Planning an event

We at the Isle of Wight Council want to help everyone enjoy the network of public rights of way.

If you’re planning an event that uses public paths, this guide will help you do it safely, respectfully, and with care for the land and people around you.

Why do we need to plan events carefully?

Good planning helps make sure your event is safe, fun, and doesn’t cause problems for local people, wildlife, or the land. It also helps you follow the law and keep everyone happy.

What should I think about when planning an event?

Some important things to think about

• Talk to landowners and local councils early
• Check if any paths are closed – you can do that on our path closure page
• Make sure the route is safe and suitable for your event
• Get the right insurance and permissions
• Avoid busy times like school holidays
• Keep group sizes sensible and stagger start times
• Be kind and respectful to other people using the paths
• Take care around animals, farms, and wildlife
• Clean up after your event and take all signs down
• Whilst participants can be timed the event must not be a race

What is the Countryside Code?

The Countryside Code is a set of simple rules to help everyone enjoy the outdoors safely and respectfully. 

• Respect everyone – be polite and share the space
• Protect the environment – don’t drop litter or damage plants
• Keep to marked paths and follow signs
• Leave gates as you find them
• Keep dogs under control and don’t feed animals

Do these rules apply to all events?

Yes – even if your event isn’t a large walk, these rules still help make sure everything runs smoothly. They apply to walking, running, cycling, and horse-riding events that use public rights of way.

What else should I do?

Here’s a quick checklist for event organisers:

• Plan early and talk to the right people
• Get landowner permission
• Have the right insurance
• Choose a good date and time
• Keep group sizes safe and manageable
• Make sure everyone knows the route and the rules
• Be polite to other path users
• Be extra careful on bridleways with horses or bikes
• Set up safe checkpoints and get permission for vehicle access
• Respect local people and wildlife
• Take down all signs and remove all rubbish after the event
• Don’t drive on footpaths or bridleways – it’s against the law