Do I Legally have to ride on a cycle path?

[Firestorm]

Does that mean its not compulsory to obey the traffic signals on cycle lane as well
The contra flow cycle lane at the Tower end of the Minories has a traffic light on it.
I cross this junction twice a day and I reckon less than 10% stop on red

 

[Tim Hall]

Chances are there will be a speed limit byelaw on the path of 10 or 12mph.

Not only is it not compulsory to use the path if you are a speedy commuter it would be illegal for you to use it.

Never seen that before. Guidance saying they're designed for a certain speed, but byelaws, no. Got any more info?

(Thinks: OK, the perimeter shared use path in Richmond Park has a limit, but that's the only example I can think of)

 

[davefb]

on the other hand , if there's a motorway within 20 miles, all car drivers have to legally use them instead...

 

[buggi]

next time a driver yells that just , and nod. It drives them mad

 

[Berties]

I have a lane on a three mile stretch of flat road the problem is ,it is well used with road junctions crossing it in five places,I choose the road as I cruise it at 22-25mph so my instant excuse is I am going to fast ,the road itself has a limit of forty ,and if I am pointed to the lane by drivers,I explain "if I want their advice I will be sure to ask for it"

 

[Ern1e]

The last time that happend to me she was a very nice lady driver (tongue well in cheek) and we where traveling quite slowly so as I carried on along side her very nice Fiesta I looked at her and very politly said why thankyou for letting me know that I should legaly be using the cycle lane but would you please stop and tell those kind drivers not to park thier falmeing cars in it then I would be able to use this !! the window went up at lighting speed and me well I just pottered of laughing quite loudly.

 

[Flying Dodo]

Never seen that before. Guidance saying they're designed for a certain speed, but byelaws, no. Got any more info?

(Thinks: OK, the perimeter shared use path in Richmond Park has a limit, but that's the only example I can think of)

Agreed. Generally it will only be a small number of very specific areas which have actual speed restrictions for cyclists, such as Richmond Park and several seaside promenades like Bournemouth.

 

[Pale Rider]

Never seen that before. Guidance saying they're designed for a certain speed, but byelaws, no. Got any more info?

(Thinks: OK, the perimeter shared use path in Richmond Park has a limit, but that's the only example I can think of)

I'm sure I've seen a sign or two, could have been on seaside proms as mentioned by Flying Dodo (above).

Webwise, the best link I can find is this from Sustrans.

It talks of giving way to pedestrians and of using roads if you are out for speed.

http://www.sustrans.org.uk/change-your-travel/get-cycling/cycling-code-conduct-shared-use-paths