Explore the Best North Norfolk Walks Around Flock Cottage, Dog-Friendly rambles in Norfolk
Nestled in the tranquil village of Ringstead, Hunstanton, on the North Norfolk Coast, Flock Cottage is the perfect base for anyone who loves long, scenic walks, historic footpaths, and dog-friendly rambles. See us here on the National Trails. From ancient long-distance trails to quiet nature reserves and charming woodland routes, this corner of Norfolk offers something for every walker, whether you’re planning a short stroll or a full-day hiking adventure.
Peddars Way from Ringstead Historic Long-Distance Footpath Access
One of the standout attractions for walkers staying at Flock Cottage is Peddars Way, an ancient long-distance trail that stretches from Knettishall Heath to Holme-next-the-Sea following a Roman road. While the full route is over 90 miles long, there’s excellent local access right from Ringstead village.
Distance from Flock Cottage: 1.5 miles walk to the nearest access point via public footpaths.
What to expect:
A gently undulating, easy-to-follow trail perfect for day hikes.
Open countryside, classic Norfolk farmland, and a deep connection with history.
Great for dog walkers and ramblers who want to explore somewhere peaceful and scenic.
The trail links with many other paths for circular walks or longer adventures.
Whether you’re tackling a section of Peddars Way or using it as part of a broader circular route through the countryside, this ancient path is a must-visit for walkers of all levels.
Ringstead Downs- A Quiet Chalk Grassland Nature Reserve
Distance from Flock Cottage: ~1.5 miles
A hidden gem for nature lovers, Ringstead Downs is one of the largest remaining chalk grassland areas in Norfolk and is perfect for a peaceful ramble amid wildflowers, butterflies, and birds. Dogs are welcome, though they should be kept on a lead to protect wildlife, especially during nesting seasons.
Highlights:
Ancient chalk downland with superb biodiversity.
A single footpath winds through scenic grassland.
Beautiful at any time of year , spring brings vibrant wildflowers while winter offers dramatic skies over open countryside.
A gentle ramble here is ideal for walkers who enjoy nature spotting and quiet surroundings without the crowds.
Ringstead Circular Walk- Classic Norfolk Countryside
Distance from Flock Cottage: ~1.5 miles to the village start
If you want a circular route that blends village charm with open fields and farmland, the Ringstead Circular Walk is a favourite. This roughly 7-mile (11 km) loop covers quiet lanes, rolling countryside, and paths through farmland, with glimpses of life at Courtyard Farm and views across the North Norfolk landscape.
Dog-friendly? Yes, it’s a great all-around walk for well-behaved dogs.
Stops along the way make this route ideal for a half-day adventure and a perfect walk for lunch or a pub stop back in Ringstead or nearby Hunstanton.
Courtyard Farm Walks- Organic Farmland & Waymarked Paths
Distance from Flock Cottage: ~1.5 miles
Just outside Ringstead village, Courtyard Farm offers a selection of waymarked public footpaths and permissive routes that weave around the farm’s organic fields and grassland. There are shorter loops (around 2 miles) and longer walks (up to ~6 miles), all showcasing the gently rolling agricultural scenery of West Norfolk.
Perfect for:
Ambler walkers who want varied terrains.
Those seeking quieter walks close to the cottage.
Families and dogs (dogs welcome on a lead to protect livestock and nesting birds).
You can easily make this part of a longer loop by connecting to Ringstead Circular or Peddars Way.
Ken Hill & Snettisham Woodland Walks- Mixed Woodland and Coast Views
Distance from Flock Cottage: ~6-8 miles (by car or bike)
A short drive from Ringstead will take you to the Ken Hill Estate and Snettisham woods, home to pleasant mixed woodland walks with distant views over farmland and towards The Wash. The walk through Ken Hill is charming and peaceful, offering a contrast from open farmland.
Dog-friendly? Yes, woodland paths and shaded routes are ideal for year-round walking.
While there’s no dedicated guided trail signage, local ramblers and walking groups often enjoy medium-length circuits through these woods, making it great for a half-day exploration with nature and wildlife spotting.
Snettisham Circular Walk- Coast and Landscapes
Distance from Flock Cottage: ~8 miles
If you feel like a varied walk that includes coastal views, the Snettisham Circular Walk from Snettisham Beach car park crosses grazing fields, pleasant woodland, and shoreline sections. This route is fun for walkers who enjoy a mix of countryside and seaside character.
Great for:
Dog-friendly coastal walking (check seasonal restrictions).
A refreshing change of scenery.
Combining with a visit to local cafes or pubs in Snettisham afterwards.
Beyond the Village- More Popular Walks Nearby
Brancaster Staithe Circular Walk: 15 miles drive
A lovely circular along marshes, woodland and coastal paths near Brancaster Staithe, perfect for a full-day scenic walk.
Anna’s Walk (Thornham): 18 miles drive
A well-loved coastal woodland and dunes circular walk, ideal for birdwatchers and those who want a blend of beach, dunes, and footpath walking.
Both of these are excellent options for walkers looking to explore more of the Norfolk Coast Path and local landscapes during their stay.
Coastal & Nature Reserve Walks at Holme & Titchwell
For walkers keen to explore more of the Norfolk Coast Path and some of the county’s most famous nature reserves, Holme-next-the-Sea and Titchwell are both excellent options within easy reach of Flock Cottage.
Holme-next-the-Sea Walks & Norfolk Coast Path.
Distance from Flock Cottage: approx. 18 miles
Holme-next-the-Sea marks the northern terminus of the Peddars Way, where it meets the Norfolk Coast Path. This makes it a hugely popular destination for long-distance walkers, ramblers and coastal path enthusiasts.
Walks here include:
Norfolk Coast Path stretches along salt marshes, dunes and wide open beaches
Circular routes combining dunes, pine woodland and coastal footpaths
Expansive views across The Wash and towards Hunstanton cliffs
Dog friendly? Yes dogs are welcome year-round on Holme Beach and most surrounding footpaths, making it ideal for off-lead coastal walking (please be mindful of nesting birds).
Holme is perfect for walkers wanting dramatic coastal scenery, fresh sea air and a sense of completion at the end of the Peddars Way.
Titchwell Marsh & Coastal Footpaths
Distance from Flock Cottage: approx. 19 miles
RSPB Titchwell Marsh is one of the most famous nature reserves on the Norfolk coast and a must-visit for walkers who enjoy wildlife alongside their walks. The surrounding area offers a network of coastal footpaths and gentle circular routes.
You can expect:
Well-maintained paths through reedbeds, lagoons and salt marsh
Access to the Norfolk Coast Path in both directions
Excellent birdwatching throughout the year
Dog friendly? Dogs are not permitted inside the RSPB reserve, but dogs are welcome on the Norfolk Coast Path and surrounding public footpaths, making this a great option for mixed walking days.
This area is particularly popular with nature lovers, photographers and quieter-pace walkers who enjoy combining walking with wildlife spotting.
Walking Holidays Based at Flock Cottage
With easy access to the Peddars Way, countryside footpaths, and iconic coastal walks at Holme, Brancaster, Snettisham and Titchwell, Flock Cottage is ideally placed for a dog-friendly walking holiday in Norfolk. We accommodate up to four guests over two thoughtfully designed bedrooms, plus up to 1 infant. Our brick and flint cottage is situated on a quiet no through road.
Whether you’re ticking off long-distance trails, enjoying gentle rambles, or exploring nature reserves at your own pace, you’ll find some of the best walking in North Norfolk right on your doorstep.Why Flock Cottage Is the Perfect Base for Walkers & Ramblers
At Flock Cottage in Ringstead, you’re not just close to breathtaking countryside, you’re right at the heart of one of Norfolk’s most walkable areas. With direct access to the Peddars Way from our village as well as scenic nature reserves, classic circular village walks, and charming woodland, your stay can be as relaxed or adventurous as you like.
If you’re planning a dog-friendly walking holiday, a ramblers’ retreat, or simply just want to soak up nature at your own pace, the walks around Flock Cottage deliver unforgettable views and plenty of fresh Norfolk air.