Knettishall Heath

Heathland, woodland and the first steps north

Knettishall Heath lies on the Suffolk-Norfolk border, where open heathland, woodland and quiet countryside meet. Paths cross the heath and surrounding landscape, making it somewhere to explore on foot as well as an important starting point for longer walks.

The Knettishall Heath Nature Reserve forms the heart of the area, with heathland, woodland and open spaces crossed by a network of paths. From here, walking routes continue into the surrounding Breckland countryside and nearby forest.

Knettishall Heath is also the southern starting point of the Peddars Way. The trail begins close to the reserve and heads north through woodland and open countryside, passing through Thetford Forest Park at Harling Woods during the early stages of the route before continuing across Norfolk towards the coast.

For walkers beginning the Peddars Way, Knettishall Heath marks the transition from arrival to trail. For a shorter visit, the surrounding paths and nature reserve provide plenty to explore without following the long-distance route north.