The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Acle
4.6
(654)
3,365
hikers
12
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Acle are primarily characterized by the flat, accessible terrain of the Norfolk Broads National Park. This region features an intricate network of rivers, dykes, and marshlands, offering diverse landscapes for outdoor activities. Hikers can explore open marshland, fens, and fields, often following the banks of waterways like the River Bure and Acle Dyke. The area's low elevation means trails are generally gentle, making them suitable for various abilities.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Acle
…Last updated: May 3, 2026
5.0
(30)
99
hikers
8.85km
02:15
20m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
24
hikers
6.92km
01:46
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
15
hikers
15.9km
04:02
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
9
hikers
17.2km
04:22
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
8
hikers
4.52km
01:09
20m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Acle
Tips from the Community
Not too far from the town centre either . Very handy car park
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Also known as Upton Black Mill due to its tarred black tower, Upton Tall Mill is a classic Norfolk drainage mill. It's thought to date back to around 1800 and is now a private residence. Its boat-shaped cap helps to make this a particularly conspicuous landmark on any walk in this part of the Broads.
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With its impressive fleet of vessels, Eastwood Whelpton is a classic Broads boatyard. Located on the edge of the village of Upton, it connects to the River Bure via Upton Dyke. Nearby is the beguiling sight of Palmers Hollow Post Mill, one of only two 'Hollow Post' drainage mills remaining in the national park. For a walk rich in wildlife, it's just a short stroll to Upton Broad and Marshes nature reserve from here.
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A gorgeous reserve in the heart of the Broads, Upton Broad and Marshes hosts several distinctive habitats. Its mix of alder carr woodland, fen, reedbed and grazing marsh makes it a haven for some of the region's most coveted wildlife, including the swallowtail butterfly. You might also see water voles, otters and a huge range of dragonflies, with over 20 recorded species.
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Closed Sunday to Tuesday, and only open until 3pm Saturday.
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On this stretch of the River Bure you can see two examples of drainage mills, Upton Mill and Oby Drainage Mills. The mills pump water from the dikes out to tidal waterways to keep the land free of water. This is now done by electrical pumps but the windmills remain an iconic feature of the landscape.
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Ideal cafe stop on a ride. Very nice food. My tuna baguette was delicious! A couple of outdoor tables, and room to lean two or three bikes on the side wall. Check opening times on Google Maps.
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Standing in isolation, overlooking marshes to the north-east, with a few pine trees round it, the setting of St Mary’s is memorable. There is no village with the name Fishley, only Fishley Hall is close by. The west part of the nave and the lower part of the tower were built in flint at the same time in the 11th century, but the top section of brick with the stone belfry openings was probably rebuilt in the 16th or 17th century. Lower down the earlier openings in the tower have also been infilled with brick. These 14th century bricks might have been re-used from the earlier Hall, to the north-east of the Church. Many of the windows in the church were changed in the 19th century, as well as the tower roof from a cone shaped one to have a parapet, the south porch was added then, and the steeply-pitched slate roof, which also covers the aisle (called a cat-slide-roof!). The porch iron gates were placed here in 2009, with A M, for Ave Maria. More: https://www.roundtowerchurches.net/norfolk/norfolk-c-g/fishley-2/
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Acle?
There are over 10 family-friendly hiking routes around Acle, with a good mix of easy and moderate options suitable for various ages and abilities. The flat terrain of the Norfolk Broads makes many of these trails accessible for families.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes near Acle?
The terrain around Acle is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Norfolk Broads National Park. You'll find trails along rivers, dykes, marshlands, and open fields, making them generally easy to navigate for families with children. Some paths may be unpaved, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Are there any short and easy family walks suitable for younger children or toddlers?
Yes, for a shorter and easier option, consider the Scooters Cafe – Acle Dyke Waterway loop from Acle. This easy route is just over 4.5 km, offering a pleasant stroll along the charming Acle Dyke Waterway, perfect for little legs.
What interesting landmarks or natural features can we see on family hikes?
Many family-friendly routes offer glimpses of the region's unique character. You might pass historic churches like St Mary's Church, Fishley, or enjoy views of the intricate waterways like Upton Dyke. The St Mary's Church, Fishley – Reedbeds in The Broads loop, for example, showcases the typical reedbed landscape and offers opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Are there any circular routes for families around Acle?
Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly trails around Acle are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular choice is the St Mary's Church, Fishley – Upton Dyke loop from Acle, which is a moderate 8.8 km circular walk featuring a historic church and paths along Upton Dyke.
Can we bring our dog on these family-friendly hikes?
Yes, the Norfolk Broads generally welcome dogs, and many of the trails around Acle are dog-friendly. However, please keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock, nature reserves like Breydon Water Nature Reserve, and during nesting seasons to protect local wildlife. Always carry waste bags and dispose of them responsibly.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Acle?
Spring and summer are particularly lovely for family hikes in Acle, with milder weather and vibrant natural scenery. Autumn also offers beautiful colours. While winter walks are possible, some paths might be muddy, and daylight hours are shorter. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments near the trails?
Yes, Acle itself has amenities, and some routes pass by or start near cafes. For instance, the Dunes Cafe – Acle Dyke Waterway loop from Acle is named after a local cafe, suggesting refreshment opportunities. It's always a good idea to check opening times in advance, especially outside peak season.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family hiking in Acle?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, flat trails perfect for families, the beautiful watery landscapes of the Broads, and the opportunities for wildlife spotting. The accessibility of the routes for various ages is frequently highlighted.
Are there any longer family-friendly routes for a half-day adventure?
For families looking for a longer adventure, the St Mary's Church, Fishley – Upton Black Mill loop from Acle offers a moderate 17.2 km route. This trail provides an extended exploration of the Broads, passing by the historic Turf Fen Drainage Mill and offering diverse views.
Is public transport an option to reach the trailheads in Acle?
Acle is a well-connected village, and public transport options, including bus services, are available. Many trailheads are accessible from the village center. For specific route planning, it's advisable to check local bus schedules to ensure they align with your hiking plans.
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