Welcome to the Countryside Code website in England and Wales
The Countryside Code is your guide to the outdoors. Whether you’re in the countryside, enjoying the coast, our waterways or an urban park, it’s there to help guide you through nature.
The Country Code was introduced in 1951 as an amendment in the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949. In 2004, it was rebranded the Countryside Code. It is managed by both Natural England and Natural Resources Wales.
For more information about how to Respect, Protect and Enjoy nature please scroll further, where you can find details on how to best follow the Countryside Code, links to some of our assets and our social media pages.
Helpful advice and guidance for an enjoyable and safe trip to the outdoors
Litter
Take litter home - leave no trace of your visit.
Dogs
Always keep dogs under control and in sight. Dog poo – bag it and bin it.
Plan Your Adventure
Know what to expect and what you can do.
Care for Nature
Do not cause damage or disturbance and leave no trace of your visit.
Livestock and Wildlife
Do not feed livestock, horses or wild animals as it can cause them harm.
Fire Aware
If in doubt don't light. BBQs and camp fires are only permitted in limited areas. Check first.
Horse Riders
Follow waymarkers and local signs. Other path users should give way to horse riders
Courtesy
Be nice, share the space with all users.
Cyclists
Follow waymarkers and local signs. Give way to pedestrians and horse riders.
Travel and Parking
Consider using public transport. Park with consideration by not blocking access points, driveways or accessible bays.
Accessibility
Be mindful of all users' needs and abilities whilst out and about.
Follow Local Signs
Get to know the signs and symbols used in the countryside.
Introducing Natural England's Countryside Code champion...
Shaun the Sheep, the newest member of the Countryside Code family!
Shaun the Sheep is helping us to spread the messages of the Countryside Code and about how best to Respect, Protect and Enjoy the outdoors.
Reaching over a million people since he became our Champion in 2023, Shaun continues to help young people get inspired and connect with nature.
Find out more about the campaign by visiting our social media channels or clicking on our Shaun the Sheep page.
Follow The Countryside Code on Instagram
Countryside Code - your questions answered
Click on one of the below links where you'll find more information on how to Respect, Protect and Enjoy.
- Where does the Countryside Code apply to?
- How can I contact you?
- Have you got anything physical I can access?
Where does the Countryside Code apply to?
The Code is jointly produced by Natural England and Natural Resources Wales and applies in both countries.
How can I contact you?
You can contact us by emailing Countryside.Code@naturalengland.org.uk
Have you got anything physical I can access?
The Countryside Code leaflet is available to download in two formats:
We also have Shaun the Sheep leaflets available for businesses! Please contact our team for further information here.
The Countryside Code for England on GOV.UK
The Countryside Code for Wales
The Countryside Code has been translated in to 17 languages
Visit the Countryside Code Language Translations page.
Want to find out more?
Visit our other Countryside Code pages