Burgh St Peter Staithe to Aldeby, Toft Monks and Wheatacre
Famously flat, peaceful and incredibly picturesque, the Norfolk Broads make a great destination for a cycling holiday. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or are pulling on the Lycra for the first time in years, you’ll find plenty of routes that will suit you perfectly.
If you’re looking for a short afternoon or morning excursion, this easy bike ride is the perfect choice. Taking you through a selection of pretty villages and offering great views of Norfolk’s stunning wetlands, it’s a great route for people of all abilities.
Route
The best place to begin this cycle is at the Waveney River Centre. If you’re driving to the start of the route, you’ll find plenty of space in the visitor car park. The centre also has a café where you can fuel up before you head out.
As you leave the Waveney River Centre, you want to keep left and head down Staithe Road. Then turn left down Grays Road and cycle around the edge of Burgh St Peter. Continue onto St Mary’s Road and head towards Aldeby. Once you reach the village, you have the option to take a detour into Three Gates Wood or continue straight on towards Aldeby Staithe.
From Aldeby, you can cycle out to Toft Monks and enjoy a drink in the local pub before re-joining the route. Cycle out of the village towards the old Aldeby Railway Station and then turn right onto Station Road. Turn left onto Burgh Road and follow it until you arrive back at the Waveney River Centre.
Difficulty
At just 11 miles long, this short route is suitable for people with all levels of fitness. Most of the route is on quiet country lanes, although there are a few options for off-roading if you’re feeling adventurous. If you’re tackling the route over the winter months or in wet weather, you might need a bike with wider tyres if you’re going venture into the woods.
Facilities
You’ll find pubs in Toft Monks and Burgh St Peter. There’s also a café, toilets and car park at the Waveney River Centre. The closest bus stop to the Waveney River Centre is in Wheatacre, while train stations can be found in Beccles and Haddiscoe.
Points of interest
There are a number of points of interest along the route. In Aldeby, you can stop to admire the impressive village church and take a look at Toft Monks Crossing Cottage. If you’re feeling energetic, you can also take a half hour walk around Aldeby Hall, a beautiful estate that’s home to a wealth of flora and fauna.
Another detour from the route takes you to Stanley Hills. This pretty heathland was originally formed in the Ice Age and is a great place to spot local wildlife.
A fantastic choice for a relaxing cycle, this short circular route has something for everyone. Find out more about cycling in Norfolk by exploring our site today.