Bridleways and hacking near Bath
Hacking out is one of the joys of riding. Here is where you are allowed to ride around Bath, Somerset, who looks after the routes, and how to stay safe.
We do not list any bridleways and hacking for Bath on this page yet. This is a guide to help you choose, written for riders anywhere in England.
Where you can ride around Bath
In England, horse riders have a legal right to use public bridleways, restricted byways and byways open to all traffic. Public footpaths are for walkers only, unless the landowner has given permission. The local highway authority (the county or unitary council) keeps the official "definitive map" of rights of way, and it is the body to tell about a blocked, overgrown or unsafe route.
Rights of way and open access land on GOV.UK. The local council for Bath can tell you more. Find your local council on GOV.UK.
Riding on the road
The Highway Code asks drivers to pass horses wide and slow: at no more than 10 mph and leaving at least 2 metres of space. Riders should wear hi-vis on horse and rider, ride in single file on narrow or busy roads, and thank drivers who slow down. Read the Highway Code on GOV.UK.
Before you set off
- Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.
- Carry a charged phone, and wear hi-vis even on off-road routes.
- Check the weather and the ground: some routes become deep or slippery after rain.
- Know where you can safely turn round on narrow routes.
Record and share your rides with TrottOn
TrottOn records your rides on a map, so you can look back at where you went and build a picture of the routes near Bath. You can also report hazards you meet on a route so other riders know, and use Watch Me to share a live link with someone at home while you ride.
Do you run hacks or treks near Bath? List your business free on TrottOn.
TrottOn is new, and we are building the list for Bath now. Add your business so riders looking near Bath can find you on TrottOn.
Riding near Bath?
TrottOn records your rides, keeps your horse's details in one place, and lets you share a live Watch Me link with someone at home while you ride.