Stile

A stile is a structure or opening that provides passage for humans – rather than animals such as livestock – over or through a boundary.

Common forms include steps, ladders, or narrow gaps.

[1] Stiles are often built in rural areas along footpaths, fences, walls, or hedges that enclose domestic animals.

Recent changes in UK government policy towards farming have encouraged upland landowners to make access more available to the public, and this has seen an increase in the number of stiles and an improvement in their overall condition.

As well as having a variety of forms, modern stiles also sometimes include a 'dog latch' or 'dog gate' to the side of them, which can be lifted to enable a dog to get through.