Wrap up warm and head out into the winter landscape on a walk at a National Trust place in Norfolk.
With trails meandering through ancient woodland, bracing strolls along the wild and windy coast, and frosty paths around historic gardens, winter is a truly special time to explore the outdoors. Even the rain brings its delights, leaving puddles for little wellies to splash in, and the early sunsets kiss the landscape with dreamy pastel hues.
For nature lovers, the colder months are a particular treat. Paw prints in the snow and mud tell stories of the animals that have padded that way, bare tree branches reveal woodland residents as they forage for food, and the frosty quiet showcases the crisp notes of birdsong.
Of course, no winter walk at a National Trust place is complete without a visit to the cosy tearoom to thaw out with a hot drink, warming bowl of soup or a seasonal treat. So, grab your boots and head out for a winter adventure near you:
Blickling’s breathtaking hall, with its nationally important library, is framed by ancient yew hedges and surrounded by 55 acres of gardens. The wider landscape, covering 4,600 acres, can be explored on miles of walks through parkland, woodland and alongside the meandering River Bure.
The lake walk at Blickling is particularly atmospheric on a frosty winter’s morning, with the reflections of trees and big open Norfolk skies providing plenty of opportunities for budding photographers. Barn owls can often be seen hunting across the park and groups of tits and finches can be found marauding through the trees and undergrowth.
The four mile multi-use trail journeys through woodland and across farmland around the perimeter of the park, and is accessible for people with buggies as well as those using mobility aids. Powered mobility scooters and all terrain mountain push trikes are available to hire. Dogs are welcome under close control in the park and at the Muddy Boots Café, where you can enjoy tasty treats and warming drinks.
Felbrigg Hall, Gardens and Estate
One of the most elegant 17th century country houses in East Anglia, Felbrigg’s estate comprises woods, rolling parkland, a lake and waymarked paths.
One of the most popular winter walks is the Church and ice house walk. This easy 2.5 mile circular walk passes historic buildings dating back to the 1700s, notable trees, a hidden lake and an imaginatively planted arrangement of beech trees. Dogs on leads are welcome on the wider estate and in the tearoom.
On Saturday 17 January, field recordist and musician Martin Scaiff will lead a guided walk through Felbrigg Estate using specialist microphones to listen to the sounds of winter in extraordinary ways, including the subtle sounds of underwater plants and animals. For more details visit Sound Walk at Felbrigg Estate | National Trust
Nestled on the edge of the Norfolk Brecks, where the land meets the wide-open fenlands is Oxburgh Estate including the hall, gardens, parkland and woods. On a winter walk keep a look out for mighty veteran trees in the Oak Yard, such as oak, lime and sweet chestnut, as well as birds, beetles and barn owls. The River Gadder, one of England’s rare chalk streams, flows through the estate and its clear waters make it the ideal habitat for brown trout, water vole, otter and shrew. Swans are a regular feature at Oxburgh too.
The Oxborough to Gooderstone heritage walk takes in some of Breckland’s protected farmland and heritage, passing through the villages, Water Gardens, medieval church and remains of Chalkrow Tower Mill.
With nearly 1000 acres to explore there are walks for everyone at Sheringham Park, from short strolls to long walks. The picturesque 5km active trail passes through woodland and parkland habitats taking in stunning coastal views.
The woodland and coastal walk at Sheringham Park follows a circular route through woodland with a rich variety of trees, bird and animal life, into parkland and fields and along the cliff edge by the sea. Visit Weybourne Station and Repton’s Temple along the route. And Repton’s Walk takes you through the landscaped parkland at Sheringham where you can relax and rest tired legs in the Bower garden and Ling Hut.
Norfolk Coast
At the heart of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Blakeney National Nature Reserve boasts wide open spaces and uninterrupted views of the beautiful North Norfolk coastline.
The nature reserve can be explored on foot, and the family friendly Blakeney Freshes coastal walk is a popular route in winter. Following a 3-mile route, this trail is ideal for spotting wildlife and birdwatching. Dogs are welcome on short leads.
The best way to see the grey seal colony is by taking a boat trip from Morston Quay, find further information on our website.
For more information about winter walks in Norfolk visit Top walks in Norfolk | National Trust
