The Ultimate Guide to the Best Norfolk Walks

Within our guide to Norfolk walks, you can look forward to leisurely strolls along sandy beaches to hikes through the gently rolling countryside.

Norfolk is well known for its breath-taking locations including its AONB, The Broads, impressive Blue Flag beaches and its Deep History Coast. It offers a wealth of walking opportunities for those seeking a two-footed adventure, offering the perfect blend of coast and country and unspoiled views.

Continue reading to discover the 12 best Norfolk walks…

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1. The Norfolk Coast Path National Trail

The Norfolk Coast Path is a superb long-distance walk spanning from Hunstanton to Hopton-on-Sea. But, what can you see on one of the best walks in Norfolk?

Picturesque sand dunes, glorious golden sands, idyllic fishing villages and ports, and a glimpse of the local birdlife and seals if you’re lucky! History buffs will enjoy the World War II pillboxes and Allan Williams gun turrets on offer.

For those feeling active, you could take on the challenge of completing the full 84-mile route. However, there are a number of short linear and circular Norfolk walks in the area that the original Norfolk Coast Path passes through for you to enjoy too!

Be sure to add one of Norfolk’s best walks to your holiday itinerary.

Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 84 miles
Pub to visit: The White Horse, Brancaster Staithe

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2. Marriott’s Way

Following the former paths of two disused railway lines from Norwich to Aylsham, Marriotts Way is speckled with lush countryside, landscape and wildlife.

This picturesque county wildlife site offers the opportunity to get up close to Norfolk’s wildlife, including birds, deer and owls. Moreover, this Norfolk walk includes public art such as ancient station signs made from old railway beams, as well as poems and sculptures.

Those seeking Norfolk walks with local charm should definitely explore Marriott’s Way.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 26 miles 
Pub to visit: The Otter, Drayton

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3. The Weavers’ Way

The picturesque Weavers’ Way is a must-do for anyone seeking the best walks in Norfolk. Starting at Cromer and through the Norfolk Broads AONB all the way down towards the delights of Great Yarmouth.

This long-distance Norfolk walk offers the opportunity for you to enjoy a diverse landscape of woodland, farmland, history estates and the Norfolk Broads. During the walk, be sure to visit the Time and Tide Museum, the National Trust – Elizabethan House, and the bustling seafront at Great Yarmouth.

Be sure to check out the excellent selection of pubs en-route, perfect for refuelling along the way.

Walkers can choose to complete the full route, or explore a collection of short liner walks that run differing lengths of the Weavers’ Way.

Difficulty: Moderate/Hard
Distance: 61 miles
Pub to visit: The Star Inn & Restaurant, Lessingham 

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4. Boudicca Way

The stunning trail of Boudicca Way leads through the breath-taking countryside of South Norfolk.

Taking its name from the well-known warrior Queen of Iceni, a tribe who formerly inhabited in East Anglia, the route follows the former march of the army from Norwich to Diss.

This is one of the most popular walks in Norwich and is suited to those who prefer long-distance trails.

Along the way, you can expect rural countryside, farmland, the historic site of Venta Icenorum and the quaint villages of Saxlingham, Shotesham and Pulham Market.

Difficulty: Easy 
Distance: 36 miles 
Pub to visit: The Crown Inn, Pulham Market

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5. Blakeney Point Coastal Walk

The Blakeney Point Coastal Walk in Norfolk is known for its grey seal population, birdlife, and picturesque sand dunes.

The walk begins at Cley Beach car park. From here, venture along towards the National Trust reserve where you will find a fauna-filled landscape speckled with wildlife.

Expect to see the resident basking grey seals, migrant birds and playful otters during your stroll. Outdoor enthusiasts will not want to miss out on one of the most wildlife-rich walks in Norfolk!

Blakeney Point is a real gem for those seeking a walk with nature at its heart.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 4 miles
Pub to visit: King Arms, Blakeney

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6. Blickling Estate Walk

With approximately 4,600 acres of forest, parks, and farming, the Blicking Estate makes one of Norfolk’s best woodland walks!

While exploring the grounds you can visit the on-site mausoleum, browse the second-hand bookshop, or tour the impressive interiors of the hall itself.

The estate is famed for its bluebells and peaceful lake that overlooks the majestic property. A splendid walk in Norfolk at any time of the year!

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 4.5 miles
Pub to visit: The Buckinghamshire Arms, Blickling

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7. Peddars Way

Next on our guide to the best Norfolk walks is another long-distance trail, offering breath-taking views at every turn.

Peddars Way is one of the two paths that make up The National Trail and leads you along gentle terrain with stunning sea views and chances to spot the local wildlife.

The popular hiking trail in Norfolk became known as the Peddars Way in the 15th century. This was a way of paying homage to the pilgrims who would frequently travel this route to reach Walsingham.

This landscape rich walk in Norfolk begins in the woodlands of Knettishall Heath on the outskirts of Thetford and ends at Holme-next-the-Sea, perfect for those seeking a country walk with a splash of the coast.

Along Peddars Way, you can expect Roman roads, picturesque medieval ports, coastal villages and welcoming pubs offering the freshest seafood. What’s not to love?

Difficulty: Easy 
Distance: 129.5 miles 
Pub to visit: The Pedder’s Inn, Sporle

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8. Norfolk Felbrigg Estate Mountain Walk

This Norfolk circular walk offers ramblers and hikers the opportunity to embark on a 16-mile walk, spanning 1,140-feet, the equivalent of a small mountain.

Suited to those who prefer long-distance walks with an incline, the trail begins and ends at the esteemed National Trust site of the 17th-century Felbrigg Hall.

Expect stunning countryside views, quiet lanes, and the popular towns of Sheringham and Weybourne where you can sample the local delights at a charming selection of pubs, restaurants and cafes.

A walk in Norfolk, which offers the very best of town and country.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 16 miles
Pub to visit: The White Horse, Cromer

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9. Sheringham Circular Walk

If you’re planning to walk in Norfolk, you won’t want to miss out on the beautiful range of landscapes that the Sheringham circular walk has to offer. As one of the best walks in the UK, you won’t be disappointed!

It begins in Sheringham, where you’ll find the picturesque Sheringham Park or the wildlife-filled marshes of Beeston Common, before finally ending in Weybourne.

Take some time to explore the pretty village of Weybourne, where you find the fascinating ruins of Weybourne Priory, Cley Windmill and the marvellous Weybourne Beach, which sits along the Deep History Coast.

Be sure to check out the rugged clifftops for exceptional views and the Poppy Line Railway, where train enthusiasts will be thrilled at the sight of the steam trains rumbling past.

Before hiking back to your Norfolk base, refuel at the welcoming Ship Inn offering fresh seafood and over 100 types of gin!

Difficulty: Moderate 
Distance: 6 miles
Pub to visit: The Lobster, Sheringham

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10. Horsey Windpump and Beach Walk

One of Norfolk’s finest coastal walks and set within the stunning Norfolk Broads, the Horsey Windpump and beach walk take you through the vast National Trust landscape. This landscape is complete with marshes, sand dunes and grassy paths.

Embark along the trail to discover an idyllic sandy beach, where you can spot the local wildlife of Grey Seals which frequent the shores of Horsey Gap, one of the best beaches in Norfolk.

After a day hiking along the coast and spotting the local wildlife, return to the iconic landmark of Horsey Windpump, a Grade II* Listed building with expansive views at its top and a delightful tea room where you can refuel.

A Norfolk walk that truly puts you in the heart of nature.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3 miles
Pub to visit: Nelson Head, Horsey

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11. Little Ouse Path

Those looking for a gentler walk when exploring Norfolk may favour the charming Little Ouse Path. Following flat terrain through the Little Ouse Valley, which offers easy access to the popular Thetford Forest.

Here, you can enjoy a leisurely riverside stroll whilst enjoying the peaceful surroundings of woodland. End the walk at Brandon where you can enjoy the delights of the Brandon Country Park with expansive lakes and a beautiful walled garden ready to explore.

As well as walking, visitors can enjoy riding horses or cycling along the path!

Difficulty: Easy 
Distance: 9 miles
Pub to visit: The White Horse, South Lopham

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12. Aylsham Workhouse Walk

With its name derived from the workhouse that you will pass en route, the Aylsham Workhouse Walk is the perfect walk in Norfolk for beginners.

As one of only five remaining workhouses in Norfolk, it provides an opportunity to learn more about local history. This popular Norfolk walk follows the trail of Marriott’s Way through Aylsham and the countryside, ensuring lots to see along the way!

You can end your walk at the Aylesham Heritage Centre before dining at the popular Black Boys Hotel.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2 miles
Pub to visit: The Black Boys Hotel and Restaurant, Aylsham

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Do one of these Norfolk walks take your fancy? If so, find your perfect place to stay amongst this collection of cottages in Norfolk! For more inspiration on how to make your holiday unforgettable, check out the Norfolk travel guide.