The best walks and hikes around Haddiscoe
4.5
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3,698
hikers
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Hiking around Haddiscoe offers diverse landscapes within the Broads National Park, characterized by expansive marshlands and an intricate network of rivers. The region features the Haddiscoe Marshes, providing long skylines and opportunities for wildlife observation. The River Waveney and River Yare are central to the area's identity, creating habitats like reedbeds and floodplain meadows. Hikers can expect to traverse wooded areas, field-edge paths, and paths alongside dykes.
Best hiking trails around Haddiscoe
- The most popular hiking route is Wherryman's Way: Reedham Circular, a 6.4 miles (10.4 km) trail that takes 2 hours 38 minutes to complete. This route offers scenic river views and opportunities to observe wildlife.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Somerleyton & Angles Way loop — The Broads, an easy 4.7 miles (7.5 km) path. This loop provides an easy hiking option through the Broads.
- Local hikers also love the Reedham Marshes – family walks in the Broads, a 2.9 miles (4.7 km) trail leading through marshlands, often completed in about 1 hour 11 minutes.
- Hiking around Haddiscoe is defined by expansive marshlands, river networks, and reedbeds. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy family walks to more moderate trails.
- The routes in Haddiscoe are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 480 reviews. More than 3600 hikers have used komoot to explore Haddiscoe's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.7
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33
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10.4km
02:38
30m
30m
You can hike the Wherryman's Way: Reedham Circular, a moderate route spanning 6.4 miles (10.4 km) with a gentle 85 feet (26 metres) of elevation gain. Expect to spend around 2 hours and 37 minutes exploring the tranquil landscapes. As you follow the River Yare, you will pass through open marshes and reed-beds, offering wide views of the surrounding countryside. Keep an eye out for the historic Reedham Swing Bridge, a notable landmark on your journey.
This circular hike is easily accessible, starting directly from Reedham train station, making it convenient if you are using public transport. Be prepared for varying ground conditions depending on the season. The path can get quite wet and muddy during winter months, while dry spells in summer might lead to cracked surfaces. For your comfort and stability, wearing walking boots is a good idea due to the potentially uneven terrain.
The area you will explore is part of The Broads National Park, recognized as Britain's largest protected wetland. This makes the route a haven for local wildlife, particularly birds, offering you a peaceful escape into nature. The trail provides a great opportunity to experience the unique ecosystem of the Broads.
4.5
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14
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7.50km
01:55
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
19
hikers
4.66km
01:11
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
14
hikers
2.86km
00:44
10m
10m
Hike the easy 1.8-mile Burgh Castle Circular Trail in The Broads National Park, offering Roman fort views and diverse wildlife.
4.5
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6
hikers
2.93km
00:45
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Haddiscoe
Tips from the Community
The Rivers Yare and Waveney are two of the Broads' great rivers, along with the River Bure. Here, these two great watercourses meet, flowing into Breydon Water. Around 2,000 years ago, this would've been part of the Great Estuary, a vast estuary with extensive mudflats. In Roman times, boats would've been able to sail down the Yare as far as Caistor St Edmund and large ships would have been able to follow the Waveney all the way to Bungay. The nearby Roman fort at Burgh Castle was built to protect this important waterway.
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This pretty medieval parish church has nave walls dating back to the Saxon era and even features Roman tiles, thought to have been taken at some point from the nearby Roman fort. It's Grade-II listed and features a fine, crenellated round tower. The church is just a short walk away from where the Rivers Waveney and Yare merge into Breydon Water.
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Seen across the confluence of the Rivers Yare and Waveney, Berney Arms Mill is an impressive sight. One of the tallest mills in the national park, it's also one of the best surviving. If the sight of it has you plotting a walk on the opposite side of the rivers, you might consider the Wherryman's Way long-distance trail, which visits the mill.
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The Reedham Ferry Inn enjoys a tranquil riverside spot next to Norfolk's only operating chain ferry. As well as good food and drink, there's also a campsite with various facilities, including electrical hook-up, toilets and showers. The chain ferry runs continuously on an on demand basis.
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Something of a Reedham institution, Cannell's by the River is a farm shop, deli and patisserie. As well as serving excellent food, Cannell's sells local produce, such as jams, chutneys, fresh meat and cheeses. It's the perfect place to stock up on supplies before walking adventures in the Broads.
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There's been a swing bridge here since Victorian times but the current Reedham Swing Bridge dates from the early 20th century. It carries the Wherry railway line across the River Yare, one of the great rivers of the Broads. Incredibly, the bridge is opened around 1,300 times in a normal year.
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Reedham is a popular village situated on the lower reaches of the River Yare. Riverside is a long street running next to the Yare with benches, a pub and holiday cottages. It is also home to one of the last remaining railway swing bridges and chain ferries in the country.
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A grassy footpath winds along the River Yare from Reedham offering a peaceful retreat through the Norfolk countryside. Along the way, you might spot some of the local residents flitting about in the water, such as swans, ducks, and other water birds, and you'll pass the beautiful Limpenhoe Mill, built in 1831.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Haddiscoe?
There are over 240 hiking routes available around Haddiscoe, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences within the Broads National Park.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Haddiscoe?
Haddiscoe's hiking trails primarily feature expansive marshlands, intricate river networks, and picturesque countryside. You can expect to traverse wooded areas, field-edge paths, and paths alongside dykes. Some grazing marshes can be wet and may contain livestock, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Are there easy or family-friendly hiking options in Haddiscoe?
Yes, Haddiscoe offers many easy and family-friendly routes. For example, the Reedham Marshes – family walks in the Broads is a 2.9-mile trail that is popular with families. Another easy option is the Somerleyton & Angles Way loop — The Broads, which is 4.7 miles long.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails around Haddiscoe?
Many trails in the Haddiscoe area are suitable for dogs, especially those traversing field-edge paths and marshlands. However, as some areas are grazing marshes with livestock, it's important to keep dogs under control, preferably on a lead, and to be mindful of wildlife. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while hiking in Haddiscoe?
Haddiscoe is rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can explore the vast Haddiscoe Marshes, observe diverse birdlife in reedbeds and floodplain meadows along the River Waveney and River Yare. Notable attractions include the remains of the Roman fort Gariannonum at Burgh Castle, historical drainage mills like St Olave's, and the unique Reedham Ferry.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Haddiscoe?
Yes, Haddiscoe offers several circular hiking routes. A popular choice is the Wherryman's Way: Reedham Circular, a 6.4-mile trail offering scenic river views. The Somerleyton & Angles Way loop — The Broads is another easy circular option. There's also the Burgh Castle Circular Trail, which is 1.8 miles long.
How can I reach the hiking trails around Haddiscoe using public transport?
Haddiscoe has a train station, which is a convenient starting point for several walks, including a challenging 9-mile circular walk over Haddiscoe marshes that is part of the Wherry Lines Walks. This makes it accessible for hikers relying on public transport.
Are there places to eat or drink near the hiking routes in Haddiscoe?
Yes, you can find riverside pubs that offer refreshments. The Reedham Ferry Inn, located by the chain-pulled ferry, provides a tranquil spot. Further afield, The Locks Inn at Geldeston is a community-run pub in a remote riverside setting.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Haddiscoe?
The Broads National Park, including Haddiscoe, offers unique experiences year-round. Spring and summer provide lush landscapes and abundant wildlife, while autumn brings beautiful colors. Winter walks can be atmospheric, especially across the marshes, but be prepared for potentially wet conditions. Always check weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Haddiscoe?
The hiking routes in Haddiscoe are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 480 reviews. Hikers often praise the scenic river views, the tranquility of the marshlands, and the opportunities for wildlife observation.
What are the typical lengths of hiking routes in Haddiscoe?
Hiking routes around Haddiscoe vary in length to suit different preferences. You can find shorter walks, such as the Burgh Castle Circular Trail at 1.8 miles, up to longer trails like the Wherryman's Way: Reedham Circular at 6.4 miles, and even longer sections of the Angles Way.
Are there any specific attractions or points of interest along the River Waveney or River Yare?
Yes, both rivers are central to the area's identity and offer unique sights. Along the River Waveney, you can enjoy views from Beccles Old Bridge and visit The Locks Inn at Geldeston. The River Yare is home to the Reedham Ferry, a charming chain-pulled ferry, and the nearby Breydon Water Nature Reserve.
Most popular attractions around Haddiscoe
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