Enjoy the great outdoors responsibly this October half term
October half term can be a great time of year to visit woodlands, reserves, parks and coastlines - the leaves are turning golden, the air is crisp, and early sunsets light up the sky.
But as more of us head outdoors to make the most of the break, it's worth taking a moment to think about how we can enjoy these spaces while keeping them beautiful, safe and healthy for everyone, including the plants and animals that call them home.
Here's how to make the most of your half term adventures while following the Countryside Code and looking after the places you visit.
Enjoy the leaves, but take your litter home
Fallen leaves create a beautiful carpet across woodlands and parks at this time of year. It's one of autumn's simplest pleasures. Help keep these spaces looking good for everyone by bringing a bag and taking your litter home with you.
Be Adventure Smart as the nights draw in
Evenings are drawing in fast now. If you're heading out for an autumn walk, be Adventure Smart to ensure you are not caught out in the dark: plan your route well, bring a map, and make sure your phone is fully charged before you set off.
Check the weather forecast before you leave but don't be afraid to turn back if conditions worsen while you're out. If you are heading to the coast or tidal rivers, look up tide times too so you don’t get cut off by the rising tide.
Mind the mud
Autumn rain leads to mud, glorious mud out on the trails. Did you know that tree diseases can hitch a ride on mud and plant debris without you ever knowing it? Using muddy kit can spread devastating diseases such as Phytophthora ramorum to other woodlands, attacking larch trees and destroying forests.
The fix is simple: leave the forest in the forest. After every visit, brush off mud and plant debris before you leave, and clean your bike, footwear and kit between visits. A few minutes of care protects our forests and trails for the long term.
Take only memories, leave only pawprints
If you're out with the dog this half term, remember to always clean up after them. Bag it and bin it, or take it home with you. Following the Dog Walking Code helps keep shared spaces pleasant and safe for everyone, including other visitors, wildlife and livestock.
Park responsibly
Popular outdoor spots will be busy this half term. Please use official car parks where available, and avoid blocking access for others, including local residents, farmers and emergency services.
Heading to the water? Check, Clean, Dry
Fishing, boating or paddling this half term? Before you pack up, remember to Check, Clean, Dry. Keeping your kit clean stops the spread of invasive plants, animals and diseases that can block waterways and kill fish.
Check your equipment, boat and clothing after leaving the water for mud, aquatic animals or plant material. Remove anything you find and leave it at the site.
Clean everything thoroughly as soon as you can, paying particular attention to areas that are damp or hard to reach. Use hot water if possible.
Dry everything for as long as you can before using it elsewhere. Some invasive species can survive for over two weeks in damp conditions.
Stay safe around water
Whether you're visiting the coast, a river or a lake this half term, always follow the Water Safety Code and any signs on site. It’s especially important to keep a safe distance from the water’s edge in wet and windy weather.
Before any swim, stop and think: is it a safe place to swim, are there hidden hazards or currents, and how deep is it? Take the risk of cold water shock seriously.
Always go with someone else and keep young children within arm's reach. Put distractions aside, since active supervision saves lives.
If you get into trouble in the water, try to float until you feel calm. If you see someone else in trouble, call 999 and throw them something that floats. Don’t enter the water to rescue.
Respect, protect, enjoy
All these tips are about making small, simple choices that help you have a great time while keeping our woodlands, reserves, parks and waterways just as beautiful for your next visit and the next generation.
So, this half term, enjoy the leaves, the mud, the water and the adventure, and follow the Countryside Code to respect, protect and enjoy the outdoors.