Best trails in The Broads National Park
Broads National Park, also known as 'The Broads', is a network of mostly navigable rivers and lakes in the English counties of Norfolk and Suffolk. The lakes, known as broads, were formed by the flooding of peat workings. The waterways are lock-free, although there are five bridges under which only small cruisers and smaller boats can pass. The Broads largely follow the line of the rivers and natural navigations of the area. There are seven navigable rivers, the River Yare and its (direct and indirect) tributaries the Rivers Bure, Thurne, Ant, Waveney, Chet and Wensum.
Top trails
1
(556)
•Moderate
•5.6 mi
•Est. 2–2.5 hr
This lovely walk offers both broad walking and a stretch of the coast, where there is the special treat of an opportunity to spot some seals - if you are lucky. The walk ends with a run along an old drain, but don't worry, it's not the unpleasant kind, just another word for a man-made ditch.
As if this wasn't enough, the walk starts at Horsey Mill, a drainage mill once driven by wind power. The mill has been through the mill as it were, having continued to work until 1943 when it was struck...
2
(436)
•Easy
•4.1 mi
•Est. 1.5–2 hr
This circular walk cuts through the countryside alongside the miniature Bure Valley Railway. If you are lucky, you may even see a steam train pass. The walk follows a variety of field tracks and riverside paths.
As this follows a rail line, the walk is generally flat, and the paths are usually well maintained, meaning this is a good hike for experience levels. That said, there are some patches of the trail that can get a little muddy, so it's best to come prepared with good outdoor...
3
(246)
•Easy
•6.7 mi
•Est. 2–2.5 hr
Experience a delightful stroll by the riverbank from How Hill National Nature Reserve to St Benet's Abbey, the sole monastic site in England that King Henry VIII never officially shut down. How Hill boasts of the Toad Hole Cottage Museum, wildlife boat excursions on the Electric Eel, and a nature trail for wildlife enthusiasts. Moreover, there are three drainage mills on the premises and a tea room available during summer. However, certain areas may become muddy during the wet season, so it...
4
(279)
•Moderate
•5.5 mi
•Est. 2–2.5 hr
The Rockland Ramble is one of the Broads Authority's routes, starting from Rockland, visiting Rockland Broad and heading through varied meadow and farmland habitats. This is a relatively flat route and suitable for many ages and fitness levels. Be aware that this area can get muddy after rain, so dress accordingly.
5
(148)
•Easy
•2.4 mi
•Est. 0.5–1 hr
This is a lovely loop around the water's edge where you can take in the varied bird life. Species spotted here include herons, geese, kingfishers, and cormorants. Take your time on this shorter trail to enjoy the peaceful and scenic paths. Take care on the rougher sections of this trail, especially in wetter weather. Appropriate footwear is advised.
6
(169)
•Moderate
•5.3 mi
•Est. 1.5–2 hr
The North Walsham and Dilham Canal has been called Norfolk's only canal, although it is in fact a "canalised" section of the River Ant, or a Navigation. It once did have locks, slightly wider than canal locks, in order to accommodate Norfolk Wherries. The ruins of one of these locks can be seen on this circular walk. Although technically a disused canal, you can still see boats on the water, notably at the start in Dilham, which is in fact the limit of navigation.
The trail starts in Dilham...
7
(165)
•Easy
•7.5 mi
•Est. 2.5–3 hr
This is a pleasant circular trail that invests a little time upfront to get to the end of Upton Dyke, after which you follow a number of different waterways. The Broads tend not to be too walker-friendly as much of the land around them still tends to be in private hands, with few footpaths. This is therefore a rare chance to do a decent circular route involving those that do exist.
If you are used to canal walking the Broads are different, somewhere between a canal and a river, with the...
8
(86)
•Easy
•7.3 mi
•Est. 2.5–3 hr
A great walk to St Bennett’s Abbey and following the River Bure to Ludham Bridge. It visits How Hill House before making its way back to the trailhead in Ludham, where you'll be able to stop by the pub for a lovely meal.
It's a nice flat trail that can be muddy in the Broads, so come prepared with the appropriate footwear.
9
(130)
•Moderate
•7.2 mi
•Est. 2.5–3 hr
This circular route crosses the River Waveney, heading over marshland, farm fields, and through pretty lanes in Beccles. There are lovely views over the water where you can spot wildlife along the banks. Some of the riverside paths can be affected by flooding with deep water and mud making the trails a bit tricky. Care is needed as well as appropriate waterproof footwear. There may also be livestock in some of the fields that need their space. Enjoy the points for refreshment along this route.
10
(135)
•Easy
•2.0 mi
•Est. 0.5–1 hr
This is an easy out-and-back route in The Broads National Park that begins at Burgh Castle, the ruins of a Roman Fort. It then explores the beautiful Glebe Marsh. There is an abundance of wildlife in the area including deer, so keep your eyes out! A wide variety of bird species also live here, making this a great trail for birdwatching.
Make sure to check out the interesting informational signage that tells you a bit about the local history and environment. This route is relatively flat and...
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Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to hike in The Broads National Park?
According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in The Broads National Park is Horsey Windmills and Dunes Circular, which has a 4.6 star rating from 556 reviews. This trail is 5.6 mi long with an elevation gain of 390 ft.
What is the longest trail in The Broads National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in The Broads National Park is Weavers Way. This trail is estimated to be 55.6 mi long.
How many trails are in The Broads National Park?
There are 103 trails in The Broads National Park. These trails have an average 4.2-star rating from 5,608 AllTrails community reviews.
Which trail has the most elevation gain in The Broads National Park?
If you're looking for elevation gain, The Broads National Park has you covered. Weavers Way boasts the most elevation gain with 3,382 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is Horsey - Ludham and Potter Cycle Circular, which will get you 1,614 ft of elevation gain.
Are there camping trails available in The Broads National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, there are 11 camping trails in The Broads National Park and the most popular is Dilham Canal Circular with an average 4.4 star rating from 169 community reviews.
Are there running trails available in The Broads National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, there are 76 running trails in The Broads National Park and the most popular is Horsey Windmills and Dunes Circular with an average 4.6 star rating from 556 community reviews.
Are there biking trails available in The Broads National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, there are 15 biking trails in The Broads National Park and the most popular is Beccles Yacht and River Waveney Circular with an average 4.3 star rating from 105 community reviews.
Are there any trails with rivers in The Broads National Park?
Yes, there are 44 trails with rivers in The Broads National Park, including Horsey Windmills and Dunes Circular, How Hill to St Benet's Abbey, Whitlingham Great Broad, The Broads and Boardwalks Circular, and Ludham - The Broads - Toad Hole Cottage Circular.
Are there any trails with historical ruins in The Broads National Park?
Yes, there are 11 trails with historical ruins in The Broads National Park, including How Hill to St Benet's Abbey, Ludham - The Broads - Toad Hole Cottage Circular, St. Benet's Abbey from Broadlands, Surlingham to Bramerton Circular, and The Ferry House - Surlingham Circular.
Are there any trails with lakes in The Broads National Park?
Yes, there are 34 trails with lakes in The Broads National Park, including Horsey Windmills and Dunes Circular, Whitlingham Great Broad, The Broads and Boardwalks Circular, Burgh Castle and River Waveney, and Waveney River Centre, Carlton Marshes, and Oulton Broad.
Are there any trails with scenic viewpoints in The Broads National Park?
Yes, there are 4 trails with scenic viewpoints in The Broads National Park, including Horsey Windmills and Dunes Circular, Waveney River Centre, Carlton Marshes, and Oulton Broad, Irstead Staithe and Barton Boardwalk Circular, and Oulton Broad and Carlton Marshes Circular.
Are there any trails with picnic areas in The Broads National Park?
Yes, there are 4 trails with picnic areas in The Broads National Park, including Horsey Windmills and Dunes Circular, Whitlingham Great Broad, Norwich to Surlingham via the Wherrymans Way, and Loddon Loop.
Are there any trails with bird hides or bird blinds in The Broads National Park?
Yes, there are 12 trails with bird hides or bird blinds in The Broads National Park, including Waveney River Centre, Carlton Marshes, and Oulton Broad, Strumpshaw Fen Circular, Potter Heigham Extended Bridge Circular, Oulton Broad and Carlton Marshes Circular, and Berney Arms, Breydon Water and Great Yarmouth.
Are there any trails with historical monuments in The Broads National Park?
Yes, there are 6 trails with historical monuments in The Broads National Park, including Rockland Ramble Circular, Hardley Hike Circular, Bungay Circular, Wherryman's Way: Rockland St Mary to Loddon, and Norwich Kayak to Thorpe St Andrew.
Are there any trails with archaeological sites in The Broads National Park?
Yes, there are 3 trails with archaeological sites in The Broads National Park, including Burgh Castle and River Waveney, The Ferry House - Surlingham Circular, and Rockland St Mary Circular.
Top Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Norfolk
Points of interest
- River Ant
- Horsey Staithe
- Whitlingham Great Broad
- Womack Water
- Butterfly Garden
- Saint Benet's Abbey Drainage Mill
- River Waveney
- Barton Broad
- River Ant
- Horsey Windpump
- Thurne Dyke
- Bureside Holiday Park
- Acle Dyke
- Candle Dyke
- Whitlingham Country Park - Picnic Meadow
- Salhouse Broad
- Canal Camping
- Burgh Castle Roman Site
- Holly Farm Lakes
- Three Rivers Pitch & Paddle