Discover Where You Can Walk Freely in England Under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000
Planning a walking adventure in England? Our interactive CRoW access land map helps you discover millions of acres of open countryside, mountains, moors, heaths, and registered common land where you have the legal right to roam freely. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, casual walker, or outdoor enthusiast, this comprehensive mapping tool not only reveals England’s accessible landscapes but also lets you download precise boundary data for use in your GPS device or favorite hiking app.
What is CRoW Access Land?
The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CRoW Act) revolutionized public access to England’s countryside by creating a legal “right to roam” across designated open access land. This landmark legislation opened up approximately 2 million acres of previously inaccessible countryside, giving walkers, runners, and nature lovers unprecedented freedom to explore England’s most beautiful landscapes.
CRoW access land includes:
- Open country (mountain, moor, heath, and down)
- Registered common land
- Dedicated land voluntarily opened by landowners
- Coastal margin under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009
Explore CRoW access land and related designations in England.
How to Use the CRoW Access Land Map
Getting Started
- Navigate the Map: Use your mouse to pan around and explore different areas of England
- Find Your Location: Click “Near me” to automatically center the map on your current position
- Quick Navigation: Select from popular regions using the “Jump to…” dropdown menu
- Zoom In and Out: Use the + and – buttons or your mouse wheel to zoom to your desired level of detail
- Layer Selection: Toggle different types of access land on and off using the layer control panel
- Switch Views: Choose between standard street map view and satellite imagery
Map Controls
- Near Me: Automatically locate and center the map on your current position
- Jump To: Quick navigation to popular walking regions across England
- Base Maps: Switch between standard street view and high-resolution satellite imagery
- Zoom Controls: Use + and – buttons or mouse wheel to zoom in and out
- Layer Toggles: Show or hide specific types of access land using checkboxes
- Pan and Explore: Click and drag to move around the map
Download Feature
One of the most powerful features of this map is the ability to download access land boundaries for offline use:
- Click on any access land area on the map to select it
- Choose your download format:
- GeoJSON: For web applications and GIS software
- KML: For Google Earth and many GPS devices
- GPX: For handheld GPS units and hiking apps
- Clear: Remove the current selection to choose a different area
Why download boundaries?
- Import into your GPS device for offline navigation
- Use with hiking apps like OS Maps, AllTrails, or Gaia GPS
- Plan routes in advance using GIS software
- Share exact boundaries with walking groups
- Create custom maps for printing
Important: This map is an excellent tool for identifying and downloading CRoW access areas. For detailed navigation and route planning, we recommend using downloaded boundaries alongside official Ordnance Survey maps or the OS Maps app.
Understanding the Map Colors
Each type of access land is color-coded for easy identification. Use the layer control (menu icon) to toggle different types on and off:
- Green: Combined CRoW Access Land
- Blue: Conclusive Open Country (Section 4)
- Purple: Conclusive Registered Common Land (Section 4)
- Orange: Section 15 Land
- Pink: Section 16 Dedicated Land
- Dashed Blue: CRoW Mapping Area boundaries
Pro Tip: Use “Near me” to center the map on your location, then “Jump to…” popular regions like the Lake District, Peak District, or Dartmoor for quick navigation to England’s best walking areas.
Understanding CRoW Access Land Types: A Detailed Guide
1. CRoW Access Land (Combined Layer)
What it is: The comprehensive layer showing all land designated for public access under the CRoW Act 2000.
Your Rights: You can walk, run, climb, and observe wildlife freely across this land. You can also access these areas on horseback where there are existing bridleways or byways.
Key Features:
- Covers mountain, moor, heath, down, and registered common land
- Approximately 2 million acres across England
- Managed by Natural England
Learn More: Natural England CRoW Access Land
2. Section 4 Conclusive Open Country
What it is: Land officially designated as “open country” through conclusive mapping under Section 4 of the CRoW Act.
Characteristics:
- Includes mountain, moor, heath, and down landscapes
- Legally confirmed as accessible through the mapping process
- Shows date of designation and mapping status
Your Rights: Full access rights for walking, running, and wildlife observation. Some areas may have seasonal restrictions during bird breeding seasons.
Learn More: Open Access Land Regulations
3. Section 4 Conclusive Registered Common Land
What it is: Common land that has been conclusively registered and mapped for public access.
Historical Context: Much of England’s common land dates back centuries, originally used by local communities for grazing and fuel gathering.
Your Rights:
- Right to walk freely across the land
- Must stay on existing paths in some sensitive areas
- Respect ongoing agricultural uses (often still grazed)
Key Information:
- Managed by local registration authorities
- Each area has a unique Common Land (CL) number
- Often includes village greens and historic commons
Learn More: The Commons Registration Act
4. Section 15 Land
What it is: Land designated for access through the provisional mapping process under Section 15 of the CRoW Act.
Status: These areas are in various stages of the mapping and appeals process.
Important Note: While shown on the map, some Section 15 areas may still be subject to appeals or confirmation processes. Always check for local signage and current access status when visiting, and consider cross-referencing with official OS Maps before planning your route.
Learn More: CRoW Act Mapping Process
5. Section 16 Dedicated Land
What it is: Private land that landowners have voluntarily dedicated for public access under Section 16 of the CRoW Act.
Special Features:
- Voluntary dedication by generous landowners
- May have specific end dates or conditions
- Often includes unique landscapes not otherwise accessible
Your Rights: Same access rights as other CRoW land, but respect any specific conditions set by the landowner.
Appreciation: These areas represent the goodwill of private landowners – please treat them with extra care and respect.
6. CRoW Mapping Areas (Reference Boundaries)
What it is: Administrative boundaries showing the areas where CRoW access rights have been officially mapped and designated.
Purpose:
- Reference tool for understanding mapping coverage
- Shows the scope of Natural England’s mapping work
- Helps identify which areas have been through the legal designation process
Your Rights and Responsibilities on CRoW Access Land
What You Can Do
- Walk freely without needing to stick to paths
- Run and jog across open terrain
- Climb rocks and hills (where safe to do so)
- Wildlife watching and photography
- Educational activities and nature study
- Access on horseback (on existing bridleways only)
Important Restrictions
- No camping or overnight stays
- No vehicles (except on existing rights of way)
- No organized events without permission
- Dogs must be on leads during bird breeding season (1 March – 31 July)
- Keep to paths in some sensitive areas
- Respect wildlife and nesting birds
The Countryside Code
Always follow The Countryside Code:
- Respect other people
- Protect the natural environment
- Enjoy the outdoors responsibly
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General Questions
Q: What does CRoW stand for? A: CRoW stands for the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, the legislation that created England’s “right to roam” on designated open access land.
Q: Is CRoW access land the same as public footpaths? A: No. Public footpaths give you the right to walk along a specific route, while CRoW access land gives you the right to walk freely across the entire designated area without needing to stick to paths.
Q: How much land is covered by CRoW access rights? A: Approximately 2 million acres of land across England is designated as CRoW access land – that’s about 8% of England’s total area.
Q: Does CRoW apply to Scotland and Wales? A: Scotland has separate legislation (Land Reform Act 2003) providing broader access rights. Wales is covered by the CRoW Act, but this map focuses specifically on England.
Using the Map
Q: How do I plan a walking route using this map? A: Use the map to identify access land areas (shown in color), then click on areas of interest to download their boundaries. You can import these into detailed mapping apps like OS Maps, AllTrails, or your GPS device. Use the “Jump to…” feature to quickly navigate to popular walking regions like the Lake District or Peak District.
Q: How do I know what type of access land I’m looking at? A: Each type of CRoW land is color-coded on the map. Refer to the layer control panel which shows the colors for each type: green for combined access land, blue for open country, purple for common land, orange for Section 15, pink for Section 16, and dashed blue lines for mapping boundaries.
Q: How do I find specific locations on the map? A: Navigate by panning (click and drag) and zooming in on areas of interest. Use the satellite view to help identify landmarks and terrain features.
Q: Can I use this map offline? A: The current web-based map requires an internet connection. Consider downloading offline maps from apps like OS Maps for remote areas.
Q: How accurate is the mapping? A: The data comes directly from Natural England’s official records, making it highly accurate. However, boundaries on the ground may sometimes differ slightly from the map.
Q: Can I print maps from this tool? A: While you can take screenshots, we recommend using official Ordnance Survey maps for navigation in remote areas.
Access Rights and Rules
Q: Can I take my dog on CRoW access land? A: Yes, but dogs must be kept on leads from 1 March to 31 July (bird breeding season) and around livestock year-round. Some areas may have additional restrictions.
Q: Can I go wild camping on access land? A: No, camping is not permitted on CRoW access land. This includes wild camping, bivouacking, or overnight stays of any kind.
Q: How do I use downloaded boundaries with popular hiking apps? A: Here’s how to import downloaded boundaries into popular apps:
- OS Maps: Import GPX files via Settings > Import > Select file
- AllTrails: Use GPX format and import via the “Import” feature
- Gaia GPS: Import KML or GPX files through the app’s import function
- Garmin devices: Copy GPX files to the device’s GPX folder
- Google Earth: Open KML files directly by double-clicking
Q: What if I get challenged by a landowner? A: If you’re on designated CRoW access land and following the access rules, you have a legal right to be there. Remain polite and refer them to this official mapping data if needed. Consider downloading the OS Maps app which shows CRoW boundaries for reference. Contact Natural England if you encounter persistent problems.
Q: Can I cycle on CRoW access land? A: Generally no – cycling is only permitted on existing bridleways, byways, and cycle tracks. The right to roam is specifically for walking, running, and climbing.
Q: Are there any seasonal restrictions? A: Yes, some areas have seasonal restrictions, particularly:
- Grouse moors: Often closed 12 August – 10 December during shooting season
- Bird nesting areas: May have restrictions 1 March – 31 July
- Military training areas: May have temporary closures
Technical and Legal Questions
Q: What’s the difference between conclusive and provisional mapping? A: Conclusive maps (Section 4) have completed the legal process including appeals and are legally definitive. Provisional maps (Section 15) may still be subject to appeals and changes.
Q: Who manages CRoW access land? A: Natural England is responsible for mapping and managing access rights. Local authorities handle enforcement and common land registration.
Q: What if I find an error on the map? A: Report mapping errors to Natural England through their contact form or call their enquiry service on 0300 060 3900.
Q: Can landowners remove CRoW access rights? A: Once land is conclusively mapped, access rights are permanent. However, landowners can apply for temporary restrictions in exceptional circumstances.
Q: What’s the penalty for not following CRoW access rules? A: Breaking CRoW access rules can result in fines and potentially being banned from the land. Serious offenses like causing damage or harassing wildlife can lead to prosecution.
Q: How do I find parking near access land? A: Use the map to identify access areas, then use satellite view to spot nearby roads and potential parking areas. Cross-reference with detailed OS maps or apps like OS Maps to find:
- National Trust car parks
- Forestry Commission parking
- Village parking (respect local residents)
- Designated parking symbols on detailed maps
Q: What if there’s no obvious entrance to access land? A: Look for:
- Public footpaths that cross into access land
- Car parks with information boards
- Gates marked with CRoW access symbols
- Local walking group websites for access advice
Related Resources and Further Information
Official Sources
- Natural England – Managing authority for CRoW access land
- gov.uk CRoW Information – Official government guidance
- The Countryside Code – Essential guidelines for countryside access
Download Formats Explained
- GeoJSON: Open standard for geographic data, widely supported by web applications and GIS software
- KML (Keyhole Markup Language): Google’s format, compatible with Google Earth and many GPS applications
- GPX (GPS Exchange Format): Universal GPS format, supported by virtually all GPS devices and hiking apps
Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only. Always check local signs and current access status before visiting. Access rights may be temporarily suspended for land management, safety, or wildlife protection reasons. Users are responsible for their own safety and should be properly equipped for outdoor activities.
