Walking and Public rights of way

An introduction

Did you know that the most widely known right to enjoy the countryside is that given by "public rights of way". Rights of way can be in or near to towns or in remote countryside. They can be wide tracks or narrow trails but all public rights of way are highways in law. Anyone may use a right of way, and may do so at any time, just as they would any other kind of highway.

Solihull MBC is responsible for managing the rights of way network in the borough. In total there are over 250 kilometres of registered Public Rights of Way, forming over 450 separate routes.

The routes can vary in length from just a few metres, to routes which form part of Long Distance Paths which link to other counties such as the 'A Solihull Way' and the 'Heart of England Way'.

There are three main categories of Public Right of Way intended for a variety of users:

Footpath: For walkers only. You are allowed to take a pram, pushchair or wheelchair along a public footpath but please be aware that many routes may not be physically suitable for that purpose. Public Footpaths are mostly waymarked with yellow arrows.

Bridleway: For walkers, horse riders and pedal cyclists. Cyclists must give way to walkers and horse riders. Bridleways are mostly waymarked with blue arrows.

Byways Open to All Traffic (BOAT): Often just referred to as a Byway; for vehicles, cyclists, horse riders and walkers. Because of its nature, it is used mainly as a footpath or bridleway. BOATs are mostly waymarked with red arrows.

Ordnance Survey Explorer Maps Numbers 220 and 221 cover Solihull and show the location and status of public rights of way. These maps are the best source of information when planning a walk in the Borough.

Contact Details

For more information please contact Roads & Traffic
Telephone: 0121 704 6429
Email: environment@solihull.gov.uk