If You Do One Thing…
15 years on, we celebrate Scotland’s openness
Get outside and celebrate the anniversary of Scotland’s world-leading access laws
IT’S 15 years since revolutionary legislation brought a sweeping change to how people could enjoy Scotland’s countryside. The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 established the right to freely roam land and inland water, as long as the activities are done responsibly.
The access rights, which are envied by many countries worldwide, have opened up a wealth of outdoors opportunities to people in Scotland, as well as visitors.
Ben Dolphin, president of Ramblers Scotland, believes the Scots are leading the way in the 21st century.
He said, “It’s easy to take our access rights for granted, but try walking through a forest, around a field or along a beach elsewhere in the world, or even other parts of the UK, and you’ll quickly realise just how fortunate we are in Scotland.
“Whether you’re strolling along a disused railway, wild camping, or riding a mountain bike to a remote bothy and then wild swimming in a pristine loch, Scotland is a place of fantastic freedom and adventure.”
In this 15th anniversary year, we meet four people who reveal how the legislation has enhanced their lives.