There are several different types of rights of way and you have the right to walk along all of them. Some rights of way are also open to horse riders, cyclists or motorists. Zoom into the map and click on the path that is of interest to view more information.
If the map does not load, please view it on the MapsCambridgeshire website.
Get the rights of way map on your smartphone
For recreational purposes, such as walking or riding, use the Rights of Way Google map on your smartphone and follow your position as you go.
How to use the map
- Use the map's legend to see what 'status' each colour on the map represents
- To follow your location on the map, make sure your GPS location is enabled
If you use the Google Maps app
- Sign into your Google account to view the map
- The rights of way map will automatically be added to your saved maps
- You might need to refresh the map occasionally as we update it every six months - use the button link on this page to see the latest version
Disclaimer
The rights of way information presented in Google Maps is based on information from the Definitive Map of Public Rights of Way in Cambridgeshire ("the Definitive Map"), and is updated approximately every six months. It is NOT the Definitive Map.
The accuracy of this information cannot be guaranteed. It is intended to be used only for leisure purposes and is not suitable for checking the legality of rights of way lines. If you require more accurate data, the Definitive Map should be consulted. Please see our Definitive Map and Statement page for more information.
Report a fault on a public right of way
You can report a problem on a public right of way online by submitting a highway fault report using our online form. Reports will be assessed within 10 working days.
Some public rights of way may be subject to seasonal or permanent restrictions. To find out more, see our Rights of way restrictions webpage.
Signage on public rights of way
Footpaths - let you go by foot only and are marked by a yellow arrow
Bridleways - let you go by foot, horse or bike and are marked by a blue arrow
By ways open to all traffic - let you travel by any form of transport, including motor vehicles and are usually marked by a red arrow.
Restricted byways - let you travel by any form of transport that doesn’t have a motor and are marked by a purple arrow.
Permissive paths are not legal rights of way, but are routes which the landowner has agreed the public can use and are marked by a black arrow
To manage, improve and promote a Public Rights of Way network as an integral part of a wider transport system, we developed a Rights of Way Improvement plan. This forms part of our wider Cambridgeshire Local Transport Plan and can be viewed on our Local Transport Plan webpage.
Making changes to the surface of a public right of way
All proposals that would involve a change to the surface of any part of a public right of way in Cambridgeshire are now required to follow an authorisation process. This Policy was approved on 7 March 2023 and sits within the Highway Operational Standards at Appendix T. Highway policies and capital maintenance programme - Cambridgeshire County Council
The process has been developed to address recent concerns relating to changes of surface arising from various projects and developments. It will ensure transparency and consistency of decision-making across the County Council with respect to projects and development, and will help reduce delay in the delivery of schemes.
The new process applies to all landowners and scheme promoters, both internal and external to the County Council, where it would involve change to the surface of an existing right of way. Promoters are expected to consult statutory user groups and key stakeholders, and they are strongly encouraged to complete and submit the form prior to submitting planning applications, in order to avoid objections and to help to facilitate the smooth processing of applications. To view the guidance and the authorisation form (one document) please download the document in this section below.
It may help to discuss your proposal prior to submission in order to assist your application. If you would like advice please make a request for ‘Pre-application advice’ using the service on our Highway Records’ page Highway records - Cambridgeshire County Council. Fees apply as set out in the Service Schedule of Fees document on that page.
Guidance for planners and developers
If you are involved in development that affects public rights of way you can download the guidance for planners and developers
Public rights of way commercial enquiries
For commercial companies and individuals wishing to apply for a highway, public rights of way or common land and town/village green search please visit our Highway Searches page.
