Broads Walks: Beccles Marsh Trail

Walk length: 4 mile circular walk.

Getting Started

If arriving by car, begin the trail at Beccles Quay car park, NR34 9BB, head towards the quay and follow the Angles Way footpath around to the start point, Grid Ref: TM 4215 9138. Continue following waymarking for the Angles Way along the River and through Beccles Marsh.

The Route

Much of the route will follow the River Waveney and encircles extensive dyke systems, both of which are a haven for wildlife, including coots, moorhens and swans that nest in the dykes in spring. You may even hear lapwings or see brimstone butterflies. In the summer, more plants are in flower such as marigolds, mallow and purple loosestrife and you might even see the blue flash of a kingfisher. Late summer brings butterflies like peacocks, painted ladies, red admirals and commas, as well as dragonflies and damselflies. In winter, ducks and geese inhabit the wet fields and you might even spot birds of prey such as kestrels, harriers, buzzards and owls hunting for their prey.

On the walk, you may spot Worlingham Wall, a medieval flood defence which divided Beccles Marshes from Worlingham Marshes. These flood walls were built to divide the common marshes of each parish where parishioners had the right to graze animals. You will also pass by an Iron Age causeway, constructed of gravel to provide access for wheeled carts. You can still see raised tracks meeting the river wall.

Some of the route may pass through fields grazed by cattle so take extra care and follow the countryside code. Various shorter routes are available including a circular easy access route (see signs on the walk). Seating and toilets can be found at the quay, as well as an ice cream shop. There are more shops, cafes, pubs in Beccles town centre.