Understanding different types of public footpaths

Public footpaths: the walker's right of way

Public footpaths are the most common right of way you will encounter in the British countryside. They are marked on detailed outdoor maps as dashed green lines and on the ground with yellow arrow waymarks. A public footpath is for walkers only. You may not cycle or ride a horse on a public footpath, although you can push a bicycle. The path often crosses private land, so you must stay on the line of the path. Stiles, gates, and kissing gates are typical features. Dogs should be kept under close control, especially around livestock, and on a short lead between 1 March and 31 July when ground-nesting birds are breeding.

Always follow the waymarks rather than assuming the most obvious route. A footpath may cross a field diagonally, skirt a hedge, or pass through a farmyard. If a sign points one way, take it.

Bridleways: for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders

Bridleways are shown as dashed green lines with long dashes on maps and are waymarked with blue arrows. They are open to walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. Cyclists must give way to walkers and horse riders, and walkers should give way to horses. Bridleways can be muddy and rutted, so sturdy footwear is wise. Gates are often wider, and you may find horse-friendly latches. If you meet a horse, step to the side, speak calmly, and avoid sudden movements. Cyclists should slow down, ring a bell early, and pass wide and slow.

• Walkers, cyclists, and horse riders have equal right of access.
• Cyclists yield to walkers and horses.
• Horses can be startled by dogs, bikes, and rustling clothing.

Restricted byways and byways open to all traffic

Restricted byways are waymarked with purple arrows. They are open to walkers, cyclists, horse riders, and horse-drawn vehicles, but not to motor vehicles. Byways open to all traffic (often called BOATs) are waymarked with red arrows and are open to all vehicles, though many are unsurfaced green lanes that are unsuitable for cars. As a walker, you can use both, but expect a rougher surface and possible vehicle traffic on BOATs. These routes are less common, but they are worth knowing if you are planning a longer trail.

On any byway, keep an ear out for approaching vehicles and step onto the verge if you can. They are often quiet, but not always.

Permissive paths and concessionary routes

Permissive paths are not public rights of way. They exist because a landowner has granted permission for the public to use them, often to link up existing paths. They may be waymarked with white, black, or green arrows, or with no arrows at all. The landowner can close them at any time, divert them, or set conditions such as keeping dogs on leads. Concessionary paths are similar. Always respect any notices and closures. If a permissive path is closed, do not assume you have a right to continue. Check your map and find an alternative public right of way.

• Permission is temporary and can be withdrawn.
• Follow any specific instructions on signs.
• Do not stray from the permitted route.

Footways, towpaths, and other shared routes

Footways are pavements alongside roads, usually for pedestrians only. Canal towpaths are often permissive or public footpaths, but some allow cycling. Some long-distance paths use a mix of footpaths, bridleways, and byways. They are waymarked with an acorn symbol. On any shared route, keep left, listen for bells, and be prepared to step aside. Remember that a footpath sign might be a simple yellow arrow, while a bridleway sign might show a blue arrow and a horse and cyclist symbol. Always read the sign and the waymark together. If they disagree, trust the waymark on the ground and check your map.

Practical tips for every path

Before you set out, check a current map. The definitive map held by your local highway authority is the legal record of public rights of way, but it can change. Guidebooks and mapping apps can help, but signs on the ground are the final word. Follow waymarks carefully, especially where a path crosses a field or enters woodland. Close gates behind you, even if they were open. Do not climb walls or fences unless there is a stile. Take all litter home, including fruit peel and dog waste bags. If you find a broken stile, a blocked path, or a misleading sign, report it to the local highway authority. They are responsible for keeping rights of way open and usable. Finally, greet fellow path users with a smile. The countryside is a shared space, and a little courtesy goes a long way.