Autumnal Walks in Norwich: A Journey Through Nature and Comfort

4 months ago Fri 18th Oct 2024

Autumnal Walks in Norwich - Bus in Sunset

As the crisp air and vibrant hues of autumn descend upon Norwich, there’s no better way to embrace the season than by taking a scenic walk through the city's historical landscapes. From its medieval streets to peaceful riverside paths, Norwich is a city that beautifully blends nature with history. And, of course, no autumn walk is complete without stopping for a cosy hot chocolate or a slice of cake at one of the city's many charming cafés. Here’s a guide to some of the best autumnal walks in Norwich, with a few comforting pitstops along the way.

1. Mousehold Heath

Mousehold Heath is a vast, green space just a short distance from the city centre, offering a mix of woodland, heathland, and open views of the skyline. During autumn, this historic heath comes alive with shades of amber and gold, creating a perfect atmosphere for a peaceful stroll. There are several walking trails to choose from, ranging from easy rambles to longer, more rugged paths.

Once you've soaked in the autumn colours, walk back into the city and head down to The Waffle House, located on St Giles Street. Known for its cosy atmosphere and an excellent range of freshly made waffles, it's an ideal place to indulge in a rich hot chocolate or freshly brewed coffee, paired with one of their sweet or savoury waffle creations.

Dog and geese

2. Eaton Park

Eaton Park, one of Norwich's finest historic parks, is perfect for a leisurely walk on an autumn afternoon. The grand avenues of trees are particularly stunning in October, when the leaves turn to deep oranges and reds. The boating lake, formal gardens, and wide-open spaces make this park a family favourite.

After exploring the park, take a short walk to The Eaton Park Café, nestled within the park itself. This delightful café serves a variety of hot drinks, and their homemade cakes and pastries are the perfect complement to an autumnal walk. Grab a seat outside if the weather is still mild and enjoy the peaceful park surroundings.

You can get to Eaton Park on route 6B. Single fares are still capped at just £2! View all fares and tickets.

3. The River Wensum Walk

For those who love the tranquillity of riverside walks, the River Wensum provides a scenic route through Norwich's heart. Start near the historic Cow Tower and follow the riverside path through Pull's Ferry, passing ancient bridges and flanked by russet-leafed trees. As you walk along the river, you'll witness picturesque views of the Cathedral spire peeking through the autumn mist.

When you're ready for a break, wander up towards Elm Hill, where you’ll find Strangers Coffee House on Dove Street. Known for its artisan coffee and locally sourced ingredients, Strangers offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Their expertly made hot chocolate is perfect for warming up on a cool autumn day, and their range of cakes – from carrot cake to brownies – will leave you spoilt for choice.

Konectbus offers free travel for concessionary bus pass holders in accordance with the national scheme. If you hold an English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) pass, you're entitled to travel on any Konectbus route for free at certain times. Free travel is available on weekdays after 9:30am, and all day on weekends and bank holidays. Before 9:30am, concessionary pass holders can buy a discounted adult ticket. Ask the driver as you board the bus and pay with cash or contactless card.  FInd out more.

4. Whitlingham Country Park

For those seeking a more immersive nature experience, Whitlingham Country Park is a haven just outside the city centre. The large lake, surrounded by woodland paths, is especially beautiful in autumn as the trees turn vibrant shades of yellow and orange. The circular walk around the Great Broad is around 2.7 miles and provides plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly with the migrating birds that visit the area in autumn.

Once you've finished your walk, head back into Norwich for a stop at The Little Red Roaster, located on St Andrews Street. This independent coffee shop is famous for its perfectly brewed coffees and friendly atmosphere. Their indulgent hot chocolate, combined with a slice of their seasonal cake (think spiced pumpkin or apple crumble), makes for a perfect end to your autumn adventure.

Whitlingham Lake

5. Norwich Cathedral Close

A walk around Norwich Cathedral Close is an ideal choice for those looking to combine historical exploration with natural beauty. This peaceful area is surrounded by charming, centuries-old buildings and tree-lined paths that glow with autumn colours. The tranquillity of the Cathedral grounds offers a moment of calm, and you might even catch a glimpse of the resident peregrine falcons.

After enjoying the scenic walk, visit Bread Source on Upper St Giles, a bakery that is beloved by locals for its handcrafted breads and pastries. Their hot chocolate is rich and warming, and you can't go wrong with one of their cinnamon buns or a slice of their famous almond croissant to accompany it.

Why Autumnal Walks in Norwich Are Special

Norwich, with its mixture of historical charm and natural beauty, becomes even more magical in autumn. The golden foliage, cooler temperatures, and crisp air create the perfect setting for long walks, allowing you to enjoy the city’s hidden corners and scenic parks. Combined with the abundance of cosy cafés offering seasonal treats, an autumnal walk in Norwich is a delightful experience for the body and soul.

Whether you’re exploring the open spaces of Mousehold Heath, the peaceful waters of the River Wensum, or the historic charm of Cathedral Close, there’s no shortage of picturesque routes to take. And with cafés like Strangers Coffee House, The Waffle House, and Bread Source offering irresistible hot drinks and cakes, your autumn walk in Norwich will be an unforgettable experience, filled with warmth and comfort.

So, bundle up, grab your walking boots, and take in all the beauty that Norwich has to offer this autumn.