Access through our garden

[Didgey101]

Hi all, the house next door has recently been purchased by new owners. Last night they came m to introduce themselves and whilst we were talking they told us that after looking at the deeds for their new house they are entitled to access to the rear of their property through our back garden. We have been here for 27 years and there has never been any access way on our property. There was a very small piece of an old pavement at the very back of our garden so evidence shows that there would have been a pathway at some stage many many years ago. There is no benefit for them to have access through our garden as it would only lead them into the back of another neighbours house but if they are entitled I would like to find out where we stand. I am concerned as both ours and the new neighbours gardens are completely shut off from each other and contained within high fencing. I also have a large man cave / sports bar at the back of the garden which would need to come down. As no access has been used for best part of 30 years do we still have to grant their request if they wish to pursue the matter?
Many thanks.. Tim

[atticus]

Look at their Land Registry title entries and yours.

Others may know whether easements and rights of way can lapse through disuse ( @dslippy?)

[des8]

Interesting link? https://www.lexology.com/library/det...b-dbc75c5a4dba

[Didgey101]

Good evening, thank you very much for the reply and information. I will look into this further and keep you posted.. Thanks

[dslippy]

The Land Registry plan is relevant Dopes it show a particular route for the footpath, or is it a general right of access over the garden?