Canvasdale

Open access land

By the Canvasdale team · Last checked

Open access land is land where the public has a right to walk and enjoy the outdoors, such as mountain, moor and heath. Access rights do not automatically include camping. The rules differ between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, so similar-looking land can be treated differently across the UK.

Where you'll see it

Maps, walking guides and land-manager websites show open access land, often with shading or a symbol. Being on the map does not mean you can camp there. Check the rules for the nation you are in, and any notices on the ground.

What to check

  • Whether the land is open access under the rules for its nation, using the official maps and guidance.
  • Whether the access right covers camping. Often it does not, so check rather than assume.
  • Any restrictions or notices in place for the area, which can change.
  • The landowner's or land manager's permission, which you should ask for before you travel.
  • The Countryside Code or the Scottish Outdoor Access Code for how to behave on the land.
  • Wild camping: camping away from a campsite, which open access land does not automatically allow.
  • Byelaw: a local rule that can still apply on open land.
  • Countryside Code: the advice for visitors to the countryside.

Read more: Wild camping in the UK: the rules explained and how we check the rules.