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Open access land is designated for walking and outdoor recreation on foot. This means that you can go:
As open access land can cover rural businesses and areas of sensitive wildlife, there are a number of activities that you are not allowed to do without the landowner’s permission. These include:
There are some differences for the coastal margin. See below to find out more.
Unless there are restrictions, you can:
You can’t (unless the landowner has agreed you can) do any other activities such as:
There are types of land which remain off limits and rules for what you can and can’t do in the coastal margin. These are largely the same as on open access land, although you can walk:
Access may be excluded from areas of saltmarsh and mudflat where the land is unsafe to walk. This may be particularly dangerous for visitors who don’t know the area well. Whether you are a visitor or live locally, it’s important to take note of the ground conditions and read and follow instructions on local signage.
We are campaigning for improved access rights in England. Find out more about the campaign and take action today.