Large-scale Events

None of the statutory access provisions under CROW or earlier legislation permit the hosting of large-scale events on common land unless the event in question is entirely on public rights of way and there are no ancillary activities such as check points or medical support located elsewhere on the common. Even where the event is entirely on rights of way, organisers should, out of courtesy, inform commoners and landowners of their plans in advance.

Large-scale events might include mountain marathons, mountain bike races or long distance horse riding events. Some of the access provisions introduced by legislation in the late 19th century do allow for the playing of games by local people and this has been interpreted to include local events such as sports days or May Day festivals.