If you’re feeling the need to reset and recharge, there’s no better place than the Broads, a unique landscape with the same status as a national park. Offering a natural “gym” for mind, body and soul, this beautiful network of rivers, open skies and peaceful countryside invites you to get active in the great outdoors at no cost. Whether you prefer a gentle stroll, an energising run, or simply the chance to breathe in fresh air and reconnect with nature, the Broads provides the perfect setting. Here are some of the best footpaths to help you walk, run, or even star-jump your way to a fitter and healthier you.
Marshy Meandering:
Length: 3 miles, Terrain: easy going (marshland with tracks and footpaths), Walk Name: Waveney Valley Walks – Carlton Marshes
Carlton Marshes is nestled in the Broads National Park’s southern half and is comprised of over 1000 acres of grazing marsh, peat pools and fens. This three-mile meander will take you through a tapestry of wild flowers, cattle-grazed marshes and wet fens. It is the perfect habitat for a variety of wildlife such as water voles, marsh harriers and wintering wading birds. In the warmer months, Carlton Marshes is a great place to spot dragonflies, including the rare Norfolk hawker, a species strongly associated with the Broads. Carlton Marshes is the perfect location for mind and soul with its restorative dose of meadow flowers and birds on the wing.
Railway Rambling:
Length: 5.8 miles, Terrain: 25% hard, 75% soft – kissing gates, stiles, pedestrian gates and steps, Walk Name: Bittern Line Walk Three, Hoveton to Wroxham
For picturesque Broad-side pumping of iron taking in vintage railway lines, riverside meadows and an ancient church in Belaugh, there is the Bittern line walk from Hoveton to Wroxham. This inter-village workout sees you pass post offices, pubs and tea rooms so is ideal for those who fancy a taste of the outdoors but within close distance of local amenities. Get the blood flowing to the whistle of the steam engine, and mix up your workout with a press-up at every stile!
Weaving a Way:
Length: 18 miles, Terrain: country lanes, rural paths, farm tracks and field paths Walk Name: Weavers Way, Stalham to Acle
For those among us whose figgy pudding consumption knew no bounds on December 25th there is this 18-mile route which forms part of the Weavers’ Way. The route itself takes the participant past Sutton Mill and the River Thurne. It snakes its way through the village of Catfield, a well-known wildlife hot-spot and gives you plenty of time by the water’s edge. Whether you walk or run, the length of this route will help you feel healthier this January.
There are so many wonderful routes that take you through the glorious Broads National Park. The fresh air, proximity to nature and routes of all lengths for all abilities mean that everyone can get more active.
For further walk ideas that take you through the Broads National Park, check out our walking routes and Norfolk County Council’s array of routes, complete with maps and instructions.