What is the right to roam in Scotland? Rules and exceptions

Since 2005, Scots have enjoyed differing rights to those in England when it comes to traversing and camping on rural land.

With so many rules around this long-standing right, here is everything you need to know.

What is the 'right to roam' in Scotland?

The right to roam in Scotland is set out in the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 (Getty) (Image: Getty)

The right to roam is set out in Section 1 of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 and states that everyone in Scotland has the right to be on land for recreational purposes and to cross said land for these uses.

However, it is stressed that this right comes with a number of limitations and responsibilities.

Are there any restrictions around the 'right to roam' in Scotland?

The right to roam must be exercised sensibly and responsibly. Those looking to learn how this can be done should refer to the guidance in the expertly crafted Scottish Outdoors Access Code.

The law also sets out restrictions for the use of private land with the right to roam not extending to land that is adjacent to dwellings, farm buildings, compounds, schools and other similar man-made features.

The right to roam does not apply to land adjacent to dwellings and other such features (Getty) (Image: Getty)

Recommended Reading: 

What are the wild camping rules in Scotland and can I use a disposable BBQ?

How does the Scottish 'right to roam' differ from the law in England?

The law in England is quite different to that set out in Scotland, with the right to roam only applying to open access land.

However, even in these areas, a person cannot simply camp, cycle, drive or ride a horse.

This means that camping is restricted to campsites, unlike in Scotland, where wild camping is possible and occurs regularly.

Does the right to roam apply to driving? 

No, motorised activities like off-road driving do not fall under the right to roam and require the landowner's permission.