Understanding Public Rights of Way and Stiles

What public rights of way actually are

In England and Wales, a public right of way is a legal right to pass along a route, even if the land is privately owned. The definitive map — held by the local unitary authority — is the legal record. Around Reading, that means Reading Borough Council, West Berkshire Council or Wokingham Borough Council, depending on where you walk. A path shown on a modern map or a waymarked post is helpful, but the definitive map is what counts if there is any doubt.

There are four main types you will meet on a Berkshire walk. On a public footpath, you may walk on foot only. You can push a pram if the surface and furniture allow, but you cannot cycle or ride a horse. On a bridleway, you may walk, ride a horse or cycle. A restricted byway adds non-motorised vehicles, such as horse-drawn carriages. A byway open to all traffic also allows motor vehicles, though many are little more than muddy tracks used mainly by walkers. Permissive paths are different: the landowner allows access, but the route is not a public right of way and can be closed.

Reading the signs and waymarks

At path junctions, look for a fingerpost. It usually gives a destination, a distance and the type of path. Waymark discs are the small coloured arrows attached to gates, stiles and posts. The colour tells you what you may do:

• Yellow arrow — public footpath: walkers only.
• Blue arrow — bridleway: walkers, horse riders and cyclists.
• Red arrow — byway: walkers, riders, cyclists and sometimes vehicles.

Some councils use other colours for restricted byways or permissive routes, so read any accompanying text. Around Reading, you will see yellow discs on the footpaths through Sulham Woods, Mapledurham and Purley on Thames, and blue discs on bridleways linking farms and woods. The Thames Path is waymarked with an acorn, and the Ridgeway near Goring uses its own National Trail symbol. A missing sign does not mean the right of way has gone; check the definitive map or a current large-scale walking map.

Stiles, gates and kissing gates

Stiles are designed to let walkers through while keeping livestock in. Cross one at a time. Put your phone and map away, and use three points of contact — two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand. Swing your leg over rather than climbing on top. A squeeze stile is easier if you take off your backpack first and step through sideways.

With a dog, never drag it through by the lead. If it cannot jump or squeeze through, lift it carefully. A dog that is trained to wait can be sent through a gap first, then called on. On gates, open the gate, let everyone through, and close it firmly behind you unless a sign says leave it open. Do not climb walls or hedges to avoid a stile.

Kissing gates are common near Reading, especially on paths around Dinton Pastures and the Thames. Push or pull the gate, step into the enclosure, then let it swing shut behind you. Do not hold it open for a stranger unless they are close and you can do so safely. If you are with a horse, a bridle gate may be provided; ask a companion to open it if you are unsure.

Sharing the path politely

Bridleways are shared space. Horse riders are often nervous if a walker appears suddenly, so slow down, speak in a normal voice, and pass wide. Do not run past or wave arms. Cyclists should give way to walkers and horses, and ring a bell well in advance. Walkers can help by stepping to the side on a narrow path and keeping dogs close.

Keep dogs under control at all times. On a public footpath through a field with livestock, use a lead. Around the Thames, Sulham and Mapledurham, you may meet cattle or sheep. Never let a dog chase livestock, and always bag and bin dog mess. Close every gate behind you, even if it was open when you arrived. If you are unsure whether a field contains a bull, look for signs and take another route if necessary.

Local footpaths around Reading

Good starting points include the Thames Path from Caversham to Pangbourne, where riverside fields and stiles lead to quiet villages. Sulham Woods and Mapledurham offer a mix of footpaths and bridleways, though some routes become muddy in winter. Dinton Pastures has easy permissive paths, while the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath is ideal for a gentle walk. Further afield, Wokefield Common and the lanes around Mortimer have public footpaths, and the Ridgeway near Goring gives big views.

Before setting out, check the council's definitive map for your route and take a paper map. Wear boots with grip, carry a waterproof, and tell someone where you are going. Mobile signal can be patchy in wooded valleys.

If a path is blocked or closed

Obstructions happen: a fallen tree, a broken stile, an overgrown hedge or a crop planted across the line. Do not remove fences or force a way through. If a path is temporarily closed, follow the diversion signs. Farmers may plough across a footpath, but the route should be reinstated; if it is not, report it.

Report problems to the rights of way officer at the relevant council. Note the grid reference, date and a photo. Be polite if you meet a landowner; most are happy to help. With a little knowledge of signs, stiles and local rules, you can enjoy Reading's countryside confidently and leave it tidy for the next walker.