Questions

The Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act 2000 will bring big changes for walkers and landowners. So what does everyone need to know?

Here are some frequently asked questions from visitors to access land as well as from farmers and landowners.

Here are some of the questions visitors to access land ask…

What does the Countryside and Rights of Way Act do?
It gives people the right to walk across miles of spectacular moors and heathland that was previously closed to the public – sometimes for centuries. The Peak District was the first national park where the Act came into effect - on 19 September 2004.

Does it mean we will be able to walk wherever we want?
You're welcome to walk on open access land but the CRoW Act is not a 'right to roam' across farmland – however it does extend areas available for walking.

Where can we walk?
Wherever you see the open access symbol – a walker in dark red on a white background.

Paths leading up to open access land should display arrow waymarkers indicating footpaths, bridleways and byways, or the National Trust acorn symbol – if you're not sure what the symbols mean seet the Countryside Code leaflet available from information centres.

How do we find out which areas are open access land?
Up-to-date maps are available at information centres, at Bakewell, Castleton, Edale and Upper Derwent, or visit the website www.countrysideaccess.gov.uk, or telephone 0845 100 3298.

Rangers are also here to help with any questions you may have – they are easily recognised in their red and grey uniforms and distinctive silver and red vehicles.

How can I find out if there are any restrictions to access land?
Consult the Open Access Contact Centre on 0845 100 3298 or
email openaccess@countryside.gov.uk

What can we do on the land?
Anything on foot – walk, run, climb, picnic (but not camp, light fires or leave litter), take photographs, paint, explore historic remains, watch wildlife – and above all appreciate the views stretching for miles across some of the wildest, most impressive landscapes in the country.

Can we take the dog?
Yes, in many areas, if kept under close control – though from 1 March to the end of July your pet must be on a short lead so that breeding animals and birds are not disturbed. Some grouse moors, however, may be closed to dogs at all times – signs on site will tell you.

Do we need any special equipment?
Sturdy footwear and weatherproof clothes – carry extra layers in case it turns cold – a map and compass. Mobile phone coverage is patchy in remote areas, so make sure someone knows when you are due back.

Many farmers and landowners are concerned about the opening up of access land and the National Park Authority, also known as the Access Authority, is working closely with them to sort out issues on the ground.

Here are some of the questions farmers and landowners frequently ask…

Where can I get information about open access?
For maps, advice sheets and information about access rights visit the Open Access website for land managers or phone the Open Access Contact Centre on 0845 100 3298.

Who can I turn to if I'm not sure what the Countryside and Rights of Way Act mean for me?
Contact Mike Rhodes, the National Park Authority's Access Officer on 01629 816289 or email mike.rhodes@peakdistrict.gov.uk or write to him at Aldern House, Baslow Road, Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1AE.

Where can I get local information from?
Call in to the visitor centres at Bakewell, Castleton, Edale or the Upper Derwent Valley for open access leaflets giving information about access in the Peak District.

What are my rights, responsibilities and liabilities?
By law, you must keep rights of way clear and not obstruct people's entry onto access land. Information is available from the Open Access website.

If you're not sure of your rights, responsibilities and liabilities contact Mike Rhodes, the National Park Authority's Access Officer on 01629 816289 or email mike.rhodes@peakdistrict.gov.uk or write to him at Peak District National Park Authority
Aldern House, Baslow Road, Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1AE

How can I find out which areas of my land are open access land?
Ordnance Survey 1:25,000 maps show rights of way and access land but you can check the legal status of rights of way with the National Park Authority and your local highway authority. If in doubt contact Mike Rhodes, the National Park Authority's Access Officer on 01629 816289 or email mike.rhodes@peakdistrict.gov.uk or write to him at Aldern House, Baslow Road, Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1AE. You can also visit the Access land maps section of www.openaccess.gov.uk or phone the Open Access Contact Centre on 0845 100 3298.

What can I do about trespassers?
Trespassing is often unintentional – but we're here to help - if you have a problem contact your local ranger who can help by installing waymarkers.

What do I do if I'm having problems with people camping on my land?
Talk to your local ranger who will be able to advise on your particular situation.

What can I do if there's a problem out of office hours?
It's a fact – rangers can't be everywhere every minute of the day. If there's a fire emergency or criminal activity dial 999. However if it's a regular occurrence contact your local ranger who will be able to help.

What can I do if people's dogs are causing problems with my livestock?
By law people must keep their dogs under control – on most open access land dogs must be on a short lead between 1 March and 31 July. By law landowners are entitled to destroy a dog that injures or worries livestock – contact your local police for advice. Talk to your local ranger if there's a regular problem.

What if I want to put up my own sign to tell people about my land management operations?
Temporary signs may be useful to explain what is happening on a piece of land to help people avoid getting in your way. Talk to your local ranger who will be able to assist. You may also wish to see the Natural England publication Signs on Access Land