Thetford

Breckland forest, open heath and riverside walks

Thetford is a historic market town on the edge of Breckland, close to the border between Norfolk and Suffolk. Forest, heathland and the River Little Ouse surround the town, providing plenty to explore on foot beyond its streets.

The River Little Ouse runs through Thetford, with paths following the water through parks and green spaces. Beyond the town, Thetford Forest opens into a much larger network of woodland tracks, trails and quiet roads across the Breckland landscape.

Thetford is also the main rail-connected town for reaching Knettishall Heath, where the Peddars Way begins. Trains connect the town with Norwich, Cambridge and other stations across the region, while the trailhead is reached by a short onward journey into the countryside.

For walkers beginning the Peddars Way, Thetford provides somewhere to arrive, stay and prepare before travelling to Knettishall Heath. But it also works as a base for exploring Breckland itself, with forest, heathland, riverside walking and historic places within the surrounding area.