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 back to Cromer.
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 theNational Trailwebsite.
Bacton Wood
If you’ve ever watched a film or a novel set in or around Bacton Wood then you’ll know why it’s so popular with visitors to the area. It’s a series of carefully-groomed, sheltered enclosed areas around pre-historic Bactian Sea sands which sit between the high coastal cliffs of the Roman Wall and the vivid and fascinating looking freshwater pools of the Roman Canal. There are three woodland routes in this part of the county which alongside the Roman Wall open up into the charming and diverse countryside of the valley. There is even a children’s play area with swings and sandpits.
Dartmoor National Park
If you are after somewhere where you can have a gentle stroll with your partner or family around Dartmoor National Park you’re in the right place – Dartmoor is the longest and closest protected area in Britain. There are four circular walks and six of these are suitable for most ages and abilities. There are three miles of well-marked track in each of these areas, meaning that parents can keep an eye on their children while they explore this wonderful area.
The tilting grey steep Pyg Track can be enjoyed from the north bank of the Dart River, with its wonderful view across the Shillingham Channel towards the Isle of Wight. The 2.25 mile walk is well worth the effort as you walk between the ancient Roman ruins and the freshwater pools, always with a glimpse of the wildlife around you.
If you’re feeling energetic, try the anchor post swim on the Balloon Ball Hills, where you can plummet between the charming village houses built in the 1700’s. After yachting across the Bass in one of the ten wooden boats, it’s possible to sit on the edge and watch the seals nearby.
This watery adventure is perfect for all the family – or if you’re in search of something a bit more exciting, you could try an activity such as horse riding or mountain biking.
Eskdale Airsoft playing fields
With a beautifully kept forestry and campsites perfect for all ages, Eskdale is one of the most beautiful areas in the Lake District. There are a number of indoor and outdoor playing fields that are perfect for a little action packed playtime. With a motor ski slope, you can do anything from racing kites to shooting galleries – and fast and furious action based play is never far away.
This area is surrounded by fabulous wildlife such as squirrels, rabbits, deer, geese, ducks and many more, and there are many Things to See and Do in Eskdale. The woodland is home to lots of birds like herons, terns, marsh harriers, and kingfishers.
There are some fabulous activities on offer such as quarry safari, conductive trips, waste bowland walking, miniature golf, 6 pitches 9 holes, a 9 hole golf course, croquet courts, playground and a waterslides area. Many of the clubs in the area have catering facilities, so you can eat out or bring your own food.
You can also go diving, although caution is advised as there are remnants of the mines and tunnels from the coal industry still active. It is certainly a cleaner environment than the Bassenthwaite beaches, but you are still only in the centre of it – where the many attractions lie.
If you enjoy horse riding then you horse riding centre is situated in Eskdale and they have a superb 1st class riding course.
