A Right of Way is a path, track or route that the public has a right to use. It is important to respect these public paths and areas by following the Countryside Code, as over 85% of the South Downs National Park is actually privately owned farm land.

Throughout the South Downs National Park there is an extensive network of public rights of way, open access sites and way-marked trails - including the famous South Downs Way.

Management of the South Downs Way is overseen by the SDNPA, while the Rights of Way network is managed by the relevant Local Authorities.

Working with our Local Authority partners, we create and look after an inspiring range of walks and trails. Please see the Walking section of the website for more information.

Know your Rights of Way

There are four categories of Rights of Way. To differentiate between these categories there is a national way-marking colour coding system for signposts. 

The four categories and colour code are:

1. Footpath (yellow) – where the public can walk
2. Bridleway (blue) – where the public can walk, cycle or horse ride
3. Restricted Byway (purple) – where you can walk, cycle, horse ride and drive a horse drawn carriage
4. Byway (red) – on byways you can drive a car but many are only suitable for off-road 4x4 vehicles

In addition to these four colours, all National Trails in England and Wales are marked with the Acorn symbol. Some promoted and themed routes may also use their own logo or symbol but this will usually be displayed on top of one of the 4 colours shown below.