Podcast – A Walk In The (National) Park

A series of podcasts, exclusive to Heritage Open Days 2020.

Heritage Open days might have ended for 2020, but why not take a moment to join poet Dean Parkin, as he takes us to 10 of his favourite places along the Angles Way, exploring the history and heritage in the southern reaches of the Broads National Park through these podcasts. From Great Yarmouth to Geldeston, the first leg of the staggering 93 mile Angles Way walking trail, you can listen to the set of ten, short podcasts, each exploring a different location on the trail.

Dean’s journey starts at Great Yarmouth train station, a gateway to the Angles Way, then across the River Yare at Haven Bridge, looking down at what were once one of the longest docks in Europe. Dean’s next stop is Burgh Castle, one of a chain of coastal Roman forts, a glimpse of an historic landscape. A visit to Ashby St Mary Church, one of 172 round tower churches in Norfolk and Suffolk, before heading over to Herringfleet Smock Mill, built nearly 200 years ago to help in the continuing battle with water in the marshes. Dean stops at Somerleyton Brickfields, a surprising hidden site of industry and provides a window on Victorian engineering. Oulton Broad is next on Dean’s list and then over to Carlton Marshes to take in breath taking views over the 200 hectare, internationally important, wildlife haven. Dean will then stop at Beccles Marsh, before heading to Geldeston Locks where his epic journey comes to a close.

Listen whilst out on the trail yourself, following the same journey, or sit back and relax and let Dean’s voice transport you to wild, watery landscapes and even inspire a visit of your own. If walking the Angles Way for yourself, always follow the countryside code. Further route and access information is available on the Norfolk Trails website.