Public footpaths
A Right of Way on foot only. Often waymarked in Yellow.
Public bridleway
A Right of Way on foot, horse and pedal cycle. Often waymarked in blue.
Road used as public path (RUPP)/Byway open to all traffic/green lane
A Right of Way on foot, horse, pedal cycle and for some vehicles. Often way marked in red.
Public Road
A Right of Way for all traffic. Walks along roads often waymarked in white.
On a Right of Way you can:
- Take a pram, pushchair or wheelchair if practicable
- Take a dog on a lead or under close control. However there is no legal obligation to make stiles, gates etc ‘dog-friendly’
- Take a minimal detour around an obstruction or remove it sufficiently to get past
- Pause on the right of way for the purpose of admiring a view, taking refreshment etc
Right to Roam
In October 2005, a new legal right of open access on foot only to certain mapped areas of uncultivated, open countryside was brought into effect by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CROW Act). Commonly known as the “right to roam”, it applies to mountain, moor, heath, down and registered common land and gives the chance to explore these areas of countryside on foot without having to stick to paths.
The view the maps of open access land in this area go to the Countryside Access website .
For your information
- Paths across fields can be ploughed, but should be reinstated within two weeks
- Land owners can require you to leave land to which you have no right of access
- Obstructions, dangerous animals, harassment and misleading notices on rights of way may be illegal. You can report these online to East Sussex County Council Rights of Way Department or at:
Rights of Way Department
East Sussex County Council
County Hall
St Annes Crescent
Lewes
East Sussex
BN7 1AL
01273 482250