Paths for whom? Countryside access for recreational walking

Abstract

The notion of hordes crowding and threatening the countryside is questioned on grounds of accuracy and intent; and the case for wider participation in countryside recreation by the public as a whole is explored. The diversity of recreational walking as an activity and experience is analysed to demonstrate that it can serve a wide range of purposes; and the need to address access as a wide-ranging and complex concept is outlined. Aspects of current policy in respect of access and Public Rights of Way are subject to critical appraisal; and failure to match both provision of facilities and their promotion to people's various capabilities is explored with special reference to the needs of infrequent users and ‘latent demand’. The paper argues explicitly and implicitly that the countryside can and should provide enjoyment to many more people; and that it can do so without threatening the resource base, provided appropriate policies, priorities and management practices are widely adopted.