From Fens and Forests to Coast and Countyside

Norfolk almost has it all…

Norfolk has it all for outdoor enthusiasts – unless, of course, you’re looking for hills and mountains!

From fens and forests, coast and countryside, ‘Nelson’s Country’ boasts spectacular scenery, amazing architecture and a host of historical houses to tempt even the most entrenched couch potato away from the sofa and into the great outdoors.

From the beauty of the Broads – with waterways teeming with wildlife and riverside paths and cycleways just waiting to be explored – to mile upon mile of coastal walks, and ancient towns and villages bursting with history, Norfolk offers something for everyone of all ages and fitness levels.

So dig out those trusty walking boots or walking shoes, pack your waterproofs just in case (this is Norfolk after all!)…and hit the open trail.

Peddars Way and the Norfolk Coast Path

The 93 miles following this old Roman road take in some of the most fabulous countryside on the east coast, with plenty of pubs and tea rooms en route for refreshments, and camping sites and guest houses for overnight stops.

Passing by the magnificent monastic ruins of Binham Priory, the remains of Blakeney Guildhall, Castle Rising at Kings Lynn, and other historical gems such as the Neolithic Grimes Graves and the medieval manor house at Weeting Castle, this is for walking enthusiasts, wildlife lovers and history buffs alike.

Boudicca Way

The Norwich to Diss Boudicca Way is named after the legendary Queen of the Iceni, and passes through the unspoilt countryside of the Waveney Valley.

This 36 mile route from Norwich towards the Suffolk border is another to whet the appetites of those interested in our heritage, with Venta Icenorum Roman town, the hill fort remains at Tasburgh, and Tivetshall St. Mary’s ruined church just some of the offerings en route.

Angles’ Way

This long-distance footpath takes you from Great Yarmouth to Knettishall Heath, and is a past winner of the ‘Best Waterside Walk in Britain’ award.

Connecting up with the Peddars Way and Icknield Way at Knettishall, the Angles’ Way passes by Fritton Lake, Burgh Catle, Oulton Broad, Beccles and Bungay.

Icknield Way

This claims to be the oldest roadway in Britain, running all the way from Ivinghoe Beacon in Buckinghamshire to east Anglia.

Following prehistoric pathways that were already well established when the Romans arrived, the route is steeped in history with many archaeological remains along the chalk ‘spine’ of England, and in Norfolk finishes at Knettishall Heath near Thetford.

The landscape is rich in wildlife and dotted with ancient hedgerows and woodland, making it a nature lover’s – and photographer’s – paradise.

Wildlife enthusiast and photographer Nicki Williams writes for www.gear-zone.co.uk