Where can I drive?

The term 'green lane' is a colloquial one and comprises the legally-defined 'byways' referred to below and other countryside routes.

Of the rights of way network, motor vehicles may only use byways open to all traffic (known as 'BOATs'). In addition, there are a few unsurfaced, unclassified roads that can be used and you may ride/drive over other routes or areas if you have been given permission by the landowner.

Like all other users and riders, you should drive or ride with consideration for others. On unmade roads a speed of 10-15 mph will enable you to see the countryside and stop quickly if you need to. Four wheel drive vehicles should use low range. Generally it is advisable to stop and let horses pass when you meet them, and to give walkers time to gather up loose dogs if they wish to. Walkers and riders should remember that BOATs are public roads and that vehicular users have the right to use them. Remember that cyclists can be travelling quite fast in your direction and that you may not hear them coming.

Drivers should remember to 'tread lightly'. If the ground is boggy or there has been heavy rain and by driving on it you will damage the surface you should refrain from using that route on that day.

Many groups organise special events where you can ride/drive off-road in the countryside - use the links provided on the 'local vehicle groups' page to find details. There are also some sites on which the landowner regularly allows use, such as track circuits, often in exchange for a payment; again, contact your local organisation for details.

New Class of Right of Way
The Countryside and Rights of Way Act required all RUPPs (roads used as a public path) to be reclassified, as the legal definition of a RUPP was unclear. Therefore a new class of Right of Way was established, known as a 'Restricted Byway', which allows walking, cycling, horse-riding and carriage-driving but not motorised vehicles. In 2006, all of Hampshire's RUPPS were reclassified as Restricted Byways; however, vehicle users have submitted over 150 claims for routes which they believe carry vehicle rights and therefore should be recorded as Byways (in nearly all cases, these are currently recorded as Restricted Byways).

How do I find out about which paths are which?
A Map of rights of way in Hampshire shows all the rights of way; this is updated daily but is not guaranteed to reflect the official legal position. A copy of the legal Definitive Map may be consulted at the the county council's Rights of Way Office in Mottisfont Court, Winchester - please contact us if you would like to visit. You should also look at information on how to find and follow Rights of Way on maps and on the ground, and at Ordnance Survey maps for the area you wish to visit for other routes open to you that are not rights of way.