Coltishall and Horstead: River Bure, mill and Mayton circuit

A circuit of the River Bure meadows, the Bure Valley Path and the village lanes of Coltishall, with Horstead Mill and its lock at the start and finish. Allow about three and a half hours for the 9.4 km walk, including stops by the river. The countryside is mostly level, but there are steps, gates and narrow footbridges.

Start at the public Horstead Mill car park off Mill Road. Follow the west bank upstream to the main road, cross carefully and use the footbridge to reach the opposite bank. Turn left through the gate and follow the river path north through the meadows to the lane at Mayton Bridge. Turn right along the lane to the junction by the railway bridge. Cross carefully and go right for the short roadside section, then take the steps on the left onto the Bure Valley Path. Follow this shared path towards Coltishall, keeping clear of the railway.

Continue past Coltishall station. Before railway bridge 1295, take the steps down to the road and turn right through St James. Where the road bends sharply left, follow the public footpath ahead through the fields to the main Coltishall road opposite the riverside pubs. Use the village pavements towards the church, making the road crossings shown on the route with care. By the village hall, cross the green on the permissive path and use the small footbridges to reach the river. Follow the bank downstream to Horstead Lock, cross its footbridge and continue to the bridge over the mill pool to return to the car park.

The riverside grass paths can be muddy or flooded. Choose a dry spell, check local notices before setting out and turn back if water covers the path; there is no need to wade or use a ford. Keep dogs under close control, use a lead around livestock and leave gates as found. Take particular care at the main-road crossings and the short road connection near Mayton Bridge. This is not a step-free route.

Parking is at the public mill car park; check the signs on arrival. Coltishall has places to buy refreshments, but opening hours vary. Bring water and footwear with good grip. Route based on the Broads Authority / Visit the Broads Coltishall to Horstead walk map, starting at the mill to make a complete circuit.