Norfolk/Suffolk: The Little Ouse Path

[jonathan - norfolk]

The Little Ouse Path: Thetford to Brandon

Little Ouse Path waymark

This is a relatively flat 10 miles/16.25 km path along the Little Ouse valley between Thetford in Norfolk and Brandon in Suffolk. Several sections follow the old towpath. It is also well suited to the shorter days of winter and early spring, although much more pleasant when the weather is warm.

We started our walk in Brandon, although, apparently, it is usual to start the walk in Thetford, following the river towpath through Santon Downham to finish in Brandon. Both Thetford and Brandon have railway stations close to the start/finish of the walk and both are well served by bus routes. (Trains are more frequent from Thetford).

The walk, particularly near Brandon, is something of a wildlife haven. On our walk we encountered Siskin, Brambling, Redpoll and a pair of Wood Duck. Lesser Spotted Woodpecker breed in the area and we heard several Cetti's warblers. Highlight though, was a pair of Otters swimming and playing right in front of us.

Little Ouse Path near Brandon

Little Ouse Path near Santon Downham

The Church of St Mary the Virgin at Santon Downham is well worth ten minutes of anybody's time. There is another, tiny, church in Santon Downham just east of St Helen's Picnic Site on an alternative route which is also well worth a visit if you are passing that way.

St Mary the Virgin Church, Santon Downham

Beyond Santon Downham the Little Ouse Path leaves the river for a while and goes through forestry. A better alternative may be found just to the north, however, it does involve a crossing, and briefly following, a busy road.

The forestry stretch

The new bridge over the Little Ouse

The Little Ouse Path does re-join the river and a new stretch of boardwalked path leads to a new bridge (not marked on all maps) which should be taken. The path then follows the river into Thetford.

The Little Ouse near Thetford

There are pubs/cafes in Thetford and Brandon and additional toilets in Santon Downham at St. Helen's Picnic Site (slightly off route) and in the village where there is also a shop (soft drinks, snacks and ice creams).

If you finish in Brandon, Brandon Country Park is well worth a visit with its lakeside lawns, walled garden and visitor centre. Alternatively, if you start from Brandon, a walk around the ruins of Thetford Priory (English Heritage - but free admission to all anyway) is well worth 20-30 minutes of your time, especially if you check out the Gatehouse (still remarkably well preserved.)

Thetford Priory ruins

Thetford Priory Gatehouse

Mapping:
Around and About: Little Ouse Path and Thetford Forest South 1:16000 The Yellow Walk Maps http://www.yellowpublications.co.uk
OS Explorer 229 1:25000