Respect other people
Be considerate to those living in, working in and enjoying the countryside
Leave gates and property as you find them
Do not block access to gateways or driveways when parking
Be nice, say hello, share the space
Follow local signs and keep to marked paths unless wider access is available
Protect the natural environment
Do not light fires or barbecues
Always keep dogs under control and in sight
Dog poo – bag it and bin it – any public waste bin will do
Care for nature – do not cause damage or disturbance
Enjoy the outdoors
Check your route and local conditions
Plan your adventure – know what to expect and what you can do
Enjoy your visit, have fun, make a memory!
Where can I cycle, walk and ride in the Lake District National Park?
With over 3,200km (almost 2,000 miles) of public rights of way and many hectares of access land, the Lake District National Park offers incredible opportunities for walking, cycling, and horse riding.
Understanding who can use which paths, following safety advice, and respecting others on the trail helps ensure a great experience for all.
Public footpaths
Yellow arrows
Wherever you see this yellow arrow sign or the symbol(s) it means: ‘For people on foot only’ – with normal accompaniments such as prams, pushchairs, wheelchairs where the path is physically suitable, and dogs.
Byways open to all traffic
Red arrows
Wherever you see this red arrow sign or the symbol(s) it means: ‘For all of the above plus cars and motorbikes (and any other traffic that might be able to physically use the route).’
Restricted byways
Purple arrows
Wherever you see this purple (victoria plum) arrow sign or the symbol(s) it means: ‘For all traffic except motorised vehicles. So, effectively – people on foot, horse riders, cyclists and horse drawn vehicles, and accompaniments as above.’
Public bridleway
Blue arrows
Wherever you see this blue arrow sign or the symbol(s) it means: ‘For people on foot, horse riders and cyclists’ – with normal accompaniments such as prams, pushchairs, wheelchairs where the path is physically suitable, and dogs.
Permitted path
White arrows
Wherever you see this white arrow sign or the symbol(s) it means: ‘Path can be used by permission of the landowner’ – the symbols and signage will say what usage is being permitted (generally walkers, cyclists, horses or a combination).
Access Land
Most of our access land is unsigned and doesn’t have marks or roundels – but occasionally you will come across signs like this. The best way of finding out what is open access land is by looking at maps or online.
