Angles Way

One of the main long-distance footpaths in Norfolk, the Angles Way starts in Great Yarmouth and ends in Thetford. Along its 92-mile route, you’ll pass through beautiful wetland areas, walk along picturesque rivers and traverse some of Norfolk’s most beautiful countryside.

There are plenty of pubs where you can stop for a drink on the way as well as a number of historic sights to discover. Offering the perfect opportunity to see a little more of Norfolk’s expansive landscapes, the walk is a great way to get out and explore.

Route

 The Angles Way broadly follows the routes of the River Waveney and the River Little Ouse, with some sections of the path taking you right along the water’s edge. As the route follows these important local rivers, you’ll be skirting the border of Norfolk and Suffolk for much of your journey.

If you wanted to make the route circular, you could join the Boudicca Way in Diss and return to Great Yarmouth via Norwich and the Wherryman’s Way. For an even longer loop, join the Pedders Way at Knettishall Heath and follow it to Hunstanton where it meets the Norfolk Coast Path.

Difficulty

 Although most of the countryside you walk through on the route is flat, the sheer length of the path makes the Angles Way a challenge. If you don’t want to tackle its entire 92 miles, you can divide the route into eight easier sections: Great Yarmouth to Fritton Lake, Fritton Lake to Oulton Broad, Oulton Broad to Beccles, Beccles to Bungay, Bungay to Harleston, Harleston to Diss, Diss to Knettishall Heath and Knettishall Heath to Thetford.

Most of the Angles Way is made up of good-quality footpaths. However, sections of the route can become muddy in bad weather so make sure you bring your wellies if you’re walking the route in wet conditions.

Facilities

 Both ends of the Angles Way are easily accessible by public transport with trains and buses serving both Great Yarmouth and Thetford. Most other towns and villages on the route are also accessible by public transport, although services may be limited in more rural areas.

You’ll find restaurants, pubs and accommodation options in most places on the route including Burgh Castle, Oulton Broad, Beccles, Bungay, Harleston and Diss. This ensures there’s always somewhere to stop when you’re feeling thirsty or when it’s time to put your walking boots away for the day.

Points of Interest

 Just 4.5 miles on from Great Yarmouth you’ll find Burgh Castle. This ancient Roman fort was originally constructed to defend the area against Saxon raids and the site still offers great views of the surrounding area.

A few miles on from Burgh Castle is Oulton Broad. As well as being an important habitat for grey herons and otters, the broad offers an excellent choice of water sports.

Just under the halfway point of your walk you’ll come to Bungay. This picturesque Anglo-Saxon town has a small market, a number of antique shops, the remains of a 13th-century castle and a great choice of pubs.

If this has got you in the mood to get out and explore, why not book yourself a trip to Norfolk and discover the Angles Way for yourself?