What is the right to roam?

The right to roam is the public's legal right to walk on certain private land without asking permission. In England and Wales it covers mainly mountains, moors, heaths, downs and registered common land, about 8% of England. Scotland has a much wider right of responsible access to most land and inland water.

In England and Wales, the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 created open access land. On this land you can walk, run and climb, but not usually cycle, ride horses or camp. Elsewhere you must stick to public rights of way, such as footpaths and bridleways. The England Coast Path adds access along the coast. Some land can be closed temporarily, for example during lambing or for fire risk.

Scotland's Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 gives everyone a right of responsible access to most land and water, including wild camping, cycling and canoeing. It follows the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Homes, gardens and crops are excluded. Landowners in Scotland can still manage access for safety or land management reasons. Visitors must respect people's privacy, livestock and crops.

Campaigners want a Scottish-style right extended to England, including woods, rivers and more countryside. In May 2025 the Supreme Court confirmed that wild camping is allowed on Dartmoor's commons. Landowners and farming groups warn wider access could bring litter, damage to crops and disturbance to livestock and wildlife. Supporters argue wider access would improve health and connect more people with nature.