There’s so much to love about the countryside — from marvellous meadows and abundant wildlife to wild woodland and rural paths.
It’s important to follow this handy guide so that everyone can enjoy their visit and protect the environment.
Check out our key tips taken from the Countryside Code.
Respect everyone
- Act considerately towards those living in, working in and enjoying the countryside.
- Be friendly by saying hello and sharing the space.
- Follow local signs and keep to marked paths unless wider access is available.
Farming, livestock and wild animals
- It’s important to cooperate with those working in the countryside. Always follow the farmer’s directions when animals are being moved or gathered, as this keeps everyone safe.
- Make sure to leave gates and property as you find them. Farmers close gates to keep animals in or leave them open to give access to food and water.
- Respect wild animals, livestock and horses by giving them plenty of space. Their behaviour can be unpredictable, especially when they are with their young.
- Do not feed livestock, horses or wild animals as it can cause them harm.
Travel and parking in the countryside
- Keep to a slow speed and drive carefully on rural roads.
- Avoid blocking access to gateways and driveways when parking. If possible, consider using public transport or, if the YHA hostel you’re setting off from has parking, leave your car on-site.
- Take extra care where a right of way crosses a railway line.
- If you’re walking on a road without a pavement, always keep to the right-hand side, so that you can see oncoming traffic. Keep as close as you can to the side of the road and walk in single file. Before a sharp right-hand bend, it’s a good idea to cross the road so that oncoming traffic has a better chance of seeing you. Cross back after the bend.
- When approaching horses, walkers and livestock, slow down or stop if you’re driving or cycling. Make sure to give them plenty of room.
- Cyclists and horse riders should respect walkers’ safety, however walkers should also take care not to obstruct or endanger them.
Protect the environment
- Take your litter home or to your nearest YHA hostel, leaving no trace of your visit.
- Do not light fires and only have BBQs where signs say it’s allowed.
- Keep dogs under control and in sight. For more information on responsible dog ownership when using public rights of way through farmland, check out the free resources provided by the National Farmers' Union of England and Wales.
- Bag and bin dog poo. Use a public waste bin or take it back to the YHA hostel you set off from if you cannot find one.
- Care for nature — do not cause damage or disturbance.
- It’s important to put your dog on a lead around livestock when visiting open access land and coastal areas. It is a legal requirement that you have your dog on a lead on open access land, even if there is no livestock there.
- If you ever feel threatened by livestock or horses, let your dog off the lead. This will make it easier for you both to reach safety.
Check your route and local conditions
- Make sure you know your route and have the maps you need — download our free maps and route guides.
Check weather, tide and water conditions
- Before your journey, it’s a good idea to check weather forecasts. Conditions can change quickly on mountains and the coast, so don’t be afraid to turn back if conditions change during your walk.
- If you’re walking along the coast, make sure to look up tide times before you leave. This will reduce the risk of getting cut off by rising tides. This can also affect some rivers.
- Those wanting to swim and paddle should check the Environment Agency for water quality and conditions.
Plan your adventure
- Prepare for your trip by knowing what to expect, and always let someone else know where you’re going and when you expect to be back.
- It’s essential that you have the right skills and knowledge for your activity, as you are responsible for the safety of yourself and others in your care.
- Prepare for natural hazards, including weather changes, to stay safe. Take the appropriate clothing and equipment for your activities.
- Remain flexible in case you need to change your plans if places are busy.
Rights and permissions
- For camping, freshwater swimming and freshwater fishing, you may need to get permission from the landowner.
Enjoy the great outdoors
The outdoors is fantastic for boosting your wellbeing. It is a place for relaxation, peacefulness and adventure.
Make it a memorable one. Enjoy your visit and have fun.
Follow advice and local signs
Maps and local signs will help you find your way. Make sure that you keep to marked paths, even if they’re muddy, to protect crops and wildlife. Get familiar with the signs and symbols used in the countryside, using gates, stiles or gaps in field boundaries where you can.
Footpath
Marked with a yellow arrow.
You have the right to walk or take a mobility scooter.
Bridleway
Marked with a blue arrow.
You have the right to walk, take a mobility scooter, cycle or ride a horse.
Restricted byway
Marked with a purple arrow.
You have the right to walk, take a mobility scooter, cycle, ride a horse or travel in a horse-drawn vehicle.
Byway open to all traffic
Marked with a red arrow.
You have the right to walk, take a mobility scooter, cycle, ride a horse, travel in a horse-drawn vehicle or drive a motor vehicle.