Thanks to long-term campaigning by the Ramblers Association, the UK countryside has become much more accessible to walkers. Runners, climbers and birdwatchers also benefit.

New legislation - the Countryside and Rights of Way Act - has come into force across England, Scotland and Wales meaning that walkers now have a freedom to walk away from paths in mapped areas of open countryside. For details see: www.countrysideaccess.gov.uk.

For example, the public can walk freely across 500 square miles of the Lake District National Park and 193 square miles of the Peak District National Park, as well as much of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Under the new rules, defined access land can only be entered on foot. Walkers must obey the 'countryside code', take good care of the environment and not drop litter. Dogs must be kept on a lead between March and July. And the use of metal detectors is prohibited.

Walkers should also be aware that landowners have the right to exclude walkers for up to 29 days a year without seeking permission.

The Ramblers Association is now campaigning for a legal right of access to the UK coastline and beaches. For details see: www.ramblers.org.uk/freedom.