Weavers’ Way: Aylsham to Blickling

The Weavers' Way section from Aylsham to Blickling follows a 6 km route along old railway lines and riverside paths, offering an easy introduction to one of Norfolk's classic long-distance trails. The route transitions gently from the market town of Aylsham through open countryside before arriving at the National Trust's Blickling Estate, where the Jacobean hall and its formal grounds provide a striking finish. The terrain is dead flat — just 15 metres of total gain — with the old railway bed providing a firm, well-drained surface and the riverside sections running alongside the River Bure through water meadows. Occasional cyclists share the former railway path, but the route is wide enough to accommodate both comfortably.

This dog friendly walk offers moderate off-lead potential on the railway path sections, where the enclosed corridor and good sightlines make it easy to manage dogs. Livestock is present in some of the adjacent meadows, so leads are wise near field boundaries and through any gates. The riverside stretches along the Bure provide water access for drinking, and the water meadow vegetation carries rich scent from reeds, grass and waterside herbs. The flat, firm surface suits dogs of all ages — particularly older dogs or those recovering from injury who need gentle distance without hills. Blickling Estate grounds are dog-friendly with leads required, and the estate's second-hand bookshop and tearoom make a rewarding finish point.