Many people only encounter Public Rights of Way when an issue arises, lets get into Public Rights of Way explained. A footpath may appear on a planning map, walkers may start using a route across a field, or questions may arise about who is responsible for a gate or stile.
In simple terms, a Public Right of Way is a highway over which the public has a legal right to pass and repass. These routes play an important role in the countryside and form part of the wider access network.
Public Right of Way explained: the different types
The most common types of Public Rights of Way are:
- Public footpaths – for pedestrians only.
- Public bridleways – for walkers, horse riders and cyclists.
- Restricted byways – for non-motorised traffic, including horse and carriages.
- Byways open to all traffic – highways that vehicles and other users may use.
Local authorities record these routes on the Definitive Map and Statement, which serves as the legal record of Public Rights of Way.
What Public Rights of Way mean for landowners
For landowners and farmers, Public Rights of Way can have real day-to-day implications. You may need to:
- Keep paths open and unobstructed.
- Maintain stiles or gates in a safe condition.
- Reinstate paths after ploughing or cropping.
- Manage livestock and farm operations alongside public access.
However, landowners also have rights. You can continue to use and manage your land. In addition, the law provides mechanisms to address genuine concerns relating to farming, privacy, safety and land management.
Common misconceptions about Public Rights of Way
A common misconception is that a Public Right of Way allows the public to roam anywhere across the land. In reality, the public right is limited to the line of the highway and reasonable use associated with it.
Another misconception is that landowners can simply close or move a route by agreement. In most cases, changes require a formal legal order.
Understanding where routes exist and how they affect your land is the first step in managing them confidently and lawfully.
To learn more about access matters, visit our Services page or Contact us to discuss your project. Further information on Definitive Maps is available from local authorities and government guidance.
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