Countryside Code

Ullswater view with people looking from the top

Respect. Protect. Enjoy!

The Countryside Code encourages visitors to respect, protect and enjoy to great outdoors.

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
  • Do not light fires or barbecues
  • 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!

Countryside Code

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

Public footpaths - Yellow arrows

Public footpath

For people on foot only.

Public bridleway – blue arrows

Blue arrow public bridleway

For people on foot, horse riders and cyclists.

Restricted byways – purple arrows

Restricted byeways - purple logo

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

Byways open to all traffic – red arrows.

Byways open to all traffic

For all of the above plus cars and motorbikes.

Permitted path – white arrows

Permitted path white arrow

Only for people on foot unless it specifically says otherwise.