5 of the best walking and hiking trails in Norfolk

From ancient Roman roads to more than 200 miles of footpaths in the Broads alone, there's more than enough to see and do. 

Here are five places to go off the beaten track in Norfolk. 

1. Norfolk Coastal Path

Length: 84 miles 

The Norfolk Coastal Path tops the list as the county's longest and most challenging walk, stretching more than 80 miles along the northern coast from Hunstanton to Hopton-on-Sea. 

This trail was established by the Romans who settled in the county around 43AD and has been in continuous use for nearly 2,000 years. 

Once completed, diehard hikers can continue onto Peddar's Way which provides another 46 miles of beautiful coastline ambling.

2. Great Hockham Trail

Length: Two to four miles

Enjoy the sunshine at Great Hockham this year (Image: Newsquest)

The Great Hockham walking trail provides a steady woodland hike surrounded by pines and mature oaks within Thetford Forest.

Visitors are encouraged to try and spot the distinctive pingos, glacial ponds that were formed during the last Ice Age.

The trail features benches and picnic spots for regular breaks and a comfortable place to have lunch after a morning spent exploring this Norfolk gem. 

3. Whitlingham Broad 

Length: 2.4 miles

The walk around Whitlingham Broad is one of the best within the city limits (Image: Newsquest)

Those looking to go on a walk in the city area don't need to look any further than Whitlingham Broad for a beautiful waterside romp. 

A little under two and a half miles, the flat trail winds around Whitlingham Lake and begins and ends at the Broads-ran café and gift shop. 

This track is ideal for young children and dog walkers, best enjoyed on a warm day with plenty of time to have a picnic. 

4. Blakeney Point Coastal Walk

Length: Seven miles

The award-winning Blakeney Point is a challenging but enjoyable place to walk along the dunes (Image: Newsquest)

Blakeney's wildlife reserve and points of natural beauty make it the perfect place to explore.

Described as a "moderate" difficulty path, the stroll along the shingle spit to the sand dunes is best enjoyed over three hours at low tide. 

Marvel at the scenery and wide-open sky from Blakeney's Lifeboat House, and even go grey seal watching from June to August. 

5. How Hill Circular Walk

Length: Roughly six miles 

Stroll from How Hill to Saint Benet's Abbey while soaking up the fresh air (Image: Newsquest)

A must-do for all history lovers, the wildlife walking trail from How Hill to Saint Benet's Abbey is a walk back in time.

This gentle amble features the remains of the only monastic site in England that was not officially closed down by King Henry VIII.

As part of the Broads National Nature Reserve, keep your eyes peeled for swallowtail butterflies from June to August, as well as dragonflies, wintering birds and wildfowl.