Visitor Code

There are now more opportunities than ever before to enjoy the benefits of access to the AONB's countryside. People using the AONB for recreation are always made welcome provided they are sensitive to the needs of local people, especially the farming community, and follow the advice contained in the Countryside Code and Moorland Codes.

Countryside Code

Be safe, plan ahead and follow any signs
Leave gates and property as you find them
Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home
Keep dogs under close control
Consider other people

Click here for further information about the code.

Moorland Code

Heather covered moorlands look stunning, especially in August and September when in full purple bloom and people are drawn to their great open landscapes. The right of access to open country welcomes walkers to mountain, moor, registered common land, heath and down and with our rights come responsibilities naturally.

Britain has 75% of the world's remaining heather, and it is these heather moorlands that provide some of the last safe havens for nesting birds such as curlew, lapwing, merlin, golden plover and black grouse. As a result, the law protects most of these moorlands.

By being informed and responsible visitors, we can all play or part in conserving our unique heather heritage and its wildlife for future generations.

Please follow the Moorland Visitor's Code:

Be Safe - Plan Ahead: Even when going out locally, it's best to get the latest information about where and when you can go especially if you are taking a dog (for example, your rights to enter some areas of open land may be restricted while work is carried out, for safety reasons or during breeding or shooting seasons). Follow advice and local signs, and be prepared for the unexpected.
Keep Dogs Under Close Control: The countryside is a great place to exercise dogs, but it's every owner's duty to make sure their dog is not a danger or nuisance to farm animals, wildlife or other people. Internationally important birds such as curlew, lapwing, red grouse, merlin, golden plover and black grouse rely on moorland to breed and are vulnerable because they nest and live on the ground.
Prevent Uncontrolled Moorland Fires: Smouldering cigarette ends, discarded bottles and dropped matches can all cause uncontrolled fires on moors particularly during the spring and summer. Serious, deep-seated fires are fatal to important animals and plants and devastating to the landscape.
Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home.: We have a responsibility to protect our countryside now and for future generations so make sure you don't harm animals, birds, plants or trees.
Leave gates and property as you find them: Please respect the working life of the countryside, as our actions can affect people's livelihoods, our heritage, and the safety and welfare of animals and ourselves.
Consider other people: Showing consideration and respect for other people makes the countryside a pleasant environment for everyone at home, at work and at leisure. Moorlands managed for red grouse, farm stock and as water catchment areas, create year-round jobs for shepherds, water bailiffs, gamekeepers and moorland regeneration contractors all of whom contribute to the conservation of moorland and its thriving wildlife.