Explore the Central Scotland Forest
but please do it responsibly!
The Central Scotland Forest is a great place to explore as it offers lots of opportunities for walking, cycling, horse-riding and water sports for a wide range of abilities.
Have a browse of our ‘Go Explore' guide and ‘Forest Attractions' for a selection of wonderful places to visit.
By getting out and discovering your local area, you'll not only enjoy the varied landscape and wildlife on offer but you'll also have fun and be taking healthy outdoor exercise!
It has never been easier to explore the countryside around you, as access legislation means that everyone in Scotland now has the right to be on most land and inland water, providing you act responsibly.
However, many people still live and work in the rural areas of Central Scotland, so it is important that everyone knows how to behave, respects the livelihoods of farmers and other land managers and don't spoil the outdoor experience for other visitors.
Everything you need to know about your rights and responsibilities is in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code (available from the SOAC website) but a few key things to remember are:
- take responsibility for your own actions
- respect the interests of other people
- care for the environment
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code (SOAC) website is particularly useful and offers specialist advice, support and guidance on recreation and access issues as well as how to take part in specific activities from sailing to cycling, while enjoying the outdoors responsibly. You can find advice on:
- The nature and extent of access rights
- Your responsibilities under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
- How your responsibilities apply to common situations in the outdoors
- What to do if you encounter irresponsible behaviour
- What you should know about farming
- Information on recreation activities and links to other sites
There are so many opportunities for outdoor recreation in the Central Scotland Forest, so remember the key messages of the code and get out there and explore!
