I'm a cyclist, biker, car driver and up to a couple of months ago a bus driver.
Do I ride on the pavement? Yes, when I consider my safety is at risk but I ride with due care and attention to pedestrians and obviously at reduced speed. If there are too many pedestrians then I get off and walk.
There are a few cycle lanes in the area (which I use) but they are basically the pavement shared type or a strip of green tarmac about 18" wide in the road. I've never hit anyone on the pavement or caused unnecessary inconvenience to a pedestrian. I have been hit by two cardrivers and HGV driver on the road, fortunately all minor incidents.
Interestingly, our local plod often use Bicycles instead of walking patrols and I've often seen them on the pavement as well and exchanged 'Good Mornings' with them.
So whilst I agree that legally I'm breaking the law, I'm not about to change. I do agree there are some numpties around but that would encompass pedestrians, cyclists, car drivers, HGV & PCV drivers.