The recent relaxing of the lockdown rules has enabled wider enjoyment of outdoor spaces and we soon hope that the re-opening of our accommodation providers, restaurants and attractions will follow. With everyone keen to blow away the cobwebs and explore our glorious county in a safe and responsible way we still need to remember to look after ourselves, one another, and the landscape around us.

With over 3,801 km², encompassing gentle footpaths, stunning coastal views, and exciting cycle trails, there’s more than enough Suffolk to go around.  So,  Visit Suffolk is sending out the message of Respect, Protect and Enjoy to help everyone to enjoy a little slice of our beautiful county safely by following these simple steps.

#RespectSuffolk
Respect the wildlife. Nature may have recolonised some areas, so please tread carefully and look out for wildlife that has moved into unexpected places during lockdown. Please keep your dog on the lead and stick to footpaths and bridleways so as not to disturb ground nesting birds and other wildlife.

Respect our local communities by sticking to the Public Right of Way (footpaths and bridleways), keeping dogs on the lead, not picnicking on private land, not parking outside people’s houses, and taking your litter home.

Respect any specific guidelines that have been put in place by our friends and partners across the county, by planning ahead before travelling, and checking what facilities are open to you (Forestry Commission, Woodland Trust, National Trust, English Heritage, RSPB, RNLI, Natural England, Suffolk Coast AONB and Suffolk Wildlife Trust).

 #ProtectSuffolk
Protect yourself and others. Always follow hand washing guidance, and strict social distancing of 2 meters apart from others who are not in your household.

Social distancing not only applies to any form of exercise such as walking, running or cycling but also sitting or sunbathing.

Protect the landscape by ensuring you are following the Countryside Code, which sets out how visitors to rural areas can behave safely and responsibly.

Protect the environment by travelling sustainably and staying local. If you can, try to journey by foot or bike. This means you’ll have a chance to experience our wonderful county as you travel, and you won’t have to worry about finding a car parking space.

#EnjoySuffolk
Enjoy getting off the beaten track. We know everyone has their favourite spot in Suffolk – or maybe their favourite two, or three – but if large numbers of people head to the same place, it becomes impossible to stay safely socially distanced. Instead, seek out some new favourites away from the crowds.

Enjoy our beautiful beaches safely, by following the important advice issued by the RNLI. Please be aware that the usual life guard service may not currently be in place.

Enjoy supporting our local businesses.  Many Suffolk businesses are now open online, and we really encourage you to shop with them.

And finally… when you’re out and about, enjoy taking photos of your surroundings and sharing them with us @Visit_Suffolk and @DiscoverNKT.  We’d love to see them, and share them with others!

If you are holding off from getting outside for now, or are self isolating and unable to leave your home, you can enjoy and experience the very best of Suffolk fro your armchair on our YouTube channel.

When the time is right and safe to do so, we’ll be waiting to welcome you with open arms.

Please stay safe.