Image shared for Aylsham: Marriott’s Way, Spa Lane and the historic Bure
Countryside Circular

Aylsham: Marriott’s Way, Spa Lane and the historic Bure

Norfolk

Distance
7.4 mi
Est. time
3h 30m
Difficulty
Medium
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

A full circuit around Aylsham, linking the Georgian market centre with the River Bure, old railway paths and the lanes south of town. The route follows Norfolk Trails’ seven-mile Aylsham Town walk, with a short connection from the public Buttlands car park. Allow about 3½ hours for the 12 km route, including a few short stops.

Start at the pedestrian exit on the north side of Buttlands car park, off Mill Road. Walk into the centre, then follow Millgate towards the Bure and Aylsham Staithe. The staithe opened in 1779 and once served the town’s agricultural trade. The circuit continues through Dunkirk, uses Weavers’ Way and the western lanes, and joins Marriott’s Way before taking the original Spa Lane loop south of town. Return through the centre and Unicorn Yard to the car park.

Expect a mixture of pavements, shared railway paths, field-edge paths and lanes. Spa Lane can be very muddy after rain; boots are sensible. Take care at road crossings, particularly Cawston Road and Henry Page Road, and use the mapped bridges across the Bure. Watch for cyclists on shared paths, keep dogs under control near livestock and carry water. This is not a step-free route. There are shops, cafés and pubs in Aylsham.

Buttlands is a public car park and is currently listed as free by Visit Aylsham; check the signs on arrival. The start marker is at its pedestrian exit rather than in the market square.

Route source: Norfolk County Council’s Norfolk Trails Aylsham Town circular walk and Marriott’s Way Circular Route Guide, pages 27–29. Parking information: Visit Aylsham, Buttlands car park.

Walk details

County
Norfolk
Walk type
Circular
Category
Countryside
Distance
7.4 mi (11.9 km)
Est. time
3h 30m
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

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