Welcome to the beautiful coastal town of Lowestoft, home to some of the best walks in the UK.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Lowestoft has something for everyone.
From the Broads National Park to Gunton Hall Coastal Park, there are plenty of scenic trails and trails to explore.
In this article, I will be covering 15 of the best walks in Lowestoft, from the most popular trails to hidden gems.
So grab your walking shoes and let’s explore the great outdoors!
Broads National Park
The Broads National Park is a stunning expanse of natural beauty, perfect for an invigorating hike. Located in North East Suffolk, the vast area of wetlands, reed beds, and rivers is home to an array of wildlife and flora.
With its expansive network of rivers, the Broads National Park is a paradise for lovers of the outdoors. Boating, kayaking, and sailing are popular activities, as well as lively wildlife watching and birding.
Hikers can explore the many pathways that crisscross the park, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. With its diverse landscape, the Broads National Park has something for everyone – from leisurely strolls to more demanding hikes, visitors can find a route that suits them.
Whether you’re looking to relax or get your blood pumping, the Broads National Park is the perfect place to explore and enjoy the great outdoors.
Gunton Hall Coastal Park
Situated near Lowestoft, Gunton Hall Coastal Park is an exquisite spot for a relaxing stroll. It’s a beautiful, serene area with a network of pathways leading through marshland and woodland, perfect for taking a peaceful walk away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, bats, and otters, as well as a variety of plants and trees. Along the pathways, there are benches to rest on and plenty of opportunities for bird watching.
The park also has a lovely beach, which is a great spot to relax and enjoy the views of the North Sea.
Gunton Hall is a great place to take a leisurely stroll, with plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning scenery and spot some wildlife.
The River Waveney
You can take a leisurely stroll along the River Waveney, a tranquil oasis that winds through the beautiful countryside near Lowestoft.
The River Waveney is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in nature. You can find plenty of peaceful spots to rest and admire the wildlife and the stunning views of the countryside.
Whether you’re looking for a long hike or a leisurely walk, the River Waveney has something to offer for everyone.
Along the riverbanks, you can find many species of birds and other wildlife, as well as some interesting historical sites.
The river is also home to many species of fish, both freshwater and saltwater, making it a great spot for fishing. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a kingfisher or two.
All in all, the River Waveney is a great place to take a peaceful walk and enjoy the beauty of the countryside.
Henstead Exotic Gardens
Immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of Henstead Exotic Gardens, where you can explore exotic plants from all around the world.
From the moment you enter, you’ll be greeted by the splendor of the garden’s collection of plants from around the globe.
There are a variety of themed gardens, including an Italian garden, a Japanese garden, and a Mediterranean garden.
You can also explore a range of rare and exotic plants in the collection.
As you stroll through the gardens, you’ll be able to get up close and personal with a variety of flora and fauna.
From the lush green foliage to the colorful blooms, you’ll be able to take in the beauty of nature.
The gardens are also a great place to spot a variety of birds, insects, and other wildlife.
Henstead Exotic Gardens is a great place to explore and enjoy a peaceful, scenic walk.
Oulton Marshes Nature Reserve
Oulton Marshes Nature Reserve is an idyllic haven for nature lovers, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s located near Lowestoft and is a great place to explore the natural beauty of the area.
The Reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including a large population of waterfowl, as well as rare plants and insects. The Reserve also has several trails to follow, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The trails take you along the banks of the River Waveney and through the surrounding marshlands, providing stunning views of the landscape.
The Reserve is also home to a large bird hide, where you can observe the local wildlife from a safe distance. There’s something for everyone to enjoy at the Oulton Marshes Nature Reserve, making it a great option for a day out in Lowestoft.
The Ness Point Trail
The Ness Point Trail at Oulton Marshes Nature Reserve offers an exciting and scenic adventure for nature enthusiasts of all ages. This trail takes you right to the edge of the marshes, with beautiful views of the Lowestoft coastline.
As you make your way through the nature reserve, you can see a variety of wildlife, including wading birds, terns, and wildfowl. The trail is also a great spot for bird-watching, with a wide variety of species present. You can also see the remains of a World War II gun emplacement, which is a reminder of the area’s history.
The trail is well-marked, with clear signs to guide you along the route. The terrain is fairly flat, making it suitable for walkers of all levels of experience.
The trail is a great way to explore the beauty and history of the area, and it’s a great place to spend a peaceful afternoon in nature.
Lowestoft Beach
After a peaceful stroll through the marshes, take a trip to Lowestoft Beach to enjoy the stunning views of the North Sea.
Located on the Suffolk coast, Lowestoft Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area, with miles of golden sands perfect for sunbathing and beach activities such as swimming.
The beach is also a great spot for bird watching, with a variety of species to spot throughout the year.
The beach is very accessible, with plenty of car parks, and a promenade and pier for visitors to explore.
The pier is a great spot to take a leisurely stroll and take in the views of the sea and the nearby town.
There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes near the beach, making it the perfect spot to relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of life.
The Bridge Trail
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Oulton on the Bridge Trail, a scenic walk along the River Waveney.
This 3-mile walk takes you past the iconic Oulton red-brick bridge, an impressive structure that dates back to 1784.
The bridge and the surrounding marshland provide a picturesque backdrop as you take in the gorgeous views of the river, meadows, and woodlands.
The walk is a moderate hike, but it’s also suitable for families and those with limited mobility.
It’s a great way to enjoy the natural surroundings with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and birds.
With its beautiful landscapes, the Bridge Trail is a fantastic way to spend the day out in the fresh air.
The Pakefield Cliffs Walk
Leaving the Bridge Trail behind, I can see the rolling hills ahead of me. As I cross the road and the fields, I arrive at the Pakefield Cliffs.
These cliffs are a stunning sight, with their white, eroded chalk face and the backdrop of the beach and the North Sea. As I walk along the cliff top, I am rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding area. To the right I can see the River Blyth and the Minsmere Nature Reserve, while to the left I can glimpse the far-reaching horizon of the North Sea. The cliffs themselves are quite steep, so I take care to watch my footing as I continue along the path.
The path eventually takes me down to the beach, where I can walk along the sand and admire the rugged beauty of the cliffs. The beach is a great place to watch the sun set, as the sky fades from a brilliant blue to a deep pink and purple. The sound of the waves and the smell of the sea create a truly peaceful atmosphere.
As I make my way back up the path to the cliff top, I turn one last time to take in the beauty of the Pakefield Cliffs.
The Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve
Stroll through the picturesque Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve and marvel at the stunning wildlife and scenery that it has to offer.
Boasting a vast array of habitats, this reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including breeding birds, water voles, and otters.
To truly appreciate the beauty of the surrounding area, visitors can take a leisurely walk along the network of footpaths and explore the many impressive hides dotted around the reserve.
The reserve is also home to a stunning array of wildflowers, from orchids to meadow buttercups, making it an ideal spot for keen botanists to explore.
For those looking to relax, there are picnic areas and benches located throughout the reserve, allowing visitors to take a break and soak in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or a longer hike, Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve is a great destination for a peaceful and enjoyable day out.
Kessingland Beach
Having explored the Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve, I decided to take a trip to one of the most picturesque beaches in the area: Kessingland Beach.
This is a quiet, peaceful beach that offers stunning views of the North Sea. It’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll, and it’s a great spot for sandcastle-building and beachcombing.
The beach is a great place to take a leisurely walk and take in the sights and sounds of the North Sea. The sand is soft and inviting, and the waves are gentle and calming.
In the summer months, the beach is filled with families and friends enjoying the sunshine and the sea breeze. There are also plenty of rockpools to explore, as well as plenty of wildlife to observe.
Kessingland Beach is a great spot to relax and take in the stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.
The Wangford Trail
Adjacent to Kessingland Beach is the Wangford Trail, offering a tranquil and scenic route for those seeking a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
This picturesque trail is filled with gorgeous woodlands, meadows and parkland, providing a perfect backdrop for a leisurely walk or a romantic stroll.
The Wangford Trail is a great way to explore the wildlife and nature of the area, with a variety of birds, wildflowers and other wildlife making their home along the route.
The trail also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, making it a great spot for photographers.
There are several rest stops along the way, including a picnic area, a cafe and a pub for those who want to take a break and enjoy a bite to eat.
The Wangford Trail is a great option for those looking for a peaceful and enjoyable walk in the great outdoors.
The Gisleham Trail
Experience the serene beauty of the Gisleham Trail, a tranquil path perfect for an afternoon of reflection and relaxation.
Starting at the village of Gisleham and leading you all the way to Lowestoft, the trail offers a unique and picturesque view of the area’s natural beauty.
Enjoy the stunning sight of lush countryside, with rolling hills, meadows and woodlands, all framed by the sea in the distance.
At just 3.5 miles long, it’s a pleasant and manageable walk for all ages and fitness levels. You can even bring your four-legged friends along, as the trail is pet-friendly.
The route is also dotted with ancient churches and old windmills, adding an extra layer of historical interest to your journey.
With plenty of benches and picnic spots along the way, it’s a great way to spend a peaceful afternoon outdoors.
The Carlton Colville Trail
Explore the Carlton Colville Trail, a stunning path that reveals the captivating beauty of the Suffolk Coast.
This trail, located in the Lowestoft area, is a great way to enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by nature. With a path of just under 8 miles, it is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with plenty of stops along the way to admire the views.
The trail passes through Carlton Marshes, a nature reserve with lots of wildlife and plants to discover, and Belton Marshes, a great spot for birdwatching.
The trail follows the course of the River Waveney, with plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife. As you walk along, you’ll discover a range of habitats, from reed beds to wetland areas and even woodlands.
The trail is easy to follow, with a number of benches and picnic areas located along the way. While the trail is mainly flat, there are a few small inclines which can be tackled with ease.
With its stunning views and variety of flora and fauna, the Carlton Colville Trail is a great choice for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Lowestoft.
The Oulton Broad Trail
Meander through the enchanting Oulton Broad Trail and take in the breathtaking sights of the Suffolk Coast. This short trail, stretching from the Oulton Broad Yacht Station to the Oulton Broad village centre, offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The trail winds its way through the rural landscape, passing through areas of marshland and woodlands, as well as the majestic Oulton Broad, one of the largest of the Norfolk Broads. Alongside the tranquil river are several spots for fishing, a popular pastime amongst locals and visitors alike.
The trail is lined with a variety of native wildlife, ranging from swans and oystercatchers to kingfishers and herons. These birds can be seen soaring over the broad or perched on the reeds and trees that line the banks.
The trail also offers many opportunities to explore the rich history of the region, with several historical sites and monuments along the route. So, if you’re looking for a peaceful and enjoyable walk, then the Oulton Broad Trail is the perfect choice.
Conclusion
Exploring the beauty of Lowestoft is a great way to spend a day. From the Broads National Park to the Wangford Trail, there are plenty of stunning walks available. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, you’ll be sure to find something to suit you.
So, lace up your walking boots and get ready to explore the gorgeous sights of Lowestoft. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.