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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11To check whether you can use a route in England, start with the local council’s definitive map and statement. Use an Ordnance Survey or other map to find and plan the route, but check the recorded right-of-way category—and consult the council’s legal record if the route is missing, unclear or disputed.
How to find and check a public footpath
- Identify the local surveying authority. Search the council website for “definitive map,” “rights of way” or “public footpaths.” Many councils provide an interactive map, and the authority normally holds the definitive record for its area. See GOV.UK’s guidance on local authority responsibilities.
- Locate the route on a general map. GOV.UK says rights of way appear on Ordnance Survey and other maps, and on some council websites. The National Archives notes that Ordnance Survey maps at 1:50,000 and 1:25,000 scales have depicted rights of way from 1960 onward, based on definitive maps. These maps are useful for route planning, but are not a substitute for the legal record. GOV.UK: Use public rights of way; The National Archives guide.
- Check the recorded category. A public right of way may be a footpath, bridleway, restricted byway or byway open to all traffic. The category determines who has a right to use it; the appearance of a track or a map symbol alone does not settle that question.
- Check the legal record if there is uncertainty. Ask the surveying authority to inspect the definitive map and statement and any relevant modification or path orders. A consumer map is helpful for general reference, but should not be used to resolve a legal dispute. The National Archives explains both the records and why omission from a map does not necessarily prove that no public right exists.
- Check for restrictions or access rights separately. Open-access land has a separate legal framework from public paths; check whether the land is mapped for access and whether exceptions or restrictions apply.
- Report a problem to the council. GOV.UK advises contacting the local council about an obstruction, poor maintenance or a misleading sign.
What each right-of-way category allows
| Recorded category | Permitted users |
|---|---|
| Public footpath | Walking, running, mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs. |
| Bridleway | Walking, horse riding, cycling, mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs. |
| Restricted byway | Transport without a motor, as well as mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs. |
| Byway open to all traffic | Any kind of transport, including motor vehicles, although these routes are mainly used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders. |
These permitted uses are described in GOV.UK’s public rights of way guidance. Do not assume that a right to walk means that cycling, riding or driving is also allowed.
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Public paths, open-access land and permissive paths are different
Open-access land
The right to roam may allow access to certain mapped land for activities including walking, running, wildlife watching and climbing. It is not the same as following a public right of way across a defined route. Exceptions and local or seasonal restrictions can apply, and cycling and horse riding are not generally included unless another right or permission applies. Check GOV.UK’s overview of rights of way and access land and its guidance on using the right to roam.
Permissive access
A landowner may allow people to use private land for a stated purpose. That permission is not the same as a recorded public right of way. Follow signs and any conditions attached to the permission. GOV.UK explains access to private land.
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Which map should you use?
| Map or record | Best use | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Local authority definitive map and statement | Checking the recorded legal status of a route | Route category, statement details and any relevant orders; ask the authority if the record or its currency is unclear. |
| Ordnance Survey or another general map | Finding a route and planning a walk | Coverage, scale, junction detail and whether rights-of-way categories are distinguishable. Map depiction is not a substitute for the legal record. |
| Local authority digital map | Quickly viewing the local network | Confirm with the authority which record is statutory and whether later orders affect the route. |
For planning, choose a map with enough detail for the route’s junctions and field paths, and check for relevant restrictions. If you are establishing a legal position, consult the definitive map and statement and relevant orders instead. The National Archives guide describes the definitive records and historical Ordnance Survey mapping.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What if the path is missing, blocked or disputed?
The route does not appear on the map
Absence from a definitive map does not, by itself, prove that the public has no rights over a route. Ask the local surveying authority to check its records and whether there may be unrecorded rights. The authority can also advise about relevant orders. See GOV.UK’s local authority responsibilities guidance and The National Archives guide.
The route is obstructed or a sign seems misleading
Contact the local council to report an obstruction, a maintenance problem or a misleading sign. Provide the route location and a clear description of the issue. GOV.UK’s public rights of way guidance directs users to their local council for these problems.
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You need an answer for a specific legal question
Ask the surveying authority to check the definitive map and statement and any relevant modification or path orders. A general map can help identify the route, but the legal record is the appropriate reference for a route-specific query or dispute.
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