NBN Route Types

Introduction

The National Bridleroute Network is made up from three types of route: the National Network, Regional Routes, and Community Circuits.

National Network

These are the main strategic routes across the country. They will be the high profile routes like the Ridgeway, the South Downs Way, and the Pennine Bridleway, as well as newer routes like the London Orbital Bridleroute (H25). They will be identified by a white route number on a red patch.

Example: H25 London Orbital Bridleroute, H4 The Ridgeway.

Regional Routes

These are the important routes linking community circuits to the National Network. Ideally, they will use parts of Community Circuits, so in effect joining different pockets of bridleways, or they may link two National Routes. Example Regional Routes are the Three Shires Way and the North London Bridleroute (H251). They will be identified by a white route number on a blue patch.

Example: Icknield Way Riders Route.

Community Circuits

These are circular routes, typically of length between five and fifteen miles. They will be of enormous benefit to local horse riders, as well as walkers and cyclists, who wish to enjoy leisure time in the country and to benefit from physical exercise. And they ensure that people can get off the roads. Community Circuits can be developed by parish, district and county councils; local bridleways associations and riding clubs; and of course, by other interested groups. They will be identified by locally chosen signage.

Examples: Aldenham, Shenley.

Regulations

An example of the signage is given in Schedule 12, Part 11, Row 5 to The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 (SI 2016 No. 362). This particular example relates to the H25, part of the National Bridleroute Network.