Coronavirus (COVID-19): advice on accessing green spaces safely

Advice on using green spaces and protecting yourself and others from coronavirus.

Published 1 June 2020

From:

Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs

Contents

1. Respect other people and protect the natural environment
2. Advice to land managers and landowners

The risk of the coronavirus being passed on to others outdoors is considered to be low as long as people maintain social distancing.

In England, you can leave your home to exercise and spend time outdoors for recreation with your household or in groups of up to six people from outside your household.

When travelling to outdoor spaces, it is important that people respect the rules in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Do not travel to different parts of the UK where it would be inconsistent with guidance or regulations issued by the relevant devolved administration.

In England, you can now:

• spend time outdoors, including exercise, as long as you continue to adhere to strict social distancing guidelines with people from outside your household
• take part in other outdoor sports and activities, including fishing, in groups of up to six people, or household groups, provided you adhere to strict social distancing guidelines
• drive to outdoor open spaces, including beaches and beauty spots, irrespective of distance - you should travel in a private vehicle, alone or with members of your own household. You should avoid public transport other than for essential journeys.
• visit gardens, nature reserves and parkland to spend time outdoors, although access may be limited to members or those with tickets to ensure social distancing and buildings and amenities such as cafes will remain closed. You should check ahead and follow social distancing guidelines.
• go swimming in either lakes or the sea for exercise or recreation provided that social distancing guidelines are observed - you cannot use public indoor and outdoor swimming pools
• take part in all forms of water sports practised on open waterways, including sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, rowing, kayaking, surfing, paddle-boarding and the use of privately-owned motorised craft (in line with the guidance issued by the relevant navigation authority)
• you can continue to use towpaths for walking, running and cycling, being mindful of other users and people living in boats along the water

There are no restrictions on how far you can travel to get to the countryside. However you cannot stay overnight. Campsites and caravan parks are closed and you cannot stay in a holiday or second home.