Practical information

In Britain there are three main types of path as shown in the table below.

Footpath: This is a public right of way on foot only	Bridleway: This is a public right of way on foot, on horseback or on a pedal cycle.	Byway Open to All Traffic (BOAT): This gives the public a right of way for vehicles and all other kinds of traffic, but is used mainly as a footpath or bridleway.

Paths should be waymarked at regular intervals, and at junctions, with a distinctive path logo, usually on a metal or wooden post. Follow the coloured arrows indicating the direction of the path.

In reality, there will be occasions when the waymarkers are missing or hard to follow, so it is always a good idea to take an appropriate map with you.

The Countryside Code

It's important to remember that the countryside is the home and workplace of many people. If you follow the Countryside Code wherever you go, you'll get the most enjoyment possible and you'll also help protect the countryside now and for future generations.

• Be safe - plan ahead and follow any signs
• Leave gates and property as you find them
• Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home
• Keep dogs under close control
• Consider other people

Advice

Make sure your bike is roadworthy and well maintained

• Check your brakes, steering and tyres
• When riding at night, you must have rear and front lights and a rear reflector
• Wear a suitable helmet and gloves
• Ensure someone knows where you are if you are cycling alone

Cycling in hilly countryside can be hard work

• Allow plenty of time to complete your journey
• Carry sufficient water, particularly in hot weather

Security of your bike

• Buy the best lock you can afford
• Lock your bike to something immovable and in a well-lit public place
• Locking two bikes together is better than locking them individually
• Use a chain with a lock to secure the wheels and saddle to the frame.
• Keep a note of the frame number and other details and insure, photograph and code the bike

Code of Conduct

Remember that the countryside is the home and workplace of many people. To ensure cyclists continue to be welcomed in the countryside, we advise you follow the code of conduct.

On all routes

Please be courteous! Always cycle with respect for others and acknowledge those who give way to you. Remember that many people are hard of hearing or visually impaired - don't assume they can see or hear you. Carry a bell and use it.

When cycling on shared use paths please:

• give way to pedestrians, leaving them plenty of room
• keep to your side of any dividing line and be prepared to slow down or stop if necessary
• don't expect to cycle at high speeds
• be careful at junctions, bends and entrances
• give way where there are wheelchair users and horseriders.
• when passing horses take extra care, they are spooked easily so never pass without calling out a warning.

When cycling on roads:

• always follow the Highway Code
• ride in single file on narrow lanes and never ride more than two abreast
• fit lights and use them in poor visibility
• wear a helmet and conspicuous clothing
• keep your bike roadworthy
• don't cycle on pavements except where designated - pavements are for pedestrians
• use your bell - not all pedestrians can see you.

And in the countryside...

• follow the Countryside Code
• respect other land management activities such as farming or forestry and take litter home
• keep erosion to a minimum if off-road - avoid skidding on trails, go through puddles- going round just makes them wider, stay off soft areas if it's been raining for a while.
• be self-sufficient - in remote areas carry food, repair kit, map and waterproofs
• try to cycle or use public transport to travel to and from the start and finish of your ride
• cycle within your capabilities - match your speed to the surface and your skills.