Walking in the countryside is idyllic, calm and rejuvenating. It’s a great way to get back to nature. Thousands of families choose to holiday in the UK each year, many flocking to our beautiful rural towns and villages. If you’re planning a trip to the countryside with your dog, you’ll need to remember a few key points. Respecting the destination you’re travelling to, its locals and wildlife will ensure the location remains both dog and tourist friendly for years to come!
Walking with Livestock
When walking in the countryside with your dog, you’ll need to bring a lead. Even if your dog’s recall is reliable, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Plenty of public footpaths cross through fields of livestock. Your dog needs to be under effective control at all times to avoid them worrying or harming other animals. Farmers can legally shoot a dog if it’s attacking or chasing their livestock!
Certain areas have unique wildlife populations too, such as the wild ponies in the New Forest or rare nesting birds at particular times of year. Again, you’ll need to keep your dog on lead when passing by – keep your eyes peeled for noticeboards or signposts with more specific information.
Walking on Roads
Popular walking routes often cross onto rural roads. Though they may seem quiet and safe, often countryside speed limits are high. Cars, vans, lorries and tractors can approach at speed out of nowhere, so it’s important to be seen at all times. At night, remember to wear high-vis clothing and bring a torch with you so other road users can see you.
Always walk on the pavement where possible and use safe crossings. If you’re walking rurally these aren’t always available. Individuals and small groups should keep close to the side of the road and walk in single file. You should walk towards oncoming traffic, so you can see what’s approaching. Keep your dog on a short lead and to the edge of the road, so they’re as far away from cars as possible. If you’re navigating sharp bends, it may be safer to cross the road and cross back to walk towards oncoming traffic after the bend.
Leave No Trace
We all know you have to pick up and properly dispose of your dog’s poo; you could face hefty fines and prosecution if you don’t! The same goes for litter too. We are all responsible for our own waste; if bins aren’t available you’ll need to take your litter home. We need to protect our countryside for future generations, as well as avoid harming wildlife, livestock, birds and plants.
Plastic pollution is washing up on every beach worldwide – it’s a huge problem! The majority of this waste originates from urban towns and cities, when litter isn’t disposed of properly. We can all do our bit to help, particularly when walking in the countryside. Woody and I regularly pick up plastic from beaches or litter pick in the woods on walks!
Navigating Private Land
If you’re walking in the countryside, you’re bound to pass through private land. You may not realise it, however the majority of walking routes, footpaths and public byways pass through or near privately owned land. Stick strictly to waymarked footpaths when walking in the countryside to avoid trespassing or ruining crops and other plants.
Remember to leave any gates as you find them on your walks. Farmers use gates to contain their livestock, as well as rotate them around their fields. Sometimes they’re left open so cattle can easily access food and water. The last thing a farmer wants is their sheep or cattle on the loose, or for them to go hungry because they can’t reach their trough!
Respect the Local Community
The Countryside Code is designed to make walking in the countryside as enjoyable as possible for everyone. Holidaymakers provide vital income for rural communities, so it’s important for everyone to respect each other. Park sensibly, give way to walkers or horse-riders and co-operate with the community.
Be kind and considerate towards everyone you meet when walking in the countryside. You never know who you might bump into; if you’re lucky they may share new walks, adventures or other local knowledge!
What do you love most about exploring in the countryside? Let us know in the comments!
