Cycling Routes around the Southern Broads

Quiet lanes, stunning scenery, great pubs and virtually no hills make the Broads ideal for discovering on two wheels. Bike routes criss-cross the area, taking cyclists to some of the region’s most beautiful spots. Routes vary from around ten miles to over twenty miles, offering families, beginners and more serious cyclists a great selection of picturesque paths to choose from.

As a bike ride makes an excellent addition to a boating holiday in Norfolk, we’re taking a look at some of the most beautiful routes the Southern Broads have to offer.

Bungay, Geldston, Beccles, Barsham, Ilketshall St Andrews

The longest route in the Southern Broads connects Bungay, Geldston, Beccles, Barsham and Ilketshall St Andrews. Covering a distance of 25 miles, cyclists will need to allow four to four and a half hours to complete the route. The path partly follows the Waveney Valley and takes you to the pretty market town of Bungay. Stop at one of the lovely country pubs on the way or, if the weather’s good, pack yourself a picnic and have lunch on the quay in Beccles. View route.

Three River Loop

The second longest ride in the Southern Broads is the Three Rivers Loop. Twenty miles long, the circuit takes in Loddon, Reedham, Beccles and Geldeston. The three rivers you’ll see as you travel round the loop are the Waveney, the Yare and the Chet. You can also explore the marshes on a spur to Reedham, though you’ll have to cross the river on the chain ferry if you want to reach the town itself. A fantastic choice if you want to explore the region’s waterways, this picturesque cycle ride should take around four hours. View route.

Bungay – visiting Earsham, Ditchingham, Ellingham, Geldeston

If you’re looking for a shorter bike ride and a more laid-back day out, this 12-mile route is perfect. Giving you the chance to see some of the region’s pretty towns and villages, as well as its beautiful landscape, the route should take around two hours from start to finish. View route.

Burgh St Peter Staithe – visiting Aldeby, Toft Monks, Wheatacre

The shortest route in the Southern Broads, this 11-mile circuit includes an optional half-hour stroll to Aldeby Hall. You can also visit the Waveney River Centre and the nearby church which offers sweeping views over the landscape. View route.

Burgh St Peter Staithe – visiting Aldeby, Raveningham, Thurlton, Haddiscoe

Last but not least, this 19-mile route gives you the chance to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region. Take in stunning views across the Haddiscoe, Thurlton and Burgh Marshes, visit Raveningham Hall Gardens and explore the pretty St Mary’s Church near the Waveney River Centre. If you take the route at a medium pace, it should take around three hours to complete. View route.

For more ideas on things to do in the Norfolk Broads, or to find out about boat hire in the Broads, explore our site or get in touch with us today.

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