Peddars Way and Norfolk Coast Path Directory

The National Trails of East Anglia are featured in this concise directory containing everything you need to know about these two fabulous long-distance walks.

A countryside view from the Peddars Way Path

The Peddars Way starts on Knettishall Heath near Thetford and follows generally flat fen country across Norfolk to the sea — a distance of some 46 miles. Along the way, the path follows an old Roman road through the Norfolk countryside to the beginning of the Norfolk Coast Path near Hunstanton. The Romans built the road as part of their successful efforts to subdue the rebellious Iceni tribe in 61 AD. The Iceni tribe, led by Boadicea, razed Colchester and London before being brought to bay. The name “peddar” was not applied to the path until the Middle Ages, when it seems to have been a generic term for a footpath.

The route is an enjoyable mix of country lanes, footpaths, and tracks. At Holme-next-the-Sea, the path turns east onto the Norfolk Coast Path and travels through the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) to Cromer. The area is rich in salt marshes, dunes, and clay cliffs, as well as quiet villages notable for their flint and brick architecture.

Google Maps Open Source Maps

Download GPX Route File Download Google Earth File

General Information and Planning

National Trails of Great Britain — Comprehensive site providing details on the route, including an accommodation guide, booking service providers, and required maps.

Traileasy — Interactive map displaying accommodations along the route to help you plan each stage from start to finish.

Explore Norfolk — A passionate guide to Norfolk from a local expert with a detailed section on the National Trail.

Guided Walking

None available at present.

Accommodation and Baggage Transfer Services

Absolute Escapes — Offers self-guided walking packages on this walk including accommodation and baggage transfer.

The Walking Holiday Company — Range of itineraries and route options including accommodation and baggage transfer for the whole walk.

Celtic Trails — Full self-guided walking service.

Contours — Full range of self-guided walking services with alternative route options.

Xplore Britain — Full range of self-guided walking services.

Hike Help — Dedicated baggage transfer service.

Accommodation Planning

S H Systems — Excellent range of accommodation listings searchable by location, price, postcode, or rating.

Personal Journals

Suzy Watson — A passionate story of a local resident’s journey on the trail.

Sally Jordan — Reflective journal by an avid long-distance trail walker.

Aylmer Family — Walk journal with practical planning information.

Safety Advice and Emergency Services

Ramblers Association — Practical walking safety advice, map-reading guides, and essential gear lists.

Mountain Rescue UK — Essential safety guidance.

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Feedback and Suggestions

I am always pleased to receive feedback on the structure and content of the website. I also welcome suggestions on how I can improve the website, which may include new areas to cover, new walks, or route alterations to existing walks. To get in touch, please contact me via social media. Thank you.

(Note: Walking without proper preparation can be dangerous. Information and downloads on this website are provided free of charge; it is each walker’s responsibility to check the material and use accordingly. Postscript: My walk reports are not route guides and should not be treated as such. They are written with personal reflections of my walks.)

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