Where you can walk: rights of way and open access

In England and Wales, your right to walk depends on the path or land. Public rights of way are legal routes: footpaths (yellow waymarks) for walkers, bridleways (blue) for walkers, horse riders and cyclists, and byways (purple or red) for vehicles. These are shown on Ordnance Survey maps and local authority definitive maps. Open access land, mapped under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, lets you roam freely on mountain, moor, heath and down, but not everywhere — and not always. In Scotland, the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 gives a right of responsible access to most land and inland water, provided you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Northern Ireland has fewer statutory rights; many paths are permissive, so check local signs.

Wild camping: legalities and leave no trace

Wild camping is legal in Scotland under access rights, but only on unenclosed land, away from roads and buildings, and for a night or two. In England and Wales, it is generally not a legal right. You need the landowner’s permission. Some areas, such as parts of Dartmoor, have long-standing arrangements, but these can change — always check current guidance. If you do camp wild, pitch late, leave early, keep groups small, and never light fires. Bury human waste 30 paces from water, and carry out all litter, including food scraps. If in doubt, use a campsite or ask a farmer. A quiet request often opens a gate.

Wild swimming: know your rights and risks

In Scotland, access rights include swimming and other non-motorised activities on inland water, as long as you respect wildlife and other users. In England and Wales, there is no general right to swim in rivers, lakes or reservoirs. Many reservoirs forbid swimming because of cold currents and machinery; others have bylaws. Some rivers and lakes have public access, often via footpaths or beaches. Check local signs and tide times. Never swim alone, watch for blue-green algae, and avoid nesting areas. Cold water shock is real — enter slowly, and know your exit.

Temporary closures and local guidance

Access can be closed or diverted for forestry work, military training, lambing, deer stalking or shooting. Red flags and signs mean stop. In Scotland, stalking takes place mainly in autumn; estates may ask you to avoid certain glens. In England and Wales, military ranges fly red flags or lamps — never enter. Diversions are usually waymarked. If you meet a land manager, be friendly and ask. Local access officers, national park authorities and estate offices can tell you about short-term closures. Planning ahead avoids a wasted day and keeps you safe.

The Countryside Code in practice

The Countryside Code is simple: respect everyone, protect the environment, enjoy the outdoors. Key habits make a real difference:

• Leave gates as you find them — open or closed.
• Keep dogs under control, and on a short lead around livestock and ground-nesting birds.
• Take all litter home, including banana skins and apple cores.
• Do not disturb wildlife or historic sites.
• Park considerately, leaving access for farm vehicles and emergency services.

Say hello to farmers and other walkers. These small actions keep access open for everyone. If you see someone struggling, offer help; mountain rescue is a call away, but prevention is better.

Respecting land managers and local communities

Access rights come with responsibilities. Land managers work the land you enjoy; a friendly word goes a long way. Avoid blocking gates, keep noise down, and keep to paths where erosion is a problem. In popular areas, consider visiting at quieter times. Support local shops and pubs. If you find a problem — a broken stile, a locked gate, an illegal closure — report it to the local authority access team or the national park. The hills are for everyone, but only if we tread lightly. Read signs, follow the code, and leave no trace of your visit except footprints — and even those, try to keep on the path.