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Children and Young Peoples Services

Services for Adults on the Isle of Wight

Public Rights of Way


Service Description: Public Rights of Way maintain, protect, sign and legally record the public rights of way network made up of public footpaths, bridleways, and byways. Public Rights of Way manages the most concentrated network of public rights of way in the UK. Within 147 square miles there are 520 miles of rights of way which include 326 miles of footpath, 165 miles of bridleways and 29 miles of byways. This equates to 3.5 miles of rights of way per square mile.

Also known as:- Bridleways, Byway, Country Walks, Footpaths (Grassy etc), Horse Riding, Public Access, Rights of Way, Rights of Way Orders, Walking

Your FAQ

Question: What is a public right of way?

Answer: A public right of way is a way which the public have a right to pass and re-pass. Public rights of way are split into three main categories

Footpath – has a right of passage for pedestrians only. Usual accompaniments can be pushchairs or dogs etc.
Bridleway – has a right for pedestrians, horse riders and pedal cyclists.
Byway – has a right for pedestrians, horse riders, pedal cyclists and motor vehicles.

The public have a right of passage to pass and re-pass on a public right of way. You may stop for a while – to admire the view, take a photograph, make a sketch, or sit down and rest, providing you stay on the path and do not cause a nuisance or obstruction.


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