Out and About Essentials

COVID-19 and Rights of Way

The public rights of way network remains open. We ask that all members of the public follow the requirements for social distancing and use their local routes rather than travelling to the countryside unnecessarily.  Travel to exercise is NOT essential travel and people should not be travelling to do their daily exercise.

Many footpaths, bridleways and other public rights of way cross private land, working farms and in some cases are close to private homes. Please keep to the paths, keep your distance from other people, and if you have a dog with you, keep it under close control (on a short lead or at heel).  Continue to follow the restrictions and measures which are in place to protect you and others.

Please note that the law does not currently allow us to close any part of the public rights of way network for COVID-19 reasons.

All informal consultations for public rights of way and the making of public path orders are suspended until further notice.

The Ranger Team will only inspect rights of way where there are emergency or safety issues at this time.  If you come across an issue on the access network please log it at Explore Somerset.

updated March 27

COVID-19 Advice

The government is asking people to stay at home and only go outside for food, health reasons or essential work. People should not travel to the National Park for recreational reasons. Finding ways to get exercise near where you live will help stop the spread.

Stay Home, Save Lives

here for latest updates.

Rights of Way

Public rights of way are paths along which the public has a legal right to pass and repass.
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Path News

All the latest news on path works, closures and recent openings.
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Access Land

Specific areas of land that are designated as 'Access Land' give people a right of access on foot for open air recreation.
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Report a Problem

Reports from members of the public about faults on public rights of way can be very helpful. Find out how to get in touch with us.
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Map Reading

To help you explore Exmoor with confidence, Ordnance Survey have filmed videos on Exmoor.
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Access and Recreation Map

Discover all of our Public Rights of Way and Permissive Paths on Exmoor, and find somewhere new to explore!
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Dogs

Users of a public rights of way are legally obliged to keep dogs under 'close control' but not necessarily on a lead.
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Tick Bites and Lyme Disease

It pays to be aware of the possibility of tick bites and their effects. This tells you all you need to know.
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Countryside Code

Always use the Countryside Code when exploring Exmoor, being respectful of access is very important.
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