You can exercise access rights for crossing land and water, for recreational purposes, for educational purposes, and for some commercial purposes. There is no definition of recreational purposes’, but the Scottish Outdoor Access Code suggests a range of countryside activities that would be appropriate, including cycling, horse riding and wild camping. Education’ is for the understanding of the natural or cultural heritage. Access rights apply above and below the land, and can be exercised in groups. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code gives special advice on groups and events. You can exercise access rights at any time but you should take special care not to disturb local residents when close to property after dark.
Find out more in our Public Access in Scotland – Know Your Rights Leaflet.