bridleway

A bridleway is a type of public right of way in the United Kingdom, primarily designated for horse riders but also usable by walkers and, in England and Wales, by cyclists. The public has a right to pass and repass along the defined route, but the right is limited to the path itself and does not grant ownership of the land crossed.

In England and Wales, bridleways are part of the public rights of way network established under statute, including the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 and the Highways Act 1980. They are recorded on Ordnance Survey maps as bridleways, and local highway or countryside authorities are responsible for their maintenance and protection. Motor vehicles are generally not permitted on bridleways.

Rights on a bridleway typically cover pedestrians, riders, and cyclists, who may use the route in accordance with the path’s characteristics and any local restrictions. Users are expected to respect landowners and other users, close gates behind them where required, and stay on the defined path in order to protect adjoining land. Gates and stiles are common features along bridleways, and some routes may be restricted or obstructed due to land management or safety concerns.

Bridleways differ from footpaths, which are for pedestrians only, and from byways open to all traffic, which permit a wider range of wheeled traffic. The term is primarily used in England and Wales; Scotland uses a separate framework for rights of way. Surfaces vary, from compacted earth and gravel to grassy tracks, and conditions can change with weather.