Walking Holidays and Stays in Knettishall Heath

Open heathland and the southern gateway to the Peddars Way

Where Norfolk’s ancient trail begins — surrounded by woodland, rivers, and wild ponies.

Knettishall Heath is the official start point of the Peddars Way, a place where walkers step from Suffolk’s borderlands into the timeless rhythm of one of England’s great trails. But even if you’re not tackling the whole route, this nature reserve offers peaceful, easy walking through a varied landscape of heath, forest, and riverbanks.

The heath is part of a designated SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest), with rare plants, butterflies, and even Exmoor ponies grazing the grassland. Waymarked trails lead across the open commons and into the surrounding Little Ouse Valley, with links to longer-distance paths like the Angles Way and Icknield Way.

Knettishall Heath feels both wild and welcoming — the kind of place to begin a long journey, or just escape for a quiet afternoon.

Why Walk Here

• Start the Peddars Way at its southern trailhead
• Explore open heathland, pinewoods, and riverside paths
• See Exmoor ponies and seasonal wildlife in a protected landscape
• Connect to the Angles Way and Icknield Way Trail
• Ideal for day walks, circular routes, or starting long-distance journeys