In Suffolk there are over 3,500 miles of Public Footpaths, Bridleways and Byways, approximately the same length as the public roads. This path network provides a recreational resource that is available 24 hours a day, is open to everyone, and is absolutely free to use. Many people walk with organised groups and are happy to be led along the paths by experts, leaving more time to socialise or to view the scenery. Much more sense of achievement can be had by the more adventurous who explore the path network themselves. By using your navigation and countryside skills to find the way, the whole of Suffolk’s path network is available to you.

But before you go it is wise to be prepared with some knowledge of how to navigate and what to expect along the way. This is a brief guide to help you enjoy the wonderful countryside of Suffolk.

The first thing you will need is a map or guide of some form. The Ordnance Survey Explorer series of maps at 1: 25,000 scale (2½ inches to 1 mile) is the ideal. They clearly show the routes of all the paths and, once you learn to use the map to find your way around, are probably the best maps to utilise. These maps are brought up to date at every reprint and can generally be relied upon to show the routes correctly. When recent diversions have taken place they are usually well signed, but if you are unsure, check with the Highway Authority who maintain the Definitive map of Public Rights of Way. Alternatively, guide books and leaflets can be obtained from most Tourist Information Centres but they may not always show the finer details required for navigation.

The start point of most paths should be marked with signposts at the roadside and many routes are also defined with waymark arrows along the way. These arrows guide walkers around sections that are difficult to follow and can be a useful aid to navigating. The standard colours for waymark arrows are yellow for footpaths, blue for bridleways and red for byways.

Wear suitable clothing for the types of walk you are contemplating. If you are out in the wider countryside it is wise to be prepared for anything. Although country walking can be undertaken in trainers, it is much more sensible to wear waterproof walking boots to protect your ankles. Shorts aren’t always practical when negotiating undergrowth where it would be more useful to carry a pair of secateurs. Carry a waterproof if rain is forecast, even if it doesn’t rain, it will keep you warm if the sun has gone in and the wind suddenly gets up when you are a long way from shelter.

Be prepared for summer growth on the paths and natural obstructions such as fallen trees and mud during the winter. In spring the rapid natural growth such as stinging nettles and brambles on footpaths can sometimes be difficult to negotiate. The Highway Authority is responsible for keeping paths clear, but it is very difficult to time the cutting schedule accurately. Even though it is the responsibility of the landowners to keep paths across arable fields delineated and clear of crops, it is also the Highway Authority's responsibility to ensure that they do so. Be prepared to walk across fields and through crops that have not got the paths marked out properly.

Fit and able people walking at a reasonably fast rate can achieve 3 miles per hour. Judge the distance you can walk before you plan your route. This will obviously be reduced if stiles, gates and other structures are encountered but you should be able to maintain 2-3 miles per hour. Stiles can sometimes be a problem if the steps are a bit high or missing, but many are being replaced with kissing gates. Most routes are suitable for people of all ages and of average fitness, some are suitable for children but it is unlikely that you will make much progress with a pushchair. Dogs are classed as a natural accompaniment on public paths, but should be kept under close control at all times in order to avoid disturbing livestock and wildlife. You may need to lift your dog over a stile if it has not been provided with a dog latch (opening for dog access) and please ensure your dog does not foul the path route.

When walking on country roads, remember the Highway Code and walk on the right hand side to face the traffic. However when you are on the inside of a blind bend, cross over to the other side so that you can be seen sooner. Always use the verge where possible and whenever traffic approaches.

Finally, to feel at home in the countryside take note of and abide by the Country Code