Accessible Running & Walking Routes in Norwich: Scenic, Practical & Great for Getting Moving

Walking is something I love. Ambling around urban streets or country cut-throughs started as a necessary part of training for the Three Peaks, and it stayed with me as something I genuinely enjoy. During lockdown I discovered routes close to home, and when a pushchair re-entered my life, keeping those routes accessible became essential.

Walking with purpose to the beat of a playlist, taking in the details to distract myself on a long run, or wandering with a podcast—Norwich delivered endless options right on the doorstep.

Beautiful, accessible walking and running routes in Norwich are plentiful. Whether you’re pushing a buggy, returning to fitness, training for an event, or simply exploring, the city offers miles of paths, riverside trails, historic streets, and peaceful green spaces.

This guide covers some of my favourite routes—classics like Marriott’s Way as well as quieter highlights such as Rosary Road Cemetery or Thorpe Marshes. It’s written with real people in mind: walkers, runners, parents, beginners, and anyone wanting to feel more confident exploring the city.

1. Traffic-Free & Multi-Use Paths

Marriott’s Way

Starting near the Barn Road/Barker Street roundabout and running all the way to Aylsham, Marriott’s Way offers 26 miles of level, reliable surface ideal for walking, running, and cycling. The path can be broken into manageable sections and is rich in wildlife year-round. Close to the city it links easily to Anderson’s Meadow, Sloughbottom Park, and Sweet Briar Marshes.

Route guide: Marriott’s Way Guide Book

Whitlingham Country Park

On the edge of Trowse, Whitlingham offers multiple paths around the broad and surrounding woodland, with connections to National Cycle Route 1 and Wherryman’s Way. The loop around the Great Broad is 2.3 miles (3.7km) of level, packed path suitable for pushchairs and runners. It can flood or become muddy after bad weather. Facilities include a pay-and-display car park, toilets (including Changing Places), and the Flint Barn Café.

Visitor info: Whitlingham Country Park

2. Riverside & Urban Explorations

Riverside Walk & Cathedral Quarter

An easy, fully paved circular walk around the Cathedral grounds, Pulls Ferry, Cow Tower and the River Wensum. Ideal for a lunchtime wander, a smooth flat run, or a sunny-day picnic. There’s also a small riverside “beach” near Cow Tower if you’re inclined to take a wild dip (bathing at your own risk!). Food and drink options range from the Cathedral Refectory to The Adam and Eve and Lion’s Den.

Map: Riverside Walk Guide

Historic Norwich Streets: Elm Hill, Tombland & King Street

This route showcases Norwich’s medieval and Tudor charm. Start by going down Elm Hill past independent shops, continue along Tombland past Erpingham Gate, and cross over Prince of Wales Road on to King Street. You’ll pass Dragon’s Hall and Jurnet’s House, with the option to return by crossing the footbridge over to the riverside path for lovely waterfront views.

Character guide: King Street Area Guide

The Golden Triangle

Bordered by Earlham Road, Newmarket Road and Colman Road—with Unthank Road running through the middle—this area offers well-lit streets, terrace-lined routes, and plenty of green pockets. Highlights include the Plantation Garden (small fee), Heigham and Jenny Lind Parks, Earlham Cemetery, and Chapelfield Gardens.

Further Information: Plantation Garden & Heigham Park

3. Green Spaces

Eaton Park

On Norwich’s western side, Eaton Park offers wide, flat paths and large open spaces. A popular Parkrun venue, three laps of the perimeter cover over 5km. There’s also a superb play area, tennis courts, toilets, a café, and a miniature railway on Sundays.

Visitor Info: Eaton Park

Earlham Park & UEA Campus + Broad

Side by side, these areas offer expansive green space and miles of pathways. The paths are more rugged at times but still manageable for sturdy pushchairs. The UEA campus features marked routes of ~2km each, paved paths through striking Brutalist architecture, sculptures from the Sainsbury Centre, and accessible facilities including parking, toilets, and a café.

Route map: UEA Waymarked Trails

Waterloo Park

Situated just north of the city, Waterloo Park offers tennis courts, a children’s play area, a café, and a solid circular path suitable for running and pushchairs. The gentle incline around the park adds a little extra challenge if you want it.

Information page: Waterloo Park

4. Hidden Gems & Quiet Corners

Rosary Cemetery → Lion Wood → Pilling Park

Just past Thorpe Train Station, Rosary Cemetery is the oldest non-denominational burial ground in the UK. With historic details signposted, wildflowers on the floor, and shaded paths, it’s a peaceful place to explore. It links into Lion Wood and Pilling Park for an extended walk. Paths can be uneven with slight gradients—fine for sturdy buggies. Pilling Park also offers outside gym equipment and a children's play area.

More info: Rosary Cemetery & Friends of Lion Wood

Thorpe Marshes

East of the city off Yarmouth Road, Thorpe Marshes is a Norfolk Wildlife Trust reserve where the Broads are brought to the city. Quiet, scenic, and rich in wildlife, it’s perfect for gentle walks or jogs. Paths can become boggy in winter, and the stepped railway bridge makes access tricky for wheels—but it’s a beautiful hidden gem.

Reserve info: Thorpe Marshes – NWT

More Places to Explore

This run down is certainly not an exhaustive list. There are many interesting places to explore including Mousehold Heath, Ketts Heights, and the Yare Valley Walk. 

The above are simply the routes I use most often—paths that link beautifully together if you want to extend a run or wander further. Norwich is blessed with accessible, interesting places to explore, and often the best discoveries come from just stepping out of the door and following your nose