Trans Pennine Trail User Code

The Trans Pennine Trail is a route for walkers, cyclists, horse riders and wheelers. We want everyone to be safe and happy and it is important that the route caters for different needs. We hope everyone enjoys their experience on the Trans Pennine Trail and we ask people to be considerate and respectful and SHARE WITH CARE. 

Follow these sensible rules in our User Code to enjoy the Trans Pennine Trail and help others do the same.  

Everyone:

• If using a segregated section keep to your signed side of the Trail.  
• Be aware of others around you and do not occupy the whole width of the path. Leave room for others to pass by easily.
• If you’re wearing headphones, please keep the volume low and stay aware of your surroundings so others can pass safely.
• Take extra care where the Trail crosses roads, near train lines and other busy areas.  
• Do not leave litter anywhere except in a suitable bin. If no bins are available, take your litter home and dispose of it there. Reduce fire risk by safely disposing of lighters, matches or cigarette ends. 
• E-scooters (unless part of an approved scheme using on-road sections only), motorbikes, modified e-bikes and other unauthorised vehicles are not allowed. If you see people using these on the Trail please report direct to the police via their online reporting methods. How to report illegal use on the Trail
• Cyclists should give way to horse riders on bridleways. 
• Be mindful of all users’ needs and abilities whilst on the Trail.

Dog Walkers:

• Please pick up after your dog and put it in a bin. If no bins are available, take your dog waste home and dispose of it there. Dog waste ruins the Trail and nearby areas for other people and is a health hazard. 
• Please keep dogs under close control and in sight. It is better to use a short lead, especially on highly populated sections and near farm animals and horses. 

Cyclists

• The Trail cannot be used for speed rides or time trials.
• On canal towpaths, follow the Canals and Rivers Trust Towpath Code. 
• Be prepared to dismount occasionally on steep access ramps, or on limited sections (such as restricted width bridges and pinch point sections). 
• When the Trail is marked as a bridleway be aware that other users have the right of way over cyclists. 
• Watch your speed at all times – especially when going downhill or when you can’t see far ahead. 

Horse Riders

• Keep to parts of the Trail that permit horses.  
• Keep a safe distance from other Trail users and make sure that your horse is under control at all times. You might see walkers, cyclists, people in wheelchairs, children and dogs that can take horses by surprise. As well as encountering bridges over road, rail and water. 
• Refrain from cantering or galloping on any parts of the Trail.  
• Please prevent damaging Trail surfaces and don’t ride on grassy middle strip.  

Horse Riders and Cyclists

• Be sure to clearly warn other Trail users of your approach keeping a safe distance from other users by calling politely or ringing a bell. Some people may not be able to hear or clearly see you.  
• Remember people and animals may not always react as you expect so give them both time and room. Be prepared to slow down or even stop completely if required.   
• Be visible – wear bright colours, high visibility clothing and safety gear.  
• Please stay in single file on narrow sections and approaching other users.  

Wheelers

• In line with Government regulations, on pavement, footpath and bridleway sections of the Trail mobility scooters and powerchairs should not exceed 4mph.  
• For safety reasons we would recommend turning your scooter off when stationary for a length of time. 
• Keep a safe distance from other Trail users and make sure that your mobility scooter is under control particularly when approaching horses and dogs and, if necessary, stop to allow a horse to go by.  

Useful Links
Sustrans
British Horse Society
Disabled Ramblers
Countryside Code
Highway Code
Canals and Rivers Trust

Enjoy the Trans Pennine Trail and help others to do so