Norfolk
Step into Serenity - 12 Must-Try Norfolk Woodland Walks!
Step into Serenity - 12 Must-Try Norfolk Woodland Walks!
Forest walk from Hockham Picnic Site by Hugh Venables under license CC BY-SA 4.0
The table above lists all the best forest walks in Norfolk. Click on each name to be taken straight to the part of the blog post for that walk.
Are you ready to shake off daily life and be surrounded by nature? Norfolk could be the perfect destination for that. With its ancient woodlands, undulating trails, and stunning views, forest walks in Norfolk provide invigorating opportunities to connect with the outdoors – whether you are looking to take a stroll or an adventurous hike. Let’s explore why taking a trip to Norfolk to experience the stunning woodland trails is worth it!
The Best Woodland Trails in Norfolk
In this blog post, we will be listing the many forest walks in Norfolk.
Explore the gorgeous scenery in one of England's tourist hotspots in the Norfolk countryside! Have a look below at the forest walks available on the interactive map and click on the buttons below the map for each walk, to be taken to the Forestry England pages for further information on the forest trails.
Harling Woods
Experience the tranquility of nature's finest by journeying to Harling Wood. Located in the Thetford Forest district, this area offers a whole host of outdoor delights and opportunities for exploration - from nearby holiday sites perfect for an overnight stay to 6 km circuits through lush woodland where you can get lost discovering all its hidden gems! So why not pack your camping gear or just take a day trip; either way it is sure to be one memorable adventure.
Great Hockham
Explore the Great Hockham woodland and marvel at its unique landscape! Take a picnic for your journey, located just east of the Great Hockham village, while walking on one of the two waymarked trails here. Don't forget your four-legged friend as they can also join in this exciting outdoor adventure with you! Also, look out for pingos - geological features formed during the last Ice Age that dot this beautiful woodland setting.
High Lodge
High Lodge in Thetford Forest is the perfect spot for outdoor adventurers. From playing, running, and climbing to cycling through forest trails - you'll never run out of things to explore! Plus, with a range of play areas sprinkled throughout the wilderness and thrilling mountain biking routes available, your next visit will be calling sooner than expected. Even better? A Heritage Trail has been created – supported by funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund – so everyone can enjoy nature’s beauty at this superb natural escape destination!
Two Mile Bottom
Discover a hidden gem of picnic pleasure at Two Mile Bottom near Thetford. A spectacular canopy of beech trees will embrace you as you enjoy the peace and serenity that this popular spot provides. Wander amidst stunning heathers, grasses, and wildflowers while marveling at an abundance of butterflies and bees! Whether pausing for lunch or just to take in your natural surroundings, there's no better place to come and explore today!
Lynford Arboretum by Stephen McKay under license CC BY-SA 4.0
Lynford Arboretum
Make your way to the Lynford Arboretum for an unforgettable peaceful experience. Take a stroll along one of the three varied trails, and be amazed by nature’s beauty - enjoy vibrant bird calls in spring, soak up carpet-like fields of wildflowers, or marvel at autumn's awe-inspiring display with the woodland lighting up with alternating colours of russet and gold. Whether you choose restorative serenity or invigorating exploration - this woodland paradise promises a memorable adventure!
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Lynford Water
Experience a journey through time in the stunning landscape of Lynford Water! Located near Mundford, this area consists of flooded gravel pits with an accompanying sandy beach. Stroll along its walking trail and take some moments to admire Sequoia Avenue and The Bull Ride - two awe-inspiring sculptures within these grounds. Evidence suggests that 60 thousand years ago, Neanderthal humans inhabited this same spot – so don’t miss out on your chance for reflection as you explore what was once their home.
Redneck Heath, Thetford Forest by Bob Jones under license CC BY-SA 4.0
Thetford Forest
Escape to the UK's wondrous 18,730-hectare paradise at Thetford Forest, offering a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Explore some of the forest's main visitor sites like High Lodge with its thrilling outdoor play areas or indulge in the rich history of Mildenhall Warren and the beauty of Lynford Arboretum. Embrace peace amid pines, heathland, and broadleaves on your walks around Santon Downham - an ideal day out awaits!
High Ash
High Ash offers an exciting exploration of history and nature. With the Cromwell tank memorial at its entrance, a tribute to the 7th Armoured Division's Desert Rats during WWII, it is ideal for anyone interested in uncovering some hidden historical gems! Embark on the two-mile trail around High Ash Forest to learn about their time there with detailed interpretation boards as you take in spectacular views; all while appreciating mother nature too.
Santon Downham
Take a journey through the unspoiled beauty of Santon Downham and explore its natural wonders. Be immersed in nature as you traverse pathways, meadows, woodland areas, and riverside trails on your way to Little Ouse Valley Forest Nature Reserve on the Orange Walking Trail. Once part of Charles Sloane's estate (later Lord Cadogan), this tranquil area offers spectacular views while providing plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting - from deer quietly grazing among wildflowers to colourful birds flitting across branches high above you!
Forest Track, West Bilney Woods by Ben Harris under license CC BY-SA 4.0
West Bilney Wood
Escape to a tranquil woodland paradise just south of King's Lynn. West Bilney Wood is home to towering pines, sun-dappled paths, and rich wildlife - the perfect setting for an idyllic afternoon stroll! Venture along its public footpaths not only for peace and serenity but also for some interesting glimpses into local history too. Let nature take your breath away as you explore this slice of East Anglian beauty.
Shouldham Woods
Discover the beauty of nature and history in Shouldham Woods near King's Lynn. Uncover two healthy woodland walks, taking in stunning scenery amid green fields as you go - there are even remnants from a historic spring lying at the top of the hill in the forest.
Bacton Wood
Discover tranquility and nature in North Norfolk's Bacton Wood. With over 30 species of tree, including Beech, Scots Pine, and more, the woodland is a great spot for exploring on foot or bike - all while helping to sustain people, wildlife, and timber at the same time! Not far from North Walsham either; what are you waiting for?
Conclusion
In this blog post, we have shared some of the woodland walks in Norfolk. To find out more about things to do in the area, click on the buttons below:
I hope this article has been useful in highlighting the best forest walks in Norfolk giving an insight into some of the amazing trails in this area.
Please note...
All outdoor activities including forest walks involve a degree of risk. The walks are recommended due to the well known features of each forest but this may change over time and further research is required before undertaking any activity. The weather can also impact the surface and general conditions of each path so please keep yourself updated with the weather forecast before setting off to enjoy your walk!
Crown Copyright, courtesy Forestry Commission (01/03/23) licensed under the Open Government License.