Gnosall is brilliant walking country, and a lot of the best routes rely on Public Rights of Way (PROW) - the footpaths, bridleways and byways that the public is legally allowed to use. If you are ever unsure what you are allowed to do, where a path goes, or who is meant to sort a problem out, this is your simple starting point.

What counts as a Public Right of Way?

In plain terms, PROW are recorded routes that the public can use. The main types you will come across are:

• Public footpaths - for walking (and mobility aids, where suitable)
• Public bridleways - for walking, horse riding, and usually cycling
• Restricted byways and byways open to all traffic - less common, and can allow additional vehicle rights depending on the route

If you want the official definitions and how the system works in Staffordshire, Staffordshire County Council has a helpful hub here: https://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/RightsofWay/home.aspx.

Got a problem on a path near Gnosall?

Think blocked gates, fallen trees, broken stiles, missing waymarks, overgrown sections, or a sign that has vanished. In Staffordshire, the county council is the Highway Authority for public rights of way, so they are usually the right people to tell. Start with the county councils rights of way pages and reporting options: Staffordshire County Council - Rights of Way.

Practical tip: when reporting, note the nearest landmark, road name, or grid reference if you have it, and a quick description of what is blocking or unsafe. A photo helps too.

Where to check routes and the definitive record

There are plenty of walking apps, but the legal record is the councils definitive map and statement. If a route is disputed, diverted, or you are trying to confirm whether something is actually a right of way, the county council pages are where you will find the correct process and contacts: Staffordshire County Council - Rights of Way.

Quick etiquette (and why it matters)

• Stick to the line of the path - especially through fields
• Leave gates as you find them
• Keep dogs under close control and clean up after them
• Be polite and patient where paths cross working land - farmers are often juggling livestock and machinery

If you need local council contacts for general community queries, you can also find details via Gnosall Parish Council: https://www.gnosallparishcouncil.gov.uk/.