Information taken from HARGRAVE - A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE.
May 2004 

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Rights of way - footpaths, bridleways, and byways - are essential to the enjoyment of the countryside and much has been done in recent decades to further this aspect of the rural environment. The Access to the Countryside Act 1949 sought to give statutory protection to the national network and under the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act continuous review of the definitive routes became mandatory. Important changes to the principal statutes of the 1980 Highways Act were introduced in the Rights of Way Act 1990, and the Government’s consultation document issued during February 1997, introduced the popularly titled ‘Right to Roam’ bill which is currently being considered following the completion of public consultation.

The overall local responsibility for the preservation of these ancient rights of way is vested in the Suffolk County Council, although the St Edmundsbury Borough Council assists in this work.

The paths and bridleways around Hargrave originated as connecting routes across or around fields, between cottages and local farm, mill, church, village shops, blacksmith, public house and the like in a similar manner to the establishment of the roads, and are well preserved. The routes are clearly marked with signposts and/or by ‘way-mark’ posts at intervals along their routes.  Bridle paths - routes intended for use by horses in addition to walkers - are distinct from footpaths, and horse riders in and around Hargrave usually respect the preserve of the ‘walkers’.

For many recent years, the role of Parish Footpath Warden has been undertaken by Dr.Robert Fleming - a notable walker of the routes, often seen leading a group of local residents.  His recent ‘retirement’ from his dedicated service has yet to be rewarded with the identification of a successor.  It is to be hoped that our enjoyment of more sedentary leisure pastimes do not herald a loss of such unique part of our heritage, since national surveys show that walking in the countryside is the single most popular form of outdoor recreation.