With walking in Norfolk boasting everything from coast, country, fen and forest, there’s pretty much everything here for the avid walker. From the vivid colours and sun-bleached beaches of summer to the crisp frosting on the hedgerows in winter, there is always something for a walker to enjoy. Here is a brief look at three of the finest walking routes in Norfolk.
Peddars Way & Norfolk Coast Path
If you’re up to some long distance walking in Norfolk, try the ancient Peddars Way which links to the Norfolk Coast Path National Trail – 93 miles along a distinctive Roman road from Knettishall Heath Country Park through to Holme-next-the-Sea, and then following wide sandy beaches to Cromer pier.
The complete route passes through some of the most diverse and beautiful countryside in Britain, from the mysterious landscape of the Brecks to wild and magnificent marshes and crumbling cliffs of North Norfolk. The gentle terrain of the Trail makes it particularly suitable for people with special access needs. There are also plenty of pubs, tearooms, guest houses and campsites en route where you can stop for a well deserved break.
Do be aware that, although much of the Peddars Way is open to cyclists, the Norfolk Coast Path is not. For more information visit the National Trail website.
Bacton Wood
If you are after somewhere where you can have a gentle stroll with your partner or family in astounding natural woodland, then Bacton Wood is well worth a visit. Bacton Wood is situated two and a half miles north east of the market town of North Walsham, and it covers over 113 hectares (280 acres). The original woodland included Sessile Oaks and two of these, which are thought to be over 200 years old, still remain. There are now over 30 species of tree in the wood including Scots and Corsian Pine, Western Hemlock, Douglas Fir and Larch. There are 3 waymarked walks denoted by colour routed posts and they vary between 2 and 4 km. Cycling and horse-riding are permitted in Bacton Wood, and there is a car park with designated disabled parking bays. Bacton Wood is owed by the Forestry Commission.
Trunch Circular Walks
If you are staying in or nearby Trunch Village, then there are two waymarked Circular Walks which are about 2 or 4 km long, depending which route you take. Of particular interest are The Warren, Green Lane, and Craunchings Loke, all of which are exceptionally peaceful, tree-line paths, and Greenpeace Wood and Trunch Oakwood are excellent examples of land being taken out of agriculture and planted with new woodland.
These are just a few of the places where you can enjoy walking in Norfolk, but there are lots more, many and varied walking routes in Norfolk. Contact the National Trail for more information on places to walk in Norfolk.