While out walking in the Irish countryside remember you are walking in areas where people live and work. We also share the countryside with much wildlife. The following are a number of important recommendations to abide by when out walking: –

• Respect the people who live and work in the Irish countryside. Respect private property, farmland and all rural environments. Do not interfere with livestock, machinery and crops.
• Respect and, where possible protect all wildlife, plants and trees.
• When walking, use the approved routes and keep as closely as possible to them.
• Take special care when walking on country roads.
• Leave all gates as you find them and do not interfere with or damage any gates, fences, walls or hedges.
• Do not enter farmland if you have dogs with you, even on a leash, unless with the permission of the landowner.
• Guard against all risks of fire, especially near forests.
• Always keep children closely supervised while on a walk.
• Do not walk the Ways in large groups and always maintain a low profile.
• Take all litter home – leaving only footprints behind.
• Keep the number of cars used to the minimum and park carefully to avoid blocking farm gateways or narrow roads.
• Minimise impact on fragile vegetation and soft ground.
• Take heed of warning signs – they are there for your protection.
• Report any problems encountered along the route with markers, signage, stiles or any other comments to the NWWAC/ISC office.

Waymarked Ways of Ireland