The county of Suffolk offers some superb walking trails which will appeal to anyone who likes to get their exercise amid spectacular scenery. Suffolk is a particularly great destination for walking with its flat landscapes and pleasant sights making it an easy place for anyone to enjoy an excursion on foot, regardless of age, ability, and level of fitness. With rural prettiness, ancient woodlands, and splendid seaside destinations, there’s plenty of striking landmarks and gorgeous vistas to take in on a relaxing stroll.  Walking through Thetford Forest

Unless you live nearby, of course, these walking trails won’t be an option for you at the moment, but when things return to normal these make some superb routes to enjoy when paying a visit to Suffolk.

Thetford Forest

The stunning Thetford Forest stretches from south Norfolk to north Suffolk, and forms the biggest lowland pine forest in Britain. The tall trees towering above you make this a truly atmospheric and unique location and it’s well worth exploring on one of the numerous routes that open up before you.

From Forestry England’s High Lodge location a variety of options are available. Easy walks include the Pine Trail through some of the stunning local trees, the Nature Trail which takes you to a wildlife hide from which you can watch animals, and the Heritage Trail which will let you explore the hidden history of the area. Routes suitable for those of moderate walking ability include the Beech Trail and the Fir Trail which are fantastic if you fancy a proper stroll through these peaceful woods. High Lodge itself also offers a range of activities and sights to see while you’re there, making it a great spot for a full day out in Suffolk.

Orford Heritage Pub Trail

If you like your walking trails with ample helpings of bracing sea air – not to mention plenty of opportunities to stop off for a refreshing beverage – the Orford Heritage Pub Trail is perfect. Set off from the charming historic fishing village of Orford and take a five-and-a-half mile wander alongside the River Ore and through the local countryside.

There are two pubs along the way, the Jolly Sailor and the King’s Head, both partners with the regional Adnams brewery, so you can enjoy a taste of some genuine local flavour while stopping for a breather along your route, which loops back around to Orford.  Orford Castle Suffolk

Rendlesham Forest

For a walking route that’s truly ‘out of this world’, take a stroll through Rendlesham Forest, the location of an alleged UFO encounter back in 1980. Servicemen on security patrol at nearby RAF Woodbridge are said to have seen strange lights amongst the trees at 3am on the 26th of December, and spotted a glowing metallic object with coloured lights when they went to investigate. Later investigation found strange marks in the ground and broken branches and scorch marks on nearby trees.

Whether you believe in visitors from another world or not, you can enjoy an easy 3-mile walk through forest, heathland and wetland, and there are pamphlets available as well as signs along the way that tell the story of this strange UFO sighting so you can make up your own mind on what really happened. Find out what else to see and read Suffolk Holidays: Harry Potter, the Castle Legend and the Ghost Ship.