Leave gates & property as you find them

Please respect the working life of the countryside, as our actions can affect people’s livelihoods, our heritage, and the safety and welfare of animals and ourselves.

  • Follow paths across land that has crops growing on it, wherever possible.
  • A farmer will normally leave a gate closed to keep livestock in, but may sometimes leave it open so they can reach food and water. Leave gates as you find them or follow instructions on signs (if walking in a group, make sure the last person knows how to leave the gates).
  • Use gates and stiles wherever possible – climbing over walls, hedges and fences can damage them and increase the risk of farm animals escaping.
  • Leave machinery and livestock alone – don’t interfere with animals even if you think they’re in distress. Try to alert the farmer instead.
  • Our heritage belongs to all of us – be careful not to disturb ruins and historic sites.
  • If you think a sign is illegal or misleading (for example, a ‘Private – No Entry’ sign on a public footpath), contact the local authority.