The Countryside Code

Respect. Protect. Enjoy!

The Countryside Code has been refreshed to encourage visitors to respect, protect and enjoy to great outdoors. Below is the 2021 updated Countryside Code.

Respect other people

• Be considerate to those living in, working in and enjoying the countryside
• Leave gates and property as you find them
• Do not block access to gateways or driveways when parking
• Be nice, say hello, share the space
• Follow local signs and keep to marked paths unless wider access is available

Protect the natural environment

• Take your litter home - leave no trace of your visit
• Take care with BBQs  and do not light fires
• Always keep dogs under control and in sight
• Dog poo - bag it and bin it - any public waste bin will do
• Care for nature - do not cause damage or disturbance  

Enjoy the outdoors

• Check your route and local conditions
• Plan your adventure - know what to expect and what you can do
• Enjoy your visit, have fun, make a memory!

Which paths you are allowed to go on, on foot, on bike and on horseback.

Public footpaths - Yellow arrows.

For people on foot only.

Public bridleway – blue arrows.

For people on foot, horse riders and cyclists.

Restricted byways – purple arrows.

For people on foot, horse riders, cyclists and horse drawn vehicles.

Byways open to all traffic – red arrows.

For all of the above plus cars and motorbikes.

Permitted path – white arrows

Only for people on foot unless it specifically says otherwise.