Rights of way have the same status in law as any other highway, and so there is a requirement for them to be kept open and usable. This duty lies with the highway authority for an area (i.e. the county council or unitary authority).
Basics of rights of way law
Answers to the most frequently-asked questions about the law.
Changes to the path network
Local authorities can make Public Path Orders to change the location of rights of way. Learn how this process works, and how you can get involved.
Obstructions
An explanation of the law on obstructions and the types of obstructions commonly encountered on rights of way.
The coming into existence of rights of way
An overview of the many ways rights of way legally come into existence.
Definitive maps explained
The history of these important documents and a guide to applying for their modification.
Rights of way advice notes
Briefing papers covering the legal aspects of a variety of issues.
Further information
We publish Rights of Way: a guide to law and practice (otherwise known as the 'Blue Book'), a respected authority on rights of way law.
