Is it legal to carry a bow and arrow in public in the UK?

Answer 1

Nothing, it is illegal to hunt with a bow in the UK

It is Illegal for good reasons. An arrow is a poor substitutive for a modern high powered bullet. Which is why the armed forces are so successful when faced with an enemy using bows and arrows. Both America and Britain have prospered greatly form this practice.

An arrow is unlikely to hit the exact target as frequently as a scoped rifle so for that reason the chances of merely harming rather than quickly dispatching the creature are increased. Also the arrow will force the animals hairs into the wound resulting in infection and a very slow and painful death.

Living creatures should be respected and treated with care , even when hunting them. A good hunter has respect for his kill, its not just a moving target to satisfy your ego.

Answer 2

It is not ilegal to carry a bow as it is not a weapon on its own, covered or otherwise.

Arrows however are not legal in a open holster as they can be used to stab someone, they must be in an enclosed container.

This I know as with my take down bow in a case and locked was ok, my arrows in my belt mounted holster with out a lid was deemed as offensive weapons by my local police (Hammersmith London) on the way back from Barn Elms Archery practice.

The bow and arrows were carried together. I was told not to argue and to not carry them (Arrows) open again or I would get nicked.

The arrows must be concealed in an enclosed container or in the bow box with the bow preferably locked.