Can I throw my apple core or banana peel in the woods since it's biodegradable?

No, you should take it home. Even though they'll eventually decompose, banana skins can take years to break down in cold weather, they don't belong in British ecosystems, and they can disrupt natural wildlife feeding patterns.

Should I close a gate behind me when I'm walking in the countryside?

It depends on how you found it. If the gate was closed, close it behind you. If it was open, leave it open. Farmers leave gates in specific positions for good reasons, like giving livestock access to water or keeping them out of certain areas.

Why can't I just walk around muddy sections of the path?

Walking around muddy sections creates wider, braided tracks and more erosion. Stay on the marked route where you are required to do so, but never step into dangerous ground; follow local signs and turn back if the route is unsafe.

Respect the Countryside

Protect the Natural Environment

Protecting the natural environment covers using marked paths and durable ground where required to prevent erosion, taking all litter home (including organic waste like banana skins), not picking flowers or disturbing wildlife, and leaving gates and stones exactly as you found them. It's about making sure the countryside looks the same after you've walked through it.

8 August 20267 min read