There are over 136 miles of public rights of way in Warrington, 128 miles of footpath and seven miles of bridleways and restricted byways.

We make sure that the routes are signposted and the paths are waymarked.

Public rights of way are recorded on the ‘Definitive Map’ under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949.

Types of rights of way

Footpath

This is a highway where you have a right of way if you’re walking. You can also take a pushchair, pram or wheelchair, or walk your dog – as long as you keep the dog under close control. This is a different type of footpath than a normal pavement along the side of the road.

Footpaths are usually marked with a yellow arrow.

Bridleway

This is a highway that can be used if you’re walking, riding a horse or riding a bicycle. You may also be able to drive animals along a bridleway.

Bridleways are usually marked with a blue arrow.

Restricted byway

This is a highway that you can use if you’re walking, riding a horse, riding a bicycle or using a non-motorised vehicle. You may also be able to drive animals along a restricted byway.

Restricted byways are usually marked with a plum coloured arrow.

Byway Open to All Traffic (BOAT)

This is a highway open to everyone – whether you’re walking, riding a horse, riding a bicycle, using a non-motorised vehicle or using a motorised vehicle. However, most BOATs aren’t suitable for ordinary motor traffic.

BOATs are usually marked with a red arrow.

Register of public rights of way

Report a problem with a right of way

If a right of way is blocked or if there’s a problem with the direction signs please let us know.

You'll need to tell us where the problem is (in as much detail as possible) and what the problem is, eg unauthorised fences/gates or other obstructions.

Current rights of way diversions

A short section of the Trans Pennine Trail is diverted east of where it usually crosses the A49 London Road due to a land slip on the bank of the Manchester Ship Canal. The diversion is about 100 metres long and runs parallel to the usual route of the trail – it’s fenced off and there are signs to show you the diverted route.

If you need to change a public right of way

If you need to change a public right of way, you need to apply to us for a ‘modification order to the definitive map and written statement of public rights of way’.

Contact

Email PROW@warrington.gov.uk

Read the public rights of way and the law document for more information.