GREEN LANING

What is green laning?

Green laning involves driving along often unsurfaced roads or paths. Green Lanes are legally classified as roads and usually pass through remote countryside, offering a unique way to explore the lesser seen parts of the UK that may not be possible in a regular car.

Green lanes are commonly shared by pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and drivers. Due to their often-difficult terrain and winding nature, they usually require a 4×4 vehicle to navigate them.

How can green laning lead to fines?

Green laning is legal as long as your vehicle is road legal, taxed, and holds a valid MOT.

As green lanes are classified as roads, your vehicle does not need any specialist insurance to drive on them, unless your policy specifically excludes driving on green lanes.

However, green lanes are not to be confused with footpaths or bridleways, which motorists are not permitted to drive on.

In fact, according to rule 145 of the Highway Code2, driving on or over a pavement, footpath, or bridleway is prohibited - except for gaining lawful access to property or in the case of emergencies.

If you do drive...