Start with the Definitive Map

Every public right of way in England is a legal highway, even if it crosses private land. The definitive map is the official record, held by the county council or unitary authority, and it lists every path as a footpath, bridleway, restricted byway, or byway open to all traffic. Parish councils often hold copies too. If a path is not on the map, that does not automatically mean you have no right to use it, but you cannot assume access. Check the council’s online map before you set out, especially if you are planning a longer route across several parishes.

Waymark discs are your quickest clue on the ground. Their colours usually follow a national convention:

• Yellow — footpath
• Blue — bridleway
• Purple — restricted byway
• Red — byway open to all traffic

Signposts at junctions should also indicate the status. If a marker is missing or faded, rely on your map and the line of the path, not on a desire line worn into the grass.

Footpaths: Walking Only

On a public footpath you may walk, and that is all. No cycling, no horse riding, no motor vehicles. You can push a pram if the surface allows, but the legal right is on foot. Dogs are welcome in most cases, but keep them under close control, especially near livestock, and put them on a lead if a farmer asks. On footpaths crossing arable fields, keep to the line of the path even if crops have been planted over it. Stiles, gates, and footbridges should be maintained by the landowner or occupier. If a path is blocked by a locked gate, a fallen tree, or a crop, note the grid reference and report it to the highway authority. Do not climb barbed wire or force a gate; a short, legal diversion is better than a damaged fence.

Bridleways: Horses, Cyclists and Walkers

Bridleways are more generous. You may walk, ride a horse, lead a horse, or cycle. No motor vehicles. Cyclists must give way to walkers and horse riders — slow down, call out politely, and pass wide. Horse riders often have less room than you think, so stand still and talk quietly if you meet one on a narrow path. Dogs should be on a lead around horses. Bridleways frequently cross fields, woods, and old lanes, and their surfaces can be muddy, rutted, or overgrown. That is part of their charm, but it also means sturdy boots and a little patience are wise.

Byways and Restricted Byways

Byways open to all traffic, often called BOATs, are legal for walkers, cyclists, horse riders, horse-drawn vehicles, and motor vehicles. Many are unsurfaced green lanes no wider than a bridleway, and driving them can churn the surface badly. If you drive, do so only where the legal status and surface allow, and avoid damaging verges. Restricted byways are for walkers, cyclists, horse riders, and horse-drawn vehicles, but not motor vehicles. They are often quiet, historic routes with a wild feel. On both types, cyclists and drivers should give way to walkers and horses. If a byway becomes impassable, turn back rather than widen it.

Open Access Land and Permissive Paths

Not all land you can walk on is a public right of way. Open access land — mountain, moor, heath, down, and some registered common land — gives you the right to roam on foot. No bikes, no horses, no vehicles. You may walk off the path, but respect temporary closures and wildlife. Dogs on open access land must be on a short lead between 1 March and 31 July, and at all times near livestock or ground-nesting birds. Permissive paths are different: the landowner allows access, often for walkers, but can close or divert the route on certain days. Treat them as a privilege, not a right. Never assume a path through a farmyard is public just because it looks well used.

Practical Rambling and Rural Courtesy

Check the weather, wear boots, and carry a paper map and compass. Mobile signal is patchy in quiet valleys and on high ground. Tell someone your route and expected return time. Waymarkers can be faded, gates can be tied shut, and paths can be temporarily closed for forestry or shooting. If you find an obstruction, report it to the highway authority with a grid reference and a photograph if possible. Close gates behind you unless they are tied open. Take litter home, leave wildflowers alone, and give livestock plenty of space. On narrow paths, let uphill walkers pass and greet farmers politely; most are welcoming when they see you respecting their work. The quiet countryside is a shared space. Know your rights, honour your responsibilities, and every ramble becomes simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.