The Countryside Code for Land Managers

The Countryside Code update for land managers will be integrated into the wider, long-term behavioural change campaign, which aims to increase responsible recreation and protect green spaces for the future.

The National Farmers’ Union has a great range of Countryside Code infographics which are free to use. Visit their website to find out how they’ve been involved with the refresh of the Countryside Code, to learn more about their work and to view their social media resources.

Visit the National Farmers’ Union website.

“Understanding the Countryside Code and following its advice helps to protect the countryside and all who work within it, inhabit or visit. We are pleased to help promote this code of good practice.”
Ed Dungait Vice-Chair of the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs’ Council

“HSE welcomes the inclusion of guidance for landowners in the Countryside Code, which reflects HSE’s promotion of a sensible and proportionate approach to managing safety in the countryside. This guidance provides a valuable framework for landowners to manage risks to visitors and workers so people can work and enjoy leisure time in the countryside safely.”
Dr Stephen Britton HSE Inspector, Health and Safety Executive

“Over the last two years even more of us have appreciated the benefits of spending time in the countryside and it’s been great to welcome new visitors to our National Parks. Farmers and Landowners have gone out of their way to enable people to enjoy the countryside and it’s important they’re supported with the guidance they need to enable visitors to have a great day out safely and responsibly. As a family of National Parks, we’re committed to working with them to make the most of the new guidance.”
Tom Hind Visitor Management Lead for UK National Parks & CEO at North York Moors National Park Authority

“As moorland land managers we welcome the supportive collaboration from government in this guidance to help increasing numbers of visitors make the most of England’s glorious countryside, while crucially safeguarding it for others and those who live and work on the land. The vast majority of visitors leave no trace, but incidents of antisocial behaviour such as fly-tipping and vandalism have increased recently, causing a disproportionate amount of damage.

There is even the threat to life from the inappropriate use of BBQs on moorland, which can lead to devastating wildfires. The new guidance recognizes these issues and offers constructive advice on how to change unhelpful behaviour and prevent damage to the very thing visitors cherish.”
Amanda Anderson Director, The Moorland Association

“The CLA is delighted to have played its part in revamping the Countryside Code and will continue working towards making green public spaces accessible and enjoyable for all. The Code now offers landowner-specific advice which will be particularly helpful for our members, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to smoothly manage increased public interest in accessing green spaces.

Rather than pitting rural communities and visitors against each other, the guidance unites them by focusing on a shared appreciation of our countryside. Most importantly, it outlines how both can work together to enhance it. With over 150,000 miles of public rights of way and 2.5 million acres of open access land in Great Britain, there is so much to enjoy responsibly.”
Mark Tufnell President of the Country, Land and Business Association