walk norfolk

What a glorious day! Mrs O.B. and I have been out exploring the public and permissive paths around Wiveton and Glandford in North Norfolk. We used OS 251 Norfolk Coast Central

We parked the motor at Wiveton Down (TF033422) which is a hill of gravel (yes folks a hill in Norfolk)  left over from the last ice age. No signs of ice today, but the whole area was a mass of gorse flowers releasing their coconut perfume into the air. Mrs O.B. said that it reminded her of the smell of that cheap sun cream that I bought once.

From the carpark, ignoring the steep and overgrown path to the right, we walked to the far end of this little nature reserve, where there is a path down to the road. Then, back tracking a little, we took Bazzy Lane in a southerly direction. This is a public bridleway, but the sign has been broken off.

After a short dog leg and before arriving at The Boxes, there is a permissive path to the left, with a footpath finger sign. This takes you past Oulton Wood to the boatyard, cafe and binocular shop complex at Glandford (TF043415).

Resisting the temptation of the cafe, we crossed the Blakeney Road and over the river Glaven by footbridge beside the ford. Quite a good flow today and I was rather disappointed that no (foolhardy) motorists were prepared to have a go.

Just over the river there's a permissive path on the right to Bayfield Hall, which appears to be well used. As we reached the woodland near the hall there was a choice of left or right, so we turned left, up hill (!) through a stand, or in some cases fall, of venerable beeches.

We lost the track at this point, but eventually arrived at Wall's Lane (TF057413), where we turned north, keeping on when the road turned left and climbing Lavender Hill to arrive at Bridgefoot Lane (TF054426).

Then it was on the road, pausing only to admire the ancient Wiveton Bridge and for a swift one at The Wiveton Bell. Back at Wiveton Down the gorse was still in bloom and the views of the coast were magnificent. On the horizon a multitude of wind turbines and on the coast the white sails of Cley Mill.