Public Rights of Way

Public rights of way are ways over which the public have the right to pass and repass. Public footpaths are for pedestrians only. Public bridleways are for pedestrians, horse riders and cyclists. Public byways are pedestrians, horse riders, cyclists and motorised vehicles, subject to the character of the way.

Can I check if a path is a public right of way?

If you wish to check whether a path is a public rights of way please contact us using the details above. On receipt, an Officer will check the status of the route on the definitive map and statement of public rights of way. If the route is not recorded as a public right of way it could be a claimed path. If the path is not recorded then the council does not have any responsibility to maintain it.

Types of Rights of Way

A Right of Way is a route over which you may pass and repass unhindered. How you travel along the path depends on its status. Torbay has the following:

• Footpath You may walk along a footpath or use a wheelchair or pram, although the surface in rural locations may be not normally suitable for this. Riding a bicycle or horse is not permitted.
• Bridleway You may ride or lead a horse or ride a bicycle along a bridleway, you may also walk along a bridleway. Driving a vehicle along a bridleway is not permitted, even it if is horsedrawn.

For further information on Public Rights of Way contact the Highways Department.