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United Kingdom
England
East Of England
Norfolk
North Norfolk

Hickling

Easy hikes and walks around Hickling

4.6

(617)

3,975

hikers

178

hikes

Easy hiking trails around Hickling, Norfolk, are characterized by the region's flat terrain, extensive reedbeds, and intricate waterways within the Norfolk Broads. The landscape features expansive open waters, notably Hickling Broad, which is a National Nature Reserve. This unique environment offers a network of paths, often on boardwalks, grass paths, and gravel tracks, providing accessible exploration of diverse wetlands and natural features.

Best easy hiking trails around Hickling

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Potter Heigham to Hickling Broad – autumn in the Broads, a 3.8 miles (6.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 32 minutes to complete. This path follows level tracks through marshland connecting the two broads.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Brograve Mill – Horsey Windpump and Café loop from Horsey, an easy 3.3 miles (5.3 km) path. This route winds through the flat landscape of the Broads, offering views of the iconic windpump.
  • Local hikers also love the Horsey Beach Seal Colony – Horsey Gap Seal Colony loop from Horsey, a 3.6 miles (5.7 km) trail leading through coastal dunes and offering views of the mere, often completed in about 1 hour 27 minutes.
  • Hiking around Hickling is defined by expansive open waters, diverse wetlands, and flat terrain. The network offers many easy options suitable for all abilities.
  • The routes in Hickling are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 600 reviews. More than 4,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Hickling's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 3, 2026

4.4

(5)

28

hikers

#1.

Potter Heigham to Hickling Broad – autumn in the Broads

6.10km

01:32

10m

10m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around Hickling

A Walk in the Parks – across the Broads National Park

A Walk in the Parks – hikes across all of England’s national parks

Other adventures around Hickling

A Walk in the Parks – across the Broads National Park

Hiking Collection by

Jen Lowthrop

Tips from the Community

MichaelAC
July 21, 2024, Hickling Broad Visitor Centre

Beautiful small exhibition, you can rent binoculars.

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National Trust-run windmill in the middle of the wide, flat broads landscape. Cafe and toilets for a refreshment stop as well.

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There is a car park here, which is managed by the National Trust. There are lovely hiking trails all around through the Broads and to the North Sea coast. You can see several colonies of seals on the coast.

Translated by Google

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The National Trust maintains a car park right next to the mill. You can also get tickets to the mill there. It's worth a visit, as you'll not only learn details about the mill, but also gain an insight into the miller's life.

Translated by Google

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A wonderful place for a gentle amble all year round, Hickling Broad is a haven for wildlife. The nature reserve here covers 1,500 acres (600 ha), while the lake is the largest of all in the Broads, as well as having the largest reedbed in England. The birdlife is a treat at any time of year, while there's always the chance of spotting the iconic swallowtail butterfly.

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A wonderfully attractive building, St Nicholas' is known for its hammerbeam roof and its unique 15th-century brick font. It’s set slightly away from the village, overlooking picturesque fields. The round tower originated in the 12th century, though its superb octagonal extension dates from the 14th century.

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August - many seals to watch from the dune above. Coastal path too sandy to cycle in places so push for a few yards.

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Hickling Broad is an all year round haven for wildlife, and a fantastic bird watching spot. The visitor centre has a gift shop and refreshments, as well as plenty of information about Hickling Broad, Norfolk's largest broad.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available around Hickling?

Hickling offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with nearly 100 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are over 180 hiking routes in the area, catering to various preferences.

What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Hickling?

Easy hikes in Hickling are characterized by generally flat terrain, making them suitable for all abilities. You'll find paths often on boardwalks, grass tracks, and gravel, navigating through extensive reedbeds and intricate waterways within the Norfolk Broads.

Are there any family-friendly easy walks in Hickling?

Yes, the flat terrain and well-maintained paths make many routes ideal for families. A great option is the Hickling Broad Visitor Centre – View from Secker's Hide loop from Hickling, which is a shorter 2.8 km (1.7 miles) walk, perfect for younger explorers.

Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in Hickling?

Many trails around Hickling are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially in nature reserves and areas with ground-nesting birds or livestock. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.

Are there any circular easy walks around Hickling?

Yes, many easy routes in Hickling are circular. For example, the Brograve Mill – Horsey Windpump and Café loop from Horsey is an easy 5.3 km (3.3 miles) circular path that offers views of the iconic windpump.

What natural features or landmarks can I see on easy hikes?

Hickling's easy trails offer views of diverse natural features. You can explore the vast expanse of Horsey Mere, walk through coastal dunes, and observe the unique reedbeds and waterways. The Horsey Windpump is a prominent landmark often included in routes.

Where can I spot wildlife on an easy hike in Hickling?

The Norfolk Wildlife Trust Hickling Broad and Marshes Nature Reserve is an excellent spot for wildlife. Easy trails within or near the reserve offer opportunities to see marsh harriers, bitterns, swallowtail butterflies, and various wildfowl. The Horsey Beach Seal Colony loop from Horsey also provides a chance to see seals, especially during winter.

What is the best time of year to visit Hickling for easy hiking?

Hickling is suitable for hiking year-round due to its flat terrain. Spring and summer offer vibrant wildlife and warmer weather, while autumn provides beautiful colours. Winter can be excellent for birdwatching, particularly for raptors and wildfowl, though some paths might be muddy.

Are there any short easy walks available in Hickling?

Yes, if you're looking for a shorter option, the Hickling Broad Visitor Centre – View from Secker's Hide loop from Hickling is a pleasant 2.8 km (1.7 miles) route that can be completed in under an hour, offering a taste of the Broad's scenery.

What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Hickling?

The easy trails in Hickling are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 600 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the abundance of wildlife, and the well-maintained, accessible paths that make exploring the unique Broadland landscape enjoyable for everyone.

Are there any easy trails that connect different broads or villages?

Yes, you can find routes that link different areas. The Potter Heigham to Hickling Broad – autumn in the Broads trail is a 6.1 km (3.8 miles) path that follows level tracks through marshland, connecting these two broads.

Are there places to eat or drink near the easy hiking routes?

Yes, some routes pass by or are close to facilities. For instance, the Brograve Mill – Horsey Windpump and Café loop from Horsey specifically mentions a café, providing an opportunity for refreshments during or after your hike.

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