4.6
(783)
4,467
hikers
221
hikes
Hikes around Ashby with Oby explore the flat landscapes of the Broads National Park. The region is characterized by drained marshlands, open farmland, and a network of waterways, including the River Bure. Many footpaths in Ashby with Oby follow riverside paths and pass historic drainage mills, offering an insight into the area's rural character.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
4.4
(9)
37
hikers
7.96km
02:00
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(29)
104
hikers
9.28km
02:22
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(8)
37
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
15
hikers
4.96km
01:16
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
14.4km
03:38
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Not too far from the town centre either . Very handy car park
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A little surprising to suddenly come across boats in the middle of the countryside. There's a nice little shop selling sweets, ice-cream and coffee (from a machine) as well as a pub.
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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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Nice place to stop for a rest on the river bank by the windmill.
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St Edmund's Church dates back to the 13th century, and has a 14th-century nave and tower, and 15th-century windows. In the mid 17th century, Sir Thomas Browne noted that a man named Richard Ferrer was buried here in an ox hide and horns to try and confuse future historians and archaeologists!
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The landscape is predominantly flat, which is characteristic of the Norfolk Broads. You can expect to walk on paths through drained marshlands, across open farmland, and along the banks of waterways like the River Bure. The routes are generally low-lying with minimal elevation change.
Yes, many trails in the area are great for walking with dogs. The open spaces and riverside paths offer plenty of room to explore. However, you'll be walking through farmland and nature reserves, so be prepared to keep your dog on a lead, especially around livestock and wildlife.
Absolutely. The flat terrain makes Ashby with Oby ideal for family outings. There are numerous short and easy walks that are perfect for all ages. A good example is the St Edmund's Church, Thurne loop from Thurne, which is a gentle walk through the countryside.
Several walks in the region pass through or near villages with traditional pubs. The areas around Thurne and Acle are good starting points for walks that can incorporate a pub stop for refreshments. Planning a route that loops from one of these villages is a great way to end your hike.
Yes, the majority of popular routes in the area are circular. These loops are designed to take you out through the scenic marshlands and along rivers, often returning via quiet country lanes. This makes logistics simple as you can start and finish in the same spot.
The region is rich in history. Many trails feature views of historic drainage mills, a distinctive feature of the Broads landscape. You can also plan walks that pass by historic round-towered churches and follow sections of ancient paths. The nearby Angles Way long-distance path offers further opportunities to explore historical sites.
The komoot community rates the area highly, praising the peaceful atmosphere and unique Broads scenery. Reviewers often mention the beautiful riverside paths, the abundant birdlife in the marshes, and the sense of tranquility found on the quiet, flat trails.
There are over 200 hiking routes to explore around Ashby with Oby on komoot. These range from short, easy strolls to more moderate, longer-distance walks, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.
Yes, some villages in the area, like Acle, have train stations and bus services, making them accessible starting points for hikes. From Acle, you can easily access trails that follow the River Bure and explore the surrounding marshland without needing a car.
For many walks, parking is available in the villages where the routes begin, such as Acle or Thurne. Some trails may start from designated car parks at nature reserves or pubs. It's always a good idea to check the specific details of your chosen route for the best parking information.
While Ashby with Oby is inland, it's only a short drive from the Norfolk coast. For a change of scenery, you could try a route like the Dunes Cafe loop from Clippesby, which takes you out towards the coast and its expansive sandy dunes.
The Norfolk Broads are a haven for wildlife, especially birds. On your walks through the marshes and along the rivers, look out for marsh harriers, herons, and various waterfowl. The nearby coast at Winterton is also famous for its seal colony, which is a major attraction, particularly in the winter months.


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