A handbook to trespassing, this book brings attention to how limited our access to nature is in the UK , whilst exploring the important benefits of the right to roam and how it improves not only our mental & physical health but also the health of our wildlife & vital ecosystems. 

‘92% of English land is out of bounds to the public. Of this, only 6% is built on. 56% is given to agricultural production, livestock and growing crops. 97% of rivers are out of bounds to the public’. 

Nick Hayes has created the definitive guide to trespassing. I don’t think I’ve read another book as jam-packed with so much useful information and knowledge, and such beautiful illustrations! 

Hayes provides seemingly endless resources, guiding the reader on how to trespass safely and respectfully - and what to do in sticky situations with landowners - with links to organisations, charities, campaigns and websites to join & support.

I was very impressed with how many alternative forms of action were included for those who wouldn't be comfortable with trespassing or those who simply don’t have the time to spare. 

I found it incredibly interesting learning about the history of landownership in the UK and how it has changed over the years. I dream of the time where we can live off the land freely and respectfully and wander off the paths, wherever our feet take us.

A lovely addition to the book was the contribution of numerous guest writers, from authors to activists, farmers to artists - including people from marginalised groups. Each of them sharing stories and experiences in nature & reiterating the importance of equal access to natural spaces.

I loved this book a lot more than I expected to. I learnt so much and the information was presented in a way that wasn’t at all guilt-inducing, not even a hint of ‘why aren’t you doing this yet?!’. Every single sentence felt relevant & interesting, which I think is quite rare for non-fiction books - to be without unnecessary waffle & tangents.

This is the perfect book for any nature lover or anyone who wishes they could stray off the footpath, hop over the gate and explore the lands where ‘no trespassing is allowed’.