THE NORFOLK COAST PATH

EASTERN ENGLAND

The Norfolk Coast Path is an unusual National Trail because it consists of two very different sections, one of which is not coastal at all. The route starts inland at Knettishall Heath just outside Thetford and then follows a Roman road (now known as “Peddars Way”) to the coast at Hunstanton before running east along the Norfolk coast to Cromer. The whole route is 93 miles - and mostly flat. At one point it passes through The Brecks, remote heathland which is said to be one of the driest places in England. It's a gorse-covered landscape with just the occasional Scots pine and unusual fauna like the rare - and very shy - golden pheasant. The second half of the route enjoys views of the North Sea which are not to be missed even if the weather is bracing.

Where to stay

The Chequers Inn, Thornham,

Stay at Chequers in Thornham, an inn that dates back to the sixteenth century. It has a traditional low-ceilinged bar, large open fireplace and eleven dog-friendly bedrooms under the eaves upstairs. Thornham is perfectly situated for exploring the beaches of Brancaster and Holkham, as well as bird reserves at Titchwell and Holme, and the royal estate at Sandringham.