Straddling the Norfolk-Suffolk border, Thetford Forest is the largest man-made lowland forest in the UK.

After the First World War, land was purchased by the Forestry Commission and in 1922 the area was named ‘Thetford Forest’. It was first created to provide vital reserves of timber because the country had lost so many oak trees and other slow-growing trees during the ‘Great War’.

Nowadays Thetford Forest provides a haven for wildlife and plants, covering more than 19,000 ha. and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It is composed mainly of heathland with pines and broadleaved trees.

High Lodge Forest Centre is the best place to start if you want to explore Thetford Forest. Here you will find plenty of parking, a café and a bike rental.

Images by forestryengland.uk
The Brecks

The Brecks is an area of Breckland in Suffolk and southern Norfolk. When Thetford Forest was created much of the native Breckland landscape was destroyed.

It is a strange landscape, characterized by the twisted Scots pines of Thetford Forest, purple heathland, rare wildlife, and uncommonly blue skies.

Walking

This gorgeous area has a large network of walking and cycling trails. From the High Lodge Forest Centre several waymarked loop walks will lead you through the forest.

We followed a gentle 10-mile trail through the Little Ouse valley linking Thetford and Brandon which follows the old towpath.

This walk allows you to experience the wide range of landscapes in the Brecks.

You can also follow the Roman road, known as Peddars Way.

This ancient Roman road leads from the north Norfolk coast at Holme-next-the-Sea and reaches its end in Thetford Forest, near Knettishall.

High Lodge trails
The Little Ouse trail
Breckland walks

Cool Places to Explore: Oxburgh Hall | Elveden Estate | Norfolk Coast AONB | Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB | Newmarket.

Cool Places to Eat: Bedingfeld Arms | Elveden Courtyard | Cocoes Café & Deli.

Cool Places to Stay: Strattons Hotel | The Packhorse Inn.