Top 10 Walks In Norfolk - Walking Academy

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Norfolk, located in the East of England, is a county rich in history and natural beauty, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. Known for its expansive countryside, the county is home to the famous Norfolk Broads, a network of rivers and lakes that create one of the UK’s most unique and tranquil environments.

From the medieval city of Norwich, with its impressive cathedral and Norman castle, to the picturesque coastal villages, Norfolk offers a variety of landscapes to explore. Its proximity to the North Sea gives visitors access to miles of unspoiled coastline, with dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and salt marshes stretching across the horizon.

For hikers, Norfolk’s diverse terrain provides a blend of coastal and inland walks that suit all abilities. The Norfolk Coast Path, a renowned long-distance trail, takes walkers along stunning beaches, salt marshes, and nature reserves, offering breathtaking views of the sea and wildlife. The county is also home to rich heritage sites such as the ancient town of Castle Acre and the historic Boudicca Way, which passes through farmland, woodlands, and villages steeped in local history.

Whether walking through woodlands in Sheringham Park or along the riverside on the Wherryman’s Way, Norfolk’s trails allow visitors to connect with both its natural beauty and deep-rooted history.

Norfolk’s charm lies in its blend of rural serenity and coastal allure, with landscapes that range from the peaceful, flat expanses of farmland to the wild beauty of the coast. For those keen on hiking, the county offers not only well-established walking routes but also hidden gems and tranquil spots waiting to be explored.

With its rich heritage, unique nature reserves, and miles of stunning coastline, Norfolk is a perfect destination for those seeking adventure on foot while soaking in the county’s natural wonders.

The Top 10 Walks In Norfolk

1. Norfolk Coast Path

Start Point: Hunstanton
End Point: Hopton-on-Sea
Distance: 84 miles
Terrain: Coastal paths, beaches, salt marshes
Difficulty: Moderate
Notable Landmark: Blakeney Point

This long-distance trail offers walkers a chance to experience Norfolk’s diverse coastal scenery, including sandy beaches, salt marshes, and nature reserves. The path is well-marked and can be completed in sections for those preferring shorter walks.

2. Peddars Way

Start Point: Knettishall Heath
End Point: Holme-next-the-Sea
Distance: 46 miles
Terrain: Disused railway line, countryside
Difficulty: Easy
Notable Landmark: Castle Acre Priory

Following the route of an ancient Roman road, this trail passes through tranquil countryside, forests, and historic sites, eventually connecting with the Norfolk Coast Path. It’s suitable for walkers of all abilities.

3. Weavers’ Way

Start Point: Cromer
End Point: Great Yarmouth
Distance: 61 miles
Terrain: Woodlands, riverside paths, disused railway lines
Difficulty: Moderate
Notable Landmark: Hickling Broad

This trail traverses the Norfolk Broads, offering walkers a chance to explore diverse landscapes, including fens, grazing marshes, and picturesque villages. It’s rich in wildlife and history.

4. Marriott’s Way

Start Point: Norwich
End Point: Aylsham
Distance: 26 miles
Terrain: Disused railway line, woodlands, meadows
Difficulty: Easy
Notable Landmark: Whitwell & Reepham Railway Station

Following a former railway line, this flat and accessible trail is ideal for leisurely walks, cycling, and horse riding. It passes through scenic countryside and small villages.

5. Boudicca Way

Start Point: Norwich
End Point: Diss
Distance: 36 miles
Terrain: Farmland, woodlands, heathland
Difficulty: Moderate
Notable Landmark: Venta Icenorum (Caistor St Edmund Roman Town)

Named after the legendary Iceni queen, this trail takes walkers through rural landscapes, historic sites, and charming villages, reflecting Norfolk’s rich heritage.

6. Wherryman’s Way

Start Point: Norwich
End Point: Great Yarmouth
Distance: 35 miles
Terrain: Riverside paths, marshes, fens
Difficulty: Moderate
Notable Landmark: Hardley Windmill

Following the River Yare, this trail offers insights into the Broads’ unique landscapes, with opportunities to see traditional windmills, abundant wildlife, and riverside villages.

7. Blickling Estate Walk

Start Point: Blickling Hall
End Point: Circular route
Distance: 4.5 miles
Terrain: Parkland, woodlands, lakeside paths
Difficulty: Easy
Notable Landmark: Blickling Hall

This circular walk around the historic Blickling Estate offers picturesque views of the Jacobean mansion, ancient woodlands, and tranquil lake, making it a favorite among visitors.

8. Sheringham Park Circular Walk

Start Point: Sheringham Park
End Point: Circular route
Distance: 3.5 miles
Terrain: Woodlands, landscaped gardens, coastal views
Difficulty: Easy
Notable Landmark: Gazebo with panoramic views

Designed by Humphry Repton, this park offers a variety of trails through landscaped gardens and woodlands, with viewpoints providing stunning coastal vistas.

9. Holt Country Park Walk

Start Point: Holt Country Park
End Point: Circular route
Distance: 2 miles
Terrain: Woodlands, heathland
Difficulty: Easy
Notable Landmark: Observation tower

This tranquil walk takes you through the peaceful Holt Country Park, home to a mix of woodlands and heathland. The highlight of the trail is the observation tower that provides beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a great option for those looking for a short, relaxing walk in nature.

10. The Nar Valley Way

Start Point: Castle Acre
End Point: King’s Lynn
Distance: 33 miles
Terrain: Riverside paths, farmland, meadows
Difficulty: Moderate
Notable Landmark: Castle Acre Priory

This picturesque walk follows the River Nar, passing through a mix of open farmland, tranquil meadows, and historic sites like Castle Acre Priory. It offers walkers a variety of landscapes and opportunities for wildlife spotting, making it an ideal trail for those wanting to experience the rural beauty of Norfolk.

Summary – Top 10 Walks in Norfolk

We hope you enjoy this list of walks and look forward to trying some of them out on your next visit to Norfolk. Why not take a look at other counties too when planning other trips.