bothy

A bothy is a basic, unfurnished shelter located in remote rural areas of Scotland and other parts of the British Isles, provided for use by hikers, travelers, and sometimes seasonal workers. The term comes from the Gaelic bothan, meaning a small hut; in Scots it is written bothy or bothie. Traditionally, many bothies are simple stone or timber buildings with a single room, a fireplace or stove, and basic sleeping spaces, and they typically have little or no running water or electricity. They are generally free to use and do not require advance bookings, though access can vary and some are kept locked or subject to local rules.

The primary function of a bothy is shelter rather than comfort, and users are expected to share space considerately, minimize impact, and leave the building as they found it. They are closely associated with hillwalking, mountaineering, and long-distance routes in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, but similar huts exist elsewhere in the British Isles and Ireland. The atmosphere is often informal, with visitors exchanging notes, leaving maps, or sharing a night’s stay if space permits.

Maintenance and governance are largely the responsibility of volunteer organizations, most notably the Mountain Bothies Association, which coordinates upkeep, records shelters, and provides guidance on safe and low-impact use. Some bothies are owned by landowners or public bodies and may be subject to local access rules or seasonal restrictions. The concept continues as a utilitarian refuge within the outdoor-recreation tradition of the region.