Wild camping will be possible in some parts of Dartmoor, after a new agreement has been reached.

However, walkers are calling it an "alarming attack on our freedom of access".

Last Friday (January 13) the High Court ruled that wild camping should only take place with permission from landowners.

The case had been brought by Alexander and Diana Darwall who own a 3,450-acre estate in the southern part of Dartmoor.

The Dartmoor National Park Authority (DNPA), which defended against their High Court claim, said the case was an “attack” on a “long-established practice of great importance”. 

Yet on Wednesday (January 18) a new agreement in principle was reached between landowners and the DNPA.

Landowners have agreed to grant permission to the DPNA to allow the public to wild camp through a permissive agreement.

Wild camping is to be clearly defined under the principle of 'leave no trace'.

The DPNA's website will show the areas where people can wild camp without permission from landowners.

John Howell, chair of Dartmoor Commons Owners’ Association, said: “We recognise the importance of people being able to enjoy the natural beauty of Dartmoor, including through wild camping, and the benefits that this can bring."

All present at the meeting were clear that there is no place for illegal fly camping - which often involves large groups with barbecues or open fires - on Dartmoor.

Dr Kevin Bishop, Chief Executive of Dartmoor National Park Authority, said:  “We have all worked quickly and collectively to ensure clarity is provided. Our thanks go to those involved in the discussions who have engaged in this process so positively and proactively. We’re committed to working together to continue all our good work that helps keep Dartmoor special for everyone.”

However, the Ramblers organisation says the agreement "isn't good enough" and that "rights and freedoms" are at risk.

They say: "Because our access rights have been reduced to permissive rights, it allows landowners the freedom to withdraw or attach conditions to this permission in the future. The legal right to wild camp on Dartmoor should be fully re-established.

"This is about more than just the right to camp on Dartmoor. The whole case was an alarming attack on our freedom of access and shows how easily rights and freedoms can be eroded. Ordinary people should be able to explore nature without constraint and without fear of trespassing."