Walking in the Cairngorms: Understanding the Scottish Access Code

Walking in Scotland offers unparalleled freedom compared to the rest of the UK, which is why we love it! Swathes of land are there for exploring, there are more spaces privately owned but open to outdoor-lovers than anywhere else, and best of all, wild camping is legal. 

Getting to enjoy these freedoms comes with a responsibility to adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code however. These guidelines make it clear what is and isn’t possible and sticking to these helps you both protect these beautiful places and retain our rights to enjoy them. There are a lot of detailed guidelines within every discipline, which can be found on the Scottish outdoor access website. But to make it easier for you, we’ve broken down the main points you need to be aware of when coming to enjoy the Cairngorms.

Have a read, plan accordingly… then get on out there! And remember: muddy boots and paws are always welcome at Speyside Kitchen and Cafe!

Walking

When out and about walking in the Cairngorms, it’s best to consider their main key points.

  • Take responsibility for your own actions.

  • Respect people’s privacy and peace of mind - especially worth thinking about at night to consider noise. 

  • Care for your environment.

  • Understand how the season affects access - for example, in certain times of the year there are many areas where you shouldn’t go off path or let your dog run in because of ground nesting birds.

Go explore as you please, or learn more about community paths and trails from Visit Cairngorms.

Dog Walking

We all love our furry friends, but we do have to make sure we leave no trace that they’ve been adventuring with us!

Think about taking special care around: 

  • Farm animals - keep your dog on a short lead around livestock, never let them worry at animals, and remember that if cattle act aggressively toward you, simply let your dog off the lead and take the shortest route out of the field.

  • Crops - don’t take your dog into fields of crops unless there is a clear path.

  • Nesting birds - from April to July, make sure your dog stays on a lead in marked areas.

  • Recreation areas - be considerate of others and if it’s busy, keep your dog on a lead.

  • Dog waste - if this occurs on a path or in a public space, remove it and dispose in a proper location. 

Wild camping 

This is such a privilege - let’s not lose it! Here’s how to wild camp responsibly 

  • Ensure you do it in small, unobtrusive numbers.

  • Choose your location wisely and when possible do so out of site of main roads or paths. This will only make your wild camping experience more exciting!

  • Remove all traces of your tent pitch and take ALL waste away.

  • When you need to go to the toilet, do so away from water sources. Dig a hole for number twos or even better, bring a way to take it out of the national park with you.

Lighting fires

If you can, it’s better to use a stove rather than light a fire. But if you do find you need a fire, follow these rules:

  • Keep it small.

  • Supervise at all times.

  • Pay careful attention to seasonal alerts - in the summer season, it may be too dry to light a fire safely. 

  • Do not light your fire near property which could be damaged in the event of it spreading.

Water 

Getting on a loch or river is one of the best ways to enjoy the national park. Think about:

  • Not disturbing birds and other animals.

  • Ensuring you cause no pollution to the water

  • Choosing your body of water wisely in accordance with your activity.

  • Not intentionally interfering with other water users such as swimmers or anglers. 


Find out more about any or all of the above here: Scottish Outdoor Access Code Practical Guide.

Planning an adventure in the Scottish outdoors soon? Whether you’re a group of mates or running a course or trip, contact us and we’ll help fuel your adventure.

Email info@speysidekitchen.co.uk or call +44 1479 861387 / +44 7925 544473.

Speyside Kitchen: helping busy individuals and groups alike achieve memorable life events by providing first class event planning and catering service that prioritises customer service and customer experience.

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Claire Mackenzie