Cycling In and Around Great Yarmouth – A Guide
Great Yarmouth is a great destination for cyclists. With a mix of coastal paths, country lanes and cycling trails the Norfolk Seaside town has got a lot to offer. It does not matter if you are an experienced cyclist or just enjoy leisurely rides, the area is a go-to spot to explore. With routes that show you the picturesque Norfolk countryside and along the coast, Great Yarmouth is the perfect place for cyclists.
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What is Yarmouth’s Terrain like for cycling?
The terrain is predominantly flat (like much of East Anglia), which makes it ideal for cycling. The area features a wide array of scenic routes for all levels of cyclists.
You can enjoy coastal rides with a view, explore the calming countryside or visit the Norfolk Broads.
The flat terrain is really accommodating for families and casual riders. As a plus there are also dedicated cycling trails that are more of a safe and fun experience with less hazards.
Cycle Paths in Great Yarmouth:
Great Yarmouth has got a network of designated cycling paths that make exploring the town more enjoyable and safer for all cyclists. The flat landscape is an ideal setting for cycling fanatics and families.
Seafront cycle path
The seaside promenade path which stretches from the northern end near North Drive to the southern point at Marine Parade.
Cyclists can enjoy views of the sea while going along this traffic-free route.
National Cycle Network Route 1
This cycle path passes through Great Yarmouth. This is a long-distance route that connects Norwich in the west and Lowestoft in the south.
This path is well-signposted and features a mix of on-road and off-road paths with designated cycle lanes.
Breydon Water cycle path
This route provides a more scenic path around Breydon Water, which is the UK’s largest protected wetland. This path features the designated cycling areas that are along the A47 and B1141.
While following this route you will be able to see local wildlife and surrounding marshes, making this route perfect for nature lovers.
What’s within Cycling distance of Great Yarmouth?
Great Yarmouth’s flat terrain makes it a perfect starting point to your cycling journey to explore the surrounding areas.
There are several delightful towns that are worth checking out.
Within 5 – 10 miles
Gorleston – on – Sea (Around 4 miles south)
Gorleston-on-sea is a lovely seaside town with a beautiful beach and a cliff-top promenade.
It features astounding views of the coastline, and it is perfect for those looking for a calm, leisurely ride.
Caister-on-sea (around 3 miles north)
Caister-on-sea is one of oldest villages in the UK, which is known for its quiet beaches.
Caister is home to the Caister Roman Fort, showing you a small part of ancient history. The Caister Lifeboat Station Museum also showcases the local nautical heritage.
Burgh Castle (around 5 miles west)
Burgh Castle offers one of the best preserved Roman forts in the country, which overlooks the River Waveney.
The area features views of the marshes and wetlands that are around.
Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens (around 7 miles northwest)
Thrigby Hall Wildlife is a wildlife park that specializes in animals such as tigers, leopards and red pandas.
Set in beautiful gardens, its accessible via country lanes, perfect for cycling.
Hemsby (Around 7 miles north)
Hemsby is a popular coastal village, known for its beaches and holiday parks, There a wide variety of family-friendly attractions such as arcades and mini-golf.
The route to Hemsby features quiet roads that are suitable for cyclists of any level.
Filby and Ormesby Broad (Around 6 miles northwest)
Filby and Ormesby Broad are part of the Trinity Broads, they feature waterside views, they are the perfect places for picnics, bird watching and enjoying nature.
The roads are peaceful and offer a relaxing cycling ride.
Reedham (Around 10 miles southwest)
Reedham is village on the banks of the River Yare.
Reedham is known for the Reedham Chain Ferry which is one of the remaining chain ferries in the UK. It features pubs and the iconic Reedham Swing Bridge.
BMXing, bike tracks & skate parks in Yarmouth
For those interested in the extreme, stunt or trick-based parts of cycling (as well as other alternative sports, Great Yarmouth and a few of its surrounding areas offer facilities that cater to BMX riders, skateboarders and mountain bikers.
Below are the following few places that cater to extreme sports enthusiasts.
St Nicholas Recreation Ground Skatepark
This notable recreation ground in Great Yarmouth which is located close to the centre of the town, this skatepark caters to both beginners and more experienced riders.
The Parks design works for a variety of styles of skating and BMXing, which provides a great environment for visitors to improve their abilities. Due to the skatepark being very close to the centre of the town, it makes it very accessible for riders to visit.
Cobholm Skatepark
Located on 2 Tyrells Road is a well-known skatepark for local skateboarders and BMX riders.
The skatepark offers ramps, quarter pipes and boxes. The park is open to the public and it is free to use, making it accessible for everyone.
Gorleston Skatepark
Located in Gorleston-on-sea, which is just a few miles south of Great Yarmouth, the Gorleston skatepark has got more facilities that cater to extreme sports enthusiasts.
This skatepark includes a variety of ramps, rails and boxes for riders of all skill levels.
Thetford Forest
While Great Yarmouth has quite flat terrain, mountain bikers can find more challenging trails at Thetford Forest, which is about 45 miles southwest of Great Yarmouth.
The forest does offer a variety of biking trails from easy to difficult. These trails offer off-road cycling, catering to both casual riders and more experienced riders.
The best cycling routes around Great Yarmouth
For those dedicated cyclists who want to get REALLY stuck into a good journey around the area on their bike, here are our top recommendations…
Gorleston South and Lower Esplanade
The Gorleston South and Lower Esplanade trail is a stunning coastal route in Gorleston-on-sea.
- Length: Approximately 4.8 km
- Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Starting off at the Gorleston Beach Car Park, you start your ride along the Lower Esplanade, as you continue to go south, the flat terrain makes it an easy ride that is suitable for all ages and levels of experience.
As you continue down your trail, you will spot the iconic Gorleston Pavillion Theatre. The path slowly ascends towards the Gorleston Cliffs where you will find Cliff Gardens containing vibrant flowers. And panoramic views of the coast. This incline should be manageable for most cyclists.
If you carry on you will soon reach the Gorleston Golf Club, you can use this point to rest before returning the same way.
Highlights:
- Panoramic sea views
- Gorleston Beach
- Cliff Gardens
- Gorleston Pavillion Theatre
Who is this ride best suited for:
- Families
- Beginners
- Nature & Sea Lovers
- Photographers
Norfolk Broad Loop from Thurne
The Norfolk Broads Loop bike trail is an intermediate cycling route through the Norfolk Broads.
- Length: 13 miles
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Time: Approximately 2 hour and 32 minutes
Starting off at Thurne, which is known for its incredible white windmill, the trail starts on calm country roads and gravel routes, featuring inclines and uneven terrain.
Go east along the River Thurne, which features marshland views and wildlife. Beware of narrow sections, tree roots, and low hanging branches. Carry on to the village of Repps with Bastwick before getting to Potter Heigham, a busy village with its iconic bridge and Herbert Woods Marina. This part may be busier with pedestrians and boat traffic.
Leaving Potter Heigham, the trail follows River Ant. This section is a bit more challenging, with gravel paths, loose stones, and gradients, which is surrounded by amazing flora and fauna. This route takes you to Ludham, where you will encounter the St. Catherine’s church where you can stop for a break or visit a local café.
The final part of the trail leads you back to Thurne where it takes you along tarmac roads and dirt roads, beware of sharp turns and uneven terrain before finishing in Thurne. This path is perfect for experienced riders who enjoy nature and history.
Highlights:
- St. Catherine’s Church
- Various Terrains
- Potter Heigham Bridge
- Wildlife and Nature
Best suited for:
- Intermediate Cyclists
- Thrill seekers
- Nature and wildlife fans
- Fitness enthusiasts
Thurne and Winterton-on-sea loop from Stokesby
This varied route mixes amazing landscapes with a great challenge for intermediate cyclists.
- Length: around 25 miles
- Time: approximately 2 hours 12 minutes
- Difficulty: Intermediate
Start your ride in Stokesby, a charming village on the River Bure. Go northeast along the country lanes towards Thurne, passing the historic Thurne Dyke Windpump, a perfect place to take a break and some photos. Going through Martham and West Somerton which will feature gravel paths and grassy tracks, you will be navigating a mixed terrain.
Reach Winterton-on-Sea, where there are sandy beaches and Winterton Dunes that offer incredible views and potential wildlife sightings. Then head south to Hemsby, where you will be following busier roads with sharp turns and small hills. Turn towards Ormesby St Margaret and Filby, cycling through countryside close to the Trinity Broads.
Complete the loop back to Stokesby on country lanes, beware around the bends.
Highlights:
- Ormesby St Margaret
- Winterton Dunes Nature Reserve
- Thurne Dyke Windpump
- Filby
Best suited for:
- Intermediate Cyclists
- Adventure Enthusiasts
- Nature lovers
- Fitness riders
Runham Vauxhall to Reedham
Unless you know the area well we suggest you make sure to use a map or a navigation device for this one due to the lack of signage!
- Length: Approximately 16 kilometres
- Time: Approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes
- Difficulty: Intermediate
Starting at Great Yarmouth railway station on Acle New Road then head west, going past Vauxhall Bridge.
Continue quiet roads and marked footpaths that will guide towards Runham. From there face southwest and follow the countryside lanes and farm tracks that goes through open fields and marshland.
When you get to River Yare, Keep the river to your left and make sure you follow the path southwest until you arrive at Reedham, you will notice the swing bridge and chain ferry.
Highlights:
- Vauxhall Station
- Runham Countryside
- River Yare Views
- Norfolk Broads landscape
- Reedham
Who is this ride best suited for:
- Nature enthusiasts
- Experienced Cyclists
- History Fans
The Great Yarmouth Circular
Parts of this trail are quieter and offer calming views of the River Yare.
- Length: Approximately 7.7 kilometers
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Time: Approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes
Begin at the Great Yarmouth Station, going east towards the seafront. Follow the path down the promenade. Continue south along Marine Parade and enjoy the views of the sea. This is a wide, well-paved path which makes it easier for every level of cyclist.
Once you reach the southern end of the seafront, turn right and go west and you will join the riverside path that is along the River Yare. Stay on the path and continue to go north.
Once you leave the riverside path near The Star Hotel, go east along Hall Quay and then turn left onto Stonecutters way. Then continue onto King Street and pass the Time & Tide Museum. After this turn right onto Regent Road, which will take you through the town centre, once you have gotten to the end of Regent Road, follow Trafalgar Road north, which will lead you back to the Great Yarmouth Station to complete the loop.
Highlights:
- Coastal views
- Experience the iconic town centre
- River Views
Who is this ride best suited for:
- Families
- Novice cyclists
- Nature enthusiasts
- History fans
Local Bicycle Hire & Shops in Great Yarmouth
B & D Cycles
33 Baker Street, Gorleston-on-Sea – NR31 6QT
B & D Cycles in Gorleston is your go-to for all things cycling from purchasing new bikes to accessories and expert advice. They also provide servicing and repairs with a reputation for friendly, knowledgeable help.
Opening times:
- Monday: 8:00 am – 5:30 pm
- Tuesday – Thursday: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am – 5:30 pm
- Saturday: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Sunday: Closed
Evans Cycles
3–7 King Street – NR30 2BA
Evans Cycles, located within Sports Direct on King Street, is part of the UK’s leading bike retail chain. Offering a large range of bikes, gear, and servicing, it’s a convenient stop right in the town centre.
Opening times:
- Monday–Saturday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Sunday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Wezwheelz
22 Broad Row – NR30 1HT
Wezwheelz, based in the centre of Great Yarmouth, provides cycle hire and repairs with a personal, community-minded touch—perfect for locals and visitors alike.
Opening times:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday–Saturday: 10:30 am – 4:00 pm
- Sunday: Closed
Why Visit Great Yarmouth for a Cycling Holiday?
Cycling is an incredible way to take in the sights and lively atmosphere of Great Yarmouth. With Paths and trails that are suited to a variety of abilities and experience. There are plenty of places to discover and it’s very easy to create a memorable adventure.
