Each highway authority is usually legally required to erect a signpost at every point where a footpath, bridleway or byway leaves a metalled road (i.e. one with a hard, usually tarmac surface). Before you go out into the countryside, make sure you know what signs you might find and what they mean.
Signposts and waymarks
Signposts for public rights of way must state whether the route is a footpath, bridleway or byway, and may give a destination and distance. They are coloured red for a byway; yellow for a footpath; and blue for a bridleway. National Trails also have their own special ‘acorn’ symbol and Access Land is indicated by the ‘Open Access' symbol.
Download the Finding Your Way Advice Sheet .
Maps and map reading
Ordnance Survey maps show rights of way information and OS Explorer Maps show the location of Access Land in England and Wales. If you have problems reading a map or want tips on how to use a compass, visit the Ordnance Survey website for some great tip sheets. For more hands-on advice you could go on a course – try the Walkers Map and Compass website for ideas.
Hi-tech? Try a handheld GPS (global positioning system)
If you want to know where you are at any time and have problems with map reading then your problems are over. Thanks to GPS systems, which work pretty much anywhere (including deserts, mountains, Arctic conditions, forests and high altitudes) you can find out your coordinates with ease. Some handheld GPS receivers also come with built-in compasses, barometers and waypoint, track and map screens. Visit the GPS website for more information.
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