland and found it very interesting so much about the bouthy thanks for sharing x

[@chrisryder8137]

I am to old and out of shape now to hike much and I loved looking at the trip you had here. My last hike was a 50 miler with the boy scouts in the 80s up in the Washington USA olympic mountains at the 7000 ft level at the highest. I miss that feeling you get out of civilization and just you and the animals. Yes we had mountain goats, deer and bear to contend with, but I must say that our last stop was the worst was at a lake we were to meet our parents at for pick up and the flys that woke up with us were so many and so annoying, we just wanted to get away lol :) This was great, I wish I could do this hike. Take care

[@Treguard1987]

Well done for lasting the whole night. The scenery looks beautiful.

[@ruthaisling]

I did consider leaving at one point haha!

[@Shinare73]

You don't know how happy it makes me when I see a new video from ruth! Thank you for all that you do for us❤

[@ruthaisling]

Aww thank you, so happy to hear that! Appreciate you watching the videos! ❤️

[@jeanchampion4772]

Thank you for documenting and sharing your experience. I think more people will summon the courage to venture out and stay at a bothy now that they know what to expect! It’s inspiring to see someone do this alone. I can guarantee I’d have something stronger than Rhubarb liqueur though!

[@craigward6052]

I thoroughly enjoyed this having spent a night on the Pyrenees in their bothy equivalent back in 2016. A couple turned up after dark but only stayed for a break and a chat, an Italian man with his son stopped in later for a very short break, other than that, I was entirely alone. Tried lighting the fire but the chimney was blocked, had to use my survival bag, it was freezing and I was kept awake by mice, also, about 01:00am a hurd of mountain ponies were running around the hut with bells on their necks. It's such a shame people don't treat these refuges with the respect they deserve, people could easily lose their lifes without them, it certainly saved me from the sub-zero temperature and the pouring down rain and wind. Subscribed. 😊

[@Kim-J312]

Fun video Ruth 😊. Yes, I've stayed in places like this in the US in winter , same set up . Sometimes, there is a caretaker there to cook 🍳 for you 👍 . But we have bears 🐻 here , that is why I went in winter ❄️❄️ bears 🐻 are sleeping 😄

[@ruthaisling]

That's a very good thing about the winter haha. Nice that you can get meals in some of the places in the US.

[@Colin32269]

Yes Ruth...the deer do cough in the forest dinnae worry hen❤

[@BrokenBackMountains]

Aye, deer can be right noisy buggers.

[@ruthaisling]

Good to know!

[@MeTheRob]

I was going to say that.

[@DMBall]

Yes, they smoke entirely too much.

[@dianewimett185]

Oooo shades of Jamie...Im all ashiver

[@paulmanchester7739]

Fantastic watch and very brave Ruth, not sure I could do a solo

[@abigail1st]

At 18:27 there was an orb opposite you on the screen. It materialised out of nowhere, dropped down and disappeared before reaching the floor. It didn’t look like a bug, so you may not have been alone 👻

[@carolinecamley242]

Oh my goodness!! Dang girl you are brave! Loving your show so much. Can I please be you when I grow up?? 😅 Anyhow, this Glaswegian who has lived in Toronto for a long time now, appreciates every wee bit of your channel. Thank you millions and now I have to find some oatcakes !!!

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks for watching in Toronto!

[@annec8871]

You are so brave! Thank you for sharing this wild experience. Scotland is so beautiful! Bonjour de France!

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks for watching the videos from France! 🇫🇷