Outdoor access & safety

Wild camping

• Access rights cover lightweight wild camping — small tents, small groups, no more than 2–3 nights in one spot.
• Avoid enclosed fields, and keep well away from buildings, roads, and historic structures.
• Use a stove rather than an open fire, and leave no trace — take all litter home and remove any sign you were there.
• Bury human waste well away from water sources, at least 30m from lochs or burns.

Cycling

• Access rights extend to cycling on paths, tracks, and off-road, as long as it's done responsibly.
• On narrow routes, give way to walkers and horse riders — dismount and walk if needed until the path widens again.
• Take care not to alarm farm animals, horses, or wildlife, and slow down around other path users.
• In wet or boggy conditions, try to avoid churning up soft ground.

Dog walking

• You can take a dog with you under access rights, as long as it's kept under close control or on a short lead.
• Keep dogs on a lead around livestock, and never take a dog into a field with young lambs or calves.
• During the bird breeding season (April–July), keep dogs close so ground-nesting birds aren't disturbed.
• Always bag and bin (or take home) dog waste — it can spread disease to livestock and wildlife.

Land access

• You can be on most land and inland water in Scotland for recreation, as long as you act responsibly — this includes walking, cycling, and wild camping.
• Access rights don't extend to private gardens, houses, or land where crops are growing.
• Estates may temporarily restrict access during stag stalking (1 Jul–20 Oct) or lambing — check local signage.
• Take responsibility for your own safety — plan ahead and don't rely on others to keep you safe in remote areas.