Commons

There are over 7,000 commons in England, covering a total of almost one million acres (4,045 square kilometres, or 1,560 square miles). They range from Lake District fells to Surrey picnic spots and from Norfolk greens to Dartmoor. Some are famous open spaces, such as the Malvern Hills or Hampstead Heath, while others are small areas known only to local people.

Commons are a legacy from the time when communities shared much of the local land as a common amenity. Certain people, known as commoners, may retain the right to use the land – for example, to graze a specified number of animals.

Greens

Residents use local green spaces 'as of right' for recreation and enjoyment. There is a register of over 3,000 greens. County councils, metropolitan borough councils and unitary authorities are charged with keeping village green registers. These are known as the commons registration authorities and the registers they hold are open to the public for inspection.

Picnic sites

Hundreds of picnic sites have been created throughout England, either provided by organisations, such as the Forestry Commission or the National Trust , or set up with the support of Natural England.