Some of my best travel memories ever have been in England. For someone known for being such an international traveller, that could come as surprising. But when I cast my mind back to my most cherished memories, those that have coloured my life with such vivid richness and influence, they uncompromisingly always include my intrepid trips exploring England.

“From padding naked feet down soft, golden-sand English beaches with whooping friends and surfboards tucked under our arms, the first fingers of golden sunrise speckled across the sky, mother-moon still a setting shadow, to those sessions that I never wanted to end, toasting a day of play, the crackle of a bonfire nearby, skin salty from surfing in crystal clear waters, even having spotted dolphins nearby… to tramping through heady, rich forests, ancient trees surrounding, the scent of moss and lavender thick in the air…camping under star-lit skies, limbs happily tired from epic hikes and climbs to otherworldly peaks, toasting marshmallows, fingers sticky from chocolate and eyes dancing in the fire….coming nose to nose with curious seals in mystically ancient islets steeped in history and mythology, kelpy forests and green ocean drawing me deeper into her mystery…”

So many of us have been looking forward to our summer holidays, and with tourism starting to open back up across the country, it’s clear anticipation is reaching its zenith. It can definitely be confusing to know what exactly is permitted, open, and how you can safely travel, and also critically, how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly, so we avoid scenes like we saw on the news in Bournemouth recently.

HOW TO TRAVEL SAFELY THIS SUMMER IN ENGLAND

Here’s your checklist on how to plan and travel responsibly * pending reopening of accommodation from 4 July. Print this, save it on your browser, the links allow you to check each nature spot too and all the UK’s regions for updates.

Check in on the VisitEngland Know Before you Go hub where you can check details around your destination prior to travelling, in recognition that access to services and facilities could be restricted. Taking responsibility for our travel to ensure that our experience is as enjoyable as possible, while avoiding placing unnecessary pressure on regional attractions, services and health systems.

Look for the ‘We’re Good to Go’ industry standard mark, a self-assessment scheme designed that businesses can apply for to reassure visitors that they have clear processes in place and are following industry and Government COVID-19 guidance on cleanliness and social distancing.
Know Before you Go : It’s time to explore your England. Check for restrictions at visitengland.com and for the latest updates and advice

When out and about, we need to remember to look after ourselves, one another and the environment around us. So, to make sure we’re all doing our bit to tread lightly and travel responsibly, we’ve put together a few simple steps to help you enjoy your days out as safely as possible.

When planning your trip, check that important facilities – like toilets and car parks – are open before you travel so you’re not caught short.
If you have an attraction in mind, please check online to see if you need to pre-book a time slot.
Some places may be extremely popular, so get off the beaten track and discover a hidden gem that you can brag to friends about.
Keep two metres apart from anyone outside your household (one metre plus from the 4th July) – this not only applies to walking, but running, cycling, sitting and sunbathing too.
Wear your face covering at all times when on public transport like buses, trains, taxis, and minicabs.
Make sure you have a bank card; many outlets are currently only accepting cashless payments – and you don’t want to miss out on that ice cream!
Take hand sanitiser with you – you don’t know where will be open for you to wash your hands.
Leave the car behind where possible and visit nearby attractions by walking or cycling.

And here are a few more for you to bear in mind when exploring England’s outdoor spaces. Let’s avoid scenes like we’ve seen where huge piles of trash are leftover on our stunning beaches and countrysides.

Let's try our best to keep England’s outdoor spaces looking beautiful by putting all rubbish in the nearest bins or taking it home if bins are full.
Whilst enjoying the great outdoors more, you’re likely to come across wildlife (cute!). Try not to disturb them, or any farm animals for that matter. Keep your four-legged friend on a lead and remember to bag and bin any mess they leave behind.
Don't use disposable barbecues as they risk causing wildfires – get a takeaway burger instead.
Stick to designated footpaths and follow local signage for restrictions on routes.