Public rights of way: where you can walk in the UK

In England and Wales you can legally walk across private fields and woods — but only along set routes. This network of public rights of way is protected in law, and a landowner cannot simply block it. Here is where and how you are allowed to walk.

What types of public right of way are there?

GOV.UK names four. A footpath is for walking, running, mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs. A bridleway is for walking, horse riding, bicycles and powered wheelchairs. A restricted byway is for any transport without a motor (which includes horse-drawn vehicles). A byway open to all traffic is for any kind of transport, including cars, though they are mainly used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders. You may walk on all 4 types.

ADV · A001ONLYWAY JEWELRY — gold, silver and platinumRings, chains, bracelets, earrings and pendants. Delivery across the UK.Advertise here

What is the "right to roam"?

Besides the paths there is open access land, where you can walk freely without sticking to a route: mountains, moors, heaths, downs, common land and some land along the King Charles III England Coast Path. This is what is meant by the right to roam.

What if a path crosses private land?

Access is possible if the route was a public right of way in the past; if people have used it for at least 20 years without being asked to stop; or if the owner gives permission (permissive access). The fact that land is fenced or privately owned does not, on its own, cancel a recorded public right of way.

What should you do if a route is blocked?

Contact the local council — it is responsible for problems such as obstructions, poor maintenance, or a misleading "private" sign across a lawful path. If the council does not deal with it properly, you can complain to the Local Government Ombudsman. Routes are shown on Ordnance Survey maps and often on council websites.

What does the Countryside Code require?

The Countryside Code is the official set of rules for behaving in the countryside. The key points: close gates behind you so livestock cannot escape; keep your dog under control and on a lead near animals and during bird-nesting season; clean up after your dog; take your litter home; and do not light fires where they are banned. A separate rule is to respect farmers' privacy and work: a public right of way gives you the right to pass, not to wander off the route across fields. To plan, it helps to check the definitive map — the official record of paths held by the local council; routes are also marked on Ordnance Survey maps.

Knowing the four types of way and the right to roam opens lawful access to thousands of kilometres of British countryside — for free.