A Quieter National Trail with Steady Use
Walking the Peddars Way and What to Expect
The Peddars Way is one of the quieter long-distance routes in England, with an estimated 20,000–25,000 people using the trail each year. This includes walkers, cyclists, and horse riders using permitted sections of the route.
While this is lower than busier trails such as the South Downs Way, it still represents a steady flow of people moving through the landscape.
The route runs north from Knettishall Heath to Holme-next-the-Sea, where it connects directly with the Norfolk Coast Path, creating a continuous inland-to-coast walk across Norfolk.
How Busy is the Peddars Way?
The Peddars Way is used regularly, but without crowding.
Across the route:
- People are spread out rather than concentrated
- Long sections can pass without seeing others
- Even in peak months, the trail remains relatively quiet
It’s not an empty route — it’s simply lower density than most.
Comparing Footfall to Other National Trails
Footfall varies across England’s long-distance routes.
Compared to the South Downs Way:
- The Peddars Way has fewer users overall
- There is less pressure on accommodation and key stops
- Movement is more evenly distributed along the route
With around 20,000+ users annually, the trail still sees consistent use — just without the intensity found elsewhere.
Where the Route Begins
The trail starts at Knettishall Heath, just outside Thetford.
For most people:
- Arrival is via Thetford by train
- The start point is reached by a short taxi or walk
- The first section begins immediately in open heath and forest
There are no facilities at the trailhead, so the start of the route is typically planned around nearby towns and villages rather than the start point itself.
Starting Early or Walking Shorter Sections
Because the trail begins away from services, many choose to stay close to the start the night before.
This allows for:
- An early start without needing to travel first
- A more relaxed beginning to the route
- Time to walk the first section in full daylight
For those not walking the full route, the area around Knettishall Heath also works well for shorter sections.
Walking to the Coast
At Holme-next-the-Sea, the Peddars Way meets the Norfolk Coast Path without interruption.
From here, the route can be continued east along the coastline, extending the walk into open coastal landscapes.
What 20,000+ Users a Year Looks Like
Spread across the year, use of the Peddars Way translates into:
- A steady flow of people rather than large groups
- Regular use from spring through early autumn
- Ongoing movement through the same starting area
Because the route is linear, people move through the landscape rather than staying in one place, beginning near Thetford before heading north.
Why Walk the Peddars Way
For many, the appeal comes down to space.
- A defined National Trail without heavy traffic
- Long, uninterrupted sections of walking
- A clear inland-to-coast route
It offers a different experience to busier trails, while still being well established and easy to follow.
