Rights of Way Types
There are three different types of rights of way, to which
different legal rights apply
Footpaths
Used by pedestrians (normally marked with a yellow
arrow).
You have the right to pass and repass on foot along a footpath
with a normal accompaniment (e.g. a dog, a pram or a wheelchair).
You do not have the right to ride, or wheel a bicycle along a
footpath. It is a criminal offence to drive a motor vehicle along a
public footpath unless you have specific lawful authority. You do
not have the right to ride or lead a horse, or take a horse drawn
carriage along a footpath.
Bridleways
Used by pedestrians, horses and cyclists normally marked with
a BLUE arrow.
You have the right to pass and repass on foot along a
bridleway, to ride or lead a horse, to drive animals and to ride a
bicycle. (N.B. Cyclists must give way to walkers and horse riders
on a bridleway). It is a criminal offence to drive a motor vehicle
along a bridleway unless you have specific lawful authority. You do
not have the right to take a horse drawn vehicle along a
bridleway.
BOATs (Byway Open to All Traffic)
Used by all traffic and
normally marked with a RED arrow.You have the right to pass and repass on foot, to ride or lead
a horse, to drive animals and to ride a bicycle or drive motorised
vehicles. The public have the same rights on
BOATs as on surfaced country lanes. However, there is no legal
obligation for a BOAT to be tarmacked. Vehicles using BOATs must be
fully taxed, MOT'd and insured.