The best walks and hikes around Pulham
4.5
(315)
1,612
hikers
143
hikes
Hiking around Pulham offers exploration of a gently undulating rural landscape in Norfolk, characterized by extensive fields, meadows, and quiet country lanes. The area features a network of public footpaths and smaller wooded areas, providing varied environments for outdoor activities. Notable natural features include ancient woodlands and sections of river valleys, contributing to the region's scenic beauty.
Best hiking trails around Pulham
- The most popular hiking route is View of the Cerne Abbas Giant – Abbey House, Cerne Abbey loop…
Last updated: April 28, 2026
4.0
(4)
19
hikers
16.8km
04:50
400m
400m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
20
hikers
8.01km
02:18
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
10.2km
02:56
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
11.8km
03:24
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Not a lake. The water "behind" Up Cerne Manor is a specific formal water feature—a serpentine canal pond—as well as the River Cerne itself, which flows through the valley just behind the house. Here is the breakdown of what you see in that specific area: 1. The Serpentine Canal Directly to the west (behind the main house structure), there is a long, formal canal. It is distinct for its "serpentine" or curved shape. This was a classic 18th-century landscaping technique designed to make formal water appear more natural and graceful while still functioning as a grand garden feature. 2. The River Cerne The house is nestled in the valley floor, and the River Cerne flows immediately behind the grounds. It is a classic English chalk stream, known for its crystal-clear water and abundance of brown trout. The river was used historically to feed the manor's ponds and create the water meadows that characterize the landscape. 3. The Water Meadows The flat land directly behind the manor consists of ancient water meadows. In the 17th and 18th centuries, these were highly engineered systems of "carriers" and "drains" used to divert river water across the grass to prevent frost and encourage early spring growth for sheep. Today, they appear as lush, damp pastures that provide a scenic backdrop to the house.
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The Cerne Abbey Abbot's Porch is a stunning, three-story fragment of history that serves as a grand reminder of the abbey's former glory. It’s the kind of place where you can just sit and admire the intricate stonework and that iconic two-story oriel window. It feels wonderfully peaceful, tucked away at the end of Abbey Street. Since it’s one of the few pieces of the 15th-century monastery still standing, it has a very grounded, quiet presence. It’s perfect for a slow wander when you want to soak up the medieval atmosphere without any rush.
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Hidden behind the church lies the Silver Well, a mystical pool where Saint Augustine allegedly tapped the ground and told the water to "get a move on." It’s famous for "healing" properties, though mostly it’s just great at chilling your ankles. Legend says drinking the water at sunrise brings babies or visions; nowadays, it just brings hikers looking for a quiet spot to contemplate why they wore sandals. A peaceful, leafy nook for some holy hydration!
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Standing tall since the 1300s, St Mary’s is where you go to feel ancient and slightly judged by stone gargoyles. It boasts a stunning 15th-century tower and a posh stone screen that’s older than your family tree. Don't miss the medieval wall paintings—they’ve survived centuries of damp and hymns. It’s the perfect, holy spot to pray for forgiveness after giggling at the Giant’s nakedness just five minutes up the road. Amen to that!
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The River Cerne is the ultimate chill companion, lazily winding its way through the valley. It’s less of a rushing torrent and more of a gentle, crystal-clear murmur that keeps the meadows lush. Perfect for a quick splash or just watching the water-crowfoot sway while you ignore your pedometer.
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Cerne House is that classic, mellow Georgian spot that perfectly anchors the village. It’s got that "settled-in" vibe, oozing effortless elegance without trying too hard. Passing by feels like a gentle nod to history—quiet, grand, and totally unbothered. It’s the ideal landmark for a slow, wandering Sunday stroll.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Pulham?
There are nearly 150 hiking trails around Pulham, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. You'll find everything from easy strolls through the countryside to more challenging moderate routes.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Pulham?
Pulham's hiking trails traverse a gently undulating rural landscape, characterized by extensive fields, meadows, and quiet country lanes. You'll also encounter smaller wooded areas, ancient woodlands like Tyrrel's Wood Nature Reserve, and sections of river valleys, providing diverse and scenic environments for exploration.
Are there any easy hiking routes suitable for beginners in Pulham?
Yes, Pulham offers over 50 easy hiking routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a leisurely walk. An example is the Rousiball Lane, Bladeley Hill – View of Buckland Newton loop from Buckland Newton, an easy 5.6 km path that takes about 1 hour 35 minutes.
What are some longer, more challenging hikes in the Pulham area?
For those seeking a more challenging experience, Pulham has nearly 80 moderate routes. A good option is the View of the Cerne Abbas Giant – Abbey House, Cerne Abbey loop from Buckland Newton, a 17.4 km trail with significant elevation gain, typically completed in just under 5 hours.
Are there any circular walks available in Pulham?
Yes, many of the trails in Pulham are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Church Hill Enclosure – Plush Village loop from Buckland Newton, an 8 km moderate route that takes around 2 hours 18 minutes.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the hiking trails in Pulham?
While hiking in Pulham, you can discover several notable attractions. The iconic Cerne Abbas Giant is a prominent landmark. Other points of interest include Church Hill Enclosure and scenic viewpoints like The Dorsetshire Gap and View from Bulbarrow Hill.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Pulham?
The hiking trails in Pulham are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 310 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the region's diverse rural landscapes, well-maintained public footpaths, and the sense of open space.
Are there any specific trails that pass through or near the villages of Pulham Market and Pulham St Mary?
Yes, the villages of Pulham Market and Pulham St Mary are excellent starting points for walks. The Pulham St Mary Platinum Path is a popular mainly off-road option, and a dedicated 3-mile route connects the two villages, moving through fields and past historic cottages.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Pulham?
The gently undulating rural countryside of Pulham is enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn brings vibrant colors. Even in winter, the quiet country lanes and footpaths provide pleasant walking opportunities, especially on crisp, clear days.
Are there any long-distance trails that pass through the Pulham area?
Yes, portions of nationally recognized long-distance trails, such as the Boudicca Way and the Angles Way, pass through or near the Pulham villages. These trails offer diverse terrain and opportunities for extended hikes beyond local loops.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities near the hiking trails in Pulham?
For families, the Pulham Patch offers seasonal attractions like a Maize Maze and Pumpkin Patch, with direct footpath access to Tyrrel's Wood. The charming villages themselves, with their historic properties, also provide interesting points for exploration during a walk.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Pulham?
Parking is generally available in or near the villages of Pulham Market and Pulham St Mary, which serve as common starting points for many local walks. Specific parking details for individual routes can often be found on their respective komoot tour pages.
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