In England and Wales, a public footpath is a right of way on foot—not a public riding route. Horse riders should use a bridleway, restricted byway, byway open to all traffic, or private land where they have permission. A landowner’s tolerance is not the same as a public right, and local restrictions can change how a route may be used.
This guide explains the practical answer to “can horse riders use public footpaths in the UK?” and the checks that make a hacking route safer and more respectful.
Can a horse legally use a public footpath?
Usually, no. In England and Wales, a public footpath is recorded for people travelling on foot. The Government’s rights-of-way guidance lists footpaths for walking, while routes open to horses include bridleways, restricted byways, and byways open to all traffic. Riding on a footpath without permission can amount to trespass and may damage the route or create a conflict with walkers.
Do not rely on the argument that riding is “not technically illegal.” That is a poor basis for planning a ride. Check the recorded status of the route and follow any local traffic regulation order, bylaw, signage, or temporary closure. If a landowner has expressly invited riders onto private land, that permission is separate from the public footpath designation and may have conditions.
Which public rights of way can horse riders use?
Bridleways
Bridleways are public highways for walkers, horse riders, and cyclists. Users should share the route considerately; cyclists are expected to give way to walkers and horse riders. A bridleway may be narrow, muddy, gated, or unsuitable for every horse, so legal access does not guarantee safe access.
Restricted byways
Restricted byways generally allow walkers, horse riders, cyclists, and non-mechanically propelled vehicles such as horse-drawn vehicles. Confirm the route category locally because signage, restrictions, and the condition of the surface still matter.
Byways open to all traffic
Byways open to all traffic (BOATs) are available to pedestrians, horse riders, cyclists, and motor vehicles. The presence of vehicles can make a BOAT unsuitable for a nervous horse or inexperienced rider. Plan alternatives rather than treating every legally available route as equally appropriate.
How to check whether a route is suitable
- Check the definitive map. In England and Wales, the definitive map and statement held by the highway authority are the legal record of public rights of way. Online mapping apps can be useful, but do not treat an app’s coloured line as conclusive.
- Read signs at the entrance. Look for the bridleway, restricted byway, BOAT, closure, or traffic-regulation signage. If the sign and the app disagree, stop and investigate.
- Check current conditions. Flooding, fallen trees, dangerous gates, ice, construction, or a temporary closure can make a route unsafe even when the right of way remains recorded.
- Respect land and route users. Shut gates, avoid crops and gardens, keep dogs under control, remove droppings where local guidance asks, and slow down for walkers and cyclists.
The British Horse Society recommends planning routes using the definitive map, local access information, and a realistic assessment of the horse, rider, weather, and surface. Carry a phone, tell someone where you are going, and have an alternative route for an unexpected obstruction.
What should riders do when a bridleway is blocked?
Do not simply cut across a field, garden, or private drive to get around an obstruction. If it is safe, record the location and report the problem to the local highway authority or the relevant access organisation. A rider may sometimes need to deviate briefly to pass an unavoidable obstruction or allow someone to pass safely, but that is not permission to widen the route or choose a more convenient line across private land.
Never force a horse through a gate, over an unfamiliar surface, or past traffic when the situation is unsafe. Turn around and use your planned alternative if necessary.
Road and traffic safety while hacking
Some bridleways and byways cross or join roads. Approach crossings at a controlled pace, make sure the horse is attentive, and follow signs. If a sign requires riders to dismount, lead the horse. Avoid motorways; horses are not permitted to use them. For road-riding details, consult the current Highway Code and local authority advice rather than relying on an old social-media checklist.
High-visibility clothing and lights can make horse and rider easier to see, especially in poor weather or low light. Wear a properly fitted riding helmet, use suitable footwear with a heel, and consider a body protector for the route and activity. Equipment does not remove the need to reduce speed and give other road users time to react.
Related riding and safety guides
- Why Do Western Riders Not Wear Helmets? Safety, Culture, and Rules
- Can You Jump in a Bitless Bridle? Fit and Safety Guide
- How to Ride a Horse With Just a Halter: Safety Guide
- Horse Vision Explained: Seeing the World Through Equine Eyes
Sources and route-planning references
- GOV.UK: Use public rights of way
- British Horse Society: Access and bridleways advice
- British Horse Society: Planning a route
FAQ
Can I ride on a public footpath if nobody is using it?
No. The absence of walkers does not change the recorded status of a footpath. Use a bridleway, restricted byway, BOAT, or land where you have permission.
Can I lead my horse along a public footpath?
Leading a horse is not automatically the same as walking. Check the local route status and obtain permission where necessary; do not assume that leading makes a footpath an equestrian right of way.
Can horses use bridleways and byways?
Yes, in England and Wales, those route categories generally include horse riders. Check signs, closures, local restrictions, surface conditions, and the definitive map before setting out.
Do the same rules apply across the whole UK?
No. Access law and route terminology differ between England and Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. This article focuses on England and Wales; check the relevant local authority or national guidance for the country where you will ride.