Image shared for Beccles and Geldeston: Waveney River and Angles Way
Canal / Riverside Circular

Beccles and Geldeston: Waveney River and Angles Way

Suffolk

Distance
7.1 mi
Est. time
3h 30m
Difficulty
Medium
Put a date on this walk View route
PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

Start at the public Beccles Quay car park off Fen Lane. Cross Beccles Old Bridge and follow the Norfolk bank of the River Waveney, with views across the water towards the town. At Dunburgh, climb the steps away from the river and follow Dunburgh Road into Geldeston. Continue through the village to Station Road, then take the signed Locks Lane track to the community-owned Locks Inn.

Cross the public footbridges by the lock and continue over the water meadows towards Shipmeadow. Join the Angles Way through the fields north of Barsham, passing the site of Barsham Hall. Near Roos Hall, use the grass path beside the B1062, then the pavement into Beccles. Puddingmoor and the town lanes lead past St Michael's Church and its separate bell tower before Northgate brings you back to the quay.

Allow about 3½ hours. Expect uneven riverbank paths, muddy pasture, stiles, steps and some road walking on lanes without continuous pavements. The marsh crossing can flood: choose dry conditions, check flood alerts and turn back if water covers the path or bridges. Keep dogs close around grazing livestock.

Beccles Quay parking is chargeable 8am–6pm; the council currently directs payment to Hozah while the machine is repaired. Check the current signs. Beccles and Geldeston have refreshments, subject to opening times. Route based on Discover Suffolk's Waveney Valley walk, with current access information from the Locks Inn and Beccles Town Council.

Walk details

County
Suffolk
Walk type
Circular
Category
Canal / Riverside
Distance
7.1 mi (11.5 km)
Est. time
3h 30m
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

Route map

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