Walking in Knettishall Heath
Heathland, forest, and the start of the Peddars Way
Knettishall Heath Nature Reserve sits on the Suffolk–Norfolk border, where open heathland and woodland meet. It is also the starting point of the Peddars Way, making it both a destination in its own right and the beginning of a long-distance route.
The Nature Reserve
Knettishall Heath is made up of:
- Open heathland
- Pine and mixed woodland
- Grassland and tracks linking across the reserve
The landscape is wide and exposed in places, with softer, shaded sections through the forest. Paths are well defined, allowing for straightforward walking without needing detailed navigation.
The Start of the Peddars Way
The Peddars Way begins at the edge of the reserve, marked by a small car park and a waymarker pointing north.
From here:
- The route follows a straight line through Breckland
- Ground is generally firm and level
- The landscape opens quickly beyond the trees
Walking Within the Reserve
Knettishall Heath works well for shorter walks built around the start of the trail.
From the main access point:
- Paths lead out across heath and woodland
- The Peddars Way can be followed for a short distance north
- Wider tracks allow for simple routes within the reserve
You don’t need to be walking the full route to experience this part of the landscape.
Facilities and the Main Access Point
The main access point to the reserve includes:
- Parking
- Toilet facilities
- Open space around the entrance
From here, paths extend in multiple directions across the heath and into surrounding woodland.
A Stop at the Reserve
Near the main entrance area, a small mobile coffee van operates on-site.
Open Friday to Sunday, typically from 10am to 3pm, it serves visitors using the reserve — both those walking locally and those starting or passing through on the route.
Continue Walking
From Knettishall Heath, the Peddars Way continues north through Breckland towards Great Cressingham and beyond, eventually linking with the Norfolk Coast Path at the coast.
