These are known as *bothies*. A bothy is a basic shelter, usually in a remote location. They are unlocked, and available for anyone to use, free of charge.

There are many different sites and sizes of bothies. A lot of them are old cottages, others are purpose-built wooden huts.

Many bothies are maintained by the [Mountain Bothies Association](http://www.mountainbothies.org.uk). They look after about 100 bothies. Most of these are in the highlands of Scotland, but there's also some in Southern Scotland, Northern England, and Wales. The MBA have a [map of the bothies][1] on their website.

[Bothy Photo Gallery.](http://www.mountainbothies.org.uk/photo-gallery.asp)

There are also some other (non-MBA) bothies. These may be maintained by the estates, or other groups. But they can be harder to find, if they are not publicly listed.

The facilities in a bothy can vary, but they are usually pretty basic. You have to take your own sleeping bag and mat, plus any cooking equipment etc. Some bothies have a fireplace, but you may need to carry in fuel.

The Mountain Bothies Association have produced a "[bothy code][2]". This has guidance for what to do at the bothy, to act responsibly, and avoid making a mess etc.


  [1]: http://www.mountainbothies.org.uk/locationmap.asp
  [2]: http://www.mountainbothies.org.uk/bothy-code.asp