Founded in 1845, ScotWays (The Scottish Rights of Way and Access Society) is the independent charity which upholds and promotes public access rights in Scotland. We are widely recognised as experts in the law and practice of access and advise on access problems, provide information and training, and maintain a vast database about routes in Scotland. You can see our recognisable green and white signs on routes across Scotland.
We are home to the Heritage Paths Project a unique archive of Scotland’s old paths and roads. We record hundreds of old ways from Roman Roads to Pilgrim Paths. Find out more about them on the Heritage Paths Project.
Explore our website and find out more about public access to the outdoors in Scotland, how it developed, the Society’s history and what you can do to support us. Of course, the best thing you can do is join us!
Explore our website and find out more about public access to the outdoors in Scotland, how it developed, the Society’s history and what you can do to support us. Of course, the best thing you can do is join us!
Happy Birthday to us!
Celebrate with us and help us meet our Anniversary fundraising target with our £175 for our 175th
This year we are 175 years old, making us the oldest outdoor recreation body in the UK. We’ve got lots planned for our 175th Anniversary, including a bucketful of social media posts about ScotWays and the development of outdoor access in Scotland. Sadly, the Coronavirus pandemic has lead to our entire programme being rejigged. Our members' walks programme themed to our history has been cancelled, but our Anniversary Talk hosted by the National Library of Scotland has gone ahead virtually.
Despite the changes, you can still celebrate with us. Become a member and join us. Volunteer with us and help to survey rights of way and paths across Scotland. Make a donation to support our work. Learn about the history of ScotWays and significant events in the development of outdoor access in Scotland. Buy one of our limited edition 175th Anniversary pin badges. Watch 175 years of history in 21 minutes.
Most important of all, follow us on social media and share your favourite posts far and wide.