Rights of way are paths and tracks which you, the public, has a right to use. These routes cross over private land, and we ask you to bear this in mind and be responsible when using these paths.

There are several kinds of 'way' over which there is a right to pass, and all of them are known collectively as 'highways'. The nature of the right depends on the status of the highway.

Footpath                   

A footpath is a highway over which the public has a right of way on foot only. It should be at least one metre wide across a field where crops are growing and 1.5 metres wide around the edge of a field.

Bridleway

A bridleway is a highway over which the public has a right of way on foot, horseback and on all types of bicyle. There may also be a right to drive animals along a bridleway.

Byway

A byway open to all traffic (BOAT) is a highway over which the public is entitled to travel on foot, horseback or pedal cycle and by wheeled vehicle of all kinds, including horse-drawn vehicles. A byway is mainly used by the public for walking or for riding. Most of these highways do not have a sealed surface and may not be suitable for certain vehicles.

On public rights of way you can:

• take a pram, pushchair or wheelchair, but expect to encounter stiles on footpaths

• take a dog under close control, preferably on a lead (but be aware that there may be no way for dogs at stiles)

• take a short alternative route around an illegal obstruction

• move an illegal obstruction sufficiently to get past.

Users of public rights of way must follow the Country Code:      

• Be safe - plan ahead and follow any signs

• Leave gates and property as you find them

• Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home

• Keep dogs under close control

• Consider other people