Stay Safe This Summer, follow the countryside code

Stay safe this summer, follow the countryside code with Shepherd’s Walks

There’s nothing quite like summer walking in the UK countryside – fresh air, rolling hills, and peaceful trails. At Shepherd’s Walks, we’re passionate about helping you explore this stunning landscape. But we also believe that enjoying the outdoors goes hand in hand with protecting it.

That’s why we encourage all our walkers to follow the Countryside Code – a simple set of rules designed to keep you safe, respect the land, and protect nature.

Below is one of my all time favourite Countryside Code ads was back in 2004, with Mark Benton voicing the horse.

Later ads (post 2007) for the countryside code featured Shaun the sheep, here is his complete guide to the countryside code.

- What is the Countryside Code?

Whether you're out on one of our self-guided walking events, joining a guided or self-guided walking holiday, or just enjoying a local footpath, the Countryside Code applies to you. It helps everyone enjoy the outdoors while looking after the environment and the people who live and work in rural areas.

Here are the three key principles:

• Respect everyone
  
  Be considerate of farmers, landowners, and local communities - Be nice, share the space with all users.
  
  Dogs - Always keep dogs under control and in sight - bag it and bin it. 
  
  Leave gates as you find them
  
  Parking - Avoid blocking entrances or tracks when parking.
  
  Accessibility - Be mindful of all users needs and abilities whilst out and about
  
  
• Protect the environment
  
  Take litter home, leave no trace of your visit
  
  Avoid damaging crops or wildflowers - Do not cause damage or disturbance
  
  Don’t disturb livestock or wildlife - Do not feed livestock, horses or wild animals as it can cause them harm.
  
  In summer, and even this year in Spring wildfires are a serious risk – never light fires or barbecues This has been a big issue in Northumberland over the last few years.
  
  
• Enjoy the outdoors
  
  Plan ahead, know what to expect and what you can do.
  
  Wear suitable clothing.
  
  Plan and know your route.
  
  Enjoy your walk, take in the views, and make great memories.
  
  

Download a PDF of the countryside code


- Summer Countryside Safety Tips from Shepherd’s Walks

Walking in summer is a joy – but hot weather and dry conditions bring extra safety considerations.

In the past I have written an article, Top ten tips for walking in Northumberland, you may find this useful.


- Some additional resources that will help with your confidence whilst exploring Northumberland


1. Use a map

Mobile signal can be patchy in rural Northumberland.

You should always carry and use Ordnance Survey maps to navigate safely.


2. Map and Compass Training

Come on a Map and Compass course here in Northumberland, you can see upcoming courses coming up and join a group of like-minded people.


3. GPS Unit, with free training

A GPS unit really takes all the navigational stresses away from you.

Unsure how a GPS unit works, here is a video introduction into GPS navigation.

- Shepherd’s Walks: Walking Responsibly Since Day One

Founded by a former hill shepherd, Shepherd’s Walks is rooted in the rural traditions of Northumberland. We work closely with local communities and landowners to offer walking holidays and day events that celebrate the landscape – and help protect it.

When you walk with us, you are part of a community that values the countryside and treats it with care.

- Plan your next summer adventure

Explore our full range of guided and self-guided walking holidays, or browse our downloadable day walks – all created with the Countryside Code in mind.


Further reading

1. 10 top tips for walking in Northumberland

2. A beginners guide to Map and Compass skills

3. Self-guided walking guides in Northumberland - free to download

4. Shepherds Walks Holidays - Guided and self-guided walking holidays