Walking Holidays and Outdoor Adventures 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 marks the southern trailhead of the Peddars Way, a place where walkers step from Suffolk’s borderlands into the timeless rhythm of one of England’s great long-distance routes. Even if you’re not tackling the full trail to the Norfolk coast, this nature reserve offers peaceful, easy walking through a varied landscape of open heath, pine forest, and riverside meadows.

Part of a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, the heath is home to rare plants, butterflies, and a grazing herd of Exmoor ponies. Waymarked trails cross the commons and link into the Little Ouse Valley, with connections to the Angles Way and Icknield Way Trail for those planning longer adventures.

Whether you’re here to begin a multi-day journey or just to enjoy a quiet afternoon outdoors, Knettishall Heath feels both wild and welcoming.

Why Walk Here

• Start the Peddars Way at its official 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.

Nearby Trails

• Peddars Way – Long-distance route from Knettishall Heath to the Norfolk Coast Path at Holme-next-the-Sea.
• Angles Way – Follows the Norfolk–Suffolk border through river valleys and market towns.
• Icknield Way Trail – Historic trackway linking Norfolk to the Chiltern Hills.

Outdoor Adventures and Activities

• Wildlife photography and birdwatching in a rich, varied habitat.
• Family-friendly circular walks across heath and woodland.
• Picnicking in quiet spots surrounded by nature.
• Linking multiple trails for a multi-day walking holiday.