Mid Suffolk Footpath
A 20-mile long-distance walk in rural Suffolk linking Hoxne and Stowmarket. With map, statistics, and GPX route file.
Statistics and Files
Grid Ref: TM 184 782
Distance: 20 miles (32 km)
Time: 8–10 hours
Duration: 1–2 days
Ordnance Survey Explorer Maps (1:25,000):
211 Bury St Edmunds and Stowmarket
230 Diss, Harleston, East Harling and Stanton
Summary
The Mid Suffolk Footpath runs for 20 miles through the attractive farmland of Mid Suffolk, linking the small village of Hoxne with the busy town of Stowmarket. The route meanders through the gentle river valleys of the Gipping, Dove, and Waveney rivers, along green lanes through modern farmed landscapes, and past a number of attractive villages with local pubs, churches, and other points of interest.
The landscape is gently rolling with scattered small woodlands, huge skies, and ever-changing distant views. There are no strenuous climbs, and walking conditions are generally good in all but the wettest weather. There are many historical associations along the trail too. The Hoxne Hoard — now housed in the British Museum — was the largest Roman hoard ever found in Britain at the time of its discovery, containing over 15,000 coins. St Edmund was martyred by the Danes nearby in 869. At Eye, the remains of the 12th-century motte-and-bailey castle are a short diversion off the path, and the nearby church is well worth a visit, as are the historic churches at Thwaite and Mendlesham. (Source: Mid Suffolk District Council)