A pub and a pootle in the Broads National Park

As far as national pastimes go, going for a stroll in the great outdoors and stopping off for something to drink and a bite to eat is certainly up there with the best. So, since the weather's getting better and spring is here (apparently!) we thought we'd gear you up with our picks for some of the best walks with a pub en route in the Broads National Park.

The Weavers Way, Acle:

Distance: 4.5 miles, Type: Circular, On route pub: The Acle Bridge Inn

About the walk: A perfect route to take in the riverbanks and with plenty of opportunities to take a break along the way. The historic St Mary’s Church at Fishley is on the route and just waiting to be explored, and there are benches to stop and catch your breath at the Green, Upton and at Bridewell Lane and Acle village centre. For the opportunity to spot some of that iconic Broads wildlife, this riverside walk is ideal.

About the pub: The Acle Bridge Inn is situated on the route and welcomes ‘children, dogs and muddy boots’ – just what you want to hear after a brisk country walk! Their menu caters for vegetarians and gluten-free diets and offers a mixture of warm cooked food as well as light bites and snacks.

The Angles Way, Great Yarmouth to Burgh Castle:

Distance: 4.5 miles, Type: Linear, On route pub: The Fisherman's Inn

About the walk: Welcome to the walk that has it all. Start at Great Yarmouth where you can explore the historic maritime town before heading off on a walk to ancient Burgh Castle, taking in views across Breydon Water on one side and miles of marshes on the other. Finish by exploring the fabulous castle before stopping off at the Burgh Castle Marina for a waterside munch.

About the pub: At the Burgh Castle Marina is The Fisherman's Inn which offers delicious dishes served beside the river. Don’t be fooled by the name, there is a selection of food for all dietary requirements, with a bijou seasonal menu which updates regularly. You won’t be disappointed!

The Wherryman’s Way, Reedham:

Distance: 4 miles, Type: Circular, On route pub: The Reedham Ferry Inn

About the walk: Take in miles of Norfolk countryside with the promise of a pub lunch beside the Broads on the route. This Reedham route rambles along the riverbanks and takes you past Reedham railway station (the perfect place to start from if you’re visiting by rail). Points of interest include Norton Marsh, Reedham Quay, Reedham chain ferry and the railway swing bridge.

About the pub: The Reedham Ferry Inn looks out over the water and is currently offering a brand new spring menu; choose between tempura vegetables with soy and honey poppy seed dipping sauce, a tagine including apricots, dates and prunes, complete with chilli and mint and lemon infused couscous, or one of their many other mouth-wateringdishes. They pride themselves on serving local produce, prepared freshly on site, so put your feet up and get ready to sample East Anglian ingredients at their best.

The Bittern Line Walk, Hoveton and Wroxham:

Distance: 5.8 miles, Type: Circular, On route pub: The King's Head

About the walk: This wonderful walk takes you along the railway lines of times gone by.You’ll pass through Hoveton, Wroxham and Coltishall and might even see a traditional steam train travelling on the narrow gauge railway which runs alongside some of the footpath. Look out for Anchor Street (once famous for its boatbuilding) and enjoy uninterrupted views across the countryside.

About the pub:  The King's Head at Coltishall is a local 17th-century inn that offers a truly special dining experience. The owner, Kevin Gardner, is a member of the Masterchefs of Great Britain, so you know you're getting delicious food made with quality ingredients. There is an an a la carte menu, a lunch menu that changes weekly and even a Sunday menu which of course includes your traditional roast!