Our History: The Wiltshire Bridleways Association Journey 
Initially set up during the latter part of 1969 and officially Founded at its first AGM on 3rd December 1972, by the late Pam Stewart, the Bridleways Association began as a voluntary organization with a clear and passionate mission: to promote the permanent preservation of byways and bridleways across Wiltshire, for the benefit of the public, especially the local community. This founding principle continues to guide our work today.
From the start, we've been deeply committed to working hand-in-hand with landowners, farmers, and the local authority. Our goal? To maintain, improve, and whenever possible, create new horse-friendly riding routes through the breathtaking Wiltshire countryside.
Membership is open to everyone, riders and non-riders alike, for a nominal subscription. Whether you’re an experienced equestrian, a countryside enthusiast, or simply passionate about preserving our rights of way, you’re welcome here.
We sustain our efforts through subscriptions and various fundraising activities, such as pleasure rides, which also offer a fun way to connect with fellow supporters.
Our committee meets monthly to discuss ongoing concerns, address issues, and strategize for the future. Guests are always welcome at our meetings, and many choose to become members after seeing firsthand the passion and purpose behind our work!
Much of our behind-the-scenes work involves complex legal and historical research, often leading us to represent the association’s interests at public inquiries. Our dedicated volunteers are the backbone of this effort, ensuring we uphold our mission with diligence and care.
Over the decades, we've built an impressive archive of reference materials, a testament to the depth and seriousness of our work.
We publish a newsletter three times a year, filled with updates on current projects, key achievements, and efforts to safeguard Wiltshire’s rights of way, especially its bridleways.
Each March, we host our Annual General Meeting, which features a guest speaker sharing insights on equine-related topics, always a highlight of our calendar.
From humble beginnings with just a few passionate riders, the Bridleways Association has grown into a respected voice for equestrian access and countryside preservation. We've reclaimed lost bridleways, influenced policy, and ensured horse riders are considered in planning and maintenance decisions.
Equally important, we’ve raised public awareness about the safety of horses and riders, fostering a more respectful and considerate environment for all road users.

Through it all, we remain committed to one thing: helping everyone enjoy and explore the beautiful countryside we’re so lucky to have.

So how many miles of bridleways are there in Wiltshire?

Our bridleway infographic shows the available statistics for Wiltshire and some adjoining counties.

You can see that there are many miles of routes to maintain, use, enjoy and record for all our future riding.

We understand your frustrations.

These may look like healthy figures but how many are actually usable?

Consider those obstructed by locked gates, fences, severe uncontrolled vegetation growth, and any number of other deliberate blockages by landowners, this removes a fair number of miles.

Then there are those which run for short distances only between two roads or perhaps cross a busy road without any traffic controls. eg A303 south of Winterbourne Stoke or A346 near Ogbourne St George. Others terminate at a point where the status changes annoyingly to a Foot Path.

It doesn't leave many miles for a safe off-road circular ride.

Can you help us to help you?

We need all the support we can get to maintain & retain riding routes.

Reporting issues to us and the council helps, but getting involved to remedy them is by far the most use to everyone.
Find our quick news and Wiltshire equestrian worthy collaboration on our Facebook page