Follow the Countryside Code (to keep all creatures safe)
The Countryside Code is simply a set of rules to keep all creatures (dogs to wildlife to sheep to cows) safe while out walking. 70% of land in England is agricultural, so it’s important to keep to these rules.
You likely are not carrying the book with you as you walk, so here is the code simplified enough to hopefully remain in your head!
Be safe and respectful
- Plan ahead (check weather and routes before you go)
- Follow signs and paths (stick to footpaths and bridleways)
- Keep noise levels down and allow others to pass on shared routes
- Leave gates & property as you find them and do not block access.
- Don’t litter (even fruit peels or nut shells take a long time to break down).
- Avoid wild camping, where prohibited. Legally camp on durable surfaces at least 200ft from lakes and streams (avoid barbecues, cigarettes and glass litter to prevent wildfires). And use biodegradable non-scented beauty/cleaning/laundry products (at least 70 adult steps away from streams, lakes and rivers). Same for going to the loo!
Leave wild creatures alone
The popularity of ‘selfies’ in recent years has led to many tragedies. One foal fell to its death from a cliff after being spooked from people taking photos, and pony died from eating raw potato peels (the same can happen with apples, never feed horses without permission from the guardian).
If given permission, slice carrots lengthwise (not into round coins) and cut apples into quarters (or slices) and remove core and seeds. Feed from a flat palm (to stop horses accidentally nipping your fingers).
One farmer in the Highlands said that people were trying to ‘boop’ her cows in order to launch a video for social media, which spooked the cows so much (they have sensitive nerve endings on their noses) that one was wary of anyone approaching her for months later.
Keeping dogs safe near other animals
- Keep dogs under control (humanely trained dogs have more freedom). Also pick up the poop (which can harm if left).
- Put dogs on leads on Open Access land (legal requirement from 1 March to 31 July). Know that farmers can legally shoot dogs that worry sheep.
- Keep dogs away from high peaks, steep banks, mushrooms, cliffs and toxic plants/trees. Find good safety tips at Nearly Uphill.
- Keep dogs away from nesting birds and sand dunes. Also learn about keeping dogs safe at the seaside (check beach bans before travel).
How to help farmers (or report concerns)
- Report farm animal concerns first to farmers with a friendly word. If no joy, call RSPCA (or Crimestoppers (anonymous).
- Don’t judge farmers, many have financial needs (Farming Community Help can help with free food for livestock and other goods).
- Learn how to upright an overturned sheep (this can happen due to weight from pregnancy or rain-soaked wool). It’s simple to do and can save its life, if the farmer is not nearby.
A new code for countryside roads
There are plans to introduce a new Code for Countryside Roads too, as around 70% of road deaths are on rural roads, despite having less collisions. Due to low winter sun, fallen leaves and more ice.
And accidents with wild deer. Read more on making roads safer for wildlife.
