Nine dog-friendly walks in Norfolk
With its stunning scenery, cosy pubs and huge range of pooch-friendly accommodation, few places in the UK are more attractive for dog owners than Norfolk. Whether you’re keen to visit the world-famous Broads, spend some time relaxing on the sand or enjoy gentle strolls through wonderful woodland, here are some of our top spots for dog-friendly walks in Norfolk.
1. Whitlingham Country Park
Location: Trowse, Norwich
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Flat
Situated on the south-eastern fringes of the city, Whitlingham Country Park is one of the most popular places for dog-friendly walks in Norfolk. In addition to soaking up spectacular views of Whitlingham Great Broad and the River Yare along the well-marked circular walk, you’ll be able to trek down forest paths and let your dog off the lead to play on a choice of grassy fields.
Dog-friendly pit-stop: Enjoy a stroll around the broad before stopping off at the dog-friendly Rushcutter Arms along the River Yare.
2. Holkham Beach
Location: Well-next-the-Sea
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Flat
For canines who can’t resist digging holes in the sand, a beach day should be on the cards! Holkham Beach near Wells-next-the-Sea is an unspoilt, four mile stretch on Norfolk’s north coast that boasts plenty of room for dogs to run around. Settle down for a picnic in the dunes, splash around together in the shallows or catch some shade in the surrounding pine forest. A little way inland is also where you’ll find the elegant 18th century Holkham Hall which welcomes well-behaved dogs into its manicured grounds.
Dog-friendly pit-stop: Visiting Norfolk with kids? Stop off at the Pinewoods Miniature Railway a short walk from Holkham Beach car park - they even allow dogs to ride on the train!
3. Thetford Forest Park
Location: Brandon
Difficulty: Medium
Terrain: Flat
With so many unique scents to track, woodland walks are often many dogs’ favourites! If that’s the case with your pooch, Thetford Forest Park just outside Brandon won’t disappoint with its miles of leafy trails. It’s known for being one of the largest pine forests in the UK, plus it’s well looked after by the Forestry Commission. Thetford is a particularly ideal spot for a dog-friendly walk in Norfolk if you’re staying at the southern end of the county.
Dog-friendly pit-stop: Settle down for afternoon tea in the pretty garden of dog-friendly Tilly’s Tearoom located at the heart of nearby Brandon.
4. Salhouse Broad
Location: Salhouse
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Flat
Norfolk is famous for its 60+ broads, many of which are worth a visit for dog walks! Salhouse Broad sits in Salhouse within the Norfolk Broads National Park and stretches out for 40 acres, meaning there’s ample space for canines to run wild. As well as walking along the waterfront itself, you’ll be able to wander through ancient woodlands dripping in intriguing scents…
Dog-friendly pit-stop: Get warm and cosy after your walk with some tasty pub grub at The Fur & Feather Inn on Salhouse Road.
5. Burgh Castle
Location: Burgh Castle, Great Yarmouth
Difficulty: Medium
Terrain: Flat
Situated right on the River Yare and close to Great Yarmouth are the remains of this fascinating Roman Fort. It’s a fantastic spot for a walk and allows you to explore Angles Way - one of several trails which meander through the Norfolk countryside. Part of the walk near Burgh Castle takes you along a wooden boardwalk where you’ll need to keep your dog on the lead to avoid disturbing any nesting birds.
Dog-friendly pit-stop: The welcoming Queen’s Head pub in Burgh Castle village is a brilliant location for a drink with your pooch after a long walk down the river.
6. Sheringham Park
Location: Sheringham
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Hilly
Run by the National Trust, Sheringham Park offers up over 1,000 acres of landscaped parkland, virgin woods and pretty meadows. Part of the park in Sheringham also fringes the coast and lets people - and their pets - trek along cliff tops overlooking the magnificent North Sea. Back inland, you’ll have a choice of four marked trails, each of which provide a wide range of terrain to explore.
Dog-friendly pit-stop:Courtyard Cafe at Sheringham Park is always happy to accommodate dogs if you fancy a coffee, cake or sandwich after your walk.
7. Brancaster Beach
Location: Brancaster
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Flat
If you and your dog can’t get enough of the beach, Brancaster is another stunning sandy spot to explore! You’ll find it 40 minutes from King’s Lynn on Norfolk’s north coast and it’s blessed with miles of soft, golden sand dunes. Those after an adventure should visit Brancaster Beach at low tide when the remains of a 19th century shipwreck can be seen just peeking out of the shallows!
Dog-friendly pit-stop: Dalegate Market just east of Brancaster offers up a range of shops, cafes and market stalls, plus most of the site is dog-friendly.
8. Bacton Wood
Location: North Walsham
Difficulty: Medium
Terrain: Flat
This walking spot sits outside of North Walsham and it’s a brilliant pick for dogs who love to chase a scent trail through the trees. Bacton Wood’s popular circular walk is about 2.5 miles long and a lovely option for people and pooches alike. Note that it’s worth wearing wellies or walking boots (and preparing for muddy paws in the car afterwards!)
Dog-friendly pit-stop: North Walsham has several dog-friendly places to eat, including Shambles Cafe Bar Bistro which boasts a mouth-watering brunch menu.
9. Oxburgh Hall
Location: Oxborough
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Flat
For a dog-friendly walk in Norfolk which lets you soak up a bit of history, make a beeline for Oxburgh Hall. The National Trust manor in Oxborough dates back to the late 15th century and its beautiful 2,500-acre grounds sit alongside the stunning Norfolk Brecks. Oxburgh Hall estate is criss-crossed with marked trails and you’ll be able to find leaflets about them all at the ticket office next to the main car park.
Dog-friendly pitstop: Cool yourselves off with a refreshing drink and a tub of pooch-friendly ice cream from Oxburgh Hall’s Pantry cafe.
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