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

Riding Responsibly

Riding routes are valuable to the whole community. They may be somebody's nature trail or historic site. They may also cross-agricultural land, which is the farmer's workplace. Responsible riding means caring for the habitats as well as being considerate of other people's enjoyment.

• Some people are frightened of horses, so ensure the path is clear and wide enough before cantering or galloping.
• Do not ride on public footpaths.
• Don't take your dogs out with you when out riding unless you are on your own land. Farmers do not consider a dog running loose beside a horse where livestock are present as being under control.
• Bridleways can deteriorate rapidly in wet weather; take care during or after heavy rain.
• Areas of nature conservation can be damaged by the trampling of surface vegetation, so take extra care when riding near sensitive wildlife areas and avoid riding near nesting sites during birds' breeding seasons.
• The British Horse Society (BHS) recommends that all horse riders and drivers carry adequate third party public liability insurance. If a horse (or any other animal) injures a person, another animal or property, the owner or rider is liable if he or she knew that the horse was likely to behave in such a way as to cause the injury, or was responsible for the horse's actions.
• The BHS strongly recommend that fluorescent/reflective clothing should be worn on horse and rider whenever they ride out, at all times of the day and at all times of the year regardless of the weather conditions. They do not recommend anyone riding out after dusk or in murky conditions, but if there is no alternative, lamps are mandatory. These should show a constant white light to the front and a constant red light to the rear. Flashing lights may be used but these must be as additions.

The BHS recommends that horse riders abide by the Highway Code's "Rules for Horse Riders", which have been expanded, and that all riders should consider taking the BHS Road Safety Test. The BHS also has leaflets covering riding on beaches, bridleways, bridleway surfaces and bridleway gates, and publishes booklets of circular rides.