Dartmoor National Park Authority

The Countryside Code
RESPECT PROTECT ENJOY

When in the countryside please:

• Be safe - plan ahead and follow any signs
• Leave gates and property as you find them
• Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home
• Keep dogs under close control
• Consider other people

.. and when on Dartmoor please:

• know your rights of access to different kinds of open country, including where you can horse ride, backpack, climb and cycle
• remember you must control your dog at all times so that it does not disturb or scare farm animals or wildlife.
  You should keep your dog on a short lead on areas of open country and common land between 1 March and 31 July to avoid worrying lambs and ewes, and disturbing nesting birds.
  Please also keep your dog on a lead during the lambing season on enclosed farmland (1 December to 30 June)
• be aware that Dartmoor’s weather can change rapidly. When venturing into open country ensure you are correctly clothed and equipped. Always carry a map and compass and know how to use them.
  Be prepared to change your plans if conditions are adverse
• be careful not to disturb ruins and historic sites
• prevent uncontrolled moorland fires. Moorland vegetation can be dry at any time of the year, so do not light fires and be careful when siting camping stoves or barbeques
•  wild animals, ponies and livestock can behave unpredictably if you get too close, especially if they’re with their young - so give them plenty of space.

Page updated 28 July 2006