With thousands of visitors expected to flock to the countryside
this weekend as tourism businesses in England reopen, the Country
Land and Business Association (CLA) is urging people to follow
the Countryside Code during their visit.
The Countryside Code aims to help everyone respect other people,
protect the natural environment and enjoy the outdoors.
It is there to ensure visitors enjoy the countryside safely by
planning ahead of their visit, maintaining social distancing,
keeping dogs away from livestock, leaving gates as they find
them, taking litter home and avoiding having barbecues in public
spaces.
The CLA, which represents 30,000 farmers, landowners and rural
businesses across England and Wales, sees the upcoming holiday
period as a real opportunity for visitors to make the most of the
beautiful countryside.
CLA President Mark Bridgeman said:
“This weekend we will see tourism businesses in England begin to
re-open, and with international travel still restricted we expect
a large number of people to head into rural areas for a break.
“Our message is clear. People are hugely welcome in the
countryside, and we want to help them to enjoy it safely and
responsibly.
“We believe this is a fantastic opportunity both for our regular
visitors and for the many first-timers. We know the countryside
can do wonders for people’s mental and physical health, and it
can also help them understand the natural environment, including
how food is produced in Britain.”
The CLA has produced an array of graphics which capture some of
the key rules to follow in the countryside. Download them here
- We expect an announcement in Wales shortly to confirm parts
of the tourism sector can begin to trade again.
