Introduction
A Public Right of Way is a right for the public to pass over land that belongs to someone else. They can be categorised as either:
- footpaths - can be used for walking, running, mobility scooters or powered wheelchairs
- bridleways - can be used for walking, horse riding, bicycles, mobility scooters or powered wheelchairs
- restricted byways - can be used for any transport without a motor and mobility scooters or powered wheelchairs
- byways open to all traffic which are for any kind of transport, including cars (but they’re mainly used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders)
Your rights on a Public Right of Way
You have a legal right to 'pass and repass along the way'.
You can stop to rest, admire the view or consume refreshments, as long as you stay on the path and do not cause an obstruction.
You can take a pram or pushchair, but there's not guarantee the path will be suitable for this.
You can take a dog with you, as long as you keep it under close control. There's no requirement for stiles to be suitable for dogs to use.
Find out more about your rights on the Ramblers Association website