Summer Safety

Do you enjoy the sunny weather that (hopefully!) comes in the summer? It’s lovely to explore the countryside when the weather is nice, but it’s important to stay safe too. Then you can make the most of the wonderful sunny season.

The Countryside Code

Have you ever heard of The Countryside Code? It’s advice on how to keep yourself safe in the countryside, as well as looking after our beautiful outdoor spaces. Here’s some advice for your next countryside adventure.

Respect Everyone

Be considerate to those living in, working in and enjoying the countryside.

Leave gates and property as you find them.

Don’t block access to gateways or driveways when your parents or carers park their cars.

Be nice, say hello and share the space.

Protect the Environment

Follow local signs and keep to marked paths, unless wider access is available.

It’s also important to take care of our outdoor spaces in the following ways.

Take your litter home – leave no trace of your visit.

Do not light fires and only have barbecues where signs say you can.

Always keep dogs under control and in sight.

If your dog poos, bag it and bin it in any public waste bin or take it home.

Care for nature – do not cause damage or disturbance.

Enjoy the Outdoors

Planning properly before a countryside outing can help keep you safe.

Check your route and local weather conditions before you head out.

Plan your adventure so you know what to expect and what you can do.

Enjoy your visit, have fun and make a memory!

Know the Signs

Here are some of the signs you might see in the countryside and descriptions of what they mean...

Footpath

For walkers and mobility aid users.

Bridleway

For walkers, mobility aid users, horse riders and cyclists.

Byway Open to All Traffic

For walkers, mobility aid users, horse riders, cyclists, horse-drawn carriages and all motorised vehicles.

An Acorn Symbol

National trail created for walking with horse-riding and cycling possible on some trails. Users with limited mobility can visit nationaltrail.co.uk to check trail suitability. This website also contains maps, trip planning tools and information on trail diversions.

Restricted Byway

For walkers, mobility aid users, horse riders, cyclists and horse-drawn carriages.

Permissive Path

Follow advice on local signs as landowners voluntarily provide access to these paths and choose who can use them. Some open access areas are also made available in this way.

Open Access

You can explore away from paths. This includes many areas of mountain, moorland, heath, down, coastal margin and registered common land.

Have fun exploring some of the UK’s beautiful countryside this summer – see if you can discover somewhere amazing!

For more information about The Countryside Code, visit countryside-code.org.uk where Shaun the Sheep can help you understand everything in more detail.