Routes and trails
National Cycle Network Route 13 Sustrans
Enjoy the National Cycle Network in the Brecks with Route 13, which passes through the heart of the Brecks between Watton and Thetford (connecting to cycle route 1).
This route, is part of a wider and expanding cycle route, which when complete, will connect Tower Bridge in London with Fakenham in Norfolk.
Swaffham Bridle Route
A 21 miles / 34 km long route connecting Hunstanton on the north Norfolk coast, to the Suffolk Wildlife Trust Knettishall Heath Nature Reserve. This route passes through the east of the Brecks, through rolling farmland around Swaffham, and the fascinating Brecks heathland of the Stanford Training area. It passes Thompson Water and Cranberry Rough, home to the Breck’s unique and iconic Ice-Age Pingo Ponds. The route also encompasses sections of beautiful Brecks forest around West Harling, and the classic and ancient Brecks landscape of Knettishall Heath Nature Reserve (keep your eyes peeled for the Reserve’s grazing ponies!).
The route is mainly on tracks and minor roads.
Sites to Visit
Brandon Country Park:
A beautiful country park in the heart of the Brecks, pairing classic Brecks heathland with tranquil forest. The site has cycle racks at the front entrance.
The Poachers Trail (9.2km, 5.75 miles, a shortcut is available): A well marked cycle route made up of wide paths, narrow tracks, and undulating drives, through the heart of Thetford Forest.
The Brecks Trail (22.5km, 14 miles): A cycling-friendly linear trail between Brandon Country Park and West Stow Country Park, with links to High Lodge.
High Lodge:
Situated in the heart of Thetford Forest, and managed by Forestry England, High Lodge is a visitor site which offers three cycling trails of varying difficulty.
The Shepherd Trail (8km, 5 miles): A quiet family friendly cycling trail, offering relatively flat, wide open forest roads, tracks and rides. Appropriate for most bikes, including tagalongs, trailers and child seats.
The Beater Trail (10km, 6 miles, OR 18km, 11 miles): A moderate route with two distance options for circular loops. The route is mostly single-track, winding through the trees and over obstacles such as roots. Appropriate for aspiring cyclists with moderate skill level who like a challenge. Not suitable for trailers, tagalongs and child seats.
The Lime Burner Trail (15km, 10 miles): A challenging route taking in varied surfaces with technical features such as drop-offs, sweeping single-track, rock features and optional
black graded pits (for mountain biking). High levels of skill, endurance and off-road knowledge
are required. Not suitable for trailers, tagalongs and child seats.
