The Waddle - Walk & Paddle

Are you feeling fit on your way out of lockdown or do you want to get fit? Our new trail fondly known as “The Waddle” (Walk & Paddle) is for you, offering the perfect work out for body and mind!

Starting with a good walk, through beautiful Norfolk Countryside, exercising those "Lockdown Legs" followed by a return paddle that will give you arms and upper body a gentle work out! You start by parking in Wroxham and picking up the Bure Valley Path that starts beside the Train Station in Wroxham. You then wander (or March!) your way along the beautiful Bure Valley Path into the depths of the Norfolk Countryside following beside the train line. The Walk from Wroxham to Buxton is approx. 5.5 miles and takes most people 2- 3 hours to complete (this means you will need to leave Wroxham approximately 9-10am), Depending if you opt for a coffee stop halfway at one of the many cafés in Coltishall.

Once in Buxton, you will head down to our launch point (directions provided) - please aim to be here for 12 noon. From here you will begin your return journey by canoe to Wroxham, along one of the most beautiful stretches of river in the county. This paddle will take you approximately 4/5 hours, depending on how fast you paddle!

The top end is unnavigable so other than the odd canoe you're unlikely to see many other people. Gin clear water and Amazonian overhanging trees and foliage make it a wonderland for wildlife both above and below the water.

Approximately half way through your paddle, you will reach a portage (where you get out of your boat and walk round the old lock at Horstead). Some 20 mins after this, you arrive at Coltishall common, which is an ideal stop for either a picnic or a pint at either of the two excellent pubs.

After replenishing your energy, climb back into your canoe and continue the journey back towards your car. The river here is tree lined and widens, and twists and turns as it meanders its way down to Wroxham; great territory for Kingfishers and even otters-so keep your eyes peeled!

About 200m before Wroxham road bridge you will see our base on the left in the garden of the King's Head pub. Here you will end your day (probably with another well deserved "lemonade"). Your car will be a short (5 min) walk from the end point.