Walking BritainThe Broads Walk
River Thurne & Hickling Broad from Potter Heigham
Maps 
| Ordnance Survey Explorer OL40 | Sheet Map | 1:25k | BUY |
| Anquet OS Explorer OL40 | Digital Map | 1:25k | BUY |
Walk Route Description
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This Norfolk walk explores the watery landscape lying to the west of Potter Heigham in the Broads. The route includes a section of the Weaver's Way from Heigham Bridge that initially follows the banks of the River Thurne past High's Drainage Mill. The walk then turns north along Candle Dyke to follow the shore of Hickling Broad. Turning inland the route continues to visit St Nicholas Church before returning to the start across wet pastures. In season the walk provides the opportunity to see a variety of birds.
The start is Lathams car park at Potter Heigham Bridge (grid ref. TG419185). After parking walk to towards the old Potter Heigham Bridge. Just before this bridge bear left along the north bank of the River Thurne following the Weaver's Way. Continue past High's Drainage Mill. Just over one kilometre after the mill, the path turns north alongside Candle Dyke. Continue along the Weaver's Way for 4 kilometres passing Sound Plantation and Wagonhill Plantation.
Reaching a bird hide opposite Rush Hill Lagoon (grid ref. TG423209) continue for a further 300 metres to a path junction with a fingerpost (grid ref. TG421206). Turn left here and pass through Coll's Plantation. Continue ahead at the next path junction to reach a T-junction of paths (grid ref. TG421201). Turn right following the green arrow to join a road where you turn left to reach St Nicholas Church.
After visiting the church retrace your steps back to the edge of Coll's Plantation (grid ref. TG421204) where your turn right along the southern boundary of the wood (trees on your left). The path passes beside the southern edge of Wagonhill Plantation to pass Glebe Farm (grid ref. TG428197). Continue ahead here. 400 metres beyond the farm you reach a T-junction of paths with High's Drainage Mill in view ahead. Turn right following the yellow arrow and walk beside Middle Wall drainage channel to reach the A419. Cross this road with care and take the footpath opposite. After a further 200 metres, turn left back to the car park.
Other walks nearby
| Walk 2129 | River Ant & How Hill from Ludham | easy | 6.7 miles |
| Walk 2839 | St Benet's Abbey & How Hill from Ludham | easy/mod | 8.8 miles |
| Walk 3608 | Martham Ferry & River Thurne from West Somerton | easy | 4.0 miles |
| Walk 3609 | Winterton Ness from West Somerton | easy | 5.4 miles |
| Walk 2128 | Stokesby & Muck Fleet from Fleggburgh | easy | 7.1 miles |
Recommended Books & eBooks
Walking in Norfolk
Guidebook to 40 easy to moderate walks in the English county of Norfolk. Circular routes of 4-12 miles show off the area's surprisingly varied landscape: the Broads, Brecks and Fens and coastal dunes, salt marsh and tidal creeks. Also includes information on Norfolk's rich history and unique plants and wildlife.
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Map and Compass
An instructive guidebook explaining map and compass techniques, to help readers enhance their outdoor experiences. Whether you are experienced in map-reading, or have never used a compass before, this guidebook will sharpen your skills and have you exploring new areas in no time. There are also tips for GPS and digital mapping technologies.
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Further Information
Walk Location Map
The Broads Walking
The Norfolk and Suffolk Broads is a unique mosaic of rivers and shallow lakes, marshes, fens and woodland. This unique habitat is home to some of the rarest plants and creatures in the UK. The Broads is also one of Europe's most popular inland waterways. Once an essential transport network the waterways have evolved for recreational use. Besides the blend of wildlife and distinctive landscapes, man has made his mark with distinctive buildings including some fine windmills. More Information
Walk grading - Learn how each walk is assessed and select a walk to suit your ability and experience by going to Walk Grading Details.
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