Walking in Norfolk

Norfolk's big skies and wide open spaces put the county firmly on the map as a walker's dream holiday destination. With routes incorporating coast, country, fen and forest walking – even, contrary to rumour, a few hills – there's no better way to discover Norfolk than on foot.

Whether you want a serious ramble or an occasional stroll, there really is something for everyone here, and the pleasure extends through the seasons. Enjoy tramping through golden leaves in the autumn, follow a frosty hedgerow in winter, or revel in the sight of the bright red poppies and sandy beaches in spring and summer.

For those with an adventurous spirit, Norfolk has a wealth of long distance walks. Try the ancient Peddars Way which links to the Norfolk Coast Path – 93 miles along a Roman road from Knettishall Heath Country Park through to Holme-next-the-Sea, and then on to Cromer pier. The Angles Way links the Norfolk Broads to the Brecks and is 77 miles long, while the Weavers Way from Cromer to Great Yarmouth is 57 miles.

The 34-mile Nar Valley Way starts at King's Lynn and follows the course of one of the finest chalk streams in East Anglia, the River Nar. And other long distance walks include the Marriot's Way – 21 miles along a former railway line from Norwich to Aylsham – and Boudicca's Way from Norwich to Diss, which is a 40-mile trek.

For more leisurely strolls, there are some lovely little walks in most towns and villages. Norfolk is well sign posted for footpaths so you’ll soon spot one as you start to wander. Norwich has a beautiful riverside walk which takes you past the land mark Cathedral Close, past Carrow road, and along the Wensum river bank.

Norfolk's famous Broads make for interesting waterside rambling with pretty pubs and historic windmills providing plenty of resting places.

And of course no holiday would be complete without a trip to Thetford Forest – Britain's largest lowland pine forest has miles of waymarked trails plus all the essential facilities for a family outing. Further locations where you can combine a walk with other interests include the beautiful National Trust estates of Felbrigg and Blickling.

If you prefer to get off the beaten track, arm yourself with a good OS map and follow the footpaths and bridleways which are dotted around the county – most are well signposted and excellently maintained.