There are different types of rights of way, which can be used by different types of user.

Footpaths

Footpaths Used by walkers and normally marked with a yellow arrow.
You have the right to walk along a footpath with a normal accompaniment (e.g. a dog, a pram or a wheelchair) You do not have the right to ride, or wheel a bicycle along a footpath. It is a criminal offence to drive a motor vehicle along a public footpath unless you have specific lawful authority. You do not have the right to ride or lead a horse, or take a horse drawn carriage along a footpath.

Bridleways

Bridleways Used by walkers, horse riders and cyclists and normally marked with a BLUE arrow.
You have the right to walk along a bridleway, to ride or lead a horse, and to ride a bicycle. It is possible that you may have a right to drive animals such as sheep or cattle as well. Please note that this does not include a right to drive a pony and trap.
Cyclists must give way to walkers and horse riders on a bridleway. It is a criminal offence to drive a motor vehicle along a bridleway unless you have specific lawful authority. You do not have the right to take a horse drawn vehicle along a bridleway.

BOATs  (Byways open to all traffic)

BOATs (Byway Open To All Traffic) normally marked with a RED arrow. Walkers, horse riders, cyclists and motorised vehicles can use BOATs. The public have the same rights on BOATs as on surfaced country lanes. However, there is no legal obligation for a BOAT to be tarmacked. Vehicles using BOATs must be fully taxed, MOT'd and insured.